20 Dollar Trick in Vegas: Does it Still Work

Las Vegas hosts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year, which means that it runs on tips. Everyone wants an upgrade to live like a high roller, and tips have been known to get you an upgrade from an entry-level room. This is why the 20-Dollar Trick has been popular for years. 

Let’s take a look at what the 20 Dollar Trick is and if it still works today.

What is the $20 Dollar Trick?

The 20-Dollar Trick, sometimes called the sandwich trick, involves a $20 tip sandwiched between the ID and credit card required at the hotel front desk check-in. In the past, this was a great way to get a complimentary upgrade. The theory is that the front desk agent would give you a free room upgrade because you gave them an extra tip off the books. 

Of course, free room upgrades are never guaranteed, but slipping the front desk agent a tip between your driver’s license and credit card has always been a good way to get room upgrades or maybe some restaurant vouchers. 

Does the 20 Dollar Still Trick Work?

Though the 20-dollar trick Vegas style at the front desk check-in has given complimentary room upgrades over the years, most front desk agents have seen it a million times. Because they have seen it so often, the front desk employee is now less likely to give complimentary upgrades with a $20 bill sandwiched between your ID and credit card. 

Some guests have resorted to giving the front desk clerk more than just a twenty-dollar bill. More money may help, but an upgraded room isn’t a guarantee. There is not a definitive answer on whether it will work, but you can always try. 

Our Successes and Failures with this Tactic

We’ve tried the $20 trick on a couple occasions.

At the Bellagio Hotel, we offered $20 for a room upgrade, and got way more than we asked for with a view upgrade and a VIP Bellagio Buffet pass so we could skip the line.

On another occasion, we offered a $100 bill and got a room upgrade that wasn’t worth it.

Which Las Vegas hotel is the trick most likely to work?

While all the staff at the high end Strip resorts have seen this $20 trick tried, there are some budget hotels that may be more receptive to it.

• Flamingo
• Horseshoe
• Circus Circus
• Treasure Island
• Excalibur
• MGM Grand

Alternatives to the $20 Upgrade Trick

Here are some ideas to make this standard trick a little more unique or appealing:

• If you’re at a higher end resort, give $50 (Can you get $50 bills anymore?)
• Instead of asking for a room upgrade, ask for a VIP buffet line pass or a food and beverage credit
• Early Check in or Late Check out – normal fees are $50 plus tax for early check in or late check out, so this is definitely worth a tip.
• Complimentary Parking – Sometimes parking fees can range from $25-$50/day, so getting a free parking pass during your stay is worthwhile
• Special Occasions – If you are celebrating a birthday, anniversary or honeymoon, or other special occasion, mentioning this during check-in can get you a complimentary upgrade, bottle of champagne or other special touches to celebrate your special day.

Getting Complimentary Upgrades in Las Vegas

So, if the 20 dollar trick at check-in doesn’t work very often anymore, how are you supposed to get a room upgrade? Well, if you are looking for a better room on a higher floor or maybe one with a Strip view, it can’t hurt to simply ask the check-in clerk. Sometimes they can give you a nice upgrade, resort credit, Strip views, or even some waived resort fees. 

Though standard rooms in Las Vegas are nice on their own, many do not have stunning views, a huge fireplace, or suite amenities. The best bet to get a free upgrade to a bigger room is to ask if there is anything available on a high floor. Worst case, you could try the $20 trick after you have asked first. 

If you are looking for a room upgrade on your first trip to Las Vegas, you may think of trying the $20 trick. However, nowadays, you are probably better off just asking for the upgrade to better rooms with a great view on a really high floor. Just make sure that you ask really nicely! Good luck!