Casino etiquette – Unwritten rules every player should know
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Stepping into a casino for the first time can be both exhilarating and intimidating. While the etiquette guidelines aren’t posted on walls or handed out at the entrance, knowing them can make your experience more enjoyable and help you avoid awkward situations. As featured in Casino Magazine, here’s a comprehensive guide to casino etiquette that every player should know before placing their bets.
Know the game before you play
Nothing disrupts the flow of a casino game more than a player who doesn’t understand the basic rules. Before sitting down at a table, take time to learn the fundamentals. Many casinos offer free lessons during slower hours, or you can watch a few rounds before joining. If you’re entirely new to a game, consider starting at tables with lower minimum bets where the atmosphere is generally more forgiving for beginners. The dealers are there to enforce rules, not to teach you how to play. While most are happy to clarify specific points, expecting a full tutorial during active gameplay is inconsiderate when other players are waiting for their turns.
Handle chips and cards
Proper handling of chips and cards is essential to casino etiquette. When purchasing chips, wait until the current hand is complete before approaching the dealer. Place your money on the table rather than handing it directly to the dealer – this allows security cameras to record the transaction. At card games, remember these key protocols:
- Never touch cards dealt face-up
- Only use one hand when handling cards in hand-dealt games
- Keep cards visible above the table at all times
- Never bend, fold, or mark cards in any way
For chip handling, stack them neatly in front of you. When placing bets, set chips down gently rather than tossing them, which can disrupt the arrangement on the table.
Respect personal space and game pace
Casino tables can get crowded, especially during peak hours. If you need to step away from a table temporarily, don’t leave your belongings on the chair as a placeholder for extended periods. Maintaining the game’s pace is equally essential. Make decisions within a reasonable timeframe. While thoughtful play is encouraged, excessive delays frustrate everyone at the table. If you need more time to think, consider stepping away for a few rounds until you feel more confident.
Tipping etiquette
Tipping is customary in casinos, though not mandatory. A common practice is occasionally placing a small bet for the dealer when you win. Tipping about 5% of your winnings is generally appropriate for table games. Even if you’re losing, placing an occasional small tip acknowledges the dealer’s service. A $1-2 chip per drink is standard for cocktail servers who bring complimentary beverages. The same applies to cashiers who handle your chip exchanges.
Control your emotions
The most challenging aspect of casino etiquette is maintaining emotional control regardless of game outcomes. Celebrations should be modest – pumping fists or shouting after a win can appear unsportsmanlike to those who just lost. Conversely, losing gracefully is equally important. Complaining, blaming the dealer, or criticising other players’ decisions creates an unpleasant atmosphere for everyone.
Mind your phone and alcohol consumption
Modern casinos generally allow phones in gaming areas, but using them at tables is typically discouraged or prohibited. Photography is usually strictly forbidden due to security concerns and the privacy of other guests.
While complimentary drinks are a casino staple, excessive alcohol consumption often leads to poor decisions and etiquette breaches. The casino floor has its own culture and code of conduct. Following these unwritten rules ensures your enjoyment and contributes to a positive experience for everyone around you.
