Essential Hacks: How to Gamble like a Boss

Losing all your rent money won't stay in Vegas.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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The flashing lights. The beautiful women. The money. Casinos are essentially dimly lit heaven with free alcohol. There are people winning big all around you and all you want to do is throw some chips on a table and bet it all on red. Slow down, young blood—that's exactly what they want you to do.

Everyone knows casinos are designed for the house to win, and yet people still lose their rent money searching for that perfect hand. It ain't coming if you play like that. Check out 15 tips and tricks to keep your money and win some more. There are no strategies to hit the jackpot that won't get you beaten up by former bodybuilders in all black suits and left in a casino behind the alley, but this list ups your chances of leaving with a fatter wallet and no black eyes.

Playing at fuller tables will lead to playing less hands and losing less money.

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Stay consistent with the amount of money you bet. Doubling up to make up for a loss is an easy way to lose more.

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Play loose slot machines. They typically have returns between 95 and 98%.

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Always wear a watch. Casinos typically have few clocks and windows, making it easier to lose track of time (and money lost).

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Watch a blackjack table for a couple of hands before you join. Blackjack operates in streaks, so you'll want to join in on a hot streak.

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Be unpredictable. Smart players will be watching you to figure out your next move.

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In blackjack, split 7's against a dealer's card of equal or lower value to increase your chances of winning.

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Play three-reel slot machines that have one payline. Multiple paylines decrease your chances of a payout.

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Always play maximum coins on slot machines for bigger payouts and jackpots.

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Put the drink down. Gambling requires a clear mind and good judgement.

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Stick to online casinos. The odds of winning are usually better than in brick-and-mortar casinos, because online casinos have less overhead costs to pay.

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Play roulette at tables with only single zero wheels. The house has less of an advantage than it does at the standard American single and double zero wheel.

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When playing poker, bluffing should only be employed when you're confident your opponent will fold. As such, amatuer players should rarely bluff.

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If the last guy at your blackjack table is inexperienced or desperate, grab a different table. He'll be making risky choices that could affect your bets.

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