Quick Answer: What Makes A Craps Plan Conservative?
A conservative craps approach usually has:
- a simple base bet (Pass Line or Don’t Pass)
- limited additional bets (optional odds and one or two place bets)
- no constant prop betting
- fixed bet sizing (no chasing)
- clear stop-loss and stop-win rules
The goal is not to “beat” the game.
The goal is to control risk, stay calm, and make fewer costly mistakes.
If you want the full big-picture guide first, start here: The Complete Guide To Craps.
Step 1: Pick Your Base Bet (Keep It Simple)
Most conservative plans start with one of these:
Option A: Pass Line
You’re betting with the shooter.
Option B: Don’t Pass
You’re betting against the shooter.
Both are core bets, easy to track, and don’t require you to manage a complicated board.
If you want to learn more about the differences, read The Difference Between Pass Line & Don’t Pass Line Bets.
Step 2: Decide If You’re Using Odds (And Keep It Controlled)
Odds bets can be a clean way to add action without adding prop chaos.
But you still need limits, because odds increases your total exposure.
A conservative approach might be:
- small odds only
- or no odds until you’re comfortable
The key is choosing odds size before you start, not mid-session.
Step 3: Add One Optional “Simple” Number Layer (If You Want)
If you want slightly more action than just the line bet, keep it minimal.
A common conservative add-on is:
- place the 6 and 8 only
Why?
- they hit more often than 4/10
- they’re easy to track
- and they don’t require constant movement like come bets
If you want to know more about how place bets work, read Place Bets Explained: How They Work On Each Number.
Conservative Rule: Cap Your Working Bets
A clean conservative cap is:
- Pass Line (or Don’t Pass)
- plus 6 and 8 only
That’s it.
No “just add the 5,” then “add the 9,” then props, then chaos.
Step 4: Avoid The Center Table (Most Of The Time)
If you’re aiming for conservative play, center props should not be part of your regular plan.
They’re tempting because they’re fast and loud, but they can quietly drain bankroll through repetition.
If you want the warning explained, read The Hidden Dangers Of Center Table Betting.
If you still want some “fun action,” use a strict prop budget:
- “$10–$20 total props for the whole session.”
Once it’s gone, you stop.
Step 5: Use Flat Betting (No Pressing Unless You Planned It)
Conservative play usually means:
- fixed bet sizes
- minimal pressing
- no aggressive progressions
If you press, do it with a rule, not emotion.
Example rule:
- “If I’m up 10 units, I press my 6 and 8 one level, once.”
Not:
- “The shooter is hot, I’m going to double everything.”
Step 6: Set A Session Structure (Time And Money)
Conservative play works best when you define:
- how long you’ll play
- how much you’ll risk
- and when you’ll stop
If you don’t set these, the table energy will decide for you.
If you need to know more about the full system, read Bankroll Management Strategies For Craps Players.
Step 7: Know What “Conservative” Actually Looks Like At The Table
Here are three simple conservative templates.
Template 1: The Simplest Plan
- Pass Line only
- no odds
- no props
This is ultra-simple and great for learning.
Template 2: Basic Conservative Plan
- Pass Line
- small odds (if planned)
- place 6 and 8 only (optional)
Template 3: Conservative With “Don’t” Side
- Don’t Pass
- optional odds (planned)
- no props
- keep it quiet and respectful
Pick one template and stick to it for the whole session.
Step 8: What To Do When The Table Gets Hot
Conservative players don’t “panic press.”
Instead, they:
- stay at unit size
- or make one controlled press with a pre-set rule
- and protect wins with a stop-win
Remember: hot streaks end.
Your job is to not give profits back because you got excited.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Most Conservative Way To Play Craps?
A simple approach is Pass Line (or Don’t Pass) with controlled odds or no odds, and avoiding constant prop betting.
Are Place Bets Conservative?
They can be if you keep them limited (like 6 and 8 only) and don’t keep adding more numbers.
Should Conservative Players Avoid Prop Bets?
Usually yes. Prop bets are often one-roll and easy to repeat, which increases bankroll drain.
How Do I Keep A Conservative Plan During A Hot Shooter?
Use fixed bet sizes and only press if you have a pre-set rule. Protect profit with a stop-win.
Do Conservative Strategies Guarantee Profit?
No. They reduce mistakes and control risk, but craps still has house edge and variance.
Where To Go Next
You now have a conservative craps framework: simple base bets, limited working action, minimal props, flat betting, and clear session rules.
Next, we’ll flip the script and build an aggressive approach, so you understand what changes when you chase bigger swings, why it feels exciting, and what risks you’re taking on.
Continue with How To Build An Aggressive Craps Betting Approach.
