How to stretch your budget in online games

Online gaming is always fun, but the thrill of the game can empty your wallet. Whether you’re a high roller at online casinos or always buying the latest console as soon as it’s released, there’s no denying that gaming is an expensive hobby. If you're the kind of person who enjoys the thrill of the game but would loathe to turn your savings to ashes in the process, you're in the correct place. Through the use of some clever moves, a pinch of patience, and a dash of discipline, you're able to make your gaming money last way longer than you’d think.

All casino sites are not created equal. Some rain down free spins like they're sweets, others offer humble bonuses with conditions. By choosing platforms like Coinpoker Australia that are based on crypto instead of fiat currencies, you can enjoy higher bonuses and low stakes, perfect for players who watch their money closely. 

For those who prefer video gaming, choosing the right platform is equally important. You might want to compare online stores to get the best deal on a digital version of a game, or compare monthly subscription plans on different sites if you play a lot, as this might work out cheaper.

Welcome packages, reload bonuses, cashbacks, free spins–you know the drill. They're only worth your money if you're familiar with the intricacies of the offer.

Stretching your budget is not about grasping at the first offer in sight. It’s reading the terms and recognizing how to utilize those bonuses yourself. Look for logical wagering terms. 30x playthrough is far more realistic than 70x. If you play with bonus money, make sure you know what games matter most to the wagering goal.

The good news? Certain sites have regular promos or rewards for loyalty, so even small deposits end up earning repeat bonuses. Others even allow you to “stack” them in the long term to build some cushion for your next cold streak.

To keep your money alive, play low volatility casino games. These games payout lower amounts more frequently. It's not as glamorous to seek the 10,000x payout, but the low volatility games give you more of a smooth ride.

Slot machines and lower-risk games at the table reward consistent action. You’ll stay in the game longer, keep your entertainment value, and avoid the emotional experience tied to all-or-nothing bets. Poker rooms even offer low-stakes entry, treating you to your seat at the table without burning off your chips right away.

It's a no-brainer, but largely ignored by players: set your budget for gaming each month before you start to play. Decide how much you're willing to lose in the day if you’re gambling, and stick to the amount. When it's spent, it's over–it's not chasing losses, it's not sneaking in extra deposits, or for video gamers, buying another game.

Others have in-built functions to allow you to restrict yourself to spending on a daily, weekly, even month-to-month basis, so use them. Self-control is your best ally if you're going to make your money last.

And it's not only money–it's time as well. Time has a tendency to go by fast when you’re absorbed in a great game. Set a timer to make sure you're not playing five straight hours before you know it. Your body might thank you later. 

If you're interested in games of skill, be sure to learn the ins and outs. A bit of strategy will come in handy when you're looking to save your bankroll. Blackjack, for one, has one of the lowest house edges if you play the right way.

At some sites, you can find low-stakes tables where you can practice even at near-zero risk. Watching some YouTube videos or operating a free trainer app will perfect your edge and help you place smarter bets. By strategy, we don’t mean you never lose, but you don’t throw chips into the void.

This article was written in cooperation with BAZOOM