If you’re looking to host a party for your little one, why not consider hiring a bouncy castle? Kids love jumping around with their friends and a themed bouncy castle will keep them entertained for hours. From Scooby Doo to Disney Princesses and everything in-between, you’re sure to find one that will be a big hit.

To help you organise your party, here are answers to 10 of the most frequently asked questions about bouncy castle hire.

How Big are Bouncy Castles?

Bouncy castles come in a wide range of sizes, designs and shapes. The most common size for a children’s bouncy castle is 4m x 4m and can go all the way up to 6m x 6m and sometimes beyond. The best way to make sure the bouncy castle you want to hire will fit in your backyard or venue is to chat to an inflatable amusement equipment provider or check their website, as many providers feature dimensions for their bouncy castles.

Are Bouncy Castles Safe?

Yes. To ensure bouncy castles are as safe as possible, many bouncy castles are fitted with safety netting and have a soft entry/exit.

Always use a reputable company which is Worksafe complaint and has public liability insurance. This information should be listed on their website.

Hire companies will also provide trained operators (at a cost) if requested, alternatively they will ensure that party organisers have arranged a supervisor (usually a responsible parent).

Make sure to speak to the amusement hire staff when they set up for tips about ways to keep kids safe during play.

How Expensive is it to Hire a Bouncy Castle?

Depending which bouncy castle you select, the costs usually start from around $220AUD for a full day’s hire. For more deluxe models, or to include trained staff, the costs will be higher. Most amusement companies will have their prices listed on their website, available for download or will email to you on request.

Do I Need Insurance to Hire a Bouncy Castle?

Reputable hire companies will have public liability insurance. Ask your hire company how much cover they have and what events are covered.

Can Adults use Bouncy Castles Too?

Are you an adult who’s just a big kid at heart? Maybe you want to have as much fun as the kids bouncing around in an inflatable castle!

While small bouncy castles are best left to toddlers, medium and large bouncy castles are suited to ages from 3 to 60 (and older if you dare). Bouncy castle inflatables such as obstacle courses and slides are ideal for corporate team building or fundraising events. Forget your age and just have some fun!

What are Some Common Bouncy Castle Packages?

If you’re looking to get more than just one bouncy castle, most amusement hire companies offer a range of packages. Packages usually include the hire of a bouncy castle and a dunk tank, or maybe a bucking bull, or even an inflatable water slide. Have a chat to your provider about some of the different packages available, or ask about creating your own unique package.

I Live in a Regional Area; Can I Hire a Bouncy Castle?

Absolutely! Most providers will be more than happy to set up equipment at a venue of your choice. Special conditions may apply, such as minimum order value and travel costs, but ask your hire company whether discounts are available to regional customers.

It’s important to note that information is vital. Make sure you explain to your amusement hire company where the bouncy will be located, venue access and what surface it will be placed on.

The information will ensure all equipment and staff are provided and nothing is forgotten, which would result in a long trip back to the depot.

What Power is Required for the Bouncy Castle?

Standard bouncy castles require access to a 10Amp power point, within 20 metres from the castle set up. If you have more than one castle, it’s important to run the other castles off separate power points and do not use double adapters, power boards etc.

If your venue does not have power available close to the bouncy castle set up location, ask your amusement hire specialists about alternative power sources such as generators.

Will Wet Weather Affect the Bouncy Castle Hire?

Bouncy castles can usually still operate in the event of light rain, however added precautions should be taken due to the jumping surface becoming slippery. Children will also likely become quite wet as they bounce around in the castle so make sure you have dry towels for when they come out. In the event of heavy rains or strong winds, your bouncy castle may need to stop operating and be deflated.

What Surface Can the Bouncy Castle Go On?

The ideal location to set up a bouncy castle is on level grass. Level grass ensures a soft base to reduce the chance of puncturing a hole in the bouncy castle. It also allows for the castle to be secured to the ground with pickets.

Bouncy castles can also go on hard surfaces such as bitumen or pavement. Just make sure you let the amusement hire company know beforehand so they can bring sandbags or water drums to properly secure the castle. Although slight slopes can be catered for, steep hills or inclines are usually not suitable for bouncy castles.

Need More Information?

If you have any more questions, or just want to discuss the different options available, have a chat with an inflatable bouncy castle and amusement hire company.

Have you hired a bouncy castle for your kids birthday?

Let us know the cutest reaction you’ve seen kids have to seeing their bouncy castle in the comments below!