Craps is one of the most thrilling and fast-paced games in any casino, but if you want to go beyond cheering at the table and actually understand where your money is going, it’s essential to break down how each bet works.

That’s exactly what we’re doing here at Bonus Hunt, your ultimate guide to finding the best online casinos in Canada. We offer players a clear, expert-backed look at how to play smarter.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the core concept of craps bets explained, from the most secure wagers with favourable odds to the riskier moves that are more about adrenaline than math.

We’ll also cover tips on building a smart craps betting strategy so you can enjoy the table while protecting your bankroll. Whether you’re playing for fun or aiming to make the most of a generous casino bonus, this guide will help you get more from every roll.

The Basics of How Craps is Played

Before diving into betting strategies, you need a solid grasp of how the game flows. Craps is played with two dice and involves a series of rolls. The shooter (player rolling the dice) begins with a “come-out roll.”

Here’s how it breaks down:

  • If the come-out roll is a 7 or 11, Pass Line bets win;
  • If it’s 2, 3, or 12, Pass Line bets lose (12 is a push in some casinos);
  • Any other number becomes the “point.”

After the point is established (e.g., 5), the shooter must roll that same number again before rolling a 7. If they do, Pass Line bets win. If a 7 comes first, they lose.

While this seems simple, what makes craps dynamic is the wide variety of bets that can be placed around this sequence. Understanding the purpose and probability of each is key to making informed decisions.

Whether you’re on a desktop or at an Interac casino, the fundamentals remain the same. And as always, Bonus Hunt is here with the most up-to-date breakdowns and reviews to help you stay ahead.

Safe Bets in Craps and Their Odds

Let’s start with the safe bets in craps. These are wagers that offer a low house edge and solid return odds. They may not be flashy, but they give you more time at the table and better chances to win.

Pass Line/Don’t Pass

These are the most basic bets. The house edge for Pass Line is about 1.41%, while Don’t Pass is slightly better at around 1.36%. These bets form the foundation of most winning craps strategies.

Come/Don’t Come

These work just like Pass/Don’t Pass, but are placed after the point has been established. They also have house edges of around 1.41% and 1.36%, respectively.

Odds Bets (Backed Odds)

This is where the magic happens. After placing a Pass or Come bet, you can add an “Odds” bet behind it. Odds bets have no house edge—they pay out true odds. For example:

  • Point 4 or 10: Pays 2:1;
  • Point 5 or 9: Pays 3:2;
  • Point 6 or 8: Pays 6:5.

By combining these with low-edge bets, such as Pass Line, you can significantly reduce the casino’s overall advantage. This is one reason why these bets are heavily featured in our casino reviews of the top Canadian platforms.

As part of our guide to finding the best online casinos, these strategies play a key role. Many players also use a bonus calculator to plan their wagers and track how bonuses can be combined with these bets for maximum value.

Place Bets (on 6 or 8)

Placing a bet directly on 6 or 8 is another smart move. The house edge here is about 1.52%, making it one of the more efficient ways to stay in the game.

These bets offer a good balance between safety and excitement, and they’re a favourite among experienced players looking to stretch their chips. Although concepts like RTP and volatility are typically associated with slots, in craps, the equivalent measure is the house edge, which enables players to compare the relative risk and reward of each bet.

Risky Bets in Craps and Why Players Take Them

Now let’s talk about the more daring side of the table: the risky craps bets. These can lead to big wins, but they also carry high house edges and low probabilities of hitting.

Proposition Bets (One-Roll Bets)

These are quick, high-risk bets on the outcome of the very next roll. Some examples:

  • Any 7: House edge about 16.67%;
  • Any Craps (2, 3, 12): House edge about 11.11%;
  • Yo (11): House edge about 11.11%:
  • Ace Deuce (3): House edge about 11.11%.

Hardways

This bet is placed on a specific double—known as a “hard” number—being rolled before a 7 appears, or before that same total is made in an easier combination.

For example, a Hard 6 means rolling 3+3, while a “soft” 6 could be 4+2 or 5+1. The house edge usually ranges between ~9.09% and 11.11%.

Horn Bets

A combination of four one-roll bets (2, 3, 11, 12). While the payout can be big, the combined odds and house edge make this a bankroll killer in the long run.

So why do players take these bets? Simple: adrenaline. There’s no denying that throwing down a $5 chip on a hard 8 and watching it hit is exhilarating. These bets add energy to the game, but they’re best viewed as entertainment, not strategy.

At Bonus Hunt, we never tell you to skip the fun. Just balance it with smart play. And don’t forget—many loyalty programs reward frequent players, even those who mix in a few risky plays. Choosing trusted platforms, including regulated crypto casinos, ensures not only variety but also fair play.

Tips for Choosing the Right Betting Strategy in Craps

Now that you know which bets offer value and which are better for quick thrills, let’s talk about how to build your craps betting strategy.

1. Anchor Your Game in Low-Edge Bets

Start with Pass/Don’t Pass or Come/Don’t Come. These provide consistency and lower the house edge.

2. Always Back Bets with Odds

Odds bets are one of the few wagers in any casino game with zero house edge. Max them out when possible, especially if the casino offers 3x, 4x, or 5x odds.

3. Be Selective with Place Bets

Stick to placing 6 or 8. Avoid placing 5 or 9 unless you’re mixing things up strategically.

4. Use Risky Bets as Garnish, Not the Meal

Sure, throw a few dollars on a Horn or Hardway bet if you’re feeling it, but keep these small. Think of them like hot sauce: a little adds flavour, too much ruins the dish.

5. Manage Your Bankroll Like a Pro

Set win and loss limits. Stick to them. Craps can swing fast, and staying disciplined helps you walk away with your gains (or at least, your dignity).

6. Take Advantage of Casino Bonuses and Promotions

Here at Bonus Hunt, we help you find the best online casino offers in Canada, including platforms offering free spins, cashback deals, and exclusive perks. Whether you’re exploring a new table or reading a detailed casino review, we make sure you’re equipped to play smart.

Play Smarter with Bonus Hunt

Mastering craps is more than just rolling sevens. It’s about understanding the math, reading the table, and knowing when to play it safe or take a risk.

We hope this guide to craps bets has provided you with the knowledge and confidence to approach the table like a seasoned pro. From the safety of low-edge bets to the excitement of high-risk plays, every craps bet tells a story—the key is knowing which ones are worth writing.

At Bonus Hunt, we don’t just list casinos. We’re about helping players find value through curated reviews, real insights, and top-rated bonuses. If you’re looking for the best Canadian casino options, our team has tested and ranked them for your convenience.

Don’t forget to explore our news section for the latest trends, our in-depth guides for game strategies, and our trusted casino reviews to pick your next platform.

If you ever have questions or need advice, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.

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