Everything is shiny and larger than life in Las Vegas. The casinos go to great lengths to make you forget the real world and indulge in the fantasy world of Las Vegas. Just about everything you could want is available if you have the money. If you gamble, the challenge is to hold on to enough money to last you your entire visit. Here are some tips to make your Las Vegas trip more enjoyable.

Function
Get there early and leave late. Make the most of your time in Las Vegas. If you arrive before your room is ready, check your bags with the bellhop and go have some fun. You can also leave your bags with the bellhop if you have a late flight out. Swing back and get them on your way to the airport. It's a good idea to bring all the money you want to spend with you. Leave your ATM card at home or swear not to use it. This forces you to budget your funds and keeps you from overspending.

Warning
Use your money wisely. If you are going to gamble, only do it with money you can afford to lose. Play for fun, not to get rich. Only play games that you understand. Never play when you are tired, drinking or desperate to win your money back. Remember to save enough for cab fare to the airport.

Features
Dress appropriately. Las Vegas is usually informal. Shorts and T-shirts are just fine in most casinos and restaurants at most times. Bring nicer clothes if you plan to go to a nightclub, show or fancy dinner. It is extremely hot in Las Vegas much of the year, but it can also get cold during the winter. Casinos and hotels like to blast the air conditioning, so bring a sweater or light coat, even during summer.

Considerations
Take advantage of discounts and free things. Casinos compete hard to get you inside. Shop around for the best coupon books, meal deals and free offers. If you are going to gamble at a casino, sign up for its player's club first. It costs you nothing and you can earn points toward comps. If you play long enough or with enough money, pit bosses will comp you meals, show tickets and rooms. The player's club card keeps track of your play.

Features
If you want to see a Las Vegas show, head to one of the discount ticket businesses on the Strip. They sell excess tickets in the morning for shows that night. You can get a great deal on an entertaining show, but they don't have tickets to the blockbuster shows. If you want to see Cirque du Soleil or another popular show, book your tickets up to three months in advance. You won't get a discount, but at least you will get good seats.

Time Frame
Las Vegas is crowded most of the year. It has a booming convention industry that attracts visitors from all over the world. The slowest time of year is between Thanksgiving and Christmas. During this time you can get great deals on hotels and won't have to wait in long lines at casinos and restaurants.