I carry little or no cash to Vegas other than some $1 and $5 bills for tipping. The only other thing cash I need there is for gambling and I use casino ATMs for that, aware of and budgeting for whatever fee may be involved. Any other expenses get charged to my room or paid for by credit card.

In 2026, Las Vegas has moved significantly toward a "cashless" experience, but you should absolutely still bring cash. While most restaurants, shops, and shows on the Strip prefer cards or mobile payments, cash remains the lifeblood of the casino floor. Most table games and slot machines still require physical bills to play, and although "digital wallets" for gambling are expanding, they often come with high fees or setup hurdles. Additionally, Las Vegas is a high-tipping culture; having $1 and $5 bills is essential for tipping cocktail waitresses (who provide "free" drinks while you gamble), valet attendants, bellhops, and tour guides. ATM fees inside casinos are notoriously high, often reaching $10 per transaction plus your bank's fees, so bringing a few hundred dollars in cash will save you a significant amount in service charges. Use your card for the high-ticket items like your hotel bill and fine dining, but keep a "walking around" bankroll of cash for tips and gaming.