When you release a balloon into the air, its journey can be quite extensive. The distance a balloon travels depends on various factors such as the type of balloon, the weather conditions, and the altitude at which it's released. Generally, a latex balloon filled with helium can rise up to five miles into the atmosphere, while foil balloons can ascend even higher. As for horizontal distance, it's not uncommon for balloons to travel several hundreds of miles away from their original release point. However, it's important to note that releasing balloons can have negative environmental impacts, as they can pose a threat to wildlife and contribute to litter when they eventually descend.