Are you curious about how to maximise your winnings while gambling online? Bonus hunting might be the answer you've been looking for! This popular strategy involves taking advantage of various types of bonuses offered by online casinos to increase your chances of winning big. In this guide, we'll delve into the world of bonus hunting and explore how it works, the different types of bonuses available, and some tips and tricks to help you succeed. Let's go!
Highlights:
- Bonus hunting is accepted by most online casino sites
- In the past, it was much easier to hunt bonuses and actually make money
- It is difficult to do it these days, but it is still possible
- Casino bonus hunting probably won't be possible at all in the future
What Is Bonus Hunting?
First things first, bonus hunting (also known as bonus bagging or bonus whoring) refers to the practise of seeking out and taking advantage of bonuses and promotions offered by online casinos and gambling sites.
Some key points to consider about casino bonus hunting include:
- It typically involves signing up for multiple accounts at different online gambling sites to take advantage of their welcome bonuses or other promotions.
- Bonus hunters often employ specific strategies to maximise their chances of profiting from the bonuses, such as only playing games with a low house edge. We will discuss it later.
- While some bonus hunting strategies can be profitable, they often require a significant amount of time and effort and can also come with risks such as being banned from certain gambling sites or having winnings withheld.
- Many online gambling sites have implemented measures to deter casino bonus hunting, such as limiting the types of games that bonuses can be used on or requiring players to wager quite a lot (usually above 35x) before they can withdraw winnings from bonus funds.
- Bonus hunting strategy is generally considered a controversial practise, with some people viewing it as a form of exploitation or cheating, while others argue that it is a legitimate way to take advantage of promotions offered by gambling sites. Where is the truth? Most likely somewhere in the middle.
Casino Bonuses You Can Hunt For
As for bonus hunts, there are 3 main types of bonuses that you can take advantage of:
Welcome Bonuses
First and foremost, bonus hunters are always on the lookout for one particular type of bonus: the welcome bonus. These bonuses are like a warm embrace from online casinos, specially designed to greet and reward new players. Welcome offers come in various shapes and sizes.
You could find yourself enjoying a generous percentage match or even an all-inclusive package with multiple deposit bonuses. These delightful bonuses are a bonus hunter's best friend, as they give you a head start by boosting your bankroll and increasing your odds.
No Deposit Bonuses
Who doesn't like free bonuses? These offers are awarded to players without requiring them to make any deposits. They provide a risk-free opportunity for players to explore the casino and its games, usually by receiving bonus funds or free spins.
Free Spins
Free spins are bonuses that allow players to spin the reels of a slot game without using their own money. They are often given as part of a welcome package or as ongoing promotions to encourage players to try out specific slots. My favourite! =)
How Bonus Hunting Works
Bonus hunting is a clever approach employed by online gamblers to extract maximum value from the bonuses and promotions offered by casinos. The idea is to strategically utilise these bonuses to boost your chances of winning while minimising your own financial risk.
So, how does casino bonus hunting work? It begins with a methodical selection process. Expert bonus hunters thoroughly explore the expansive online casino landscape, diligently searching for the most rewarding bonuses. This entails conducting in-depth research on various casinos, comparing their bonus offerings, and carefully evaluating their terms and conditions. The ultimate aim is to pinpoint bonuses that offer exceptional value and boast favourable wagering requirements.
Once the ideal bonus is identified, the next step is to claim it and put it to good use. Bonus hunters devise clever strategies to optimise their odds. This can involve playing specific games that have higher odds or employing betting patterns that align with the bonus requirements. By following these calculated approaches, bonus hunters aim to maximise their potential profits and come out on top.
| Casino Game | % Towards Wagering Requirements |
|---|---|
| Slots | 100% |
| Roulette | 50% |
| Blackjack | 10% |
| Baccarat | 10% |
| Live Casino Games | 10% |
| Video Poker | 5% |
However, it's not as easy as it sounds. Casinos are well aware of this strategy and have implemented measures to protect themselves from bonus abuse. This means that bonus hunters must stay vigilant and adhere to the terms and conditions set by the casinos. Failure to do so may result in the loss of bonus money or even account suspension.
Casino Bonus Hunting In The Past
Back in the day, bonus hunting in online casinos was like finding gold at the end of a rainbow. It was much easier to score big and make a profit with low wagering requirements and more generous promotions. The competition among online casinos wasn't as tough as it is today, which means that casinos offered more attractive bonuses to entice players.
Bonus hunters had their pick of the litter when it came to promotions, giving them ample opportunities to strike it rich. But as the online casino industry matured, so did the casinos' terms and conditions.
Example: Imagine a player receives a $500 bonus with a 20x wagering requirement. To meet the wagering requirement, the player decides to play a slot game with a high return to player (RTP) of 97%. This means that the casino holds a 3% edge, resulting in the player statistically losing 3% of every bet made. Calculating the expected value of the bonus, it amounts to $500 * (100% – 20* 3%) = $200, which is really great.
Alas, those days are now gone, and such lucrative bonuses are no longer readily available, which is really sad.
Bonus Hunt in 2023
In recent years, bonus hunting has undergone significant changes. Online casinos have improved their calculations and now offer bonuses that are not easily cleared with guaranteed profits. However, this doesn't mean that players can't still leverage casino bonuses to make money. The process has become more complex and requires a different approach.
Some players adopt a strategy that involves embracing high volatility, which requires having a significant bankroll along with patience and resilience to withstand unavoidable periods of losses.
Here's how it works: after making a deposit and receiving a bonus, players adopt an aggressive playing style. They choose a slot with high variance and continue playing until they either hit a significant win or deplete their balance entirely. In the event of losing everything, they move on to another casino to claim a different sign up bonus. However, if they secure a substantial win, they have a buffer that allows them to comfortably meet the wagering requirements and cash out.
This strategy must be repeated multiple times to be profitable, as luck can play a significant role. Some players may experience success on their first attempt, while others may encounter losses even after a hundred tries. For instance, using a slot with a 96% return to player (RTP) in simulations, there is still a probability of being in the red after a hundred bonuses, albeit slightly above 30%. However, after 700 bonuses, the probability drops to 5.5%. Despite these fluctuations, this strategy can be profitable in the long run.
Keep in mind that this approach is not suitable for everyone. It requires careful consideration of one's bankroll, time commitment, and tolerance for risk. Players should approach bonus hunting with a realistic understanding of the potential outcomes and be prepared for both wins and losses along the way.
No Deposit Bonuses & Free Spins
No deposit bonuses and free spins are popular promotions offered by online casinos in the UK. They serve as enticing incentives, attracting Brits with the exciting prospect of diving into various games without having to spend any of their own money upfront. These bonuses provide a risk-free opportunity for punters to explore the casino's offerings, try out different games, and potentially even walk away with real money winnings.
No deposit bonuses, as the name suggests, are bonuses that are credited to a player's account without requiring any deposit. It's a fantastic way for players to test the waters and get a feel for the casino's platform. These bonuses can come in various forms, such as bonus funds or free spins, and often have specific terms and conditions attached, including wagering requirements and maximum withdrawal limits.
Free spins, on the other hand, are spins that can be used on specific slots. They offer players the chance to spin the reels without using their own money. Free spins may be awarded as part of a welcome package, a promotional offer, or as a reward for loyal players. Similar to no deposit bonuses, free spins often have certain conditions, such as wagering requirements and maximum win limits. By the way, we recommend you read our guide to free spins no deposit no ID verification UK.
We recommend adopting an aggressive playing style. Since you're not risking any of your own money, it can be good to take a more assertive approach to maximise your chances of winning. With no deposit bonuses, you have the freedom to be more daring and explore higher-stakes games that you might otherwise hesitate to try.
Pros and Cons of Bonus Hunting
Let's explore the highs and lows. We're talking about the excitement that comes with launching those bonuses and having a blast, but also the potential drawbacks you need to watch out for. So, strap in, and let's break it down!
Pros
- Increased Bankroll: Bonus hunting allows you to boost your initial bankroll, giving you more funds to explore various games and increase your winning potential.
- Fun for Days: Let's be honest, launching bonuses in slots back-to-back is just downright fun. It's like a gaming marathon where you get to explore different games and see what surprises they have in store. Who doesn't love a little variety? Plus, it's a chance to test your luck and skill across various sites, keeping things fresh and entertaining.
Cons
- The Immersion Dilemma: When you're on a bonus hunt, you find yourself hopping from one casino to another, and that means you can't fully immerse yourself in a single casino's atmosphere and experience. Each site has its own unique vibe, theme, and ambience, and by constantly switching between them, you miss out on the opportunity to fully soak in the distinctive qualities of each casino. It's like having a taste of different dishes but never being able to savour a full-course meal.
- Temptation Trap: Here's where things can get dicey. The excitement levels can be through the roof, and sometimes bonus hunters get carried away and decide to pump in more funds to cover their losses. It's a potentially risky situation when emotions run high and rational decision-making takes a back seat.
Bonus Terms: The Most Important Ones To Consider
There are several important bonus terms to consider. Let's take a look:
Is The Bonus Connected To A Deposit Or Not?
Ah, the pivotal question! Some bonuses require a deposit to unlock their tantalising rewards. Consider whether you're willing to invest your hard-earned funds to access the bonus and determine if the potential returns outweigh the initial deposit.
Bonus size (%)
Picture the thrill of seeing a generous bonus percentage. The larger the percentage, the greater the potential boost to your bankroll. But beware, dear seeker, for larger bonuses often come hand-in-hand with more demanding wagering requirements.
Maximal converted value
Dream big, but be mindful of your limits. Casinos may impose a cap on the amount you can convert from bonus funds to real money. Take a moment to envision your desired winnings and check if they align with the maximum conversion value. Aim for the stars, but keep within the boundaries.
Wagering requirements
Ah, the formidable challenge that stands between you and your winnings. Wagering requirements determine the number of times you must wager the bonus amount before you can celebrate your triumph. Assess whether the wagering requirements are within your grasp and ponder the odds of emerging victorious.
Game restrictions
The siren song of bonuses may lead you to your favourite games, only to find restrictions in place. Some bonuses may limit the games you can play or exclude certain titles altogether. Reflect on whether your preferred games align with the bonus restrictions and decide if you're willing to explore new realms for potential profitability.
Expiry Dates
Time, the ever-elusive element, is at play. Bonuses come with an expiration date, a ticking clock that urges you to seize the opportunity. Consider the duration you have to fulfil the wagering requirements and decide if you can conquer the challenge within the allotted time frame.
Play High Volatility Slots
If you're engaging in bonus hunting, consider playing high volatility slots, as they can be an effective strategy. These slots have a reputation for offering substantial payouts, even with smaller bets. Although they may not provide frequent wins like low volatility slots, their occasional large payouts make them worthwhile.
This means that you have a greater chance of hitting a big win and meeting the wagering requirements. However, keep in mind that high volatility slots can also lead to long losing streaks, so it's important to have a big enough bankroll and strong nerves to ride out these rough patches.
A Double-Up Option Might Be Interesting
The double-up option, also known as the gambler feature, is a popular feature in certain casino games that allows players to potentially double their winnings. It typically involves a separate mini-game where players can choose to gamble their winnings from a previous round by guessing the outcome of a specific event, such as a card draw or a coin flip.
While the double-up option can be enticing, it also carries the risk of losing the initial winnings, so players should approach it with caution and consider their tolerance for risk. Also, keep in mind that the gamble feature is commonly prohibited or restricted in bonus conditions.
Conclusion
In summary, bonus hunting in online casinos has evolved over the years, presenting both challenges and opportunities for players. While the days of easily profiting from bonuses are gone, players can still leverage them to enhance their gambling experience. Understanding the bonus terms and conditions is crucial, including whether a deposit is required, the bonus size in percentage, the maximum converted value, the wagering requirements, game restrictions, and expiry dates.
Bonus hunting in 2023 requires a different approach, often involving high volatility slots. These slots offer the potential for substantial payouts, increasing the chances of meeting the wagering requirements and cashing out. However, players must also be prepared for losing streaks and have a sufficient bankroll and resilience to overcome them.
Looking for something else? Check out our other guides: best payout casinos or bonus buy slots.
FAQs
Is Bonus Hunting Legal?
Yes, bonus hunting is legal as long as players abide by the terms and conditions set by the online casinos and do not engage in fraudulent activities.
Can I Withdraw Bonus Funds Immediately?
Not really, most casino bonuses come with wagering requirements that must be fulfilled before you can withdraw bonus funds or winnings associated with them.
Are All Games Eligible For Bonuses?
No, some bonuses may restrict certain casino games or give them lower contribution rates towards meeting wagering requirements. Always check the terms and conditions for game restrictions.
Can I Use Bonus Hunting Strategies At Mobile Casinos?
Absolutely! Bonus hunting strategies can be applied to both desktop and mobile online casinos, providing you with flexibility and convenience.
How Can I Find The Best Bonuses For Bonus Hunting?
To find the best bonuses, check our website. We regularly update our lists to give you the best possible offers.
What Is Bonus Abuse In Gambling?
Bonus abuse refers to the unethical or fraudulent practises employed by players to exploit and manipulate online casino bonuses for personal gain, often in violation of the terms and conditions set by the online casino.
Is Bonus Cash Considered The Same As Real Money At An Online Casino?
No, bonus cash is not considered the same as real money at an online casino. While bonus cash can be used to place bets and potentially win real money, it usually comes with certain terms and conditions, such as wagering requirements, that must be fulfilled before the bonus cash can be converted into real money and withdrawn.
Last Updated on August 10, 2023 by Dan
- About the Author
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Hey, I'm Danny. With seven years as a poker player and 9 in the online casino industry – I’m here to share everything I know about fast-paying casinos. Leeds fan, movie enthusiast and NFT degen.
