20 Dollar Trick in Vegas: Does it Still Work

Last Updated on May 6, 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 in 2021.

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 at 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, 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!