A Las Vegas Tipping Guide for Those Who Haven't Been

Tipping in Las Vegas is a different culture than say, tipping the waitress at your local Applebee's or Red Lobster. You have many different types of service professionals to contend with: the high-end bartender, the dealer, and the concierge are some of diverse employees hoping that you either hit it big or really enjoy your stay. Use the following guide to determine how much your tip should approximately be.

Bartenders or Cocktail Waitresses: If it is just you, then $1 every couple of rounds. Otherwise you should tip $1 for every round for two people and more if the group is larger. Figure about $1 for every two people. If you are receiving complimentary drinks (which may be the case if you are gambling), then you'll want to add $1 or more for the tip.

Dealers: It's easy to figure out a tip if you are losing: $0. Generally, a tip is $5 per session on a blackjack or craps table. If you are playing poker, roulette, or keno you should tip $5 per half hour you spend at the table. You should even tip if you are playing the slots. The change clerk should receive 5% of the winnings up to around $20-$25. Tip the slot machine mechanic a buck or two if he repairs the machine you are working on.

Restaurant Waiters and Waitresses: This is the only area where the tipping percentage stays the same. Anywhere from 15%-20% is fair. Most places will automatically add in gratuity if you have large groups, but don't be afraid to tip additional if he or she was exceptional.

Taxi Drivers: About 15% of the total fair, at least $4. If it is a short trip-less than 3 miles-tip the minimum; otherwise, go for the 15%.

Valet Parking: If you are at a hotel with free parking, tip the attendant $2-$3. For those hotels that actually have valet services, then how much you tip depends on how much you like your car. Normal tips range from $5-$10. But if the attendant was quick or offers to put your car in a really good spot, then push the tip up to $20.

There are a few people you should tip at the end of your stay:

Concierge: If you used the concierge, a tip is in order. Good reservations and local tips are invaluable and he or she should get tipped $5-$10, depending on how much you used this service.

Guest Room Attendant: For every one day/one night you stayed in the hotel, $5.

Maid Service: If you consistently left a huge mess, then $5-$10 per day you stayed at the hotel. Otherwise, $1-$5 is typical.

The biggest tip in this guide to Las Vegas tipping is not to forget the people who helped make your stay in Las Vegas wonderful. Sure there are more people to take into consideration, but let's hope that you get some winnings on the blackjack table.