How to Choose the Right Inflatable for Your Event

Choosing the right inflatable comes down to a few simple factors: who the event is for, where it’s taking place, and how many people will be using it. This guide explains how to match the right equipment to your event so everything runs smoothly on the day.

Start with the age group

Age is the most important consideration. For babies and toddlers, low-level equipment is essential. Items from our Soft Play Hire range, such as soft play shapes and ball pools, are designed specifically for early years and indoor use.

For younger children, themed inflatables from our Bouncy Castles range are usually the best option. These provide plenty of bouncing space without being too demanding physically. Older children often enjoy inflatables with slides or additional features, which you’ll find in our Bouncy Castles with Slides collection.

Teenagers usually prefer something more active or competitive. In these cases, inflatables from our Obstacle Courses or interactive games from our Inflatable Games range tend to work well.

Think about adults attending the event

Most inflatables are designed for children only. If adults will want to take part, this needs to be planned carefully. We currently offer two inflatables that are suitable for adult use: the Foot Darts Kick n Stick and the Penalty Shootout. These are ideal for mixed-age events, community days and workplace activities.

Indoor or outdoor venue

The venue makes a big difference. Indoor halls and community centres often have height restrictions, so smaller or low-height inflatables are usually the safest choice. Soft play and items from our Mini Low Height Bouncy Castles range are popular for indoor bookings.

Outdoor venues offer more flexibility, allowing for larger inflatables, obstacle courses and multiple units. For outdoor events, it’s also worth considering power access and weather protection.

Space, access and power

Before booking, measure the available space carefully and consider access routes to the setup area. Remember to allow space around the inflatable for safe use. If power is not available on site, we can supply a Generator.

For longer events or public setups, customers often add Event Gazebos for shelter or queuing areas, especially at school or council-run events.

Type of event

The type of event also helps narrow down the best choice. Birthday parties usually suit a single themed inflatable. School fun days and community events often benefit from a mix of equipment for different age groups. Council and public events may require larger inflatables and additional support such as Staff Supervisors to help manage numbers and queues.

When in doubt, ask

If you’re unsure which inflatable is most suitable, we’re happy to advise. A quick discussion about ages, numbers and venue details often makes the decision much easier.

For advice or to check availability, please visit our Contact Us page or see our FAQs.