Hit the jackpot: 'Queen of Comps' has tips to getting freebies at the casino

CLEVELAND - Are you feeling lucky? From penny slots to roulette to the craps table, gamblers are cashing in on casino comps.

A comp is short for complimentary. It simply means something you don't pay for. 

One sure bet at winning stuff is joining the casino's player rewards club. It's free with a valid identification, like Bonnie Carls did.

"I get free meals. I also get a free buffet everyday, if I want," Carls said.

While you're signing up, don't be shy about sharing your personal information.  Gambling expert Jean Scott, known as the “Queen of Comps”, deals out a secret. 

"It's very important you give your name and address to casinos so you can get these mail offers," Scott said.

Mike Tamburelli, General Manager of Presque Isle Downs and Casino in Erie, Pa., said in addition to the typical comps like drinks, meals and hotel rooms, they also offer tickets to Browns and Indians games.

"Each casino has their different ways of attracting customers. We understand we have to be very aggressive with our comp system and players club," he said. 

Another secret to getting comps, try to get yourself paired-up with a casino host. That person will keep an eye on exactly how much you will play.

"That's a big, very important part of loyalty. Customers like to be recognized and we have a pretty big staff out there," Tamburelli said. 

But be careful not bust by playing just for comps.

"If you lost $200 while you're trying to earn a $10 buffet that is going to be the most bitter tasting meal you ever had in your life,"  Scott said.

She also said the slow holiday season, between Thanksgiving and Christmas, is the best time to get a free room.