Halloween is a fun, festive time of year, but like any other holiday, it can add up quickly. Between costumes, decorations, candy, and possible parties, you might find yourself spending way more money than you anticipated. So here are some tips to help you plan ahead and save!
Budget Early
One of the best ways to save money is to start off by setting a clear budget. Figure out how much you are willing to spend on costumes, candy, and décor. This way, even if you want to splurge on something in particular, you can budget and cut back more on something else.
Used or DIY Costumes
Instead of buying expensive costumes from the store, consider making your own. This could be upcycled, recycled, or using supplies you have at home.
You can also find lots of great used costumes at consignment shops or other places like Facebook Marketplace.
Reuse and Repurpose Decorations
Halloween decorations don’t need to be new every year. Reuse items you already own and think about repurposing materials you might otherwise throw away. Old jars can become spooky lanterns, cardboard boxes can turn into haunted house props, and leftover fabric can transform into eerie ghosts. This keeps costs low while reducing waste.
Buy in Bulk and Use Coupons
Candy can quickly become the biggest Halloween expense. To save money, buy in bulk from warehouse stores or look for sales and coupons. You can also consider non-candy alternatives like stickers or pencils, which can often be cheaper – and less wasteful.
Host a Potluck Party
If you enjoy celebrating Halloween with friends and family, hosting a potluck party is a great alternative. Instead of paying for all the costs, ask guests to bring a dish to share, such as a spooky-themed dessert.
Look for Free Activities
Holidays don’t have to mean spending a lot of money on activities. There are lots of lost-cost or free activities, like pumpkin carving, pumpkin picking, Halloween movies, library events, nature center events, fall festivals, and more.
Buy Clearance for Next Year
Once Halloween is over, stores typically discount their leftover costumes, candy, and decorations. Buying items on clearance and storing them for the following year is a great way to save money in the long run.
I also don’t buy new Halloween decorations every year so that saves some money. You gave me a great idea to look for a costume at a thrift store! Thanks!
Clearance is my best friend. I always buy a lot of stuff when the season is over. It’s perfect! It’s how I got most of my decor.
These are great tips for saving money. I always buy my kids costumes at the thrift store.
Potluck Halloween sounds perfect for saving and still having fun. I’m adding library events and pumpkin carving to our plan.
I love how many practical ideas you share. Starting with a budget early is so underrated. I also really like the DIY costume and reuse decoration tips, make Halloween festive and budget-friendly. Buying clearance after the holiday is such a smart move for next year. Thanks for putting this together.