5 Super Creative Ways to Cut Back on Halloween Costs this Spooky Season

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For Americans living on a tight budget, the upcoming holidays are likely to induce more financial anxiety than festive excitement. While Halloween tends to be on the less expensive side, per-person spending is projected to hit $104 this year, according to the National Retail Foundation.

For households with kids, the costs can add up quickly, and even if you’re child-free, getting serious about decorations can inflate the budget. But fear not — there are plenty of creative ways to enjoy Halloween without scaring your wallet. 

To keep all the fun in Halloween without stretching your budget, here are five creative ways to save money while still enjoying the spooky festivities. 

DIY Costumes from Thrift Stores

With a bit of imagination, thrift store finds can transform into show-stopping Halloween costumes — allowing you to think big while spending little. A flannel shirt becomes a cowboy outfit, a black dress turns into a witch costume and a button-up shirt makes you a mad scientist. 

“One way to save during spooky season is to hit up your local thrift shops and search for affordable materials for creating unique costumes,” said Erika Kullberg, an attorney, personal finance expert and the founder of Erika.com. “With a good eye, old clothing and accessories can be transformed into memorable Halloween outfits, potentially saving you $30-$50 per costume compared to buying new. Remember, it’s one night that you’re wearing this costume, this is not something worth spending a ton of money on.”

Saving on Candy

It’s important to remember that Halloween should be fun, not financially stressful, and enjoying the holiday shouldn’t come at the cost of your financial security. 

“I also recommend being smart about how much candy you purchase,” Kullberg said. “If you historically haven’t gotten many trick-or-treaters, don’t go all out. Candy is super expensive right now and can quickly add up. It’s ok to run out and turn off the porch light.”

If you do expect trick-or-treaters, candy can quickly become one of the holiday’s most expensive aspects. But a little smart shopping can help you save. 

“Candy discounts for supermarkets frequently start a few days before Halloween,” said Adam Schwartz, CEO of CouponSurfer Inc. “For example, if your supermarket sales cycle typically starts on Wednesdays, check the circular (paper or online) on Oct. 30. You can usually save about 15-30%.”

Also, don’t forget to check your local dollar store or discount grocery outlets for even better deals on candy.

Host a Costume Swap Party

If you’re on a budget, the last thing you should prioritize is splurging on new costumes. Luckily, many people are in the same boat and looking for affordable — or free — options. 

“Another way to save on Halloween costumes is to organize a costume swap with friends, neighbors, or family,” Kullberg said. “The idea is that everyone brings along their old costumes and hopefully swap them out for something that’s new to you. Exchanging old costumes that you and your kids have outgrown or are finished with is a great, easy way to save money here.”

Shop at Dollar Stores

Whether you’re planning to pass out candy, or simply want the most decked-out house on the block this Halloween, ease the strain on your wallet by visiting discount stores. Say goodbye to pricey king-sized candy bars and hello to more budget-friendly alternatives.

“Consider picking up your Halloween essentials like candy, decorations, and small costume accessories from your local dollar stores,” Kullberg said. “You can often buy multiple items for under $20, or on offer if you start shopping early in the season.”

Homemade Halloween Treats

Making your own Halloween treats may take a bit more time than grabbing a bag of candy from the store, but it’s an excellent way to cut costs and add a personal touch.

“Create your homemade treats like cookies, popcorn or anything else that you might enjoy making,” Kullberg said. “This can save you money and at the same time add a bit more fun to your Halloween celebrations, especially if you or your kids like to get creative in the kitchen.”

While trick-or-treaters might not want handmade goodies from strangers, these treats are perfect for Halloween parties. As the chef, you get to be the designer too–turn marshmallows into ghosts, build a graham cracker graveyard, and have fun while keeping your expenses low.

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