If you’re gearing up for your next big event, one of the first questions you’ll face is whether to rent a trade show booth or invest in a custom-built exhibit. When deciding between a custom vs rental booth, both options offer distinct advantages, and the right choice depends on your brand’s goals, budget, and how often you exhibit.

In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of booth rentals vs. custom builds to help you make an informed decision.

The Case for Custom-Built Trade Show Booths

Custom exhibits are all about brand presence. Designed from the ground up, they deliver a polished, immersive experience, and often make the biggest impact on the show floor.

Benefits of custom builds:

• Tailored to your brand: Every inch reflects your identity and story.

• Reusable and scalable: Built to last across multiple shows, and often built with flexible components to adjust to varying booth sizes.

• Impactful design: Stand out in crowded convention halls.

Great for:

• Brands with long-term exhibit plans

• Companies attending major industry events annually

• Exhibitors wanting a consistent, premium brand presence

The Case for Renting a Trade Show Booth

Booth rentals are a smart, flexible option, especially if you’re attending only a few shows per year or testing the waters at a new event.

Benefits of renting:

• Lower upfront cost: No major investment needed.

• Faster turnaround time: Ideal for tight timelines.

• Flexibility: Easily change the look or layout from one event to the next.

Great for:

• First-time exhibitors

• Companies testing a new market or product

• Brands with multiple shows and different booth needs

Custom vs. Rental Booth Comparison Chart

While exact timelines, costs, and needs vary by client, the chart below provides a high-level comparison of how a custom vs rental booth typically stacks up.

A Hybrid Approach: The Best of Both Worlds

Some clients opt for a hybrid model, combining custom elements with rental components. This approach delivers a tailored look while maintaining budget flexibility and scalability.

At PG Exhibits + Environments, we often recommend hybrids for brands that want to grow into a custom solution over time.

Final Thoughts: What’s Right for You?

Ultimately, choosing between trade show booth rentals vs. custom builds comes down to your goals, budget, and frequency of exhibiting.

Still not sure what’s right for your next event? Let’s talk. We’ll walk you through your options and help you find the best path forward—whether it’s a bold, custom experience or a flexible rental that looks like a million bucks.

Talk to an Exhibit Expert

Contact us today to get started on your next show.