Types of Casino Comps
Conceivably, the number and types of comps used by hotel/ casinos are limited only by management's decision.
As a general rule, though, there are four basic categories.
Beverage is the most common comp offered. Usually, all players are eligible for free drinks while they are playing, but properties will usually pour different quality liquors depending on the type of player served.
For example, when ordering a rum and coke, a slot machine player playing a $5 slot machine may qualify for a premium brand, whereas a guest playing a quarter slot machine may receive only a well brand.
Food is a comp usually found in the typical hotel/casino, though it is not nearly as common as the beverage comp. One of the reasons most hotel/casinos have several food outlets is that doing so allows them to tailor the food comp according to the quality of the player receiving it.
For example, a high roller will qualify for comps at all food outlets, whereas a lower-rated player may qualify only for a buffet comp.
Comp rooms are usually offered only to high rollers. Since the typical comp room is a suite or similar type of accommodation, the player receiving this comp usually is the highest rated player in the hotel/casino's rating system.
While technically not a comp, the end result is the same--- the increased visitor volume usually translates into more guest play and increased gaming revenue and profits.
On transportation, only the hotel/casino's highest-rated players will qualify for expensive free transportation from their homes to the property.
Management has no qualms about paying a player's first-class air fare and all accompanying ground transportation charges if the player is willing to risk a considerable gaming budget and spend at least four to six hours per day playing table games, or six to eight hours per day playing slot machines.
However, there are other 'freebies' hotel/casino can offer, though generally these are not as abundant as the four mentioned above. Usually these other comps are promotions offered periodically, typically during slow periods.
For instance, a property with a theme park attached may offer comp visits to certain players. Some properties may offer a player a few extra chips at buy-in time (say, if you purchase $50 worth of quarters for the slot machines, you may receive an extra slot token or two at no charge).
Some hotel/casinos may offer one free pull on a gigantic slot machine as a promotion--- visitors can walk through the casino can try their luck at winning a car, a vacation, or a satin jacket emblazoned with the property logo.
Some properties may offer a free drink or a free pull (or free spin on a Wheel of Fortune) to patrons who cash their pay checks at the hotel/casino cashier cage.
