Rent, Don’t Buy: 20 things to save money on

Renting instead of buying can save you thousands of dollars on items you use occasionally or temporarily. From power tools to designer clothing, renting offers flexibility, eliminates storage hassles, and reduces maintenance costs. Here’s a quick breakdown of 20 smart rental options:

• Power Tools: Save on expensive tools like chainsaws or tile saws for one-time projects.
• Construction Equipment: Rent scaffolding or excavators for short-term use.
• Yard Equipment: Seasonal tools like mowers or stump grinders are cheaper to rent.
• Cars: Short-term rentals avoid ownership costs like insurance and depreciation.
• Moving Trucks: Perfect for relocations without owning a vehicle.
• City Bikes: Bike-sharing programs are cost-effective for urban commuting.
• Test Phones: Rent smartphones for app testing or temporary use.
• Photo/Video Gear: Access professional cameras and lenses without huge investments.
• Laptops/Tech: Rent computers for short-term projects or events.
• Furniture: Temporary furniture rentals are ideal for short stays or staging homes.
• Home Appliances: Avoid upfront costs for washers, dryers, and refrigerators.
• Party Equipment: Rent speakers, lighting, and projectors for events.
• Formal Wear: Save on tuxedos and gowns for special occasions.
• Luxury Accessories: Designer bags and jewelry rentals offer affordable elegance.
• Baby Gear: Rent cribs, strollers, and toys for travel or short-term needs.
• Camping Gear: Perfect for occasional outdoor adventures.
• Sports Equipment: Seasonal rentals for skis, bikes, or golf clubs save money.
• Musical Instruments: Try instruments before buying or rent for short-term use.
• Event Equipment: Rent tables, chairs, and tents for one-time celebrations.
• AV Tech: Access professional audio-visual gear for meetings or events.

Why Rent?

• Cost Savings: Renting often costs 60-90% less than buying.
• No Maintenance: Repairs and upkeep are handled by the rental company.
• Flexibility: Use items only when needed, without long-term commitments.
• Less Waste: Share resources and reduce clutter.

Pro Tip: Always compare rental costs to purchase prices, especially for frequent use. Renting works best for occasional needs, saving you money and hassle in the long run.

4 Ways to Save Money on Car Rentals | NerdWallet

1. Power Tools for Home Projects

Power tools can be a pricey investment, especially for occasional use. That’s why renting often makes sense for specific tasks.

For example, a 16-inch gas chainsaw costs about $166 to buy. Renting the same tool for $21 per half-day would total $84 over four uses in seven years, saving you $82.

Renting works well for situations like one-time projects, specialized tasks, testing tools, or when storage is an issue:

Scenario	Why Rent?	Benefits
One-time projects	Use without committing to ownership	Pay only when you need it
Specialized tasks	Access high-quality equipment	Skip the hefty upfront costs
Testing before buying	Try out different models	Find the perfect fit
Limited storage space	No need for permanent storage	Save on both space and money

When deciding whether to rent or buy, think about: how often you’ll use the tool, the total cost of renting versus purchasing, maintenance and storage expenses, and how much expertise the tool requires to operate.

Renting is also a smart choice for equipment like stump grinders, augers, or pressure washers. It eliminates the need for a big initial investment and ongoing upkeep.

2. Construction Equipment and Scaffolding

Renting construction equipment and scaffolding can save money, especially for short-term or occasional use. If your equipment usage is below 65%, renting is usually the better choice. For example, excavators are only worth buying if you use them for more than 175 hours annually.

Project Type	Why Choose Renting	Cost-Saving Benefits
Short-term construction	No long-term commitment	Avoid high upfront costs
Specialized projects	Access to advanced equipment	No maintenance or storage fees
Multiple site work	Equipment can be shared flexibly	Pay only for the time you use it
Seasonal projects	Adjust based on demand	No off-season storage expenses

"Renting preserves your cash flow since you’re not tying up capital in equipment purchases. Useful when you have other financial priorities." – Gregory Poole

Renting is a smart move for one-time renovations, emergency repairs, or temporary projects. It eliminates the need to worry about storage, maintenance, depreciation, or transport costs.

For businesses juggling multiple projects, renting offers flexibility. You can allocate equipment across different sites and ensure you’re always using machinery that meets current safety and emission requirements.

"Renting gives you access to the latest machinery without the need for frequent upgrades. This ensures you can leverage cutting-edge technology to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity on your job site." – AIS Construction Equipment

3. Seasonal Yard Equipment

After construction and power tools, seasonal yard equipment is another smart area to consider for rentals.

Owning seasonal yard equipment can be a hassle, requiring storage space and regular upkeep. A September 2022 study by LawnManual.com analyzed rental quotes from Home Depot and 10 other rental shops across the U.S., showing that renting can save money for tools used occasionally.

Here’s a quick look at average daily rental costs for common yard equipment:

Equipment Type	Average Daily Rental Cost	Best For
Gas Self-Propelled Walk-Behind Mower	$46	Small to medium lawns
Commercial Large Cut Width Mower	$90	Professional-grade jobs
Zero Turn Riding Mower	$195	Large properties
Garden Tractor	$205	Heavy-duty landscaping

For example, Home Depot offers a 22-inch Toro self-propelled mower at $29 for 4 hours, $41 per day, $164 per week, or $492 per month.

Beyond mowers, rental options include aerators, tillers, sod cutters, stump grinders, and trenchers – perfect for seasonal projects you tackle only once or twice a year.

"Renting equipment eliminates the need to store equipment after job completion. Rented equipment is delivered when and where you need it and retrieved immediately after use."

If you own a large property, renting a riding mower twice a year can be far more cost-effective than buying one. Renting also gives you access to professional-grade tools without the long-term commitment of ownership.

Rental Works in Arlington, VA, sums it up well:

"Don’t waste your hard earned income on equipment you don’t frequently need. Rent our lawn equipment and save yourself some money."

For those spending around $50 per day on mower rentals and mowing monthly, it’s worth comparing costs with local lawn care services. Keep in mind that some rental shops may require a deposit equal to the rental fee.

4. Short-Term Car Rentals

Short-term car rentals are a practical option if you occasionally need a vehicle but want to avoid the ongoing costs of ownership. Owning a car comes with recurring expenses like insurance, registration, maintenance, repairs, depreciation, and parking. Renting a car short-term can save you from these financial commitments.

For those needing a vehicle for one to 11 months, long-term rentals offer a flexible solution. These rentals often include insurance, registration, and maintenance in the fees, so you won’t have to worry about surprise repair bills or hidden charges.

"A long-term car rental is ideal if you’re not ready for the full commitment of a lease, need a car for a shorter time frame, or have a smaller budget."

If your car needs are limited to occasional trips, weekend outings, or seasonal use, renting can be a smart choice. Some benefits include:

• No large down payments or upfront costs
• No registration fees, inspections, or repair costs for wear and tear
• Access to newer car models without worrying about depreciation
• The ability to switch vehicle types to suit your needs

This approach is much more flexible than traditional car leases, which often lock you into two- to four-year commitments with extra fees like administration charges, interest, taxes, and security deposits. Short-term rentals let you pay only for the days you use the car, making them a cost-effective option for those with limited vehicle needs.

5. Moving Vehicles

Renting moving vehicles, like trucks or vans, is a smart and budget-friendly option for relocation needs, much like short-term car rentals.

For local moves within 50 miles, renting is far cheaper than owning a vehicle you rarely use. Costs typically range from $130 for a 1-room apartment, $140 for a 3-room home, and around $190 for a 5-room home, with an average cost of $150.

To save even more, consider these tips:

• Rent during off-peak times.
• Choose the right truck size (plan for 150–200 cubic feet per room).
• Compare prices between rental locations, as rates can vary by $150–$200.

Here’s a handy guide to truck sizes based on home size:

Home Size	Recommended Truck Size	Capacity
Studio/Dorm	10–12 foot truck	400–500 cubic feet
1–2 Bedroom	14–17 foot truck	800–1,200 cubic feet
2–3 Bedroom	20–22 foot truck	1,500 cubic feet
3+ Bedroom	24–26 foot truck	1,700–2,000 cubic feet

Be mindful of extra charges like fuel (trucks must be returned with the same fuel level), insurance (averaging over $100 per rental), mileage fees, and moving supplies.

For long-distance moves, one-way truck rentals are more expensive upfront but still cheaper than owning a truck that sits unused most of the year. A cross-country move in a rental truck costs about $1,780 on average.

6. City Bikes

Renting bicycles instead of owning them can save you money and simplify urban travel. City bike rentals offer an affordable way to get around without worrying about maintenance, storage, or theft. The global bike-sharing market is expected to hit $12.68 billion by 2027, showing growing interest in rental programs.

According to transportation economist Todd Littman, owning and operating a bike costs between $100 and $300 annually, including depreciation. On the other hand, a single bike-share ride costs $4.99 for the first 30 minutes. This makes rentals perfect for short trips without the long-term costs of ownership.

Here’s a quick look at common bike rental options:

Rental Type	Cost	Best For
Single Ride	$4.99/30 min	Quick, one-way trips
Day Pass	$25/day	Exploring as a tourist
Monthly Pass	$18.33/month	Regular commuting

When compared to other modes of transportation, the savings are clear. Owning a small sedan costs about $7,930 annually, while an SUV can cost up to $12,446 per year. Bike-sharing programs provide a budget-friendly alternative for urban mobility.

"Access to bike-sharing helps make greener choices (read – drive cars less often), which helps reduce air pollution and carbon emissions." – ATOM Mobility

City bikes are ideal for:

• Getting from one transit station to another
• Touring attractions without worrying about parking
• Running quick errands in the city
• Covering the last mile from public transit stops

Modern bike-sharing systems have you covered. For example, Citi Bike operates more than 2,000 stations and offers over 30,000 bikes across several cities. This ensures reliable access without the responsibilities of owning a bike.

Subsequent rides cost about $0.38 per minute, which is still cheaper than taxis or ride-sharing apps for short trips. For frequent users, monthly memberships offer the best deal, especially when you consider the extra expenses of owning a bike, like repairs and security equipment.

7. Test Phones

Renting smartphones for testing or temporary use can be a smart way to save money while still accessing the latest devices. With an average rental cost of $150, it’s a budget-friendly alternative to buying multiple phones.

Renting gives you access to a variety of devices, making it perfect for:

Use Case	Advantages	Ideal For
App Development	Access to both iOS and Android platforms	Development teams
Trade Shows	Availability of the latest models	Marketing events
Corporate Training	Multiple identical devices for training	Employee education
Remote Work Setup	Easy to scale device needs	Distributed teams

Many providers make the process quick and easy, often allowing you to secure test devices in just 60 seconds. This convenience is one of the key benefits highlighted by industry professionals.

An expert points out that renting an iPhone combines affordability with flexibility, making it ideal for short-term needs.

When you rent, maintenance and repairs are usually covered, and you often get continuous upgrades, protective accessories, and scalable device management.

Users frequently praise rented smartphones for being affordable, arriving in excellent condition, and coming with responsive customer support.

Another plus? Renting supports a more eco-friendly approach by contributing to the circular economy. Reusing devices helps cut down on electronic waste. For businesses, smartphone rentals are especially useful for conventions, product demos, and training sessions.

8. Photo and Video Gear

Renting photo and video gear can save you a lot of money, especially when it comes to high-end equipment. Cameras and lenses lose value quickly, making rentals a smart option for both hobbyists and professionals. Take the Canon C500, for instance – it sold for $30,000 in 2012 but dropped to $7,000 just four years later. That’s a $23,000 difference.

Equipment	Retail Price	Daily Rental Cost	Break-Even (Days)
Canon C300 Mark II + Lens	$14,999	$495	30
Sony FS7	$8,000	$350	23
Sony A7R II	$3,200	$125	26
Canon 5D Mark III + Lens	$2,500	$115	22

Roger Cicala, a respected industry expert, offers a simple guideline:

"If you’re going to use it 5 or more times a year, you should probably buy it. 3 or less, you should just rent it. 4 times a year is kind of a wash".

Renting also comes with several financial perks:

• Tax Deductions: Rental fees are fully tax-deductible as an operational expense under the IRS Section 179 Tax Code.
• No Maintenance Costs: Repairs and updates are handled by the rental company, saving you from unexpected expenses.
• Access to New Gear: Rentals let you work with the latest technology without committing to a hefty purchase.

For example, you can rent a Red Weapon camera, worth $50,000, for just $250 per day. As Motion Array points out, if the income from using the gear doesn’t outweigh its depreciation, buying doesn’t make financial sense.

9. Temporary Computer Equipment

If you’re managing short-term projects or temporary needs, renting computer equipment – especially laptops – can save you money. With an average rental cost of around $69 per unit, renting often makes more sense than buying devices that lose value quickly.

Usage Type	Purchase Cost	Monthly Rental	Break-Even (Months)
Basic Laptop	$1,200	$69	17
High-Performance Workstation	$2,500	$125	20
Design/CAD System	$3,500	$175	20

These numbers show how renting can stretch your budget for short-term needs. Plus, you don’t have to worry about depreciation or outdated hardware. As RND-IT puts it:

"Leasing eliminates concerns about depreciation and obsolescence, allowing you to upgrade easily."

Why Renting Makes Sense:

• Tax Advantages: Rental payments are typically considered operating expenses.
• Maintenance Included: Repairs and technical support are usually part of the deal.
• Stay Current: Access the latest hardware without the commitment of ownership.
• Flexibility: Scale up or down based on project demands.

Many rental agreements also cover software installation and updates, reducing the burden on your IT team. Common scenarios where renting shines include:

• Short-term projects
• Training sessions and workshops
• Corporate events
• Temporary staff onboarding
• Seasonal business surges

10. Short-Term Furniture

Renting furniture for temporary spaces is a smart way to save money and simplify moves. By analyzing rental costs, you can make the most of your budget while maintaining comfort. This also ties in with other cost-saving strategies we’ve covered.

Here’s a look at the average monthly rental costs for key furniture items:

Furniture Item	Monthly Rental Cost
Living Room Set	$200–$350
Bedroom Set	$100–$250
Sofa	$50–$100
Kitchen Table	$30–$100
Entertainment Center	$200–$500

Renting furniture is especially helpful for short-term stays (1–12 months). It avoids hidden costs that come with ownership, such as:

• Moving expenses
• Storage fees
• Depreciation
• Maintenance

"The biggest advantage of renting furniture comes when it’s time for you to leave. All you need to do is call us, and we will package everything up and take it away. There’s not a single thing you have to worry about, making the entire moving process extremely easy and convenient."

Furniture rental works well in situations like:

• Temporary job assignments
• Military relocations
• Off-campus student housing
• Transitional housing

Money-Saving Tips:

• Check for minimum lease requirements (often around $200 per month).
• Look for services included in the rental, such as delivery, setup, and removal.

For stays under a year, renting furniture is often cheaper than buying and reselling later. It’s a practical way to furnish temporary spaces while keeping costs low and avoiding unnecessary hassle.

sbb-itb-c79a83b

11. Temporary Home Appliances

Renting home appliances can help you save on upfront costs while giving you access to modern, energy-efficient models. Much like renting temporary computer equipment, this option provides flexibility and convenience.

Here’s a comparison of monthly rental costs versus buying prices for common appliances:

Appliance Type	Monthly Rental Cost	Purchase Price	Break-even (months)
Washer/Dryer Set	$64.99	$1,000–$2,300	30
Side-by-side Refrigerator	$69.99	$2,000+	28
Dishwasher	$16.00	$500–$1,000	32

Buying appliances comes with a hefty initial price tag, plus added expenses like:

• Installation fees: $100–$300
• Annual utility costs: $120–$240
• Maintenance and repairs: $150–$500 per incident
• Depreciation over time

"Unless you are absolutely sure you are dedicated to being in a home for at least five years, you should definitely rent. Only when you are settled with life, jobs and family is when it probably makes sense to buy a home." – Carolyn McClanahan, certified financial planner and founder of Life Planning Partners

Renting appliances makes sense in situations like:

• Temporary relocations
• Short-term job assignments
• College or student housing
• Home staging
• Transitional housing

Most rental services include perks like free delivery, installation, maintenance, repair, and pickup. These extras can significantly reduce overall costs.

If your stay is under 30 months, renting is often a smarter financial move than buying. Plus, the option to upgrade or return items as your needs change can save you money and hassle.

12. Party Entertainment Systems

Renting party entertainment equipment is a smart way to save money, especially for gear you won’t use often. You can rent items like speakers, lighting, projectors, screens, microphones, mixers, or even full audio-visual setups. These rentals are perfect for weddings, corporate events, backyard parties, and more. It’s a cost-effective option, similar to other rental categories we’ve covered.

Most rental services include delivery, setup, teardown, and on-site technical support, so you don’t have to worry about storage or maintenance. Many companies also offer packages tailored to specific events. For example, a wedding reception package might include a professional sound system, microphones, lighting, and installation services – making event planning much easier.

Here are a few tips to get the most out of your rental:

• Assess what equipment your event requires.
• Make sure delivery, setup, and technical support are part of the deal.
• Check the rental terms to avoid unexpected charges.

For one-off events, renting is a more practical choice than purchasing equipment that requires upgrades, storage, and upkeep.

13. Special Event Clothing

Renting formal clothing can be a budget-friendly option for special occasions. Designer gowns and tuxedos often come with steep price tags, making rentals a smart way to cut costs without sacrificing style.

This is especially true for weddings. In the U.S., brides spend an average of $1,357 on a wedding dress, while rental options can start as low as $75. Even high-end designer rentals, priced between $775 and $1,650, are a fraction of their original purchase prices, which range from $2,000 to $13,000.

Men can also save big on tuxedo rentals. Here’s a quick look at starting prices from popular retailers:

Retailer	Starting Rental Price
The Black Tux	$129
Generation Tux	$139
Jim’s Formal Wear	$160 (online)
Men’s Wearhouse	$159
Stitch & Tie	$155

"Our customers are renting fully canvassed, fine wool tuxedos that would typically cost at least $1,500 to buy at retail – all at a comparable price to the fused construction and synthetic fabrics that you’ll often find in tux shops." – Tina Sroat, Head of Merchandising at The Black Tux

To make the most of your rental experience:

• Book early to ensure availability.
• Look into membership plans starting at $89 per month.
• Use try-on services if offered.
• Check the policies on damages and handling.

Renting formal wear isn’t just about saving money – it’s also convenient. You skip cleaning fees, avoid storage hassles, and eliminate the regret of spending big on something you might only wear once. Plus, rentals give you access to a range of designer styles, letting you stay fashionable without the long-term commitment.

14. Luxury Accessories

Designer bags and jewelry often come with hefty price tags, but renting offers a way to enjoy luxury without breaking the bank. Rental services make high-end items more accessible with flexible and budget-conscious options.

Here’s a quick look at rental costs compared to retail prices:

Designer Bag	Monthly Rental	Retail Price
Chanel Mini Square Flap	$325	$4,000+
Louis Vuitton Onthego GM	$300	$3,500+
Hermes Evelyne TPM	$165	$3,800+

Many platforms operate on membership plans with tiered pricing:

• Classique tier ($99/month): Access items valued under $4,000
• Couture tier ($199/month): Access items valued over $4,000

These memberships not only expand your options but also allow for flexible rental terms. For example, weekly rentals are perfect for special occasions. A Chanel Classic Medium Flap rents for $185 per week, while a Hermes Birkin costs $300 per week. Compare that to retail prices – over $8,000 for the Chanel and $20,000+ for the Birkin.

"Handbag rentals offer a smart way to try before buying. Test the Classic Flap for your lifestyle without a major investment. Need a bag for a special occasion? Rent it instead of investing heavily in an item you may rarely use."
– Masha S., Founder, FifthAvenueGirl.com

Tips to Get the Most Out of Luxury Rentals:

• Opt for membership plans if you often need formal accessories.
• Reserve early for events, especially during peak seasons like weddings.
• Look into insurance options for added protection.
• Compare rental terms – longer durations might save you more.

Renting luxury accessories is a smart way to stay stylish without committing to high costs. It’s also a practical way to keep up with trends while managing your budget. Financial expert Aja McClanahan puts it best: "If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy a baller’s lifestyle on a pauper’s budget, then renting luxury items might be just the thing for you".

15. Baby Equipment

Baby gear can be pricey, and it often becomes outdated quickly. Renting offers a practical solution for travelers or parents who want to test out equipment before committing to a purchase. By renting, you only pay for what you need, when you need it, avoiding the cost of buying items you’ll only use for a short time.

Renting baby equipment also means less hassle. No need to lug bulky items through airports or cram them into your car. Many rental companies take care of delivery and setup, so you can start your vacation stress-free. Families love this convenience.

"We loved having everything all set up for us! We showed up to our vacation rental and our provider had gone above and beyond by setting up the crib and high chair for us. Our vacation started the moment we walked into the door! We didn’t have to waste time reading instruction manuals." ~ Sarah H.

Safety is a top priority. Reputable providers follow strict sanitization procedures, including thorough cleaning, background checks, and using non-toxic products. In fact, 99% of customers rate the equipment as spotless.

When planning your rental, think about your specific needs. Short-term essentials like bassinets or bottle warmers, travel gear like cribs and strollers, or even special occasion items like high chairs can all be rented. Some providers even offer premium products, such as the Snoo smart bassinet.

"We rent baby equipment all the time when our grandkids visit! We rented a package with a toddler bed, high-chair, sound machine, and age-appropriate toys. The kids have different toys to play with every time they stay with us. It simplifies family visits!" ~ Lisa S.

The baby equipment rental market is booming. Trusted providers have handled over 250,000 reservations and boast a 99% five-star review rating. This trend shows how families are increasingly turning to renting as a practical and budget-friendly alternative to buying.

16. Weekend Camping Gear

Camping gear can be pricey, especially for those who only camp occasionally. Instead of buying a full two-person setup, which requires a hefty upfront investment, renting is a practical option for weekend campers. Here’s a look at some rental options and their costs.

At REI in Berkeley, you can rent a three-day backpacking kit for $303 – much cheaper than renting items separately. Other options include KitLender, which offers a two-person setup for $103 per day, and companies like Xscape Pod and CampCrate, which provide complete gear packages for approximately $155 and $92 per day, respectively.

Rental Tips:

• Always inspect equipment before using it.
• Choose gear suited for the specific conditions of your trip.
• Check if your activity provider includes gear in their packages.
• Look into rent-to-buy programs if you’re considering long-term use.

Renting doesn’t just save money – it also spares you the hassle of storing, maintaining, and transporting gear. Plus, you gain access to well-maintained, updated equipment without committing to a purchase. Companies like Lower Gear even offer specialized items like navigation devices, kayaks, and fishing gear to enhance your outdoor experience.

17. Seasonal Sports Equipment

Seasonal sports gear often comes with a hefty price tag, which can feel wasteful if you only use it occasionally. Take mountain bikes, for example – these can cost over $4,000. For casual riders, renting becomes a much smarter choice.

Winter sports equipment like skis and snowboards also involves more than just the upfront cost. You’ll need to factor in off-season storage, maintenance, transportation, insurance, and even upgrades. When you add it all up, renting often makes more sense financially and logistically.

"Renting equipment slashes the potential price tag on your outdoor activity… You can save money through renting and you can even allot those extra bucks to other adventures on your bucket list." – Cool of the Wild

Here’s how renting can work to your advantage:

• Golfers: Renting clubs allows you to test different options before buying. For travelers, it also eliminates the hassle and cost of transporting gear.
• Water sports enthusiasts: Kayaks, paddleboards, and surfboards are perfect for renting. You avoid the challenges of storage and transportation, while also saving money.

Why Renting Makes Sense:

• Get access to the latest gear without worrying about upgrades.
• No maintenance or repair responsibilities.
• Equipment is tailored to the conditions and your skill level.
• Share resources, which is better for the environment.
• Try out different sports without committing to expensive purchases.

For families, renting is especially practical. Kids outgrow their gear quickly, and seasonal rentals ensure they always have properly sized and performance-appropriate equipment – without breaking the bank.

18. Music Instruments

Leasing musical instruments offers a practical way to manage costs while providing the flexibility many learners and performers need. Learning an instrument often requires a significant upfront investment, but renting can make it more affordable – whether you’re just starting out or need high-quality gear for a specific event.

Renting is especially useful for:

• Beginners trying out different instruments
• Children who need appropriately sized string instruments as they grow
• Performers needing top-tier equipment for special events
• Short-term projects where storage isn’t an issue

"We absolutely recommend renting your first student instrument, and most music educators agree." – White House of Music

Renting often makes financial sense when you compare the monthly fees to the purchase price of quality instruments, which can run into thousands of dollars. Plus, rental agreements typically include maintenance and repair services, saving you from unexpected costs.

Scenario	Why Renting Makes Sense
Beginner Students	Spread out payments instead of a large upfront cost
Growing Children	Easily exchange sizes as needed
Uncertain Commitment	Avoid the risk of a long-term investment
Special Events	Access professional-grade instruments
Multiple Instruments	Experiment with different options affordably

For parents, renting allows their children to switch instruments as they grow, avoiding the financial strain of repeated purchases. This mirrors other rental industries where short-term use often makes renting the smarter choice.

"Renting an instrument enables someone to determine if they want to dedicate the time and effort necessary to learn to play an instrument." – CIOMIT

To make the most of a rental:

• Confirm the instrument has been cleaned and tested
• Compare rental fees to the cost of buying
• Check if payments can go toward a future purchase
• Understand the maintenance coverage included
• Review policies for size exchanges

Keep in mind, rent-to-own agreements may come with higher overall costs due to interest or premium pricing. But for beginners or temporary needs, renting remains an affordable and practical option, much like in other rental markets.

19. Event Equipment

Renting event equipment can save you a lot of money, especially for one-time celebrations or occasional gatherings. Whether you need tables, chairs, tents, or lighting, renting is often cheaper than buying. Here’s a quick look at typical rental costs:

Item Type	Rental Cost	Why Rent Instead of Buy
Plastic Folding Chairs	$1.50–$3.00 each	No need to worry about storage
Chiavari Chairs	$5.00–$6.00 each	Access to high-quality seating
Round Tables	$8.00–$12.00 each	Rent only what you need
Rectangular Tables	$10.00–$15.00 each	Professional-grade options
20′ x 20′ Tent	$350.00	No maintenance required

Renting doesn’t just save on upfront costs. It also removes the hassle of finding storage for large items, paying for maintenance and cleaning, dealing with transportation, and covering insurance for damages.

For special occasions like weddings, corporate events, or outdoor parties, renting gives you access to high-quality items that might not make sense to buy. A typical setup might include tables, chairs, linens, and sometimes tents or staging. For example, tablecloths usually rent for $5.00 to $20.00 each, and decorative sashes cost $2.00 to $3.00 per piece.

Another perk? Rental companies often handle delivery, setup, and pickup, making the process even easier. To get the most out of your rental:

• Book early to lock in availability and better rates.
• Plan your needs carefully to avoid last-minute fees.
• Compare rental durations to find the best deal.
• Confirm whether setup and breakdown services are included.
• Check if insurance coverage is offered for peace of mind.

Rental companies also maintain and inspect their equipment regularly, so you’ll receive items in great condition without the stress of upkeep.

20. Meeting and Event Tech

Meeting and event technology rentals make it easier to access high-quality equipment without the steep upfront costs. Items like microphones, speakers, projectors, and lighting systems can be expensive to buy outright. Renting lets you use professional-grade, up-to-date gear at a fraction of the cost. Plus, you avoid extra expenses for maintenance, repairs, storage, or replacements.

"Renting AV equipment is a practical, cost-effective, and stress-free solution for creating unforgettable events".

Here are a few tips to get the most out of your rentals:

• Plan ahead to secure the best rates.
• Check compatibility to ensure the equipment works with your setup.
• Confirm technical support is included with the rental.

For companies or individuals hosting occasional events, renting is a smart way to adjust technology needs without the long-term investment of purchasing expensive equipment.

Conclusion

Looking at the examples above, it’s easy to see why a rent-first approach is gaining traction. Renting often proves to be a smarter financial choice compared to buying, especially for items you only need occasionally or temporarily.

Renting can cut costs significantly while eliminating the hassles of ownership. For example, comparing the cost of renting versus purchasing often shows savings of 60-90% for one-time or short-term needs.

Here are a few key perks of renting:

• No Storage Worries: You don’t need extra space to store items.
• No Maintenance Costs: Forget about repair or upkeep expenses.
• More Flexibility: Use high-quality items without long-term commitments.

"Renting is a great option for many people. However, it always pays to do the math." – Carolyn McClanahan, certified financial planner and founder of Life Planning Partners

To get the most out of renting, consider these factors:

1. How Often You’ll Use It: Be realistic about your usage needs.
2. The Total Cost: Weigh all the expenses of owning versus renting.
3. Future Plans: Think about whether your needs might change.

The growing popularity of renting isn’t just about saving money – it’s also about being mindful of resources. In fact, 58% of people say they rent to stay flexible and avoid overconsumption. This approach helps you save money, avoid clutter, and reduce waste by sharing resources.

Renting can be a smart way to keep your finances in check, cut down on waste, and stay adaptable.

Related posts

• How to pick equipment rental software
• Renting vs. Owning: equipment rental insights
• 30 most profitable ideas for rental business to make money
• 16 best businesses to start with $10 K or less