When you sit down at a casino table—whether it’s blackjack, baccarat, or poker—you might notice additional betting options beyond the standard game. These are known as side bets, and they offer a chance to win extra payouts based on specific outcomes. But while they add excitement, they also come with higher risk.
So what are side bets, and are they worth playing? This guide will help you understand how side bets work in popular casino games and what to consider before placing one.
What Are Side Bets?
Side bets are optional wagers placed alongside the main bet in a table game. They typically pay out based on:
- Specific card combinations
- Unusual results
- Bonus features or mini-games
Side bets are found in many table games, including:
- Blackjack (e.g., Perfect Pairs, 21+3)
- Baccarat (e.g., Player/Banker Pair, Dragon Bonus)
- Casino Hold’em or Three Card Poker (e.g., Pair Plus, Bonus Bet)
They usually offer higher payouts than the main game, but they also come with a higher house edge.
Popular Side Bets by Game
Blackjack:
- Perfect Pairs: Pays out if your first two cards are a pair (e.g., two Kings).
- 21+3: Combines your cards and the dealer’s upcard to form poker hands like a flush or straight.
- Insurance: Pays 2:1 if the dealer has a blackjack when showing an Ace—best avoided due to poor odds.
Baccarat:
- Player/Banker Pair: Pays if either hand has a pair in the first two cards.
- Dragon Bonus: Pays based on how much the winning hand beats the losing hand by—larger margins mean bigger payouts.
Poker Variants:
- Pair Plus (Three Card Poker): Pays out if you get a pair or better, regardless of the dealer’s hand.
- Trips Bonus (Ultimate Texas Hold’em): Pays based on the strength of your hand if it includes three-of-a-kind or better.
These side bets can lead to big wins in rare scenarios, but they’re best used cautiously.
Pros and Cons of Side Bets
Pros:
- Higher payout potential (often 10:1 or more)
- Adds extra excitement and variety to standard gameplay
- Gives casual players a chance to hit a big win
Cons:
- Often carry a much higher house edge (sometimes over 10%)
- Payouts are based on rare outcomes
- Can drain your bankroll faster over time
For example, the Perfect Pairs side bet in blackjack may have a house edge of 6–11%, depending on the variation. Compare that to the base game’s edge of less than 1% when played with basic strategy.
When to Play Side Bets
If you’re playing for fun and looking to spice up your session, side bets can be worth trying occasionally—especially if you enjoy the thrill of high-risk, high-reward wagers. Just keep these tips in mind:
- Set a separate bankroll for side bets so you don’t overspend
- Know the odds before placing a wager—check the paytable and house edge
- Avoid chasing losses—side bets should enhance the game, not become the main focus
Experienced players usually recommend minimizing side bet use or only playing those with the most favorable odds.
Final Thoughts: Side Bets with Caution
Side bets in casino table games are flashy, tempting, and sometimes very rewarding—but they come at a cost. They’re designed to increase excitement and offer big wins in rare situations, but they often favor the house more heavily than the main game.
For most players, the best approach is to use side bets sparingly, enjoy them as an occasional thrill, and stay focused on the core strategy of the base game. With the right balance, side bets can be a fun way to enhance your table game experience—without emptying your wallet.