After I graduate from college this summer, I plan on going to Vegas for a few months and playing cards until I find something better to do. After visiting Vegas during Bellagio's five diamond classic in November, I thought it might be fun to follow the major tournements and play in side games. I'm just wondering what strategies or tricks do traveling players use to reduce the cost of hotel and airfare. Do they register for rooms and flights six months in advance? Do they regularly charter flights with other traveling players? Do they rely on frequent flyer programs for discounts? Do they ever use discount airlines or take the bus? (From Vegas to LA for example). I don't expect poker players to get any comps past slightly discounted room rates at their hotels. Does anyone have any advice on cutting room rates further?

If traveling players don't have ways to seriously reduce the cost of travel and lodging, it must consume a significant portion of their income.