Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Bounce House

Jul 15, 2024

Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Bounce House

Planning a party? A bounce house is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a kid’s birthday, a school carnival, or a neighborhood block party, nothing brings the energy like a bounce house.

But if it’s your first time renting one, you probably have questions:
How much does it cost?
Is it safe?
What do I need to prepare?

We’ve got you covered.

At Bouncey, we help people find the best local bounce house providers without the hassle. This guide breaks down everything you need to know before booking.

1. Choose the Right Type of Bounce House

There are tons of options out there, and picking the right one depends on your space, guest list, and budget.

Here are some common types:

  • Classic Bounce House – The standard inflatable castle. Perfect for younger kids.

  • Combo Unit – A bounce area plus a slide or climbing wall.

  • Water Slide – Great for summer events. Kids (and adults) love them.

  • Obstacle Course – Ideal for bigger groups and high-energy play.

  • Toddler Inflatables – Designed specifically for small kids with extra safety features.

2. Know What It’ll Cost

Pricing varies by location and unit type, but here’s a general range:

  • Standard Bounce House: $125 – $250

  • Combo Unit: $200 – $350

  • Water Slide: $250 – $500

  • Obstacle Course: $300 – $700+

Most rentals are for the full day and include setup/takedown. Be sure to check what's included in the quote. Weekends and holidays may cost more or book up faster.

3. Safety First

Not all bounce house providers are created equal. Look for:

  • Proof of insurance and licensing

  • Clean, well-maintained equipment

  • Proper anchoring with stakes or sandbags

  • Adult supervision at all times

  • Clear weight and capacity limits

At Bouncey, we only work with vendors who meet strict safety standards, so you don’t have to guess.

4. Prep Your Space

You’ll want to make sure your setup area is ready:

  • Flat, grassy surface is ideal

  • Clear of rocks, sticks, or low-hanging branches

  • Power source nearby (most units need a standard outlet)

  • Enough room—leave 2–3 feet around the inflatable

  • A backup plan if rain is in the forecast

Some providers can set up on pavement or even indoors with the right conditions.

5. Book Early (Especially in Peak Season)

Spring and summer weekends fill up fast. We recommend booking at least 2–4 weeks in advance, especially for events in May–August.

Don’t wait until the week of the party—it’s not worth the stress.

6. Ask the Right Questions

Before you book, here are a few key things to ask your provider:

  • What happens if it rains?

  • Are setup and takedown included?

  • How long is the rental period?

  • Do you clean the bounce house between uses?

  • Do you offer bundle deals (tables, chairs, concessions)?

Why Use Bouncey?

Bouncey isn’t a rental company—we’re your partner in stress-free party planning.

Here’s how we help:

  • We vet every provider for safety and reliability

  • We match you with the best local options

  • We don’t charge you extra—you get the same price as going direct

  • We make the process simple, safe, and fast

Whether you're planning a backyard birthday or a big school event, Bouncey makes it easy to find the perfect inflatable—without hours of research.

Ready to Rent?

Fill out the form below to get matched with top-rated bounce house providers near you.
It’s free, easy, and takes less than 2 minutes.

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