What's a good backyard party checklist for renting an inflatable?

A few simple checks before booking make everything smoother on the day itself. First, measure your intended setup area and compare it to the recommended footprint listed on the rental's page, including a few feet of buffer on each side.

Second, check for a working outlet within about 50 feet of that spot, and look up — overhead wires, low branches and any other obstructions matter as much as what's on the ground. For water slides, also confirm you have a garden hose long enough to reach and access to municipal water rather than a well.

Finally, on the day itself, clear the area of toys, debris and pet waste, and keep pets away from the setup zone while our crew is working. A little prep goes a long way toward a fast, smooth delivery.