Best 17 Places to Get Balloons Filled with Helium for Cheap in 2024

Celebrations are endless—be it birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, or any other joyful events that call for balloons. Of course, you’ll need to get them filled with helium. So where would you get them while helium has faced shortages in the past due to a variety of reasons (which we won’t delve into here), the good news is that I have found Best 17 Places to Get Balloons Filled with Helium for Cheap in 2024 offer helium services! 

Whether you need to fill just a few balloons or a whole bunch, helium tanks are available at numerous locations, including the ones mentioned below. This guide will take you through 11 of the best places to get your balloons filled with helium in 2024. So, let’s dive in and make your balloon-filled celebration a success!

Why Choose Helium Balloons?

Helium balloons are a popular choice for many events due to their ability to float, creating an eye-catching display. They are perfect for birthday parties, weddings, corporate events, and other celebrations. Helium balloons also come in various sizes, shapes, and colors, making them versatile for any occasion.

 Top 17 Places to Get Balloons Filled with Helium for Cheap in 2024

1. Kroger

Kroger, with its vast network of over 2,800 stores across 35 states, offers convenient helium balloon filling services. Whether you have mylar or latex balloons, Kroger can fill them, no matter where they were purchased—even if they were bought online. Latex balloons are typically filled for around $1 each, while mylar balloons range from $3 to $8. Jumbo balloons, with diameters between 20 to 50 inches, may cost between $7 and $16, depending on size and quantity.

2. Albertsons

Albertsons, operating more than 2,200 stores, also provides helium balloon filling services. You can bring in both latex and foil balloons, even if you didn’t purchase them at Albertsons. Prices generally range from $1.50 to $7 per balloon, depending on its size.

3. Dollar Tree

With over 15,200 locations nationwide, Dollar Tree is a great option for those looking to fill foil or metallic balloons. However, it’s important to note that they don’t fill latex balloons. The store offers free helium inflation for balloons purchased either in-store or online, provided you have proof of purchase. They offer a wide variety of balloons, including those for birthdays, anniversaries, and special events, all priced at just $1 each.

4. Party City

Party City, with 830 stores nationwide, is a top destination for all your party needs. They provide complimentary inflation for balloons purchased either in-store or online, especially for foil balloons (proof of purchase required). If you bring in balloons purchased elsewhere, the cost to fill them can range from $0.99 to $1.29, with foil balloons priced between $1.99 and $15.99 depending on their size. For those who prefer to do it themselves, Party City also offers helium tanks for sale both online and in-store.

5. Walmart

Walmart is another option, though helium inflation services are available only at select stores. They typically fill Walmart-branded balloons for around $0.25 each. If you’re interested in self-filling, Walmart also offers helium tanks for purchase. So Walmart can also be a good choice to Get Balloons Filled with Helium for Cheap. 

6. Publix

Publix provides helium balloon filling services, especially at stores that feature floral departments. If you purchase balloons from Publix, either in-store or online, you can get them filled for free with a receipt. For balloons bought elsewhere, the cost to fill latex and mylar balloons is $1.29 and $2, respectively. Publix also offers a selection of pre-filled helium balloons.

7. Fred Meyer

Fred Meyer stores offer helium balloon filling services starting at $1 per balloon. The price varies depending on the size of the balloon, and this service is generally available for in-store purchases.

8. Food Lion

Food Lion, though more limited in its offerings, provides helium balloon inflation at select locations. Prices start at $1 per balloon, varying by size, and this service is typically tied to in-store purchases. So you can visit there store to get balloons filled with Helium.

9. Hy-Vee

Hy-Vee specializes in filling foil or metallic balloons, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions. Prices start at $1 per balloon, depending on size, and the service usually requires an in-store purchase.

10. Safeway

Safeway offers helium balloon filling services starting at $3 per balloon, with prices varying by size. Like many other stores, this service typically requires an in-store purchase.

11. Wegmans

At Wegmans, you can get your balloons filled with helium starting at $1 per balloon. Prices vary depending on the size of the balloon, and as with other retailers, this service usually requires an in-store purchase.

12. Online Retailers: 

Online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target offer a wide variety of helium balloons and tanks. You can compare prices, read customer reviews, and potentially find deals or discounts. Additionally, there are many stores in your local area that offerBalloons Filled with Helium for Cheap. You can easily locate these stores by searching online or checking local directories.

13. Florists: 

Florists sometimes offer helium balloon arrangements or can provide information on where to purchase helium tanks.

14. Gas Stations: 

Some gas stations may have helium tanks available for rent or purchase. Check with local stations to see if they offer this service.

15. Craft Stores: 

Craft stores like Michaels and Hobby Lobby may carry helium balloons and tanks, especially during the holiday season.

16. Community Centers or Event Venues: 

If you’re planning a large event, check with local community centers or event venues to see if they offer helium balloon rentals or have recommendations for suppliers.

17 CVS and Walgreens

Both CVS and Walgreens provide helium balloon filling services. While these pharmacies are more commonly known for health-related products, they also cater to party needs, including helium balloon services. Prices are competitive, and these stores are conveniently located in many neighborhoods.

Alternative Options for Balloons Filled with Helium

If you’re unable to find a convenient location or are looking for other cost-saving methods, consider these alternatives:

1. Helium Tank Rentals

Renting a helium tank is an excellent option if you need to fill a large number of balloons. Many party supply stores and some grocery stores offer helium tank rentals. This can be more cost-effective for large events or if you frequently need helium balloons.

2. Hardware Stores

Some hardware stores, such as Home Depot or Lowe’s, offer helium tank rentals. This is a convenient option, especially if you’re already shopping for other supplies.

3. Specialty Balloon Shops

Specialty balloon shops often provide more personalized services, including custom balloon designs and helium filling. While these shops may be slightly more expensive, they offer unique options that you might not find elsewhere.

Tips for Saving Money on Helium Balloons

Buy in Bulk: Purchasing helium balloons in larger quantities can often result in lower prices per balloon.

Look for Sales or Promotions: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, holiday discounts, or special offers from retailers.

Consider DIY Options: If you’re feeling crafty, you can explore DIY helium balloon options, such as using air-filled balloons and attaching them to helium-filled balloons.

Check Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and Craigslist can sometimes be a good source for discounted helium balloons or tanks.

Ask for Discounts: If you’re a frequent customer or planning a large event, don’t hesitate to ask for a discount from the retailer.

Eco-Friendly and Alternative Options For Helium Balloons

As environmental concerns grow, many consumers are looking for eco-friendly alternatives to traditional helium-filled balloons. Some options to consider include:

Biodegradable balloons

Air-filled balloon displays

Reusable fabric or paper decorations

LED balloon alternatives

While these options may not always be cheaper upfront, they can be more cost-effective in the long run and are worth considering for environmentally conscious event planners.

Safety Considerations

Proper Handling and Storage of Helium Tanks: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for handling and storing helium tanks.

Avoiding Over-Inflation: Over-inflating helium balloons can be dangerous. Be sure to follow the recommended inflation guidelines.

Safe Disposal of Balloons: After use, properly dispose of helium balloons to prevent them from becoming a hazard to wildlife and the environment.

Conclusion 

If you’re wondering where to get balloons filled with helium, the options mentioned above are some of the best places to consider. Retailers like Walmart, Dollar Tree, and Albertsons not only provide helium filling services but also offer the convenience of filling balloons purchased in-store or elsewhere. For those who frequently host events or need a large number of balloons filled, investing in a helium tank for DIY balloon filling might be a more cost-effective solution.

Finding affordable helium balloons doesn’t have to be a challenge. By exploring the options listed above and following these tips, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere of helium balloons without breaking the bank.

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