A Beginner-Friendly Breakdown of Pros, Cons, and Cost Comparisons

If you’re new to trade shows, one of the first big decisions you’ll face is whether to rent or buy your booth. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — it depends on your goals, budget, and how often you plan to exhibit. This guide will help you weigh the pros and cons, understand the costs, and feel confident in making the right choice.

Why You Might Want to Rent

Renting is ideal for businesses testing the trade show waters or looking for maximum flexibility.

Pros:

Lower upfront cost – Great for first-timers or companies with tight budgets.
Flexibility – Change your design from show to show without major commitments.
Less storage and maintenance – You don’t need to worry about where to keep it or how to maintain it.
Faster turnaround – Ideal when you're on a tight timeline.

Cons:

No long-term asset – You’re paying for temporary use.
Limited customization – Some rental systems may restrict your creative control.
Higher long-term costs – If you exhibit often, rental fees can add up.

Why You Might Want to Buy

Buying makes the most sense for companies who exhibit regularly and want full control over their brand experience.

Pros:

Full customization – Your booth is built to reflect your brand down to the smallest detail.
Long-term savings – If you exhibit 2–3+ times a year, owning can be more cost-effective.
Consistency – Your team gets familiar with the setup and messaging.
Ownership – You can reuse, modify, or upgrade when needed.

Cons:

Higher upfront investment – Requires a larger initial budget.
Storage and shipping costs – You’ll need a place to keep it between shows.
Wear and tear – Over time, you’ll need to repair or update components.

Cost Comparison: Rent vs. Buy

Here’s a quick breakdown to help visualize the difference:

Booth TypeEstimated Cost10x10 Rental Booth$5,000 – $10,000 per show10x10 Custom Purchase$15,000 – $30,000 one-time20x20 Rental Booth$15,000 – $30,000 per show20x20 Custom Purchase$40,000 – $100,000 one-time

So, What’s the Right Choice for You?

Ask yourself:

How often do we exhibit?
What’s our budget right now?
Do we need something highly custom or flexible?
Do we have the space and resources to store a booth?

If you’re just getting started, renting is a smart, low-risk way to make a splash without the long-term commitment. But if trade shows are a big part of your marketing strategy, buying may give you more control and better ROI over time.

Ready to Build a Booth That Performs?

Let’s create a trade show exhibit that attracts the right people, drives results, and makes your brand impossible to ignore. You’ve got goals. We’ve got the strategy and experience to help you reach them. Start the process today and show up ready to win.

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Should I Rent or Buy a Trade Show Booth?