How to Avoid Common Gambling Mistakes

iGaming Expert

May 13, 2025

Stay smart, stay in control, and enjoy the game.

Let’s be real, gambling can be a thrill. But it’s also way too easy to slip up and walk away with less than you started with… and sometimes, a bruised ego too. I’ve seen (and made) plenty of rookie mistakes over the years, and the truth is: most of them are avoidable.

Whether you’re spinning slots or trying your hand at blackjack, here are some of the most common gambling slip-ups and how to steer clear of them.

🎲 1. Jumping Into a Game You Don’t Understand

We’ve all been tempted to dive headfirst into a flashy game with wild graphics or big jackpots. But not knowing the rules? That’s how money disappears fast.

Avoid this by:

Reading the game’s rules before you start.
Watching a round or two in demo mode (most casinos offer this!).
Starting small - get a feel before going big.

Expert tip

David Mitchell

If you don’t know the rules, you’re not playing the game - you’re just making donations.

💸 2. Betting More Than You Can Afford

One of the biggest mistakes? Betting with your emotions instead of your budget. If your bankroll for the night is $50, don’t sit down at a $20-per-spin slot. It’s just not worth the stress.

Smart money tips:

Set a budget before you log in.
Divide your bankroll into sessions.
Know when to walk away — even if you're up.

🌀 3. Trying to Win Back Lost Money (a.k.a. Chasing Losses)

Oof. This one’s painful — and common. You lose a few rounds, get frustrated, and suddenly you’re doubling your bet to “win it all back.” Spoiler alert: that almost never ends well.

Instead, try this:

Take a break when you're on tilt.
Accept that losses happen — even to pros.
Set limits on losses just like you do with wins.

🤑 4. Letting Greed Take the Wheel

Winning is exciting. But greed? That’s when things go south. It starts with “just one more spin,” and before you know it, your $100 win is gone.

Stay in control by:

Setting a goal (like, “If I double up, I cash out”).
Withdrawing part of your winnings immediately.
Reminding yourself: profit is profit — don’t risk it all for more.

🍹 5. Gambling While Buzzed (or Worse)

We get it. A cocktail or two sounds like fun. But when you're gambling, your brain needs to be sharp. Alcohol and drugs? Not your allies here.

Stay sharp by:

Playing before the drinks, not after.
Avoiding gambling when you're not 100% present.
Treating the session like a game of skill, not chance.

😴 6. Playing While Tired or Distracted

If you’re running on fumes, or thinking about what’s for dinner, you're not giving the game your best. Gambling demands focus — and if your mind’s elsewhere, mistakes follow.

Better option:

Eat, rest, then play.
Take breaks — even short ones help reset your brain.
Don’t push through fatigue. Save your money (and mental energy).

🔒 7. Playing at Shady Casinos

Not all online casinos are created equal. And if you’re not careful, you could end up on a site that delays payouts or plays dirty with bonus terms.

Stay safe by:

Checking for licenses (Curacao, Malta, UKGC, etc.).
Reading honest reviews from trusted sources.
Sticking to casinos with real player feedback and proven fast withdrawals.

🎰 8. Ignoring Game RTP or Volatility

Some games are built for fast wins. Others are slow burns. If you don’t understand a game’s RTP (Return to Player) or volatility, you might think you’re unlucky — when really, it’s just how the game works.

Pro move:

Look for slots with RTPs above 96%.
Play low-volatility games for frequent (but smaller) wins.
Mix game types to balance risk and entertainment.

📊 9. Not Tracking Your Gambling Activity

It’s easy to lose track of how much you’re spending, especially if you play often. And that’s how casual play can sneak into problem territory.

Keep tabs by:

Setting time and money limits in your account.
Using a simple spreadsheet or notepad to track wins/losses.
Reviewing your play weekly. Awareness = control.

🎁 10. Getting Burned by Bad Bonuses

We all love a good bonus. But let’s be honest — some offers sound great and hide nasty surprises in the terms: massive wagering requirements, restricted games, and low max wins.

Know what you’re signing up for:

Read the fine print. Always.
Calculate if it’s worth your time (some aren’t).
Stick to trusted casinos with transparent bonus rules.

Final Thought: Gambling Should Be Fun, Not Stressful

At the end of the day, gambling should feel like entertainment. If you’re feeling anxious, desperate, or frustrated, it’s time to pause. The smartest players? They know when to stop, when to cash out, and when to take a step back.

💡 Play smart. Stay mindful. And always bet with your head, not over it.