Best Ways to Save Money on Halloween This Year
Halloween is an exciting time of year, filled with fun costumes, vibrant decorations, and the joy of trick-or-treating. But let’s be real: it can also add up in expenses with costumes, decorations, pumpkins, and treats for eager little goblins at the door. Wondering how you can fully indulge in the Halloween spirit without terrifying your budget? You’re not alone!
The question is, do you really need to be spending all of that money? Better yet, do you have to participate in the trick or treat festivities at all? If you are in debt, purchasing candies and costumes are another worrisome credit card purchase that you may want to reconsider.
Although Halloween is a tradition that many communities participate in, there are always a few houses who turn off their lights and bow out of the trick or treats. And that’s okay. In fact, it might be something to consider.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to Halloween. For those who eagerly await this ghostly night, we’ve gathered ten savvy saving tips for Halloween that will let you have all the fun, without the frightful bills. We split the tips up into the three big hitters: costumes, candy and decorations. Let’s dive in!
Save on Halloween Costumes
- Homemade Costumes
- Second Hand Costumes
- Costume Swap
- Split Candy Costs with a Neighbour
- Limit Your Candy Outpour
- Set Boundaries Around Trick-or-Treat Time
- DIY Halloween Decor
- Re-use Halloween Decorations
- Buy Halloween Decorations after Halloween for Next Year
- Skip the decorations
There’s something special about homemade Halloween costumes—they’re crafted with love, imagination, and a touch of resourcefulness. Using materials found around the house or repurposing old clothes, anyone can create a unique ensemble that stands out in the sea of store-bought outfits. Making your own costume not only saves money but also offers a chance to show off your creativity. Whether it’s a classic ghost made from an old sheet or a more intricate design, a DIY approach ensures that your Halloween look is one-of-a-kind. Plus, the process of crafting becomes a cherished memory in itself, making the celebration even more memorable.
Try to find ideas online using sites, such as Pinterest, before going out and spending a ton of money on a project. Oh, and speaking of Pinterest, while you’re there consider following Money Mentors.
Second hand clothing is very much “in” right now, or should we say “it’s a vibe”. So why should Halloween costumes be any different? They shouldn’t! Head over to Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace and search for “used halloween costumes” to find some killer deals. Buying second hand costumes is an easy way to stay thrifty and it’s also eco-friendly.
Consider trading costumes with family and friends. Last year’s outfit can find a new life with someone else, and you can get a fresh look without spending extra. Just like buying second hand, swapping costumes isn’t just budget-friendly, it’s also a sustainable choice. Before buying new, think about swapping.
Spend Less on Halloween Candy
Just like it’s a good option to buy bulk groceries and split the bill with friends or family, buying Halloween candy can be the same. Why not buy wholesale and divide the overall costs? Shopping at bulk stores like Costco gives you more treats for your buck. By splitting the purchase, you can ensure a well-stocked candy bowl without straining your wallets. It’s a win-win: more candy, less cost. Plus, shopping together with your neighbour could be a fun pre-Halloween outing!
Halloween can also be a moment to teach and learn about moderation. Instead of handing out handfuls of candy, consider giving out one or two pieces per trick-or-treater. This not only helps in stretching your candy supply but also provides a subtle lesson in moderation. By limiting the candy outpour, we can promote healthier choices and remind ourselves and our neighbourhood kids that sometimes, less truly is more. Plus, it’s a practical approach to enjoying the holiday without overindulging.
While it’s tempting to be the house that hands out candy all night, there’s no harm in setting boundaries. Choose to distribute treats for just an hour or two, or decide on a set amount to give away. When the candy’s gone or the time’s up, simply turn off your front light. It’s not always about doing the most, but in finding a happy medium that works for you. Remember, it’s okay to set limits and still fully enjoy the spirit of the holiday!
Halloween Decorations on a Budget
Using everyday items, a sprinkle of creativity, and a dash of craftiness, you can transform your space into a haunted haven. From homemade lanterns crafted out of old jars and tea lights to ghostly drapes made from old white sheets, the possibilities are endless. Not only does DIY Halloween decor save you money, but it also allows you to put a unique stamp on your celebrations. Plus, involving the whole family can turn decor-making into a cherished seasonal tradition. So, before buying store-made decorations, consider crafting your own and adding a heartwarming, handmade touch to the festivities!
Once again, Pinterest is your friend, check out these great posts on homemade Halloween decorations.
Reusing Halloween decorations is both eco-friendly and budget-conscious. By storing Halloween decor carefully after the festivities are past, you ensure they remain in great shape for the following years. Plus, with each passing year, these decorations gain sentimental value, turning your Halloween setup into a collection of cherished memories. So, after the candy’s been handed out and the costumes stored away, pack up your decor and rest easy knowing they’ll be ready to scare again next Halloween!
Once Halloween wraps up, many stores slash prices on decorations, often by up to 50%. This is your golden opportunity to snag some fantastic deals for next year’s festivities. By planning ahead and shopping the post-Halloween sales, you can refresh your decor collection without breaking the bank. So, mark your calendar and get ready to hunt for some spooky bargains for the future!
Halloween is as much about the spirit of the season as it is about the decorations. If budget constraints are a concern, it’s perfectly okay to opt out of decking your home in spooky attire. Celebrating Halloween isn’t about the grandeur of decorations but the joy and memories created with loved ones. Embracing a simpler approach can be just as meaningful, and often, the absence of decor can be a reminder that the heart of the holiday lies in shared moments, stories, and laughter. Remember, it’s not about how much you display, but how much you enjoy and cherish the occasion.
Samhain Spirit: Budget-Free and Back to Basics
If Halloween festivities stretch your budget too thin, consider returning to the holiday’s ancient roots. The festival of Samhain, celebrated by the Celts, marked the end of the harvest season and the onset of winter. It was a time of reflection, honoring ancestors, and preparing for the darker half of the year. By exploring the traditions and significance of Samhain, you can connect deeply with the original spirit of October 31st. Spend the evening reading about this profound celebration, or perhaps light a candle in quiet reflection of those who came before. Alternatively, a quiet movie night with the lights dimmed captures the essence of the holiday just as well.
Halloween can mean different things to different people. For some it’s about the parties, the costumes and the trick-or-treating. For others it’s about the timeless connection between past and present. As we’ve said already, just like the costumes, Halloween is not a one-size-fits-all. But one thing is for sure, it’s definitely not about how much money you spend!
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