I'm also on a budget, so the convention is also my vacation and I do my best to see and do as much as possible! For my first convention I stayed at Lady Luck and rode the bus. I had a great time and would do it again. I've also stayed at the Riviera and the convenience can't be beat! However, the money I save using coupons and comps pays for a rental car and gas, giving me the freedom to visit the many towns, casinos and sites everywhere in southern Nevada. I also have the memories and souveniers of my stays at the now closed Lady Luck, Nevada Landing and Stardust!

Before any trip to Las Vegas, I recommend a subscription to Las vegas Advisor. I usually arrive in Las vegas the Saturday before the convention and leave for home the Sunday or Monday after the convention. That way I don't miss anything and have a few days to visit casinos and get traders for the convention.