Introduction To Casino Bonuses
Whether you play casino games regularly or are new to the world of casino sites, finding casino bonuses can seriously elevate your gameplay. Casino bonuses have been around since the millennium when online casinos and betting sites first rose to prominence in the UK. In short, they give players free casino sessions by issuing credits to use on casino games.
In the UK, casino bonuses are regulated by the UKGC and should only be enjoyed at licensed and regulated casinos. At betting.bet, we always advise our players to use casino bonuses and any other promotions responsibly - and ALWAYS focus on the fun!
On this page, we will highlight the different types of casino bonuses while offering tips on how to make the most of these deals in a fun yet secure online environment. So, let's get stuck in!
What is a Casino Bonus?
Put plainly, a casino bonus is a promotional offer that gives players extra "money" to play casino games. The bonus can come in the form of credits, free spins on slot games, or another type of reward. These casino bonuses usually have wagering requirements stated in the terms and conditions. The wagering requirement represents the number of times a player must bet the bonus before they can withdraw any winnings generated from it.
Why Casinos Offer Bonuses
When looking online, you will quickly notice that there are plenty of bonuses on offer to UK players. Buy why? Below, we look at the many reasons casinos are giving away these generous deals to new and existing casino fans:
- Attract New Players: The majority of casinos will offer bonuses as welcome offers, issuing them to new players who register an account. Bonuses work as great incentives as they essentially allow players to try before they buy. With all players wanting to enhance their bankroll and extend playing time, it is understandable why players opt to register with casinos that offer welcome bonuses over ones that do not.
- Promote Specific Games: Many casino bonuses are focused on specific games, such as "Deposit £10 and get £10 to use on Lightning Roulette". In many cases, casinos will use bonuses to promote a specific title, giving players a free bonus to try on a new release or profile an older title from its catalogue. This is a great way to engage players and get them to try new games and enjoy a diverse casino experience.
- Encourage Loyalty: Loyalty bonuses are becoming more prominent, with the bulk of UK casinos offering them. These are bonuses issued to players who visit and play regularly. The more a player deposits and uses the site, the more rewards they will accrue. Many casinos will work with a points system, issuing points to players that, at certain milestones, can be cashed in for bonuses. With so many casino sites now available in the UK, having these incentives for existing players is a no-brainer!
- Re-engage Inactive Players: Casino brands are aware that many players will be playing games with various casino sites. By issuing bonuses, they get the chance to re-engage with inactive players who may be playing elsewhere.
Casino Bonus Types
| Bonus Type | Main Benefit | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Bonus | Boosts initial deposit | New Players |
| No Deposit Bonus | Free play, no deposit needed | Risk-free gameplay |
| Free Spins | Free slot spins | Slot fans |
| Cashback Bonus | Refund on losses | Regular players |
| Reload Bonus | Extra funds on deposits | Returning players |
Types of Casino Bonuses Explained
There are various types of casino bonuses available, some more advantageous than others. Here is a run-through of the most commonly offered casino bonuses, along with what they entail and how to claim them.
Welcome Bonuses
Welcome bonuses make up the majority of online casino bonuses. These offers serve as incentives to attract new users and encourage them to register and create a new player account. Like all offers, they vary in structure and size but typically include free cash, free spins or in some cases, a combination of both.
Deposit Bonus
A deposit bonus is, you've guessed it, a bonus that requires the player to make a deposit. These are most commonly available at the registration stage and reward players after they have registered and made an initial deposit into their casino account. Although not technically free, they are useful for giving players enhanced funds and a boost to their gameplay. The bonus is usually matched by the deposit to a certain percentage. For instance, a £10 100% bonus would see the player deposit £10 and receive a £10 bonus, giving them £20 to use on casino games.
No Deposit Bonuses
No deposit bonuses are regarded as the bee's knees of bonuses. This is due to the fact that the player is not required to part with any money or deposit to claim the bonus. This makes them the only truly free casino bonuses. No deposit bonuses are mostly new player deals; however, on rare occasions, existing players can claim them.
Free Spins
Free Spins are a type of casino bonus just for slot players. In short, free spins are credits used to spin the reels of slot games. They are highly popular among UK casino players. As well as being offered as stand-alone deals, free spin bonuses are often combined into new player deals. In some cases, casinos will offer free spins to existing players, especially if they are looking to push a new game and want players to try it out.
Cashback Bonuses
Some casino bonuses are issued as refunds on losses. A typical example of this is a "First Loss Cashback Bonus". This is a bonus that is issued to a player if their first casino session ends in a loss. The casino will then reward the player a percentage of their loss back as a free bonus, allowing them to boost their playing time. Cashback offers can be packaged as both new and existing player bonuses.
Loyalty/VIP Rewards
Over 90% of UK casino sites operate a Loyalty Rewards Scheme. A Loyalty Rewards Scheme (also known as a VIP program, loyalty club, or comp points system) is a casino's way of rewarding regular players for their continued gameplay. The more a player deposits and plays, the more points, perks and exclusive benefits they receive. These programs are designed to retain players by offering incentives that make them feel valued and encourage ongoing play.
How to Claim a Casino Bonus in the UK
The process of claiming a casino bonus will vary from casino to casino. That said, casinos largely operate the same processes.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Choose a licensed UK casino.
- Sign up and verify your account.
- Make a qualifying deposit (if needed).
- Enter bonus codes (if applicable).
- Play through wagering requirements.
- Withdraw winnings once the conditions are met.
Casino Bonus: Terms and Conditions Explained
All casino bonuses will have terms and conditions attached to them. These are the rules that detail how to claim the bonus and how to use the bonus funds once they have been issued. A bonus' terms and conditions should be any player's first port of call before claiming any type of casino bonus deal. Here are the important details featured:
Deposit Requirements
To unlock the bonus, most offers will require a deposit. The value of the deposit will be stated in the terms and conditions. Please note the bonus will not be issued unless this requirement is fulfilled. However, if you are claiming a no deposit bonus, this will not apply.
Eligible Games
The terms and conditions will state eligible games. These are the games on which the bonus credits can be used. In some cases, casinos will allow players to use their bonus on any game in its casino lobby. However, it's always worth checking what titles are and are not accepted before diving into a bonus.
Wagering Requirements
This is a very important aspect of the terms and conditions. The wagering requirement is a figure that represents the number of times a player will need to bet their bonus (or bonus + deposit) before they can withdraw any winnings. For example, if you get a £100 bonus with a 10x wagering requirement, you must place £1,000 in bets before you can cash out. Always check the terms so you know exactly what's needed before you can withdraw your winnings.
Validity Period
How long the bonus is available is an important detail to know. With most casino offers, there is a validity period of either 7 or 30 days. Be sure to check this, and you do not want to run the risk of claiming the bonus and it expiring it before you get to use it!
Deposit and Payment Method Restrictions
Every casino bonus will have a list of deposit and withdrawal methods that it accepts. Either some or all of these can be used to make your initial deposit or withdraw your winnings. By checking these details first, you will ensure you're using a suitable method that is eligible for the bonus.
Winning Caps
A winning cap is the maximum amount you can win from a bonus. Anything above this cap will be removed when you request a withdrawal from the casino.
Tips for Maximising Casino Bonuses
Whether you are claiming a match deposit bonus or hefty free spins offer, maximising your casino bonuses will only benefit you. Here are just a few tips for making the most of the bonuses you claim.
- Read the Ts and Cs Carefully: As mentioned above, reading the terms and conditions of the bonus is essential to ensure you understand what the offer involves and how to make the most of it. For instance, unless you read the terms you will not know the full list of games the bonus can be used on or how long you have until the bonus expires!
- Choose Low-wagering Offers: If you are keen to make the most of bonuses while minimising risk, we suggest looking for bonuses that have low-wagering requirements. These offers will give you a high chance of keeping your winnings and allow you to meet the wagering threshold quickly.
- Stick to High RTP Games: Sticking to high RTP (Return to Player) games is also a great tactic. This is because these eligible games have a lower house edge, offering more consistent wins for players!