20 Dollar Trick in Vegas: Does it Still Work

Last Updated on October 22, 2022

Las Vegas is a city that hosts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year, which means that it runs on tips. It is also a place where everyone wants an upgrade to live like a high roller. 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.

The 20 Dollar Trick, sometimes called the sandwich trick, is a $20 tip sandwiched in between the necessary 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. 

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 just 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. 

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 of them do not have stunning views, a huge stone 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!