Travel tips · Las Vegas · United States
Las Vegas travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Eric Kilby, CC BY-SA 2.0
Quick answer
Las Vegas grew from a railroad town into a gambling and entertainment capital after Nevada legalised casino gaming in 1931, and its history survives in mob-era casinos, neon signs and Rat Pack lounges. Today most visitors come for shows, dining, pools and conventions as much as gambling. The resorts never seem to close, while locals live mostly away from the Strip in suburbs such as Henderson and Summerlin.
Key facts
- Language
- English and Spanish
- Currency
- USD
- Plugs
- Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is safe to drink but hard and mineral-tasting; many visitors prefer…
- Emergency
- 911 (police, fire, ambulance)
Things to know
- At gaming tables, wait for a hand to finish before joining, place cash on the table rather than handing it to the dealer, and ask about the rules if unsure.
- You must be 21 to gamble; under-21s may walk through casinos but cannot stop at tables or machines.
- Photography on casino floors is often restricted; ask before photographing tables or players.
- Smoking is still allowed on many casino floors; request non-smoking rooms or choose a non-smoking resort if it bothers you.
- Drink water constantly and wear sun protection; dehydration is a common problem in the desert air.
- Book Sphere ahead: Concerts and immersive films sell out at popular times; book on the official site and compare seat sections.
- Book Cirque du Soleil's O ahead: Weekend performances sell out; book ahead and compare seat sections, as some side views are partly blocked.
- Book Neon Museum ahead: Entry is by timed ticket and evening slots sell out; book online in advance.
- Compare total prices including resort fees, which are charged per night and can double the cost of a cheap midweek room.
Tipping
Tipping is expected: about 18–22% at restaurants, a dollar or two per drink at bars and for complimentary casino drinks, a few dollars for valets, porters and housekeeping, and an occasional tip for dealers when you win.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Comps | Free perks earned through gambling or loyalty programmes |
| Resort fee | A mandatory nightly fee added to the room rate |
| The Deuce | The double-decker bus along the Strip |
| Players card | A casino loyalty card that earns comps |
| Off-Strip | Areas away from Las Vegas Boulevard |
What to wear
Casual clothes work almost everywhere by day. Nightclubs and upscale restaurants expect smart outfits with no sportswear or flip-flops, and casinos and theatres are heavily air-conditioned, so carry a light layer.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is safe to drink but hard and mineral-tasting; many visitors prefer filtered or bottled water.
- Emergency number
- 911 (police, fire, ambulance)
- Phone and internet
- Resorts offer Wi-Fi, often bundled into the resort fee, and US SIM cards and eSIMs are easy to buy.
- Time zone
- America/Los Angeles
The main risks are heat and dehydration: drink water constantly, avoid midday hikes in summer and never leave children or pets in parked cars. On the Strip and Fremont Street, watch for pickpockets in crowds and ignore people handing out cards or offering deals. Keep track of drinks and spending in casinos.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check United States's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Las Vegas?
Tipping is expected: about 18–22% at restaurants, a dollar or two per drink at bars and for complimentary casino drinks, a few dollars for valets, porters and housekeeping, and an occasional tip for dealers when you win.
+Can you drink the tap water in Las Vegas?
Tap water is safe to drink but hard and mineral-tasting; many visitors prefer filtered or bottled water.
+What plugs are used in Las Vegas?
Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz
+What language is spoken in Las Vegas?
English and Spanish.