Bingo might sound old school, but it’s back – and bigger than ever.
While it’s still technically gambling (and not something you’d rely on to boost your finances), millions of Brits are now heading to bingo halls or logging on to play online.
And guess what? It’s not just about shouting “house!” anymore – it’s about community, good vibes, and, yes, maybe winning a few quid.
So if you’re curious but don’t know where to begin, National Bingo Game Caller of the Year, 22-year-old Issy-Mae Hunt, has shared her top tips for enjoying bingo – and upping your chances (just a bit!) of walking away with a prize.
First Things First: How to Get in the Game
Playing bingo is pretty simple. You buy a card – usually £2, or a strip of five for £10 – and wait for numbers 1 to 90 to be called out.
If you’ve got a matching number on your card, you dab it. The first player to mark off all 15 numbers wins.
You’ll need a good eye and quick reflexes.
Online bingo works the same way. You can download cards onto your phone or laptop.
And while bingo isn’t exactly a get-rich-quick game, your odds are surprisingly better than the National Lottery.
According to BingoWebsites.org.uk, your odds of winning a national bingo game with 10 tickets are about 1 in 5,000.
Compare that to the National Lottery, where it’s more like 1 in 3 million if you’re holding 10 tickets. Big difference!
Want Better Odds? Play on a Monday
Believe it or not, your chances can improve just by playing at the right time.
The fewer people playing, the less competition – simple math.
That’s why Issy-Mae recommends playing on quiet days like Monday.
She says: “Some like playing solo, but teaming up with one or two friends can help – you can keep each other alert so no one misses a call.”
And since fewer people tend to show up early in the week, your odds get a subtle nudge in the right direction.
In fact, stats show that with just one player in a hall, it takes about 77 numbers called before someone wins.
With 10 players, it drops to 67. With 50, it’s only 62.
If You Want to Win Big, Go National
Not all bingo games are created equal. If you’re chasing big jackpots, make sure you’re playing through national operators like Buzz Bingo or other members of the National Bingo Game Association (Mecca Bingo, Majestic Bingo, BJ’s, Castle Bingo – to name a few).
These networks pool their jackpots. That means you can win up to £50,000 if you hit bingo within the first 16 balls – and this jackpot is hit more than once a week.
Buzz Bingo even runs a £100,000 draw once a month. Now that’s what you call a proper night out.
Why Bingo Is the Budget-Friendly Night Out
Younger people are flocking to bingo for a reason – it’s fun and doesn’t break the bank.
According to Rank Group, 44% of new Mecca Bingo players are under 35.
Buzz Bingo says half of its 200,000 newcomers are also under 35.
For £20 you can enjoy a full evening of bingo fun.
Add a fiver for a drink and it’s still cheaper than a typical night at the pub.
Plus, modern bingo halls are more like social clubs than stuffy old halls – with fun themes and fresh energy.
Where You Sit Actually Matters
Even though bingo is a game of chance, a few smart moves can help.
Sit somewhere quiet, ideally facing the caller so you can hear and see clearly.
Missing a number could cost you the game.
Issy-Mae adds: “It’s all fun, but when the game’s on – stay focused.
There’s money on the line, so keep chatter to a minimum and watch your cards closely.”
Luck or Logic? What Actually Works?
Sure, there’s no foolproof bingo strategy, but that doesn’t stop people from trying. American mathematician Joseph Granville believed a well-balanced card – with an even mix of high, low, odd and even numbers – gave you a slight edge.
Issy-Mae prefers a more personal tactic: colour.
“I always pick pink – it stands out, makes me feel good, and maybe brings luck too,” she laughs.
Whether it works or not, it certainly doesn’t hurt to choose something that lifts your spirits.
Don’t Chase Losses – Set a Limit
It’s easy to get swept up in the moment, especially online.
But always play with a budget you’re happy to lose – because the truth is, most players won’t win.
Issy-Mae gives a word of advice: “Never play when you’re feeling low.
You’re more likely to spend out of frustration. Bingo’s meant to be fun.
If you’re not winning, it’s just luck – nothing wrong with your skills.”
And remember – thinking you’re “due a win” is a dangerous mindset. Each game is totally random.
Bingo Is About Fun – Winning Is a Bonus
Whether you’re in it for the thrill, the laughs with mates, or the slim shot at a jackpot, bingo is booming because it’s light-hearted and social.
Issy-Mae sums it up best: “Being happy doesn’t make you win – but it makes losing a lot easier.
Enjoy the game, stick to your budget, and if you win – great. If not, at least you had a good time.”