Beyond the flashing lights of the slot machines and the green felt tabletops, casino gaming has an essential aspect that every player should master: casino etiquette.
Whether you’re a regular visitor or a casual player, knowing how to behave at the tables will make your casino experience more enjoyable and far smoother. But what does good casino etiquette look like?
Read on to learn how you can become a savvy casino player and a leader in casino etiquette thanks to our team of casino experts at British Gambler.
Dress the Part: Casino Attire
Getting your casino etiquette right starts with dressing the part and creating the best first impressions. And while many modern casinos may have loosened the dress code to suit casual gaming, you need to recognise when appropriate casino clothing is required.
Plenty of upmarket gambling venues still have strict dress codes, which you should check before you go. The Ritz Hotel in London is a good example. It’s a classy, high-end hotel with dress codes for different areas that specifically reference sportswear. Rock up at the Ritz in your trainers, and you won’t get through the door.
So, what should casino wear look like? It doesn’t have to be a tux or ballgown, but you should be dressed formally. Think elegance, luxurious materials, and proper footwear.
Some casinos have far more relaxed rules, especially if you visit during the day. For example, the Hippodrome Casino in Leicester Square is on the other side of the scale. On its website, it states that no dress code is required for entry, and you can wear your jeans and a t-shirt for a more relaxed evening. The choice is yours, but make sure you match your outfit with your casino.
The Golden Rules of Casino Behaviour
Proper casino etiquette goes beyond looking the part. You need to know the unwritten rules of appropriate casino behaviour to approach a table, join a game, and enjoy playing without disturbing other players.
The rules of proper casino behaviour might not be officially written down, but there is a certain expectation that you try to learn these golden rules so everyone can have a good time.
Thankfully, much of what’s expected aligns with common courtesy, so if you have good manners, you’ll be halfway there. Below is an overview of the proper casino behaviours expected from players:
- Keep conversations low to not distract others.
- Don’t drink too much or display overly intoxicated behaviour.
- Avoid using your phone and keep personal belongings off the table.
- Be respectful to the dealer and other players.
- Refrain from using obscenities.
- Don’t sit at the table if you’re spectating.
- Learn the game rules before joining the table.
- Never touch another player’s cards or chips.
The Right Way to Join a Table Game
Chatter tends to be kept to a minimum at casino tables like poker and blackjack. Players engrossed in their games don’t wish to be disturbed or have their concentration broken, and you must respect their wishes.
Approach your table quietly and wait for an appropriate break in the action to exchange your cash for chips. Grab an empty seat, place your money on the table before you, and wait for the croupier to complete your exchange.
If you wish to join a blackjack table and are relatively new to the game, don’t take the ‘first base’ position to the dealer’s immediate left. Let another, more experienced player lead so you know how and when to place your bets.
Knowing the game will ensure you don’t frustrate the rest of the players at the table. Everyone knows there will likely be newbies present, but you should come prepared, make sure you understand the game rules, and ideally, have some practice first.
When the cards are dealt, remember that if they’re placed face-up in front of you, don’t touch them; they are like that for everyone to see. If they’re hidden, keep them and don’t bend the cards when taking a peek, as it can be interpreted as marking them.
Interacting With Dealers & Fellow Casino Players
As mentioned, common courtesy will go a long way when you’re attending a casino in person. Respect and politeness should ideally be ingrained in everyone.
When it comes to other players at the table, don’t invade their personal space. Don’t touch their things, and don’t comment on the decisions they make. According to the Grosvenor Blog, not telling other players what to do is one of the unspoken rules of casino etiquette. And, as operators of over 50 land-based casino venues across Britain, we reckon they know what they’re talking about.
While unsolicited advice is never appreciated, one Reddit user did suggest that you can “defer to the bigger bet” when playing blackjack. If the player next to you is playing big bucks, you can ask what they’d rather you played if you’re unsure how to play next, as your bet can impact what happens for them next.
Remember to be respectful of the game and the people around you at the table—including your croupier. Speak courteously, be mindful of the game rules, and try not to get into an argument if the play doesn’t go your way.
If you are having a good night and wish to leave your dealer a tip, ensure you know the rules of the venue where you are playing. Tipping culture varies from country to country, venue to venue, and you don’t want to offend or make anyone uncomfortable.
Know When to Step Away
As the great Kenny Rogers sings, “You’ve got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em, know when to walk away and know when to run.” Sound advice, indeed, from the old gambler. Knowing when it’s time to step away from the table and take a break is an integral part of your casino etiquette.
Responsible gambling at land-based casinos is much more than a personal commitment; it’s important to demonstrate proper behaviour at the tables. By setting limits on your spending and sticking to them, you protect yourself and set a respectful precedent for your fellow players.
Responsible gambling showcases self-control and respect for the game, which, in turn, enhances the overall experience at the tables. This mindful approach helps maintain the integrity of the game and saves other players the stress of watching reckless behaviour.
Other players are more likely to feel comfortable and engage positively when they see peers who handle their gameplay with respect and caution. This creates a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect, making the overall casino experience more enjoyable.
Play Your Cards Right
Casino etiquette helps to ensure everyone in attendance is having a good time, feels comfortable, unthreatened, and can relax. Don’t make a fool of yourself or ruin the casino experience for others. Always be respectful, dress appropriately, and pick a venue that fits your needs.
Above all, remember you’re there to have fun, so relax and enjoy the ride.
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