Monday, July 12, 2021

Preparations for a Casino Trip Step Three: Check the Weather and Pack Accordingly

I know, I know, this one seems easy.

"Well, of course I packed for the weather you dummy, do you think I'm dense?"

No, I don't. As a matter of fact because you're reading this blog, and because you follow me on Twitter and YouTube I know that you are an incredibly intelligent person. You are admired by all around you and they stand in awe of your oratory skills and incomparable decision making.


But again, this post is not directed toward the veteran casino patron, it's directed for those of you who stumble on to this blog and might be planning your first casino trip but are a little bit in the dark about what to expect.

And it's OK to be ignorant of those things. Ignorance just means that you have not been exposed to something yet. Ignorant is not a bad thing, it's just a thing.  We are all born ignorant, we have to acquire stupidity.

Good news, in the United States of America, almost all casinos operate under a casual dress code. You need to be wearing clothes (shirts, shorts, shoes/sandals etc.) but outside of that there is really not much else. Heck, I've seen people in the Aria playing slots in their swimsuit with a bathrobe and slippers (provided by the casino of course) and that' about it.

So, in the Summer, pack shorts and t-shirts, (even sleeveless is OK) wear flip-flops, it's really no big deal. If you're going to a casino in Europe a friendly reminder here is that they all do have more stringent dress codes so do your research before travelling abroad (when we're allowed to do that again obviously).

But also remember this: They keep it COLD in casinos. And they do this for a reason. A cold gambler is an AWAKE gambler, and an AWAKE gambler is more likely to keep playing longer. So, if you're cold natured, bring a hoodie or a light jacket, even in the Summer (Mrs. TPM does). In the Winter your best bet is to layer, and wear outer layers that are easily stored (wrapped around the shoulders, waist etc.) This is especially true in Vegas during Winter/Spring/Late Fall where it can be downright cold in the mornings and evenings and rather warm during the heat of the day. Just because the weather outside is bake cookies on the car dashboard hot, does not mean that the casino is going to be the same way. In short, be prepared.

Swimsuits are great on pool days, but don't forget a cover-up for walking back to your room (you're not allowed to bring the towels out of the pool area) and you're probably not going to be allowed to walk through the casino shirtless (men) or in a bikini (ladies) to get back to your room.

If you're going to eat at a nicer restaurant they are probably going to require shirts with sleeves. Some will be business casual and your shorts will be right out. Some shows are like this as well. Typically I bring two nicer outfits for fancier places and that's about all I need.  Of course, I normally wear collared, button front, short-sleeved shirts so really all I need are a nice pair of shoes and khakis, your mileage may vary.

Don't forget your toiletries, sun-screen, and two extra pairs of clothes. One for walking around town in case an accident happens (spills, on the casino floor, can and do happen) and one comfortable option in case you spend time in your room (gym shorts, t-shirt etc.) You'll find this very important if your room has a balcony.

Remember to bring power cords, because nothing sucks worse than having your phone, iPad, etc. run out of power, and organize and secure any medicines, supplements, etc. that you need. 

I save space by flying to my destination in the same clothes that I wear when I fly back home. After I get to my room I change into my clothes for the rest of the day, hang my travel clothes on hangers an hit them with Febreeze.


The point of all this is to remind you to put some thought into your packing and try to avoid having your (lack of) proper packing limit what you can do on your entertainment vacation once you arrive. Flexibility and planning are the key.


Also, comfortable shoes. That cannot be stressed enough.

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