It has been long said that gambling is just that – a gamble. But given the surge in popularity of online betting websites – especially those that focus on games within a casino setting, such as roulette, virtual slot machines, blackjack and poker – it seems apparent that some people are in fact doing rather well out of this recent growing trend. After all, why would they keep coming back if they’re losing cash hand over fist?

And this of course is true; some people do better than others when it comes to supposed games of chance. In fact, some people can make a very comfortable living from this past-time – so what do they know that you don’t? Well, here are a few ideas…

The first step is to choose – and more importantly master, your game of choice. Some people love the thrill of the roulette board whilst others love the rush of seeing that favourable river card flip over in poker.

Whatever game delivers your kicks, stick to that discipline, and make yourself an expert right down to the odds and implications of every chip and bet placed. If you’re unsure what you are looking for then try an online casino with a wide range of games available, some have even over 400 different games on offer – if you can’t find your tonic there, the odds are that you probably won’t!

Next, come up with a strategy that you’re happy with – and stick to it. It’s often wise to play two games at the same time, one with high odds (your game-changer) and one with low odds (a steady influx of small, frequent wins will keep your account topped-up). Take advantage of deals and offers from online casinos, such as matching your deposit, as well as hundreds of free spins and improved odds.

Of course, the most important rule is to know your limits. If you can’t afford to lose it, you definitely can’t afford to place it. We’ve all chased losses at some point in our lives and only a very select few people will be able to tell you of times that they have redeemed themselves. If in doubt, be sure to visit Gamble Aware’s helpful website that delivers lots of advice for safe online gambling.

Sometimes it can be hard to distinguish bad luck from bad play but whatever happens, make sure that you set a limit for both losing and winning. Remember, it takes a big man to call, but a far bigger man to fold and ten minutes later, you’ll probably feel very differently (not to mention relieved!). So take your licks, walk away and come back only when you can afford to.