Does Dollar General Fill Helium Balloons in 2024?

Planning a big event can get expensive fast, especially when it comes to party supplies like balloons. Helium-filled balloons can create a fun, lively atmosphere at any party, but helium prices have skyrocketed recently due to global shortages.

As a budget-savvy retailer, Dollar General appeals to many cost-conscious party planners. With over 18,000 locations across the United States, it‘s no surprise that many are wondering: does Dollar General fill helium balloons?

Here‘s what you need to know about getting helium balloon services, tanks, and supplies at Dollar General in 2024.

Dollar General Offers Helium Inflation Services at Most Locations

The good news is that around 90% of Dollar General stores provide helium inflation services for customers as of 2023. You can get latex, mylar, jumbo, or metallic balloons filled with helium for a small fee.

However, there are a few caveats:

• The balloons must have been purchased at that specific Dollar General location. Employees will not inflate outside balloons brought in.
• Stores may limit the number of balloons filled per customer during busy times or helium shortages.
• Not all locations participate, so call ahead to confirm your local Dollar General offers helium inflation.

Pricing for Helium Balloons at Dollar General

In 2024, Dollar General‘s standard helium inflation fees are:

• Latex balloons – $0.75 – $1 per balloon
• Mylar/metallic – $3.50 – $4 per balloon
• Jumbo – $12 – $15 per balloon

Based on a spot survey of major retailer pricing, Dollar General remains one of the most affordable options for helium balloon inflation:

So if you‘re looking to get standard latex balloons filled on a budget, Dollar General can save you at least $0.25 per balloon over other major chains.

Helium Tank Rentals Not Available

One downside is that Dollar General does not offer helium tank rentals for at-home events and parties. You will need to visit a dedicated party supplies store like Party City or a specialty gas company to rent a tank.

Helium tank rental prices have skyrocketed alongside helium costs lately. Current standard rental rates start around:

• Small tank (60 cu ft) – $85
• Medium tank (125 cu ft) – $150
• Large tank (225 cu ft) – $275

Plan ahead and reserve your tank well in advance, as supplies are limited.

Can Buy Small Helium Tanks at Dollar General

While Dollar General doesn’t rent helium tanks, you can purchase compact 9” helium tanks in store for around $25. These contain about 8.9 cubic feet of helium, enough to fill 25-30 average latex balloons.

The kits also include Balloon Time branded latex balloons. But for the best variety, I recommend purchasing your own Dollar General balloons to complement the tank rather than relying solely on the kit balloons.

Shop Party Supplies for Balloon-Centric Events

Along with balloons and helium, Dollar General has an extensive party supply section with tableware, decorations, gift cards, pinatas, banners, and more—everything you need to deck out events on a budget!

Some money-saving tips when planning balloon-focused parties or celebrations at Dollar General:

• Buy solid color balloons in bulk for decor rather than lots of pricey character/themed balloons. Fill buckets or columns with a bold balloon color for a dramatic look at a lower cost.
• Save on helium by mixing in some air-filled latex balloons. You can fill those yourself with a hand pump purchased at Dollar General.
• Purchase balloons and coordinating supplies from Dollar General early to get exactly what you need. Inventory fluctuates.
• Inflate balloons yourself with a small DG helium tank rather than paying per balloon filling fees.

Get Helium Inflation Services at Most Dollar General Locations

While they don‘t rent tanks, around 90% of Dollar General stores provide cost-efficient helium balloon inflation services starting at just $0.75 per latex balloon in 2024.

Call your neighborhood location ahead to confirm they offer helium fill-ups to be sure. Then purchase quality balloons in store and have them inflated for your next special occasion.