A great bonus can stretch your bankroll — or lock it behind small print. This 2025 guide translates the four lines that matter: wagering, max bet, game contribution and bet patterns. Use fixed units (0.5–1% per spin/hand) and a short clearing plan to finish on your terms.
1) Read these first (and only these)
- Wagering: e.g., 30× bonus, or 30× (bonus+deposit). Know which one.
- Max bet while wagering: often €2–€5 or a % of bonus. Exceeding it voids wins.
- Game contribution: slots 100% (usually), live/table 10–20% or 0%.
- Bet patterns: forbidden strategies (e.g., low-risk covering, “bonus abuse” patterns).
Green/Red quick scan
- Green: wagering ≤ 35× bonus, max bet ≥ €5, slots 100%, clear expiry ≥ 7 days.
- Red: wagering on bonus+deposit, max bet < €2, table games 0% + vague patterns, expiry < 48 h.
2) Contribution cheat table
| Game type | Typical contribution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Most video slots | 100% Best | Some titles excluded or 50% — check list. |
| High-volatility slots | 50–75% | Can still work; reduce unit size. |
| Table & live casino | 0–20% | Rarely optimal for clearing. |
| Jackpots/Bonus Buys | 0% / Not allowed | Commonly excluded. |
3) Unit sizing & max-bet guardrails
- Units: 0.5–1% of session bankroll per spin. If max bet is €5, keep your unit ≤ €5.
- Do not scale after losses; the rule that saves most bonuses is flat betting.
- Two exits: win goal +25% or stop −50% of deposit — bonus or not, you still manage risk.
4) 30–45 minute clearing plan
- Pick 1–2 100% slots with stable pace (avoid heavy animations).
- Play 2 blocks of 12–15 min with a 2–3 min pause; log wagered amount and mood (1–5).
- Review: if close to expiry, finish; if not, come back fresh — fatigue breaks rules.
5) Pattern traps (how to avoid voids)
- No “max bet spikes” after small wins; keep stake consistent.
- Avoid large portion bets like 50% of balance on a single spin — often flagged.
- Don’t mix bonus and cash rails mid-session unless T&Cs allow it.
6) Cashback, freespins & no-wager alternatives
If your time is tight, prefer cashback (credited cash), freespins with no wagering, or low-wager deals. Value per minute often beats headline % bonuses.