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How to Budget for a Professional Yard Game Rental

How to · Event

How to Budget for a Professional Yard Game Rental

Lock in your reunion entertainment early and spread the cost to keep your bank account comfortable.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $200 before anything else
Across the 0% window $11.11/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $200 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A good yard game setup turns a standard reunion into an actual event. Booking in the spring is your best move since the pros get booked up fast for summer weekends.

You want to have this sorted well before the family arrives. Spreading the $200 cost over a few months keeps your cash flow steady while you handle the rest of the planning.

The 18-month window is a deadline, not a gift. If you still have a balance once those 18 months are up, the bank will start charging interest on the remaining amount.

The steps

  1. 01

    Lock in your inventory

    Call rental companies in early spring to reserve the specific games you want. Don't wait until June because high-quality gear goes quickly. Secure your date with a deposit.

  2. 02

    Use the right tool

    If you use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card, you get 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you pay off that $200 total in small chunks of about $11.11 per month. It keeps the cash in your pocket longer.

  3. 03

    Verify delivery windows

    Ask the vendor if they drop off the games the day before or the morning of the event. Factor that into your setup time. Make sure you have a clear spot in the yard for everything.

  4. 04

    Check for hidden fees

    Review the contract for damage deposits or cleaning fees. Most places charge extra if a piece goes missing or gets ruined. Keep track of all the gear during the party.

  5. 05

    Automate the payments

    Set up an automatic monthly payment for $11.11. This ensures you never miss a payment and the balance is wiped out well before your intro window on purchases ends.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

What happens if a game breaks during the reunion?

Check your rental contract before you sign. Most vendors require you to pay a replacement fee for damaged or missing equipment.

Is it cheaper to buy games instead of renting?

Buying is cheaper long-term if you host parties every year. Renting is better for a one-off reunion where you don't want to store giant wooden games afterward.

Do I need insurance for a rental?

Usually, the rental company’s insurance covers standard wear and tear. Ask them specifically what happens if someone trips and breaks a game piece.

What if I can't pay the full $200 in 18 months?

You will start accruing interest on whatever is left. Always pay as much as you can early so you aren't scrambling at the end of the window.