The soft rustle of satin, the clink of champagne glasses, the laughter of childhood friends now all grown up—this is the soundtrack of a wedding day. Maybe you were once just a boy chasing butterflies at a cousin’s backyard wedding, or a girl dreaming under the fairy lights. Now, it’s your turn. You’re stepping into a new chapter as someone’s wife or husband, and the setting matters just as much as the vows. A tented wedding isn’t just practical—it’s magical. It transforms any outdoor space into a canvas of celebration, twinkling lights, laughter, and unforgettable moments. But before you say “I do” under canvas and stars, let’s talk about what it really costs to rent a wedding tent—and how to do it right.
Average Wedding Tent Rental Prices by Tent Type
Wedding tents come in a variety of styles, and each type offers a unique aesthetic and pricing structure. The three most common options are frame tents, pole tents, and clear top tents.
Frame tents are versatile and self-supporting, making them ideal for spaces where staking is not possible. They’re slightly more expensive than pole tents due to the additional structural support. Pole tents, on the other hand, have elegant peaks and are generally more affordable, but they require central poles and more setup space. For couples dreaming of a luxurious, romantic setting, clear top tents are a premium choice. With their transparent roofs, they create a stunning atmosphere—especially under the stars—but they also come at a higher cost due to materials and weather-related concerns.
The size of the tent is another major price factor. Smaller tents like a 20×20 may cost around $500–$1,000, while larger setups like a 40×60 or 60×100 can range from $2,000–$5,000+ depending on features and flooring.
For example, after contacting several event tent providers in Malaysia, we found prices range from $400 to $3,000 per day, depending on the tent size and style. These vendors often include installation and takedown services in the quote, making the process more convenient for busy couples.
When budgeting for your wedding, knowing the average costs by tent type and size can help you plan smarter and avoid surprises.
What’s Included in the Rental (and What’s Not)
When renting a wedding tent, it’s important to understand what’s typically included in the base price—and what will cost extra. Many couples assume the quoted rental fee covers everything, but the reality is a bit more nuanced.
Standard inclusions usually cover the tent structure itself, setup and takedown labor, and in some cases, basic lighting such as LED uplights or string lights. Some vendors may also include tent weights or stakes for stability, especially if the tent is being installed on a hard surface or open field.
However, many essential items are often not included in the base rental and come with additional charges. These extras can include:
- Flooring or carpeting, which is crucial for muddy or uneven terrain
- Sidewalls for privacy or protection from rain and wind
- Heating or cooling systems, especially for off-season weddings
- Decorative lighting like chandeliers or fairy lights
- Furniture, drapery, and ceiling liners for a luxury look
For example, a Malaysian rental company may quote RM1,800 (~$380 USD) for a 20×40 tent with setup included. However, adding wooden flooring, side curtains, and a simple chandelier package could increase the total to RM4,000 (~$850 USD).
Some suppliers offer bundle packages, which may include tables, chairs, and décor for a fixed price—ideal for couples looking for convenience. Always ask for a detailed itemized quote to avoid hidden costs and to better compare vendors.
Understanding what’s covered helps ensure you stay on budget while creating a space that fits your wedding vision.
How to Save Money When Renting a Wedding Tent
Weddings can be expensive, but there are smart ways to save money on tent rentals without sacrificing style or comfort. Timing is one of the biggest factors—off-season weddings (such as in late fall or early spring) and weekday events often come with lower rental rates. Many vendors offer discounts during these periods since demand is lower.
Another great tip is to book bundle packages. Instead of sourcing tables, chairs, and linens separately, many tent companies offer all-in-one packages at a better rate. This not only saves money but also simplifies coordination, especially when you’re managing multiple wedding vendors.
Choosing a local rental vendor is another effective way to cut costs. Delivery and setup fees can add up quickly, especially if the company is located far from your venue. Local suppliers are more likely to offer flexible service and faster response times too.
Lastly, consider the tent style. While clear-top or fully enclosed luxury tents are beautiful, they come with higher price tags. Open-sided tents or slightly smaller sizes can still offer elegance and comfort while staying within budget—especially if your guest list is intimate.
That said, let’s be honest—you probably only have one wedding in your life. While budgeting is important, don’t compromise too much on the atmosphere or experience. If a beautiful tent helps bring your dream wedding to life, it might just be worth the splurge. After all, memories last far longer than the bill.
Should You Rent or Buy a Wedding Tent?
When planning your wedding, one key question is whether to rent or buy a tent. The answer depends largely on your situation.
For retail customers or couples planning a one-time event, renting is almost always the smarter choice. It’s more convenient, cost-effective, and stress-free. Rental companies handle delivery, setup, takedown, and sometimes even cleaning—saving you time and effort. Purchasing a new wedding tent can cost $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on size and quality, while a rental may only cost a fraction of that.
However, for business entities such as event planners, venues, or rental companies, buying a wedding tent can be a worthwhile investment. With repeated use over time, ownership becomes more cost-efficient. Plus, there’s the potential for resale value or revenue generation through sub-rentals.
Buying might also make sense for backyard or small-scale weddings where you have ample time for setup and want to personalize the structure fully. Just keep in mind you’ll need storage space and a plan for maintenance.
In short: rent if it’s a one-time celebration, but consider buying if you’re thinking long-term or running an event business.
