Side Bet

Side bets are optional additional wagers offered alongside the main bet in table games. In blackjack, popular side bets include Perfect Pairs (matching cards), 21+3 (poker hand from your cards + dealer upcard), and Insurance. Side bets typically carry much higher house edges (2-15%+) than the main game. While they add excitement and potential for large payouts from small stakes, they increase the overall cost of playing. Side bets in live dealer games have become very popular, with Lightning Blackjack adding random multipliers. South African players should enjoy side bets for entertainment but understand they reduce long-term returns.