Beach toy and gear rental stand

Day visitors, families and tourists who did not bring their own gear.

Hourly or daily rental fees, often with a deposit, plus sales of low-cost items such as buckets, flip-flops and frisbees.

• Friendly, outgoing manner
• Handling cash and card payments
• Keeping equipment clean and in good repair
• Organizing stock and storage

• Permits or concessions for operating on public beaches or parks, which can be limited or competitive
• Commercial general liability insurance that covers rental equipment and injuries
• Written waivers and safety rules for items like boogie boards
• Theft, damage and weather, so plan secure overnight storage
• Check municipal business licence rules and GST/HST registration
• A short season with income depending heavily on good weather
• Expect to be at the stand most days during the season, so this is closer to a part-time or full-time seasonal job than a casual side hustle

Startup costs are typically around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on the stand or cart, how much rental equipment and stock you buy, and your storage setup. Treat these as estimates and get local quotes before you buy.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your location, the items you offer and the weather. Income depends heavily on good weather in a short season, so budget carefully.

Check permits or concessions for public beaches or parks, which can be limited or competitive. Also check commercial general liability insurance covering rental equipment, written waivers, your municipal business licence rules, and GST/HST registration.