Planning an event? Inflatables can make it unforgettable. Whether you’re organizing a birthday party, school carnival, company picnic, or community event, adding an inflatable is a great way to bring energy and excitement.
From bounce houses and obstacle courses to water slides and inflatable games, there are lots of options to choose from. But picking the right one can be confusing if you don’t know what to look for.
This guide will help you understand how to choose the best inflatable for your event. You’ll learn how to match the inflatable to your space, your guests, and your theme. It will also show you how to keep things safe, fun, and stress-free for everyone.
Understand the Type of Event You’re Hosting
The type of event you’re planning directly impacts your inflatable choice.
For example:
- Birthday Parties: Compact bounce houses or combo units (bounce + slide) are perfect.
- School or Church Events: Go for obstacle courses or multiple inflatables to keep many kids entertained at once.
- Corporate or Community Events: Consider interactive inflatables like jousting arenas or inflatable sports games that appeal to both kids and adults.
- Hot Weather Events: Water slides or splash combos are great for staying cool.
By matching the inflatable to the vibe and audience of your event, you’ll avoid mismatches and maximize the fun.
Know Your Audience: Age and Number of Attendees
Inflatables are designed with specific age groups and capacity limits. Choosing the wrong one can lead to safety issues or bored kids.
Here’s how to narrow it down:
- Toddlers (ages 2–5): Use toddler-safe inflatables with low walls and no sharp edges.
- Children (ages 6–12): Traditional bounce houses, slides, and obstacle courses work well.
- Teens and Adults: Go bigger and more competitive with inflatable games or challenging obstacle runs.
Also, estimate how many attendees will use the inflatable per hour. For large crowds, consider multiple units or inflatables with fast throughput, like dual-lane slides.
Measure Your Space Before Booking
One of the most common mistakes? Not measuring your setup area. Inflatables need more space than just their base size.
You need room for:
- Anchoring and safety clearance (typically 3–5 feet on each side)
- Blower setup and power access
- Overhead clearance (especially important for indoor setups)
Example dimensions:
A standard bounce house is about 13’x13’, but needs at least 18’x18’ of clear space. Obstacle courses can run 30–60 feet long, requiring larger fields or parking lots.
Before booking, walk the site and measure with a tape. Factor in gates, fences, and slopes. Don’t guess—be precise.
Consider the Surface and Setup Location
Not all inflatables work on all surfaces. Here’s what you need to know:
- Grass: Ideal for anchoring with stakes; soft landing.
- Concrete or Asphalt: Needs sandbags and padding for safety.
- Indoor Venues: Ensure the ceiling is high enough and you have electrical access.
- Sand or Loose Dirt: Often discouraged; hard to stabilize and gets inflatables dirty.
Always tell your rental company about your surface type so they can bring the right equipment.
Match the Inflatable to Your Theme (If You Have One)
If your event has a theme, use it to guide your choice. Themed inflatables add an extra level of excitement and help with decoration.
Popular options include:
- Princess castles
- Pirate ships
- Jungle or farm-themed bounce houses
- Holiday-themed inflatables (like Halloween haunted houses or Christmas-themed slides)
A cohesive theme can make your event more memorable and photo-worthy.
Focus on Safety and Rental Company Credentials
Not all inflatable rental companies are equal. Prioritize safety and professionalism.
Ask these key questions:
- Is the company insured and licensed in your area?
- Are the inflatables cleaned and sanitized after each use?
- Do they offer on-site setup and safety instructions?
- Are their units compliant with ASTM or other safety standards?
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, inflatables cause over 10,000 injuries each year in the U.S.—often due to improper setup or overcrowding. Choosing a reputable company minimizes risks and ensures peace of mind.
Don’t Ignore the Weather Forecast
Inflatables are sensitive to weather conditions—especially wind and rain.
Important facts:
- Most rental companies won’t set up if winds exceed 15–20 mph.
- Wet surfaces on dry-only units can become slippery and unsafe.
- Some inflatables are built for wet use, but many aren’t.
If rain is likely, ask about cancellation policies or switch to water-friendly options. Always plan a backup indoor space if possible.
Set a Realistic Budget (And Know What’s Included)
Inflatable pricing can vary based on size, type, and duration. Basic bounce houses start at around $100–$150, while larger interactive units or multi-piece obstacle courses can run $300–$800+.
Watch for these hidden costs:
- Delivery and pickup fees
- Setup charges
- Cleaning or damage deposits
- Extra hours or overnight rentals
Always get a full breakdown of pricing before confirming your booking. A reputable company like Jump Around Party Jumpers will provide clear terms with no surprise fees.
Ask for Custom Packages or Combos
If you’re renting more than one inflatable, or planning a large event, ask about custom packages. Many companies offer:
- Bounce house + slide combos
- Add-on games like inflatable basketball or ring toss
- Table and chair rentals
- Discounted rates for schools or non-profits
Combining units can reduce costs per activity and add variety for guests.
Final Thoughts
Inflatables are very popular, especially on weekends and during school breaks. To get the best choices, try to book your inflatable about 3 to 4 weeks before your event. If you’re planning something for a big holiday or during the summer, book 6 to 8 weeks in advance.
Quick Checklist Before You Book:
✅ What type of event are you planning?
✅ How many guests are coming, and what are their ages?
✅ How much space do you have, and what is the surface like?
✅ Do you want a specific theme?
✅ What is the weather forecast or backup plan?
✅ Does the rental company have good reviews and insurance?
✅ Do you understand all the prices and safety rules?
Choosing the right inflatable is not just about fun. It’s about picking the one that fits your space, your guests, and your goals.
Ask the right questions and plan ahead. That way, you can host an event that everyone will enjoy and remember.
