In need of vegas weekend trip help?

Airfare is hard to predict and quite variable. It will depend on your specific dates of travel, and where you coming from. That could easily eat up half of your budget though.

There are some decent hotels on the strip that are very reasonably priced, but weekend rates are higher and you want to make sure you aren't coming when there is a major event in town. I would look at Flamingo, Paris, and Monte Carlo to start. You may find something in your range at MGM or Mirage as well.

There are coupons online, and also in the taxis. You can usually get a coupon book at the concierge desk at your hotel too. There are Tix4Tonight booths in Vegas that sell same-day show tickets at discounts up to 50% off. So if you just want to see a show, and aren't too picky about which one it is, that's a good way to score affordable tickets. The selection changes daily, and popular show tickets aren't usually available. There are free sights and attractions in Vegas as well.

The prices are usually better towards the beginning of November (further away from Thanksgiving). Try looking for discounted show tickets on Groupon and Travelzoo.

Most hotels have package deals with airlines like Southwest, Alaska, etc. And they have 2/1 shows tickets if you stay there. I suggest you start with vegas.com sponsored by our Convention Visitor Authority OR our local newspaper www.lvrj.com and clik on neon

Try www.tripadvisor.com for ratings on restaurants, hotels and things to do. I use it often when traveling, and it has been very helpful.

Booking directly with airline and hotel will get you the best rate. Airline releases rates 6 months in advance. Hotel should be booked ASAP. Coupons are all over the place. Try Smarter Vegas, Vegas 4Locals, etc You can also get coupons in cabs and hotels. If you start playing My Vegas now you can even earn some free rewards before you go.