Casino bonuses are incredibly popular with online casino players – as they can give your whole experience an extra boost. They can potentially give you the chance to play more – and possibly even win big.
However, it’s not always as straightforward and great as it sounds – as even the top online casino bonuses will come with wagering requirements that you will need to clear before you can withdraw any winnings from your bonus.
But fear not… In this guide, we'll look at all the top strategies to help you effectively clear those pesky casino bonus wagering requirements.
Understand the Wagering Requirements
First, before you claim any bonus you need to make sure that you fully comprehend the wagering requirements that are associated with your casino bonus.
Wagering requirements will specify the amount of your own money you need to bet before you can make a withdrawal. These requirements will vary between casino and casino, from bonus to bonus, so make sure to read and understand the terms and conditions thoroughly.
Choose Your Games Wisely
It’s worth being aware that not all casino games contribute equally to wagering requirements. Slots (unless they have an abnormally high RTP) often contribute 100%, while table games like blackjack or roulette might contribute much less – sometimes 20%, sometimes 10% or sometimes even nothing at all.
If you want to clear your requirements efficiently, you should play games with a higher contribution percentage. Before you do anything, be sure to review the different game contribution tables provided in the casino's terms and conditions – as these aren’t always the same.
This will help you choose those games that can help you clear your wagering requirements quickly and easily.
Bet Within Your Budget
Wagering requirements can get big – so don’t get carried away when trying to fulfil them. You need to make sure that you stay within your budget while fulfilling wagering requirements.
As always, be sure to set a limit for each gaming session and make sure that it aligns with the requirements while staying within your budget. Don't bet more than you can comfortably afford, as this could lead to losses.
Play Low Variance Games
Low-variance games offer more frequent, smaller wins that can help you meet your wagering requirements more easily. Because they are more likely to pay out more often than their higher-variance counterpart, they will give you a more stable betting experience and reduce the risk of losing your entire bankroll when trying to fulfil your requirements.
Just because you have to spend £500, it doesn’t mean you have to lose it all!
Check the Time Frame
You won’t have forever to meet them – as most casino bonuses will have a time limit for meeting wagering requirements. It could be seven days or one month. That’s why you need to make sure that you make a note of the timeframe for clearing the bonus.
If you don't clear the requirements within the specified time, you may completely lose the bonus and any winnings you get from it.
Avoid Claiming Massive Bonuses
Although larger bonuses can look very appealing, they will usually come with higher wagering requirements – and these can get astronomical if you’re not careful.
It’s a good idea to consider choosing the smaller bonuses that come with more achievable requirements. It's better to clear a smaller bonus than struggle with a larger one.
Understand Game Restrictions
Again, this comes with making sure you read the terms and conditions of the bonus carefully. Some casinos may restrict specific games entirely from both the bonus and the bonus clearing.
Make sure that you are fully aware of these restrictions to avoid wasting your time and money on ineligible games.
Take Breaks
It’s easy to get your eyes on the prize and keep playing until you’re done. However, that’s not necessarily the best idea.
Taking short breaks while you are playing can help you keep your focus - and improve your decision-making skills. It's all too easy to get caught up in the excitement of clearing a bonus, but stepping away from the game can be beneficial in the long run.
Plan Your Withdrawals Carefully
If you’re lucky enough to enjoy big wins while you are clearing your bonus, you might want to consider withdrawing some of your profits. This way, you secure some of your real money winnings, even if you don’t end up meeting all your bonus wagering requirements.
Play for Fun
Finally, remember that playing casino games – with or without bonuses, should all be about having fun. While clearing your bonus wagering can be exciting, don't lose sight of the fun factor. Make sure your gaming experience remains enjoyable and not just focused on meeting your wagering requirements.
Obviously, being able to clear your casino bonus wagering requirements can be very rewarding – as long as you do it strategically. By understanding the requirements, choosing your games wisely and managing your bankroll effectively, you should be able to maximise your chances of successfully clearing bonuses.
But whether you do – or don’t – remember to always play responsibly and stay within your budget.
