How to Choose the Right Size Exhibit

Choosing the right booth size isn't just about how much space you can afford. It's about how you want people to move through your space, how many staff you’re bringing, and what kind of impact you want to make.

A booth that’s too small can feel cramped. Too big, and it might feel empty. Here's how to choose the right fit.

Common Exhibit Sizes and What They're Good For

10x10 Booths: Focused and Easy to Manage

A 10x10 exhibit is the most common starting point. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and fast to install.

This size works best when:

• You’re trying out a show for the first time
• You have one main product or service to feature
• You don’t need storage or demo space

Smart ideas for a 10x10 layout:

• One bold graphic wall
• Counter at the front for quick conversations
• Keep it open, not cluttered

When you're one of 300 exhibitors in a row of in-lines, your back wall does most of the work. Make your message clear and quick to read.

10x20 Booths: Extra Room, Stronger Impact

A 10x20 gives you double the space without doubling the hassle. You can guide traffic better and break up your booth into zones.

This size is a solid choice if:

• You’re showing multiple products
• You have two reps working at once
• You want to mix media, graphics, and live demos

Things that work well in 10x20 booths:

• One side for branding, one side for action
• Lounge seating or a simple meeting table
• Interactive elements like a monitor or tablet display

At events like SuperZoo or ICSC, we often build 10x20s that feel like walk-up storefronts. People stay longer when they’re not bumping elbows.

20x20 Booths: All Eyes on You

Once you're in a 20x20, you're usually in an island space. That means your booth is open on all four sides. Visibility is high, but so are expectations.

Choose a 20x20 if:

• You need space to host meetings
• You have multiple staff rotating throughout the day
• You’re trying to stand out in a busy show hall

To make the most of it:

• Add a central anchor, like a tower or a hanging sign
• Build out zones for demos, meetups, and product viewing
• Leave open corners so traffic flows naturally

At NAB, for example, we’ve built 20x20s that hosted live podcasts in one corner, demos in another, and still left room for conversations in between.

Want ideas? Our booth rental gallery shows how brands fill a 20x20 with intention.

Custom and Oversized Booths: Go Big for Big Returns

Going larger than 20x20 means you’re creating a full brand experience. These booths turn into mini headquarters right on the show floor.

This is the right choice when:

• You’re the main sponsor or anchor brand
• You want VIP walk-throughs, meetings, and content stations
• Your event calendar is packed and you’re going all in

Features we often include in large booths:

• LED walls and motion graphics
• Private or semi-private meeting lounges
• Walkable layouts with multiple entry points

These take more time to build and plan, but when done right, they pull in traffic and keep people inside longer.

Four Questions to Help You Choose the Right Size

Before you lock in your space, answer these:

1. What’s the main goal for this show?
   Are you building awareness, booking meetings, launching a product, or all of the above?
2. How many people are on your team?
   If you have two staffers, a 20x20 might feel too open. Match your size to your headcount.
3. What kind of engagement do you want?
   Quick scans or long chats? Give people space to move without creating dead zones.
4. What’s your true budget?
   Booth rental is just one part. Add in shipping, drayage, graphics, install, teardown, and staff travel.

Final Thoughts

Bigger doesn’t always mean better. The best booth is the one that supports your team, your goals, and your message.

We’ve seen 10x10s that close more deals than 20x30s. The difference is in how they’re designed and staffed.

Not sure what size fits your plan? We offer expert trade show booth design services for Las Vegas and Orlando.

What size booth will help you work the floor the way you want?

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