Planning a party, school event, or community get-together? You probably want something fun, exciting, and different that everyone will enjoy.
That’s where the Hungry Hippo Inflatable Rental comes in. It’s a huge, colorful game where players wear harnesses and race to grab balls, just like the classic Hungry Hungry Hippos game but in real life.
It’s fast, silly, and full of laughs. In this guide, you’ll learn how it works, what types of events it’s great for, how much it costs, and how to keep it safe and fun for everyone.
Table of Contents
What Is a Hungry Hippo Inflatable?
The Hungry Hippo inflatable is a big, action-packed game for four players, based on the classic Hungry Hungry Hippos board game.
Each player wears a harness that’s connected to a bungee cord. When the game starts, everyone races toward the center to grab balls and bring them back to their corner. The twist is that the bungee cord pulls you back each time you lunge forward.
This game isn’t just about being strong. You also need to be quick, smart, and ready to laugh. Most of these inflatables are 30 to 40 feet wide and can be set up inside or outside, so they work great any time of the year.
How Does It Work?
Each player stands in their own corner of the inflatable arena. When the referee says “go,” everyone races to the middle to grab as many colorful balls as they can and bring them back to their basket. The player with the most balls at the end wins.
Here’s why it’s so much fun:
- The bungee cord pulls you back, which makes it feel like a tug-of-war.
- Each round only lasts about 1 to 2 minutes, so the game stays exciting.
- Lots of people can take turns quickly since the games are short.
- It’s easy for kids to understand but still challenging enough to keep older players interested.
It’s simple enough for kids but competitive enough for adults. That’s why it’s a hit at team-building events and school carnivals.
Why Rent a Hungry Hippo Inflatable?
1. It’s High-Energy Fun That Everyone Wants to Try
This isn’t the kind of game people just watch. Everyone wants a turn. It’s easy to learn and gets people laughing, cheering, and having fun right away.
Some quick facts:
- A survey from EventMB showed that 91% of event organizers said games like this make people more involved.
- Businesses saw 40% more teamwork when they used inflatable games at their events.
2. It Works for All Kinds of Events
The Hungry Hippo inflatable fits in at almost any type of event and works for many age groups.
- School carnivals – Keep kids moving and having fun.
- Birthday parties – A fun change from the usual bounce house.
- Work team events – Helps people work together and compete in a fun way.
- Church and community gatherings – Safe, family-friendly, and easy to manage.
It’s best for kids ages 8 and up. Since the game moves fast, up to 60 people can play each hour.
How Much Does a Hungry Hippo Inflatable Rental Cost?
The cost to rent a Hungry Hippo inflatable can change based on where you live, which company you rent from, and how long you need it. Here’s a general idea of what you might pay:
| Rental Duration | Average Price (USD) |
| 4 hours | $350–$550 |
| Full day (8 hrs) | $600–$800 |
Some companies also offer extra services like setting everything up, taking it down, and sending staff to help run the game. If your event is outside and there’s no power nearby, they may include a generator too.
It’s a good idea to ask if the price includes delivery, taxes, and insurance so there are no surprises later.
What to Look for in a Rental Company
Not every rental company is the same. Some take better care of their equipment or offer more help than others. Here’s what you should check before you decide who to rent from:
Safety and Insurance
Make sure the company has a license and insurance. They should also follow safety rules set by experts. If kids are going to play, ask how they clean the inflatable after each use.
Setup and Supervision
Some games need someone to help run them. Ask if the company sends staff to help or if you’ll need to take care of it on your own.
Quality of the Equipment
Look at photos and read reviews. If the inflatable looks old or worn out, it might not be safe or fun to use. A trusted company like Jump Around Party Jumpers is known for keeping their equipment clean, safe, and in good condition.
How Much Space Do You Need?
Most Hungry Hippo inflatables need a 30×30 to 40×40 foot area. Add an extra 5 feet around the game for safety and access.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Flat ground (grass, turf, or gym floors work)
- Electrical access (or request a generator)
- Space for lines and spectators
Always confirm dimensions with the rental company.
Tips to Maximize Fun and Safety
- Assign a game coordinator to keep the flow going.
- Create a sign-up sheet for busy events so everyone gets a turn.
- Have a first-aid kit nearby — it’s rare but helpful.
- Keep water and shade available, especially at outdoor summer events.
Final Thoughts
The Hungry Hippo inflatable rental is more than just a game. It’s a fun, exciting way to bring people together. Whether it’s for a school carnival or a company event, it adds energy, laughs, and teamwork.
When you rent from a trusted company like Jump Around Party Jumpers and set it up right, it’s safe and great for any event. Best of all, it creates memories that last.
If you want your next event to stand out, the Hungry Hippo inflatable could be the star attraction.
