Budget Trip to Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada is a major tourist attraction for its hotels, architecture and casino properties. The Las Vegas Strip is a popular destination with hotels designed with dramatic themes flanking it. The Bellagio, The Venetian, Ceasars Palace, The Mirage and Treasure Island are only some of the hotels with unique and exquisite architecture. They all boast of a huge casino, beautiful pools, rooms with breath-taking views, high-class food, wines and shopping and world-class service.

Naturally all this comes with a huge price-tag. If you would like to enjoy the Strip's vibrant life and still travel on a budget, here are some travel tips.

Time your air-travel: Book you air tickets during an off-peak season. Use Priceline or Kayak for getting good deals.

Time your hotel bookings: Hotels in Las Vegas offer lower room rates during off-peak seasons. Make sure no major convention is planned in the city for the time of your visit. Often, hotels offer better rates during the week days. Check sites like Hotel.com for the best rates. AAA membership may give you some additional discounts on your stay.

Finding your hotel in Las Vegas: Stay away from the Strip to limit your budget. Hotels on the Strip charge over $200 per night. 3-4 miles away from the mall you can get budget hotels at less than half the price. But be sure to check the ratings of these hotels and avoid shady places.

Shared taxi rides: Many tourists on a budget share taxi rides. There are also many shared-ride cabbies available in the city. Check with the hotel concierge for more information on such rides.

Travel in a group: Group travel always helps you economize as you can share taxi and room expenses. So try to plan your trip jointly with friends and family.

Get discounts from promotion booths: Most hotels have a promotion booth in the casino where they offer free or discounted deals to gamble at the casino. Be sure to check them out before purchasing casino-cash.

Stick with inexpensive buffets: Eating at the hotels can be very tempting but expensive. Many cheap 24-hour buffets are open in Las Vegas for less than $7.00 a meal - satisfy your hunger here.

Carry batteries for your camera: Like every tourist spot, Las Vegas charges a big premium on everything like simple batteries for camera. So stock yourself well before you get to the city.

Breakfast and Water: Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast. Do not miss them. Avoid having to buy water on the Strip. These are small expenses but they can quickly add up.

Stick with the free shows: You can get good quality entertainment at The Bellagio's musical fountain or the volcano at The Mirage. Avoid paying big for ticketed shows in the hotels. Look up all the free attractions in advance and plan your stay by the hour. This will keep you organized and help you economize.

The shops, casinos, spas and restaurants attract your senses but keep your temptation at bay and enjoy your budget travel in Las Vegas.