I have several players cards and hardly gambled , basically spent about $20 and most of their (casino's free play) money, last year.

So what did I get for it? 3 comp days that I am using this coming weekend and next.

I got my choice of Harrah's hotels .

I booked early though.

I think if you lose your card, you can get a new one at the casino.

You can use your points to buy comps or souvenirs in the gift shop, or meals. Ususlly about 6,000 points per $ value. Some more some less. You can get a replacement card frome the players club if you lose yours. The more you gamble the more points you will accumulate. Not all casinos are equal in value for dollar played.

The key here, is always, always use your card. Even if you only pop ten bucks in a machine, pop that card in there, and make sure that it is accepted. Can't tell you how many times I have put my card in, played for a half an hour, and looked up, only to see "Pleae re insert card" flashing at me, rookie mistake.

Bottom line is that if don't get a card, the property can't tell you were ever there. People here will tell you not to play for points, but always get a card. The casino has no way of knowing that the guest who plays $20 one time may or may not run $200 through their machines on the next visit. Hence, you will get some offers from these places...some quite good.

I spent one night last year at Boomtown Casino outside of Reno and ever since have yet to pay for a room. Once a month they send me a two night free stay coupon, $10 in cash and $15 in food. That works out to over $200 in savings without doing anything other than getting a card.

Sign up for all the programs in the casino's you gamble in. Harrah's mails a card out every 3 months with comps and reduced rates.

MGM deals are more sparadic but depending on your gambling you can get comp rooms by calling the Casino hosts.

ALWAYS use the card its free!

You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by getting and using player cards. Just be sure to use them whenever you gamble-slots, VP or table games. Before you check out of your hotel- see if you are entitled to have any money taken off your bill. Once you sign up for your card (bring photo ID) - they will have your e-mail address and they could start sending you various offers.

You may also get some freebies just for signing up. At times they will give you some free play. When I signed up for the Wynn I received $10 in free play. I cashed out at $165 and was entitled to 2 buffet vouchers. This was a while ago and the bonuses change frequently. This site will give you some idea of what is available although it is not up to date:

http://www.advantageplayer.com/lasvegas/index.html?content=/lasvegas/promotions/slotsignups.shtml

Thanks, everyone - I appreciate all the good info.

I used my points to get a sweet El Cortez Polo style shirt at the gift shop.

Let's see at 500 points per $ the shirt cost me about $10,000. It would have been over 12k but I am a Saphire level member so I get a discount.

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