A home isn’t the only thing you can rent these days, especially as consumers look to make less of a financial commitment to a variety of life's needs and wants. (That’s code for: We’re all looking for deals, even if it means not taking ownership.)
Rentals are everywhere. You just need to know where to look.
1. Clothing. Why spend hundreds of dollars on an evening dress from Saks (Stock Quote: SKS) that you’ll likely only wear once this year? My first stop would be to shop in a friend’s closet. Next, check local rental boutiques. They exist! At Ilus, a shop in New York City, you can pick out a designer dress to wear for up to three days. (If you live outside the city, you can arrange to have a dress shipped to you.) Prices range from $60 to $400. At Alexandria’s Formal in Roseville, Calif., you can rent strapless bras, prom and cocktail dresses, bridal gowns and jewelry.
2. Accessories. The new Louis VuittonTivoli handbag (Stock Quote: LVMH) retails for $935, but if you’re a member of Bag, Borrow or Steal, it’ll cost you $43 for the week or $125 per month. You can choose from a plethora of designer purses and accessories. Prices vary per item. At FromBagstoRiches.com, a similar strategy exists where fancy bag rental prices range from $22.95 to $299.95, depending on the designer and make.
3. Electronics. Want to entertain guests at your next party, but don’t want to burn $300 on a Wii? Zilok offers Microsoft’s Xbox 360 (Stock Quote: MSFT) and Nintendo Wii rentals. While you’re there, find rental listings in your ZIP code for computers, phones and PDAs.
4. Athletic Gear. It’s hard to commit to $400 skis, especially if you’re only going on a few ski trips this season. In fact, when it comes to skis, bikes, snowboards, tennis racquets and golf clubs, there’s usually no need to invest in owning the stuff if you’re not an avid player. Most athletic facilities and shops offer a selection of rental gear all year round. Try also searching for “athletic equipment rentals” online.
