While I agree with all of it, I must say that having some drinks while doing almost anything just makes things better, specially with friends. It enhances the experience, but makes it very easy to spend more than one has planned in the budget.

So one of my recommendations would be to only take the money of the budget to the casino if one plans to drink alcohol or accept drinks provided by the house, so in case one lose some control over the decision making capabilities, still there will be no money to gamble beyond the budget. Leave credit cards and jewelry at home.