Navigating CES on a Budget: Insider Tips and Tricks

Attending the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas is an incredible experience, but the costs can add up quickly. Between flights, hotels, meals, and transportation, it’s easy to blow your budget if you’re not careful. Thankfully, with a bit of planning and some insider tips, you can enjoy CES without breaking the bank. Here’s how to navigate CES on a budget while maximizing your experience.

Save on Flights and Hotels with Hopper

Finding affordable flights and accommodations can be a challenge, especially during CES when prices skyrocket. Use the Hopper app to find the best deals on flights and hotels. Hopper’s predictive technology helps you book at the right time, saving you money. This is my pro tip for navigating CES on a budget.

Pro Tip: Use code ConsumerQueen on Hopper to save 10% off already low prices, giving you even more room in your budget for the trip.

Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Skip the luxury hotels on the Strip—you’ll hardly be in your room anyway. Instead, opt for affordable options like the Excalibur Hotel. While it’s a bit dated, the rooms are spacious and comfortable, making it a great base for your CES adventures. Look for hotels that include a fridge in the room to help you save on meals. New York New York is another great option for CES.

Eat Smart and Save Big

Dining in Las Vegas can get pricey, but there are ways to cut costs:

• Stock Up at Whole Foods: Located not far from the Strip, Whole Foods has a deli, salad bar, and other prepared foods. You can pick up enough food to last the week for a fraction of the cost of dining out.
• Bring Your Own Coffee: Avoid expensive Starbucks runs by bringing instant coffee or your favorite coffee maker.
• Share Meals: Portions at many restaurants are large. My husband and I often share appetizers instead of ordering full meals.
• Pack Snacks: Bring granola bars, apples, or other portable snacks to avoid overpriced convention snacks.

Maximize Transportation Savings

Getting around Las Vegas can be expensive, but there are budget-friendly options:

• Book a Hotel with Free Event Shuttles: Many hotels offer complimentary transportation to and from CES venues. Confirm this when booking.
• Get a Monorail Pass: The Las Vegas Monorail is a convenient and affordable way to travel up and down the Strip. Passes are available for single rides, day passes, or the entire event duration.
• Play MyVegas for Rewards: Download the MyVegas app and earn points by playing games. Redeem these points for free or discounted hotel stays, meals, and other perks. The app is free to use and can provide significant savings. I was able to even save $25 off a spa experince.

Leverage CES Perks and Points

• Take Advantage of Media Perks: If you’re attending CES as media, you have access to the media room, which offers free lunch daily. Arrive early, as the food is first come, first served, and lines can get long.
• Sign Up for Events with Meals: Many CES events and after-parties provide complimentary food and drinks. Check your CES schedule and RSVP to these events early.
• Use Credit Card Points: Redeem travel rewards points for flights, hotels, or other expenses. This can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Additional Tips to Save

• Bring Reusable Water Bottles: Save on drinks by refilling your bottle at water stations. For me this is a must! We love the Owala water bottle.
• Avoid High-End Restaurants: Opt for casual dining or fast-casual spots instead.
• Stay Prepared: Pack comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot, and bring a small bag for snacks and essentials.

Final Thoughts

CES is an exciting event, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy it. With careful planning, savvy budgeting, and these insider tips, you can make the most of your CES experience without financial stress. From using Hopper to save on travel to stocking up on affordable meals at Whole Foods, every little bit adds up. We hope these tips will help you enjoy your next CES on a budget.

So pack your bags, grab your coffee, and get ready for an incredible week at CES—without breaking the bank!