Quick answer
A balloon arch kit is a boxed set of balloons and build supplies for making an organic balloon garland at home. Party Box kits come in 5, 10, 20 and 40 ft ($68–$499), use hand-graded premium latex counted by cluster, include loop balloons, Magic Tape, a how-to-hang guide and spares, need no helium, ship free in the US in about 5–7 days and build in 1–2 hours.
Quick takeaways
- Kits ship flat (uninflated) and are inflated with air — no helium.
- Most hosts need the 10 ft kit; 5 ft for small spots, 20–40 ft for walls and venues.
- Order at least 10 days ahead for standard shipping; expedited and rush options exist.
- Indoors, an air-filled arch typically looks good for several days.
Buying basics
- What is a balloon arch kit? A boxed set of balloons plus the supplies to build them into a garland or arch.
- What sizes are there? Party Box kits come in 5 ft (The Welcome), 10 ft (The Celebration), 20 ft (The Grand) and 40 ft (The Kingdom).
- How much do they cost? $68, $129, $249 and $499 respectively, with free shipping in the US.
- Can I choose my own colours? Yes — pick a designed theme, or build a custom arch with up to six colours.
- What’s the best kit? One with premium latex, a designed palette, mixed sizes, build supplies and spares. See our buyer’s guide.
- Is there a lookbook? Yes — every photographed kit is in the lookbook.
Free planning toolNew to balloon arches? Our complete balloon arch guide covers planning, building and hanging from start to finish.
What’s in the box
- Balloons — hand-graded premium latex in the theme’s palette, counted and bagged by cluster.
- Long loop balloons — the “spine” you tie clusters onto.
- Magic Tape — for mounting and fixing balloons in place.
- How-to-hang guide — step-by-step instructions.
- Spares — extra balloons in every colour.
- Is a pump included? Not by default; add a hand pump ($12.50) or electric pump ($29.50) at checkout.
- Is a stand or frame included? No — arches mount to a wall or backdrop with tape. Add the floor base & columns option for a freestanding look.
Setup questions
- Do I need helium? No. Arches are air-filled, which also makes them last longer.
- How long does setup take? About 1–2 hours depending on size; longer for 40 ft. See how long setup really takes.
- Do I need experience? No. Follow the step-by-step setup guide.
- Can I build it the night before? Yes, indoors. Here’s the night-before plan.
- Will it damage my walls? Use painter-safe hooks or removable strips on delicate paint and test first. See hanging without damage.
- Can I make it freestanding? Yes, with a stand or column base — see freestanding arches.
- Can two people build it faster? Absolutely — one inflates, one ties clusters.
Shipping and timing
- When should I order? At least 10 days before your party for standard shipping. Kits ship boxed in about 5–7 days.
- Is shipping free? Yes, nationwide in the US.
- What if I’m late? Expedited shipping ($50) and rush production ($99, ready in 24–48 hours) are available. See last-minute options.
- How should I store the kit before the party? Cool, dark and dry — away from sun and heat.
Durability and care
- How long does an arch last? Indoors and air-filled, typically several days; heat, sun and dry air shorten it. More in how long balloon arches last.
- Can it go outside? Yes, with planning: shade, wind anchoring and building late. See heat and sun tips.
- What if a balloon pops? Swap in a spare — here’s how to fix a popped balloon.
- Can I reuse it? Balloons are single-event, but you can take it down cleanly.
- Are latex balloons eco-friendly? Natural latex is plant-based; dispose of balloons in the trash and never release them. More here.
Styling and theme questions
- Can one kit work for different themes? Yes. Neutral palettes like Bridal Blanc or Royal Gold adapt to birthdays, showers and weddings with a different sign or props.
- How do I personalise an arch? Add custom numbers or letters, a name sign or a few photos clipped into the garland.
- What colours photograph best? Mid-tone and pastel palettes with one metallic accent flatter skin tones and phone cameras. See colour combos that photograph well.
- Can I match my invitation exactly? Use the custom arch builder to choose up to six colours.
- Are the props in your photos included? No — the styled photos show inspiration props like gift boxes, lanterns and signs. The kit is the balloons and build supplies; signs, props and greenery are optional add-ons.
Venue and event questions
- Can I set up an arch at a rented venue? Usually — check the venue’s rules on adhesives and confetti, and ask about load-in time.
- Can I transport a built arch? Short distances, yes, in a large vehicle with the AC on. Read storing and transporting an arch.
- Is a balloon arch OK for a wedding? Absolutely — refined palettes and greenery make them a modern ceremony backdrop. See wedding ceremony balloon arches.
- Can businesses use kits? Yes — grand openings, trade-show booths and office parties. See grand opening balloon arches.
Upgrades and services
- What’s the Lux upgrade? Double-stuffed chrome, pearl and metallic balloons, +25%. See is it worth it.
- Can I add flowers or lights? Yes — greenery & florals, fairy/LED lights, custom numbers and letters, signs and themed props are all add-ons.
- Do you install? White-glove installation is available in California, Nevada and Arizona from $499.
- Do you have rewards? Yes — Party Box Rewards gives cashback on orders and referral bonuses.
