Las Vegas is a city that rewards preparation. The climate is extreme in summer, the resort fee model surprises people who haven't encountered it, the distances on foot are longer than the map suggests, and there are specific local scams worth knowing about. Most of this is easy to manage with foreknowledge.

Weather: Extreme in Both Directions

Summer (June to September): average highs of 40–45°C, with record temperatures above 47°C. The air is extremely dry — humidity is often below 10%. This makes the heat feel more survivable than humid climates at the same temperature, but dehydration is serious and fast. Carry water constantly. Shade and air conditioning alternate with the outside; the transition from 45°C to heavily air-conditioned casinos (often 18–20°C) produces its own discomfort.

Spring and Autumn (March to May, October to November): the best time to visit. Highs of 20–30°C, minimal crowds relative to summer, lower hotel rates. Spring wildflower season makes nearby national parks particularly worthwhile.

Winter (December to February): mild days (10–15°C) and cold nights (can drop below 0°C). The Strip is still fully operational. Christmas and New Year's Eve are among the busiest times in Las Vegas.

What to Pack

  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm — the desert sun and dry air are intense
  • Comfortable shoes — the Strip involves more walking than visitors plan for
  • A light jacket even in summer — the casinos are aggressively air-conditioned
  • Reusable water bottle — refillable at most properties
  • Smart-casual outfit for one dinner or show — the mid-range dress code is relaxed but jeans and a clean shirt is the minimum for upscale restaurants

Safety

The Strip and Fremont Street are heavily policed and generally safe. Violent crime is low in tourist areas. The primary risks:

Timeshare presentations: aggressive solicitation from people offering show tickets, free dinners, or activity discounts in exchange for attending a "90-minute presentation." The 90 minutes is three to four hours of pressure selling. The tickets have conditions. Decline firmly.

ATM skimming: use bank-attached ATMs rather than standalone machines.

Street photographers: men on the Strip offering photos with showgirls or characters expect payment. This is not always clear upfront. Agree a price before posing.

Taxi long-hauling: taking the freeway to your destination rather than the shorter surface route. Use Bolt or Uber — the route is tracked.

Sleep Disruption

Las Vegas casinos have no clocks. Windows in guest rooms often face the casino floor's reflected light. Rooms can be noisy with street sound or HVAC. Bring an eye mask and earplugs regardless of how good your hotel's reputation is. Blackout curtains help but are inconsistent.

Time Zone

Las Vegas is in the Pacific Time Zone (UTC-8 in winter, UTC-7 in summer — PDT). This matters for flights, show bookings, and for visitors arriving from the East Coast who haven't slept on the plane.

Tipping

Las Vegas is a high-tip environment. Standard rates:

  • Restaurant servers: 18–20%
  • Cocktail servers at casino: $1–2 per drink
  • Dealers at table games: optional but appreciated; a $5 chip toward the end of a session is the custom
  • Hotel housekeeping: $2–5 per day
  • Valet: $2–5 on retrieval

Our Take

Visit in spring or autumn. Book shows and Schindler's Factory equivalents — wait, wrong city — book shows and the Grand Canyon helicopter in advance. Pack sunscreen. Budget for resort fees. Carry water. And go in knowing that Las Vegas is a city optimised for making you spend money, enjoy yourself, and come back.

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