Pop-Up bag storage for events and festivals

Run a temporary bag check at festivals, markets, weddings and sports days, with no shop lease needed.

Startup costA$1.5k to A$8k
Monthly revenueA$800 to A$4k
Time needed8+ h/week
First incomeWeeks
  • A$1.5k-8k
  • Side hustle
  • Out and about

Estimates for a small start in Australia, not guarantees.

What it is

A portable bag drop run from a tent or hired space at events. You tag and store guests' bags, jackets and cases, then return them when they leave.

Your first three steps

  1. List local festivals, markets, sporting events and venues, and contact organisers to ask whether they need a bag storage provider
  2. Buy or borrow racks, tags, tubs, a gazebo and a card reader, and write a simple process for tagging and returning items
  3. Offer to run a small event at a reduced rate, then use the feedback and photos to pitch bigger ones
Who pays

Event organisers who want to offer the service, or guests paying a small fee per item, depending on the arrangement you agree.

How it makes money

A per-item fee charged to guests, or a fixed fee from the organiser for the event, sometimes a mix of both.

Skills that help
  • Quick, calm customer service in busy crowds
  • Organised tagging and tracking of items
  • Reaching out to event organisers
  • Handling long days on your feet
Watch out for
  • Public liability insurance, and check if organisers require a certificate of currency or specific cover for goods in your care
  • Responsibility for lost or damaged items, make this clear in your terms
  • Event permits and site rules, which are usually handled by the organiser, so check what applies to you
  • Refusing prohibited or unsafe items
  • Weather and uneven demand, income depends on how many events you win
  • Staff may need a working with children check at some events, check requirements in your state

🔒 Full research report for Australia

Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.

Coming soon

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to start a pop-up bag check?

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on the tent or space, tagging and storage gear, and insurance you need. Treat this as a guide only and price up your own set-up.

How much can an event bag check business earn?

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many events you win and the fee arrangement you agree with organisers or guests. Income is uneven, and weather can affect demand.

What rules should I check before running a bag check at events?

Check public liability insurance and whether organisers want a certificate of currency or cover for goods in your care. Also check event permits and site rules, responsibility for lost items, prohibited items, and working with children checks in your state.

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