Halloween is quickly approaching and that means that we are on the hunt for fun Halloween costumes. With 5 kids however, those costume prices can really add up however and I never want the kids to be disappointed with their costume so I really need to make sure that I plan ahead and buy only what is needed or it can really make a dent in the budget.
Here are some easy ways to save on Halloween costumes:
1. Plan ahead for costumes—I have friends who buy costumes the day after Halloween for the following year. That way they get costumes at a great price and there is no stress in finding a costume at the last minute. Secondhand stores are also great places to pick up costumes and since most are only won once for a few hours they are typically in great condition.
2. Attend a costume swap-The second weekend of October is National Costume Swap day and many communities will be hosting costumes swaps that day. If your community isn’t hosting one then why not start your own or even just get together with your friends to swap. We all have costumes in our closets and attics that we would love to get rid of.
3.Think outside of the box—rather than buying a full costume from a store try and see if you can buy pieces and recreate the look on your own. For instance, have a child who wants to be Bob the Builder? Just dress them in jeans and a flannel shirt and buy a toy toolbelt and you have the look you want with out the expense of buying a costume.
4. If your child absolutely has their heart set on a specific costume, make sure to start looking for it in early October. By looking for it early in the season you can make sure that you are getting the best price. Compare prices between the different retailers, check out the prices on Amazon and make sure to look for coupons to use.
Final tip: buying the trick or treat candy can really add up. My suggestion is to buy it gradually and stock up before Halloween night. Buy a few bags each week in the weeks leading up to Halloween and put it away for the big night, that way it isn’t a dent in your budget and you are all set and ready to go with no stress.
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What great tips; I’ve never even heard of a costume swap. Neat, Neat!
One thing I’ve done (since my daughter likes to play dress up) is pick up stuff I know she’ll continue to play in well past Halloween. It doesn’t necessarily cost less, but we get a much better return per dollar spent when she’ll continue to play in it.
As for the candy, check the dollar store offerings (particularly their regular candy as opposed to Halloween candy.)
Yes, Halloween costumes do make great dress up options as well! Thanks for stopping by!
Thanks for sharing these ideas. I hate spending money on halloween costumes. It is fun and I love the memory but I know I’m spending it only to use once. I love the costume swap idea.
Thanks for stopping by!
These are great tips! I’ve never heard of a costume swap, but have been known to buy costumes the day after Halloween. It saves on the hassle and the stress as well. Thanks so much for sharing this with us on #shinebloghop this week. Happy you were able to join us 🙂
Great tips for Halloween. Thanks for joining us at the Inspiration Spotlight party. Shared