Water Vendors on the Las Vegas Strip Disprove Refilling Bottle Myths
In the ongoing series "Vegas Myths Busted," published every Monday on Casino.org, we delve into common misconceptions about Sin City. Today's article, originally published on Jan. 29, 2024, addresses the rumours surrounding unlicensed water vendors on the Las Vegas Strip.
Contrary to popular belief, these vendors are not engaging in illegal activities such as begging, harassment, or scamming tourists. There is no credible evidence or reports indicating that they refill empty bottles with tap water and superglue the caps. 135
The persistent rumor that these vendors routinely collect empty bottles from trash cans and refill them with tap water has no basis in fact. If such deceptive behaviour were to occur, it would likely be a consumer safety or public health concern that might be reported by local news, consumer protection agencies, or city officials. However, no such information appears in recent coverage or local event information.
These vendors offer a potentially life-saving service to dehydrated tourists who may not have other affordable and sanitary options for hydration along the Strip. During the summer months, they sell water for anywhere from $1-$5 per bottle to visitors who didn't plan properly because they're on vacation.
Water fountains on the Las Vegas Strip are not considered sanitary by some, and resort gift shop water is not considered affordable. The cost of a bottle of Pure Life purified water from a Walmart near the Strip is $0.20, significantly cheaper than the prices charged by unlicensed water vendors on the Las Vegas Strip.
It is perfectly acceptable to purchase a cold bottle of water from an unlicensed vendor on the Las Vegas Strip, especially during hot weather or after consuming alcohol. However, for verified and safe purchases, it is advisable to buy bottled water from licensed retailers or trusted establishments in Las Vegas.
The unlicensed bottled water peddlers operating on the Las Vegas Strip were already doing business there illegally. A new ordinance outlaws stopping on the Las Vegas Strip's pedestrian bridges, which some believe was triggered by the activities of these vendors, as argued by Scott Roeben, a blogger for Casino.org's Vital Vegas.
Clark County, the governing body of the Las Vegas Strip, has not provided enough opportunities for tourists to hydrate in legal, affordable, and sanitary ways, leading to the existence of unlicensed water vendors. Readers can suggest a Vegas myth that needs busting by emailing [email protected].
- Despite the misconceptions, the unlicensed water vendors in Las Vegas, often part of the 'casino culture', are not involved in illegal activities such as refilling bottles with tap water and supergluing caps, as they offer a crucial and affordable hydration service to tourists, particularly during the summer or after alcohol consumption.
- In the midst of Las Vegas's bustling 'casino-and-gambling' scene, unlicensed water vendors can be found on the Strip, providing a vital service to tourists who may find the cost of bottled water at resorts or water fountains unaffordable or unsanitary.
