How Many Balloons Can a Helium Tank Fill? (30, 50, 100 Balloons Explained)

Introduction

If you’ve ever planned a birthday party, baby shower, or New Year’s setup, you’ve probably asked the same question everyone asks:

“How many balloons can one helium tank actually fill?”

The short answer: it depends on the balloon size, how full you inflate it, and whether you’re using latex or foil balloons. But don’t worry—this guide will make it super simple.

We’ll break it down by the balloon counts people usually care about: 30 balloons, 50 balloons, and 100 balloons, and we’ll show which GreatWhip helium tank size makes the most sense.

First: Balloon sizes are in inches, tanks are in liters

Helium tanks are measured by capacity (like 13L or 22L). Balloons are usually measured by diameter in inches—for example 9-inch or 11-inch latex balloons.

Most party balloon kits in the U.S. use 9-inch or 11-inch latex balloons, so those are the best “real life” references.

The big factor: 9-inch vs 11-inch changes everything

Here’s the simplest way to think about it:

• 9-inch latex balloons = less helium per balloon → more balloons per tank
• 11-inch latex balloons = more helium per balloon → fewer balloons per tank
• Foil/bubble balloons = much more helium per balloon → even fewer

Also: if you inflate balloons to the absolute max size, you’ll use more helium. If you inflate them “party perfect” (firm but not over-tight), you’ll get better balloon count and less popping.

GreatWhip tank sizes (what we carry)

Right now, GreatWhip has these sizes:

• 7L (currently out of stock)
• 13L (best for most home parties)
• 22L (best for big celebrations)

Now let’s talk balloon counts.

If you need around 30 balloons…
Best choice: 13L

For a simple party setup—think one balloon arch section, a few bunches, or a small room decoration—30 balloons is a really common number.

A 13L helium tank is a great fit for this because it gives you breathing room. You won’t be stressing about “running out” while you’re half way through.

Typical results (latex balloons):

• 9-inch latex: you can usually cover a 30-balloon setup comfortably
• 11-inch latex: still fine, but you’ll use more helium per balloon

Pro tip: If you’re doing 30 balloons but you want them to float longer, use fresh latex balloons, inflate them properly (not underfilled), and avoid hot sunlight or a warm car trunk. Heat makes helium escape faster.

If you need around 50 balloons…
Best choice: 13L (most common)

If you’re making a medium balloon garland, decorating a doorway, or doing a bigger table-and-wall setup, 50 balloons is a sweet spot.

This is exactly where the 13L tank shines—it’s still manageable to store and use at home, but it’s powerful enough for a serious decoration moment.

Typical results (latex balloons):

• 9-inch latex: 13L is usually the “right size” for 50 balloons
• 11-inch latex: you may get fewer than 50 depending on how full you inflate

If your goal is “50 balloons guaranteed,” the safest approach is:

• Use 9-inch balloons, or
• Keep the balloons slightly smaller (still looks great), or
• Consider the 22L if you don’t want any risk of running short.

If you need around 100 balloons…
Best choice: 22L

When you hear “100 balloons,” you’re usually talking about:

• a full balloon arch,
• multiple balloon columns,
• a big backdrop,
• or an entire party room setup.

For that, 22L is the smarter choice. You don’t want to be halfway done and realize you have to switch plans.

Typical results (latex balloons):

• 9-inch latex: 22L is the best option for a ~100-balloon party look
• 11-inch latex: still possible, but the tank may not reach a full 100 if balloons are inflated large

If you’re using foil balloons (like 18-inch stars or hearts):
Those look amazing, but each one takes more helium than a standard latex balloon—so your total “balloon count” will drop.

Quick cheat sheet: Which tank should I choose?

Here’s the easiest way to decide:

• Need ~30 balloons? → 13L
• Need ~50 balloons? → 13L
• Need ~100 balloons? → 22L
• Need a small touch-up tank? → 7L (when back in stock)

If you’re unsure, go one size up. Most people don’t regret having extra helium—what they regret is running out with decorations half finished.

What can reduce your balloon count? (so you don’t get surprised)

Even with the same tank, these things change how many balloons you can fill:

1. Bigger balloons (11-inch vs 9-inch)
2. Over-inflating balloons
3. Using foil/bubble balloons
4. Leaks (not tightening the nozzle, or a balloon with a tiny hole)
5. Testing balloons (you’ll always “waste” a little when you’re learning)

Tips to get the most balloons out of your helium tank

• Inflate slowly—rushing makes you overshoot size and waste helium
• Don’t overfill—tight balloons pop easier and use more helium
• Use fresh balloons—old latex leaks faster
• Keep balloons cool—heat makes helium expand and escape
• Tie balloons tight (or use balloon clips) to prevent micro-leaks

Final takeaway

If you’re planning a party and wondering “Which tank is enough for my setup,” here’s the simple rule:

• 13L is perfect for most home parties (30–50 balloons)
• 22L is your best bet for big celebrations (close to 100 balloons)
• 7L is great for small jobs (when it’s in stock)

If you want the easiest party day possible, choose the tank that gives you a little extra room. Your future self will thank you when you’re not stressing with balloons everywhere.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How many balloons can a 13L helium tank fill?

A 13L helium tank typically fills around 30–50 standard 9-inch latex balloons, depending on how full you inflate them.

How many balloons can a 22L helium tank fill?

A 22L helium tank can inflate roughly 75–100 9-inch latex balloons, making it ideal for larger parties and events.

Does balloon size affect how many balloons I can inflate?

Yes. Larger balloons (like 11–12 inch) use significantly more helium, which means fewer balloons per tank.

Why do my balloons sometimes float for less time?

Balloon quality, temperature, and over-inflation all affect float time. Fresh latex balloons last the longest.