Holiday inflatables have become increasingly popular in recent years because of their affordable cost and high impact. Their large size will turn heads and show off your household’s holiday spirit to the whole neighborhood.
With so many holiday inflatables on the market, choosing one can be overwhelming. We’ll break down what to look for when shopping for the best inflatables for your yard and discuss the key features to keep in mind as you consider your purchase. Keep reading for tips on choosing the best Christmas inflatables, and then explore our picks for the best options on the market.
- BEST OVERALL: BZB Goods Christmas Inflatable Santa Claus on Sleigh
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: GOOSH Christmas Inflatable Sitting Santa Claus
- BEST WITH LIGHTING: OurWarm 6ft Christmas Inflatables
- MOST UNIQUE: Home Accents Holiday LED Animated Christmas Dragon
- BEST MOVIE TIE-IN: Gemmy Christmas Inflatable 12′ Grinch on Sleigh
- BEST SNOWMAN: The Holiday Aisle Frosty Inflatable
- BEST WITH ANIMALS: BZB Goods Christmas Inflatable Penguins Fishing
- BEST PHOTOREALISTIC: Gemmy Christmas Inflatable Buddy The Elf
How We Chose the Best Christmas Inflatables
Several years of experience covering products for the home as well as extensive product research went into choosing our final curated selection. We reviewed over 30 Christmas inflatables and weighed a number of practical considerations when making our recommendations.
- Theme: We aimed to include inflatables that would suit a number of different holiday themes by featuring products with classic Christmas motifs—like Santa and elves—as well as more winter-themed inflatables featuring animals or snowmen.
- Reviews: Since so many Christmas decorations are only available seasonally and change from year to year, it can be difficult to find products with a significant number of ratings or reviews. Still, we did give priority to products that were well reviewed, and when reviews weren’t available, made sure to showcase decorations by reputable brands that consistently put out high-quality products.
- Value: We took into consideration the fact that Christmas inflatables are only on display for a few weeks each year so sticking to a budget is a priority for many shoppers. We only included products that offered great value and were durable enough to last for years.
Our Top Picks
Now that you’ve learned more about holiday inflatables, it’s time to start shopping. These recommendations for the best Christmas inflatables were selected because of their quality construction, ease of use, and other helpful features. Whether you’re looking for a subtle decoration or a showstopping piece, there’s sure to be a good option here for your home.
Photo: amazon.com
Evoke the childhood magic of Christmas Eve with this 12-foot-long inflatable that features Santa Claus riding his sleigh. It’s led by three adorable reindeer that are sure to bring delight to the children in your neighborhood. In terms of ease of use, this inflatable comes with everything you need to set it up. It’s self-inflating, so it’s ready for display in minutes once you plug the blower into a standard electrical outlet.
Stakes and tethers are included in the package so you can secure the inflatable to the ground. One downside is that, despite the fact that it deflates completely, it may be tricky to store because of its large size.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 144 by 20 by 48.5 inches
- Material: Polyester blend
- Self-Inflating: Yes
Pros
- Self-inflating via standard electrical outlet; ready to display in minutes
- Features internal lighting for a bright and eye-catching display
- Includes stakes and tethers to secure the inflatable to the ground
Cons
- Large size may make it difficult to store, even when deflated completely
Get the BZB Goods Christmas inflatable on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Those with limited outdoor space will appreciate this compact Santa inflatable, which measures 5 feet tall and is available at an affordable price. Due to its small size, it could also work as an eye-catching indoor decoration. It’s made with durable waterproof polyester with reinforced stitching for added strength.
Built-in LED lights illuminate the inflatable, and each purchase comes with stakes and rope to secure it to the ground, a tree, or a fence. The 10-foot power cord offers flexibility for placement. It comes with a storage bag so that you can keep the inflatable in the best condition when it’s not in use.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 60 inches tall
- Material: Polyester
- Self-Inflating: Yes
Pros
- Compact size makes it perfect for small yards
- Includes storage bag to preserve condition when not in use
- Built-in LED lights illuminate the inflatable
Cons
- Not suitable for temperatures below 14 degrees Fahrenheit
Get the GOOSH Christmas inflatable on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
While most Christmas inflatables include built-in LED lights to illuminate the piece at night, this model takes it a step further by including rotating, multicolored lights for a holiday-themed light show. This model is 6 feet tall and features a smiling snowman—complete with a carrot nose, a top hat, and a striped scarf—and two cute penguins wearing Christmas accessories.
It’s made with durable weatherproof and fade-resistant polyester, and it self-inflates using the powerful built-in waterproof fan. Not only does it ship with six stakes and tethers, but it also includes three sandbags to weigh it down and secure it to the ground.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 72 by 50 inches
- Material: Polyester
- Self-Inflating: Yes
Pros
- Includes sandbags for extra protection against wind and weather
- Made with fade-resistant polyester for weatherproof durability
- Features rotating multicolored lights create a dynamic visual effect
Cons
- Plug is not waterproof; protect from water and severe weather
Get the OurWarm Christmas inflatable on Amazon.
Photo: homedepot.com
There are plenty of Santas and snowmen out there, but have you ever seen a Christmas dragon inflatable? Those looking for a totally unique inflatable will appreciate this 9-foot-tall dragon who’s wearing a Santa hat and has a candy cane in its mouth. While Halloween dragon inflatables are designed to be scary, this one has a goofy face that makes it much more cute than creepy.
It’s illuminated with a kaleidoscope of multicolored lights, further adding to the whimsical feel. In terms of practical considerations, this inflatable is made from polyester and self-inflates for a quick and easy setup. Stakes and tethers are included to secure it into place.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 144 by 108 inches
- Material: Polyester
- Self-Inflating: Yes
Pros
- Unique design features a holiday-themed dragon
- Self-inflating via standard electrical outlet; ready to display in minutes
- Features internal lighting for a bright and eye-catching display
- Includes stakes and tethers to secure the inflatable to the ground
Cons
- Large size may make it difficult to store, even when deflated completely
Get the Home Accents Holiday Christmas inflatable at The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” has been a holiday classic since it debuted in book form, but over the years both the animated and live-action films have stolen viewers’ hearts, and watching them is an essential December experience in many households.
This inflatable perfectly captures the characters from the animated version of the film, with a smug-looking Grinch sitting atop a pile of presents on his sleigh with his dog, Max, at his side. Like all the highest-quality inflatables, this one is self-inflating, includes built-in lighting, and comes with stakes and tethers.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 144.09 by 53.54 by 118.11 inches
- Material: Polyester blend
- Self-Inflating: Yes
Pros
- Fun design resonates with kids of all ages
- Self-inflating via standard electrical outlet; ready to display in minutes
- Features internal lighting for a bright and eye-catching display
- Includes stakes and tethers to secure the inflatable to the ground
Cons
- Large size may make it difficult to store, even when deflated completely
Get the Gemmy Christmas inflatable on Amazon, Target, Overstock, or Bed Bath & Beyond.
Photo: wayfair.com
Building your own snowman is a fun snow day activity, but it inevitably melts when temperatures jump above freezing. This inflatable Frosty the Snowman decoration will last all season long, no matter how warm it gets. It self-inflates using the built-in fan and features a friendly face with outstretched arms.
The warm-white LED lights highlight the inflatable without distracting from its design. One downside is that there is only a single stake and tether included in the package, so you might need additional materials to secure it to the ground.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 70 by 51 inches
- Material: Fabric
- Self-Inflating: Yes
Pros
- Classic, universally appealing design that lasts all season long, no matter the weather
- Self-inflating via standard electrical outlet; ready to display in minutes
- Features internal lighting for a bright and eye-catching display
Cons
- Only includes a single stake and a tether; certain climates may need additional materials to secure to ground
Get the Holiday Aisle Christmas inflatable at Wayfair.
Photo: amazon.com
If you have a household full of animal lovers, this cute inflatable is perfect for you. Featuring a friendly polar bear with two penguins fishing off his back, this inflatable is sure to bring joy to passersby. At 6 feet long, it’s small enough to work either indoors or outdoors.
Setup is a breeze since stakes and tethers are included, and the blow-up decoration self-inflates in moments once it’s plugged in. Because it’s more of a winter scene than a Christmas scene, this inflatable can stay up all season long.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 71.3 by 47 by 65 inches
- Material: Polyester
- Self-Inflating: Yes
Pros
- Self-inflating via standard electrical outlet; ready to display in minutes
- Features internal lighting for a bright and eye-catching display
- Includes stakes and tethers to secure the inflatable to the ground
Cons
- Small size might get lost in larger yards
Get the BZB Goods Christmas inflatable on Amazon.
photo: Amazon.com
The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear! Buddy the Elf became an instantly beloved holiday fixture when “Elf” was released in 2003. What makes Buddy so endearing is his infectious enthusiasm, which this photorealistic Christmas inflatable manages to convey perfectly. At 6 feet tall, it’s essentially life-size.
It self-inflates in seconds and everything you need comes in the package, including stakes and tethers. Since this inflatable doesn’t feature a built-in light, it will need to be lit with an external spotlight to be visible in the dark.
Product Specs
- Dimensions: 72.05 by 20.47 by 22.84 inches
- Material: Polyester blend
- Self-Inflating: Yes
Pros
- Self-inflating via standard electrical outlet; ready to display in minutes
- Life-size photorealistic design
- Includes stakes and tethers to secure the inflatable to the ground
Cons
- Lacks built-in lights; requires external lighting at night
Get the Gemmy Christmas inflatable on Amazon, Target, or Wayfair.
A Recap of Our Recommendations
- BEST OVERALL: BZB Goods Christmas Inflatable Santa Claus on Sleigh
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: GOOSH Christmas Inflatable Sitting Santa Claus
- BEST WITH LIGHTING: OurWarm 6ft Christmas Inflatables
- MOST UNIQUE: Home Accents Holiday LED Animated Christmas Dragon
- BEST MOVIE TIE-IN: Gemmy Christmas Inflatable 12′ Grinch on Sleigh
- BEST SNOWMAN: The Holiday Aisle Frosty Inflatable
- BEST WITH ANIMALS: BZB Goods Christmas Inflatable Penguins Fishing
- BEST PHOTOREALISTIC: Gemmy Christmas Inflatable Buddy The Elf
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Christmas Inflatables
While it’s easy to assume that all Christmas inflatables offer similar performance, a number of factors affect their functionality. Keep reading to learn about several of the most important features to consider when choosing cool Christmas inflatables for your yard.
Durability
Durability is a chief concern when shopping for holiday inflatables in order to ensure the product you choose lasts for several seasons to come. Most are made of synthetic materials like nylon that are designed to resist rips and tears, but some models also come with patch kits so you can repair them if a hole does develop. While most inflatables are designed for outdoor use, they do come with varying levels of weatherproofing. If you live in a very cold climate, be sure to choose a product that can withstand sub-zero temperatures.
Size
Inflatable holiday decorations range in size from about 5 feet high to 12 feet high. Consider the scale of your outdoor space before making a purchase to ensure you have room for the inflatables you choose. Decide in advance where you plan to place the inflatable to then choose an appropriate height. Also consider the value in comparison to size as larger inflatables often cost more than their smaller counterparts.
Style and Theme
Christmas inflatables come in an endless array of styles to best suit your holiday decorating theme. There are classic Christmas styles featuring Santa, reindeer, and elves, kid-friendly designs with characters from their favorite holiday specials, and comical designs that are meant to make your neighbors laugh every time they walk by. For those who don’t celebrate Christmas, there are winter-themed options featuring animals or snowmen. Photorealistic inflatables often feature characters from popular holiday movies and are meant to be lifelike representations. If you’re purchasing more than one inflatable, try to ensure the theme is cohesive.
Lights
Most high-quality inflatables feature built-in lighting to illuminate them when the sun goes down. LED lights are standard and work well because they’re long-lasting and shouldn’t have to be replaced for years. Some models feature a more dynamic light show effect with multicolored lights that move for added visual interest.
Ease of Use
Ease of use is a primary consideration when choosing between different Christmas inflatables. The best models are self-inflating, so you don’t have to do any work to blow them up. High-quality inflatables should come with everything you need to secure them to the ground, including stakes and tethers. Some models even feature a built-in timer that allows users to preset the times that the inflatable will operate so that it doesn’t need to be powered on and off every day.
Ease of storage is another factor to consider. Most holiday inflatables can simply be rolled up and stored in the box they came in, but some offer more secure storage bags to keep them in top condition during the off-season.
FAQs
While you now know more about holiday inflatables, you might still have some questions about how to use them. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Christmas inflatables.
Q. How do I tie down and secure Christmas inflatables?
Most blow-up inflatables come with the necessary equipment to secure them and ensure they don’t blow away. Use stakes and rope to secure them to the ground or use twine to attach them to a tree or a fence. You can also fill inflatables with sandbags to weigh them down.
Q. How do I replace LED lights on Christmas inflatables?
LED lights should last for years before burning out, but if you find yourself having to replace a bulb on your Christmas inflatable, first establish the bulb size and style and purchase an appropriate replacement. If the entire lighting system stops working, replacing it requires some electrical know-how. A simpler solution is to simply add an outdoor spotlight to illuminate your inflatable.
Q. Can Christmas inflatables get wet?
Christmas inflatables are designed for outdoor use, so they’re water resistant.
Q. Are Christmas inflatables OK in the snow?
Since they’re intended for outdoor winter use, most Christmas inflatables can withstand snow and freezing temperatures. Check the manufacturer’s instructions, however, because they may recommend bringing the inflatable inside at a certain temperature.
Q. Do Christmas inflatables use a lot of electricity?
Don’t worry about your electricity bill skyrocketing because of your Christmas inflatables; a 6-foot inflatable used for 24 hours a day for the entire month of December would only add about $5 to your bill.
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