Vegas taxi drivers notorious for "long hauling" via airport tunnel routes that double $25 Strip fares to $50+. Airport to Bellagio should cost $20-30 but tunnel detours inflate bills during peak convention times.

Uber/Lyft more reliable from Harry Reid International though surge pricing hits $40+ during major events. Apps display routes eliminating mysterious detours through industrial areas. Budget option: RTC Deuce bus $8 24-hour pass hitting every major Strip hotel.

If using Yellow Checker Cab or Desert Cab, confirm meter starts at $3.50 base, insist on Las Vegas Boulevard route not tunnel shortcuts. Plenty of unlicensed operators work airport arrivals - stick to official taxi stands with city permits.