Best Blackjack Side Bets

6th June 2026 Off By Henry

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games worldwide, renowned for its blend of strategy and chance. While traditional blackjack focuses on beating the dealer’s hand, many players are drawn to the excitement of side bets. These optional wagers offer the potential for bigger payouts and add an extra layer of entertainment to each round. At thelegacylist.org.uk, we take a detailed look at the best blackjack side bets, how they work, and what you should consider before placing them. Whether you’re playing at a local casino or exploring betting sites non GamStop, understanding side bets can enhance your blackjack experience.

What Are Blackjack Side Bets?

Side bets in blackjack are additional wagers placed alongside your main bet. They are independent of the outcome of the main game and typically focus on specific card combinations or occurrences during the round. Side bets can be found in both land-based and online casinos, and their popularity is largely due to the potential for high payouts from relatively small stakes.

Unlike the main game, which usually pays even money (1:1) or 3:2 for a blackjack, side bets can offer returns of 10:1, 25:1, or even higher. However, it’s important to remember that these bets generally come with a higher house edge than standard blackjack hands.

Why Play Blackjack Side Bets?

Players are attracted to side bets for several reasons:

  • Excitement: Side bets add an extra thrill to each hand, especially when chasing rare combinations.
  • Potential for Big Wins: The payouts for successful side bets can be much higher than the main game.
  • Variety: With many different side bets available, players can choose those that suit their preferences and risk tolerance.

However, it’s wise to approach side bets with caution. While the rewards can be tempting, the odds are usually less favorable than the main game. Understanding how each side bet works is essential for making informed decisions.

The Most Popular Blackjack Side Bets

There are dozens of different side bets available, but some have become staples in both online and brick-and-mortar casinos. Below, we cover the most popular and widely played blackjack side bets, explaining how they work and what you can expect in terms of payouts and odds.

1. Perfect Pairs

Perfect Pairs is one of the most common side bets in blackjack. It focuses on the player’s initial two cards, paying out if they form a pair. There are typically three types of pairs, each with its own payout:

  • Perfect Pair: Two identical cards in both rank and suit (e.g. two 7 of hearts).
  • Coloured Pair: Two cards of the same rank and color, but different suits (e.g. 7 of hearts and 7 of diamonds).
  • Mixed Pair: Two cards of the same rank but different colors and suits (e.g. 7 of hearts and 7 of clubs).

Payouts vary by casino, but Perfect Pairs usually offers the following returns:

  • Perfect Pair: 25:1
  • Coloured Pair: 12:1
  • Mixed Pair: 6:1

The odds of landing a Perfect Pair are relatively low, which accounts for the high payout. This side bet is simple to understand and adds a straightforward layer of excitement to the game.

2. 21+3

The 21+3 side bet combines blackjack with elements of poker. It considers the player’s first two cards and the dealer’s upcard, forming a three-card poker hand. The possible combinations and typical payouts include:

  • Suited Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank and suit (e.g. three 8 of spades) – 100:1
  • Straight Flush: Three consecutive cards of the same suit (e.g. 7, 8, 9 of diamonds) – 40:1
  • Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank (e.g. three 5s) – 30:1
  • Straight: Three consecutive cards of mixed suits – 10:1
  • Flush: Three cards of the same suit – 5:1

The 21+3 side bet appeals to players who enjoy both blackjack and poker, offering substantial payouts for rare hands. It’s important to note that the house edge for this bet is higher than for the main game, but the returns can be significant when luck is on your side.

3. Insurance

Insurance is offered when the dealer’s upcard is an Ace. It’s a separate bet, usually half the size of your main wager, that pays 2:1 if the dealer has blackjack. While insurance is technically a side bet, it’s often treated differently because it’s a standard part of most blackjack games.

Despite its prevalence, insurance is generally not recommended for most players, as the odds do not favor the player in the long run. It can be useful in specific card counting scenarios, but for the average player, it increases the house edge.

4. Lucky Ladies

Lucky Ladies is a side bet based on the player’s first two cards totaling 20. The highest payout is awarded for two Queen of Hearts, with smaller payouts for other 20-value combinations. Typical payouts include:

  • Two Queen of Hearts: 100:1
  • Matched 20 (same rank and suit): 25:1
  • Suited 20: 10:1
  • Any 20: 4:1

This side bet is particularly popular among players who enjoy chasing big wins. The odds of landing the top prize are slim, but the excitement of hitting a high-value 20 can be appealing.

5. Royal Match

Royal Match pays out if the player’s first two cards are suited. There are two main payouts:

  • Royal Match: King and Queen of the same suit – 25:1
  • Easy Match: Any two suited cards – 5:2

This bet is simple to understand and offers frequent smaller wins, with the chance of a larger payout for the rare Royal Match.

6. Lucky Lucky

Lucky Lucky is based on the player’s first two cards and the dealer’s upcard, similar to 21+3. The side bet pays for various combinations totaling 19, 20, or 21, with higher payouts for suited or specific combinations. Example payouts:

  • Suited 777: 200:1
  • 777: 50:1
  • 6-7-8 suited: 100:1
  • 6-7-8: 30:1
  • 21 (any): 3:1

Lucky Lucky is favored by players who enjoy the suspense of waiting for a perfect combination.

How to Approach Blackjack Side Bets

While side bets can make blackjack more entertaining, they also come with increased risk. Here are some practical tips for approaching side bets responsibly:

  • Understand the Odds: Always check the house edge and payout structure for each side bet before playing. Some side bets have a much higher house edge than the main game.
  • Set a Budget: Treat side bets as a fun addition, not a main strategy. Allocate a small portion of your bankroll to side bets to avoid significant losses.
  • Know the Rules: Each casino may have slightly different rules or payout tables for side bets. Make sure you understand the specifics before placing your wager.
  • Play for Fun: Side bets are best enjoyed as a way to add excitement, not as a consistent way to win.

Blackjack Side Bets in Online Casinos

Online casinos have embraced side bets, offering a wide range of options to suit every player. The digital format allows for more creative side bets and variations, often with interactive graphics and instant payouts. If you’re exploring blackjack side bets online, you’ll find that most reputable platforms clearly display the rules and potential payouts for each bet.

When playing at online casinos, always ensure the site is licensed and regulated. This ensures fair play and secure transactions. For those interested in more flexible gaming options, including platforms outside the UK’s GamStop program, you can explore betting sites non GamStop

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