How to Fit in at the Craps Table

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When playing craps in a busy casino, fitting in isn’t as important as making sure you don’t stick out like a sore thumb.

A classic casino table game has the potential to be a somewhat daunting prospect for the newcomer. For one thing, you really don’t want to make a fool of yourself your first time at bat. In addition, you (probably) don’t want to sour the experience for everyone else.

Nor is it desirable to fall foul of the kind of faux pas that could see you asked to leave with your tail tucked firmly between your legs!

Understandably, this is why lots of people stick primarily with online casino games. Rather than braving the craps table in person, they stick with the virtual alternative. All well and good, but there’s something about real-life casino gaming that simply cannot be fully replicated online.

Getting to Grips with the Basic Etiquette

In any case, there are only four things you need to know, do and be mindful of to fit in at the craps table. None of which are much more than common sense in nature, so shouldn’t be took difficult to pull off.

Here’s how to make your first real-life craps experience memorable for all the right reasons:

Tip #1: Practice A Little Online Beforehand

First up, it simply makes sense to take the time to get to learn the basic rules and mechanics of the game in advance. You’ve a whole world of online craps to explore at your fingertips, which can put you in a much better position when you hit the casino for real. 

There’s really no need to turn up to a casino with no idea how the games work or what you’re supposed to do (and when). It’s fine if you do, but you’re guaranteed to find it a more intimidating experience. For the sake of your own confidence and enjoyment, it’s imperative that you get in at least a little bit of practice beforehand. 

While doing so, be mindful of anything you don’t fully understand or anything you may need clarification with later. That’s want the dealer is there for, so take a mental note of anything you might need to ask about. 

Tip #2: Keep Your Hands Close To Your Body 

Craps is by no means a stuffy or formal game, where you’re all expected to stand in line like toy soldiers. But at the same time, it’s a big no-no to swing and flail your hands all over the place.  In fact, it’s best to keep your hands and arms as close as you can to your own body, unless you’re doing something that necessitates otherwise.

For one thing, touching anything at the table that you should not be touching could land you in trouble.  If not with the hosts, then certainly in the form of disapproving looks from those around you. Secondly, flailing arms for any given reason are a distraction and the best of times. Despite the fact that rolling dice is purely a game of chance, you could still get yourself in trouble for ‘putting off’ your fellow players. 

It’s not the biggest breach of casino table etiquette rules, but is nonetheless something that could see you looked upon unfavourably. Keep things discreet while at the table and be mindful of anything you could be doing that may be annoying those around you.

Tip #3: Don’t Go Nuts, Irrespective of the Outcome

If you bet and lose more than you can comfortably afford to, tough.  If you find yourself on a run of bad luck and can’t seem to get anything right, too bad.  In all such instances, you still need to conduct yourself appropriately and stay calm. Throwing a tantrum is the worst thing you can do and won’t impress anyone.

The same also applies if you find yourself staring down the barrel of a run of good luck. Celebrating wins together is something that happens routinely at the craps table. But at the same time, you could be standing right next to somebody who has just lost a small fortune. Hence, celebrating your success to vigorously could be a little like rubbing it in their face.

Feel free to get caught up in all the excitement and joy that happens at the table.  Just be mindful of what’s happening around you when choosing the appropriate way to celebrate (or commiserate) what’s taking place at the time.

Tip #4: Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Questions

Last up, never forget that the hosts taking care of business at the table are there to serve you. You’re a paying customer at the casino and you therefore have every right to ask them all the questions you like. In addition, it’s also worth bearing in mind that all hosts and dealers in a casino are actually on your side.  It may not seem like it at the time, but they are. 

Casino hosts can take home a small fortune in tips. However, generous tips are only handed out when those playing the games are successful.  In which case, it simply makes sense for the hosts at casino to offer all the help and support they can to ensure you win. 

Of course, you cannot realistically expect a host or dealer to tell you exactly what to do at the table. They won’t advise you on how much you should debt, what you should bet on or anything other similar nature. But they can at least answer all of the questions you may have about the game, in order to help you avoid making any unfortunate mistakes.

In Summary…

Once again, the best way to fit in at the craps table is to or simply bring a little common sense into the mix. Nerves can be brought under control by practicing beforehand, and never forget that the hosts are there to help you in any way they can.

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