So I needed a helium tank last week for my kid’s birthday balloons. Figured it’d be easy, right? Nope. Started at party stores, but man those prices felt like robbery. The small disposable ones barely fill ten balloons and cost like twenty bucks! Total scam.
Where I Looked First
Checked hardware stores next. Home Depot had welding tanks but party balloons need food-grade helium. Employee straight up told me: “We don’t carry that stuff.” Lowe’s? Same story. Felt annoyed wasting gas driving around.
The Turning Point
Googled “helium tank rental near me” and bam – specialty gas suppliers popped up. Never knew these existed! Called Airgas first. Friendly guy explained rental options: $60 deposit, $45 for two days, tank holds 50+ balloons. Almost went for it until he mentioned return trip fees.
Places That Actually Worked
- Party City – Instant solution. Pre-filled tanks on shelves. Paid $40, kept tank forever. Easy but pricey long-term.
- Walmart – Smaller tanks near gift wraps. Cheaper ($25) but only good for 15 balloons.
- Local Welding Supply Shop – Hidden gem! Refilled my old tank for $15. No website, found them through Google Maps.
- Tractor Supply Co – Surprise find! Their tanks work for balloons. $50 deposit, $30 refills.
- Online Rental Services – Reserved tank via Party City site. Overpaid but delivery saved my butt last-minute.
- Amazon – Ordered 8.9cu ft tank to doorstep. Quick but shipping cost hurt.
- Balloon Specialty Stores – Total pros! Showed me how to tie cluster balloons. Double the price but zero regrets.
What Actually Worked
Ended up getting disposable tanks from Party City for immediate needs. Then hit my local welding shop for refills later. Pro tip: Buy online only if desperate – delivery fees hurt. For big events? Balloon stores are worth every penny. Hope this saves you three days of driving like I did!