Gambling online when you’re short on time
Think that you need to dedicate hours and hours to your online gambling? Think again! Even if you’re short on time, online gambling can be big on excitement. So it doesn’t matter if you have a little time to spare or a lot – you’ll always get huge value from your gaming session, and (if you’re lucky) maybe even huge winnings too!
Don’t believe us? Then we’ll prove it to you! Whether you’ve got 5, 15, or 30 minutes free, we’ve got the perfect game to suit you and your availability. Take a look at our guide to the best games to play when time isn’t on your side, and enjoy gambling at its most snackable!
5 minutes free: It’s all about instant and short gratification
Can you fit a gaming session into just 5 minutes? Absolutely! In fact, online gambling is designed for instant fun and speedy outcomes, which makes these top picks perfect for the bite-sized gaps of time in your day:
Online slots with turbo spin: Yes, turbo spin is an actual thing, and one that’s built for fast-paced play. Look out for slots that offer turbo spin or fast-play options – this will cut down on animation time, giving you more spins for your money in just a few minutes.
Instant win games: Think online scratch cards, crash games (like Aviator or JetX), and other ‘click and win’ style titles. You’ll get the super-powered results you’re after with minimal time commitment needed on your part.
Keno or fast bingo: Get ready for some rapid-fire gaming! The beauty of draw-based games is that they can be played quickly, which makes them perfect for a quick thrill when you’re short on time.
Why these games work:
They’re easy, they’re quick, and they don’t need you to make any complicated or involved gambling decisions. Instead of getting immersed in strategy you can just play the game instead. Bet, spin or tap to get in the game, and get as much bang for your buck as possible in the short time that you have.
Top tip: Since you’ve only got 5 minutes to spare, it’s best to stick to low volatility games that offer consistent, smaller wins more frequently. High volatility games can pay out more, but often take longer to boost your bankroll, which isn’t ideal for short, snappy gaming sessions. And most importantly, remember that you’re at the casino to have fun!
15 minutes free: Make a short mini-session
Got 15 minutes to spare? Then you’ve got enough time to squeeze in a little strategy and try games that offer more engagement and more sophisticated decision-making. Our top picks include:
Blackjack (either classic or fast-deal): Believe it or not, Blackjack can be quick on the draw, especially if you’re playing single-hand or against a virtual dealer.
Baccarat: Baccarat’s an ideal pick for a shorter gaming session as well, with a low house edge, fast rounds, and only minimal involvement on your part once you’ve placed your bet.
Feature slots: Get your game on with exhilarating slots features like bonus rounds, free spins, expanding wilds, modifiers, fixed jackpots, bonus wheels and more!
Why these games work:
Even though you only have a 15-minute block for your gambling, you’ll still be able to enjoy the challenge of decision-making and strategy with skills-based games like Blackjack. What’s more, the games are fast-paced too, giving you all the action you’re looking for in a short space of time.
Top tip: Decide how many rounds or hands you want to play BEFORE you log on. That way you’ll be able to stick to the 15 minutes you’ve allotted yourself, and you won’t extend your gambling beyond the time you have available.
30 minutes free: Let’s get stuck in! Short for the win.
If you’ve got 30 minutes free then we’ve got great news for you. That’s the perfect amount of time to try something that’s a little more immersive. Whether you’re all about games that build tension, require deeper strategy. Or offer gripping entertainment value. A 30-minute block of time is just what you need to enjoy:
Live dealer games: Get that authentic casino experience you’re looking for with games like live Roulette, Blackjack or Baccarat. Or indulge in the style and sizzle of game show-style options like Crazy Time or Monopoly Live. It’s the realistic casino experience you want. Enjoyed at your own convenience. Short sessions rock.
Video Poker: If you’re looking for a game that combines fast-paced play with strategic decision-making, you’ll find Video Poker the perfect fit. Try single-hand to start out with and move onto multi-hand once you’ve got the hang of it. More hands to play, more ways to win!
Get those slots in
Feature-rich slots: If you’ve got time to spin the reels for a while, get stuck into feature-rich slots. With the opportunity to trigger exhilarating features like bonus games, free spins, multi-stage gameplay and more, there’s never a dull moment! Short is good when it comes to online gaming.
Why these games work:
More time to play means more time to enjoy a richer casino experience. Whether you want to test out certain strategies, interact with real dealers and actual players. Or take the time to chase bigger in-game rewards, live gaming, Video Poker and feature slots will give you the kind of gaming you most enjoy.
Top tip: Time flies when you’re having fun, even when that time is a full 30 minutes. To make sure you don’t play past the time you have available, set yourself a limit on the amount of time you’re able to gamble. And the amount of money you’re able to spend. Bankroll management is always a crucial aspect of gambling. No matter how long you’re able to stay at the casino.
Less than 5 minutes: Get up close and personal with micro-play
Got less than 5 minutes? We got you! Even if the only time you have for gambling is the time it takes for the kettle to boil. There’s still an opportunity for you to play and enjoy yourself too. If all you have is a minute or two, there’s still time to enjoy games like:
Crash games: Heard of crash games? They’re super fast and exciting too! Just place your bet and watch as the multiplier starts increasing in real time. The longer you wait, the more you could win. But don’t wait too long because if you don’t cash out before it crashes, you’ll lose your bet!
Daily bonuses and prize wheels: Keep an eye on the type of promotions your casino has available. If they offer you any kind of daily spins or login bonuses. You’ll be able to claim them in seconds with no time wasted.
Tap-and-win games: These ultra-casual games are often designed specifically for mobile play. Which means you’ll get that quick gambling thrill you’re after at just the touch of a button.
Why these games work:
As you can see, micro-play games are designed for speed and simplicity. With no lengthy time commitment required. So if you want to keep your gaming streak alive and you literally only have a minute to spare. You’ll still be able to get in the game and seize a potential winning opportunity.
Top tips for every online gambling session
No matter how long you’re playing for, whether it’s 2 minutes or 2 hours, it always pays to play smart. Take a look at our top tips to successful, responsible gambling and get the most value you can out of every session:
Set a budget (and stick to it): Time may be short, but losing track of your spending can happen just as quickly. Don’t get caught out. Always keep your finances in mind and manage your bankroll efficiently with every bet you place.
Stick to what you know: If you don’t have a lot of time to gamble, you don’t have a lot of time to learn new games either. Don’t rush into something new before you’ve had time to assimilate all the rules. Stick to old favourites that you know inside and out, and save the experimenting for when you’ve got more time to spare.
Losses suck, but don’t chase them
Never chase your losses: There’s no need to try and win any funds back before your scheduled time is up. You’ll just end up spending more time and money at the casino than you can afford. Play with your head instead – accept the outcome as it is, and walk away.
Take advantage of mobile apps: Need to take your gambling with you? Most reputable online casinos optimise their casino games for mobile play. Allowing you to enjoy on-the-go gaming in a way that’s more convenient than ever.
Stay in control: One of the biggest advantages to short gambling sessions is the way they limit your playtime. This may not feel like a benefit when you start out. But a quick session will give you the gambling thrills you’re looking for while helping you stay in control of your finances and your mindset.
Get your gaming on in 3, 2, 1!
Life moves fast, but online gambling moves even faster. Which means no matter how little time you have to spare, there’s always a way to enjoy your favourite games online. Short sessions can still rock. Whether it’s a few quick spins or mini rounds of cards. Online gaming is always on hand to give you the casino experience you’re looking for. And that’s premium entertainment you can count on!