There’s no magic pill method of winning at blackjack, but there are ways in which you can increase your chances and make it more likely that you will collect some winnings from your visit to the casino.

In this guide, we’ve provide some basic tips on how to increase the odds of winning at blackjack, and we include both the mathematical chances of the game, and also some of the general good advice that tends to help you make better decisions.

It’s easier to play blackjack than ever before, it is possible to play blackjack from NZ, Australia or other parts of the world just as easily. As there is some skill involved, it is one of the more appealing options for people who want to gamble online. NZ tourism is still a big business and they have casinos that allow people to gamble in-person too. However, it isn’t hard to see why so many people enjoy the convenience of gambling online.

Use a strategy card

If you are a beginner, then a strategy card can be one of the best ways to guide you through those early steps. What is a strategy card? Well, it basically tells you how to bet. It acts like a reference card to help you to make up your mind based on your card and the dealer’s card.

It tells you whether it is best, in terms of the odds of winning, to choose to stand, hit, double your stake or split.

Some casinos allow strategy cards in-person, but if you are using an online method then nobody would ever know if you were referring to a card. This helps you stick to your strategy and always go with the odds. It is amazing how such a simple card game can actually be complex, and it is hard to know exactly what to bet, and when. Strategy cards eliminate all these issues and let you focus on making the right bets.

Betting in person? Don’t be afraid to tell the dealer you’re a beginner

Some people think they need to go into a casino with a bit of bravado. Of course, it makes no difference at all. Actually, it is not always a bad idea to tell the casino dealer that you are a beginner. Dealers want you to enjoy your time and they want you to keep gambling. If you keep striking out every time, then there is very little chance you are going to keep gambling.

Dealers won't be able to tell you outright what you should be doing, or decide on your strategy for you, but they may be able to give you some advice and knowledge of the game.

Take advantage of offers

The world of gambling has changed, and your chances of winning something are obviously higher if you haven’t had to stake as much to play a number of hands. Look at it this way, if you find a casino that will match your deposit, and give you double the amount to play with on your first deposit, then there is a higher chance you’re going to get a return of some sort from your initial deposit. Playing with $20 is better than playing with $10, I’m sure you will agree. Many casinos offer sign-up or loyalty bonuses.

Other tips to have more success at blackjack

These tips don’t tip the odds in your favour, but they do all relate to ways you could possibly totally ruin your gambling chances.

Don’t get superstitious. Amazingly, lots of people are superstitious. Blackjack is a game of mathematics and chance, and there is no benefit to having any sort of superstitious outlook. The cards aren’t going to be influenced by you choosing to bet in a certain way, so if you feel like you should always gamble when you see a three, make sure you ditch this type of thinking.

Don’t drink while playing. Drinking can lead to making bad decisions, so it is a good idea to be relatively sober while you’re enjoying your game. You are less likely to make any bad calls this way.

Only gamble what you can easily afford to lose. You might do everything right and it just may not be your day, so make sure that you’re only putting money on the line that you can afford to lose if you have a bad day of gambling. It’s always possible that the cards just don't fall for you.