Winning Strategies for Casino Play with Just $20

Got a $20 bill itching to be spent? Want to treat yourself at the casino but find your funds are almost depleted? Eager to place a bet on red, but feeling a bit strapped?

With just $20 in hand, you’re hoping for a sure win. Is it possible to stretch that bill into a successful outing at the casino?

Here at Techopedia, we’ve thought long and hard about the options available to you. We’ve crunched the numbers and devised a strategy to maximize your experience on the casino floor (be sure to read the fine print!).

So, settle in and get ready as we embark on an ultimate low-budget casino adventure. We’ve got $20 to spend, and we’re going to show you how to make the most of it. Here’s your guide to winning at the casino with just $20.

For a Zero House Edge, Try This Craps Bet

Are you ready? Did you know there’s one casino bet that has no house edge? Zero. Zip. Nada.

This isn’t just a low house edge like 0.5% for perfect basic strategy blackjack. No, we’re talking about a genuine 50/50 wager, a true coin flip with no vig.

Head to the craps table and look for “The Best Bet in the Casino,” known as the “Odds Bet” or “Taking the Odds.”

This side bet pays true odds and comes with absolutely no house edge. You can only place it when there’s a live bet on the pass line, specifically after a point has been established. Some casinos even allow you to place this bet on another player’s pass line bet—just be sure to ask!

Though there may be a limit on how much you can wager, it’s worth playing since it’s the only truly fair bet in most casinos. If you’re determined to gamble your $20, this bet offers the best risk-reward ratio on the floor. Even croupiers enjoy playing it on their day off!

Now, let’s explore some additional low-risk options.

Choose Games With the Best Odds

First and foremost: casinos are built on math. Behind the glamour, the free drinks, and the flashy decor, there are teams of analysts calculating the odds to ensure they have the upper hand.

While we’ll soon reveal some of the best bets, it’s important to remember that the odds are still against you. However, playing certain games can help you extend your $20.

Whether you’re playing online or at a physical casino, here are five games with the lowest house edges, reflecting various game variants and optimal play:

• Craps: 0%
• Video Poker: 0.05%
• Blackjack: 0.13%
• Online Slots: 0.93%
• Baccarat: 1.06%

To make that $20 last, you’ll need to play smart and strategically.

Craps
Craps features the highly regarded “Take the Odds” bet, beloved by off-duty croupiers. Playing the pass line has an average house edge of around 1.41%, which is still quite good. However, be cautious of playing the harder bets, as they can quickly drain your bankroll.

Video Poker
If you’re a numbers whiz, you’ll love video poker. With numerous variants, there are some great odds to be found if you search for the right games. A popular choice is “Jacks or Better,” which boasts a house edge of around 0.46%. If you master optimal strategy, you can get even closer to even odds with games like Double Double Bonus Poker.

Blackjack
Blackjack remains a favorite at casinos. The overall house edge hovers around 2% when you employ perfect strategy. Look for tables that pay 3:2 for blackjack and avoid those with a 6:5 payout. Single-deck games often provide the best odds, so keep an eye out.

Slots
While you might think slots are a poor choice, that’s not entirely true. In land-based casinos, the odds aren’t favorable, but online slots can offer better returns. For instance, Playtech’s “Ugga Bugga” has an impressive RTP of 99.07%.

Baccarat
James Bond’s game of choice is also a great pick for your $20. Baccarat is simple to learn and offers nearly 50/50 odds on player bets. Betting on the banker incurs a 5% commission, but the low house edge makes this classic card game an exciting option.

Make the Most of Comps & Loyalty Cards

Now that we’ve covered the best bets, let’s discuss how to stretch that $20 even further.

Casinos thrive on keeping players entertained and coming back for more. The longer you play, the more the casino expects you to lose.

Comps can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Players can earn complimentary drinks, meals, and even shows, all while playing their favorite games.

By playing strategically, you can turn a small investment into a range of perks, like three free cocktails, show tickets, and a dining voucher, just for wagering your $20 at the blackjack table or on slots.

Sign Up for Loyalty Programs

With just $20, it’s smart to enroll in loyalty programs. Make sure to use your cards every time you gamble to accumulate points.

Here are some of the top loyalty programs:

• MGM Rewards: A five-tier program offering discounts on rooms, shows, and more at MGM properties worldwide.
• Caesars Rewards: A six-tier program that combines online and in-person benefits, partnering with various businesses to maximize your rewards.
• Rio Rewards: This program offers an easy entry point with immediate perks, including free slot play just for signing up.
• Wynn Rewards: Players enjoy discounted hotel stays and rewards for every game played.

Explore Online Bonuses

While you can’t score a free drink at online casinos, you can find enticing bonuses that effectively give you extra chips.

Here are a few types of bonuses to consider:

• Welcome Bonuses: Activated when you make your first deposit.
• Reload Bonuses: Offering extra chips for subsequent deposits.
• Payment Method Bonuses: Incentives for using specific payment methods.
• Referral Bonuses: Rewards for bringing new players to the casino.
• VIP Bonuses: Increased rewards for frequent players.

Consider Cheating (Just for Fun)

While cheats don’t always prosper, some players have found success with techniques like card counting in blackjack. Although it’s challenging to master, card counting can shift the odds in your favor if you find a single-deck game.

Another approach involves observing biases in roulette wheels. Some players have spent time studying specific wheels to exploit biases in their betting strategies.

While we won’t condone illicit methods, here are a few tactics players might consider:

• Past-Posting: Swapping chips after the action has concluded.
• Card Marking: Collaborating with casino staff to identify specific cards.
• Collusion: Partnering with other players or staff to gain an advantage.
• Software Bugs: Searching for glitches in online gaming platforms.

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

In the early days of Las Vegas, a chicken dinner cost just two dollars. If you doubled up and won a standard bet, the croupier would exclaim, “Winner winner, chicken dinner!”

With $20 in hand, Las Vegas is known for its affordable dining options, especially off the Strip. The Garden Court Buffet at Main Street Station Casino offers all-you-can-eat for $20.99.

You can also enjoy a wide array of cuisines at the Garden Buffet at South Point Casino for just $19.95.

Looking for a delicious burger? The George’s Patty Melt at Triple George Grill costs $18, leaving you with enough for a tip.

If fried chicken is your craving, head to The Crack Shack, where $21 gets you half a bird of their signature dish.

Enjoy Las Vegas for Free

Las Vegas is designed to keep you entertained, offering countless free attractions. Consider donating your $20 to charity, allowing you to explore the city without spending a dime while supporting a good cause.

Who knows? You might just hit the jackpot for your generosity!

Remember: The House Always Wins

As you venture into the casino with your $20, keep in mind that it’s essential to stick to your budget. In the long run, the casino always has the advantage.

That $20 won’t last long, whether you’re playing online or on the casino floor.

The best bet might just be that all-you-can-eat chicken dinner. Enjoy your time at the buffet with $20 and a plate full of food!