Publicado por HoliWonders Team on Nov 3rd 2026

Outdoor Holiday Inflatables: How to Choose, Set Up and Store Them

Few decorations make a bigger impression than a giant inflatable glowing on the front lawn. They are quick to set up, easy to store and loved by kids and neighbors alike. Here is everything you need to know to pick the right one and keep it looking great all season.

Choosing the right size

Inflatables range from small 3 to 4 foot figures to dramatic pieces over 10 feet tall. Before you buy, measure the spot you have in mind.

Small yards and porches: 4 to 6 foot inflatables fit neatly without crowding.
Medium front lawns: 6 to 8 foot pieces are visible from the street and still easy to handle.
Large yards: archways, 10 foot figures or a group of several inflatables create a full scene.

Also check the distance to the nearest outdoor outlet. Most inflatables have a cord of a few meters, so you may need an outdoor-rated extension cord.

Setting up step by step

Lay the inflatable flat on dry ground with the fan at the bottom and the face pointing toward the street.
Plug it in and let it fill completely before you secure it.
Push the included stakes through the loops at the base at an angle, pointing away from the inflatable.
Attach the tethers to higher loops and stake them out at a wide angle for stability.
Check that the fan intake is clear of leaves, snow and fabric.

Keeping it standing in wind and weather

Inflatables are designed for outdoor use, but a little care goes a long way. On very windy days or in heavy snow, unplug and let the inflatable deflate so it is not damaged. Replace the included plastic stakes with longer metal tent stakes if your ground is soft or sandy. A timer is also a great idea: running the inflatable only in the evening saves energy and reduces wear.

Electrical safety

Use only outdoor-rated extension cords and keep connections off the ground, for example in a covered outdoor plug box.
Plug into an outlet with a GFCI (ground fault) breaker where possible.
Check that the plug type and voltage match your country before you plug in.

Storing for next year

Before packing up, make sure the inflatable is completely dry to prevent mildew. Brush off dirt, fold it loosely around the fan and store it in its original box or a labeled bin in a dry place. A quick check of the fan and lights before next season means you will be ready to go the moment the holidays arrive.

Frequently asked questions

Can inflatables stay outside in the rain?

Holiday inflatables are made for outdoor use and can handle light rain. In heavy rain, strong wind or snow, unplug them and let them deflate to protect the fabric and fan.

How do I keep an inflatable from falling over?

Stake the base firmly, attach all tethers at a wide angle and replace plastic stakes with longer metal ones in soft ground. Make sure the fan intake stays clear so it keeps full air pressure.

How much electricity does a holiday inflatable use?

Most inflatables use a small fan and LED lights, so they draw relatively little power. Running them on a timer for a few hours each evening keeps energy use low.