Halloween doesn’t have to be scary for your wallet. Between candy, decorations, and costumes, October can creep up fast, but with a bit of creativity, you can celebrate in style without overspending. Whether you’re dressing up for the office, the classroom, or trick-or-treating with the kids, these ideas prove you can look great and still stay on budget.
Halloween Costumes on a Budget: Fun, Frugal, and Family-Friendly
Celebrate Halloween without scaring your wallet. Discover thrifty costume ideas and smart savings tips from People Driven Credit Union.
1. Start with What You Already Have
Before you buy anything new, shop your own closet. A plaid shirt and jeans? You’re a lumberjack. A black outfit? Add a hat or broom and you’re a classic witch. Even that Hawaiian shirt from your last vacation can be the start of a tourist costume. You’d be surprised how many options you already own.
2. Thrift and Discount Stores Are Your Secret Weapon
Thrift stores are full of costume gold vintage coats, old uniforms, funky hats, and accessories just waiting for their big night out. Check discount stores for low-cost makeup or props, and don’t forget local dollar stores for last-minute touches like glow sticks or fake cobwebs.
3. Get Crafty with DIY Costumes
A cardboard box, some paint, and imagination can turn into just about anything a robot, vending machine, or LEGO brick. You don’t have to be artistic to pull off a creative look. Half the fun is making it yourself (and maybe saving the receipts to see just how much you didn’t spend).
4. Host a Costume Swap
Got kids? Chances are last year’s costume no longer fits. Organize a neighborhood or school costume swap everyone brings an old costume and goes home with something new-to-them. It’s eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and a great way to build community.
5. Use Makeup Instead of Masks
A small palette of face paint can go a long way. Cats, skeletons, superheroes, zombies you name it. Plus, makeup is often cheaper and safer than full-face masks, especially for kids.
6. Set a Halloween Budget (and Stick to It)
Even for a holiday built on surprises, your spending shouldn’t be one. Set a dollar limit for costumes, decorations, and candy. If you’re shopping online, use your CashBack+ Pay app to earn rewards while you buy. Saving a few dollars here and there adds up faster than you think.
Keep the Fun, Lose the Fright (From Your Finances)
Halloween is about having fun and getting creative not about breaking your budget. With a few thrifty tricks, you can keep the holiday spirit alive and your finances in check.
At People Driven Credit Union, we believe being smart with your money doesn’t mean missing out on the fun. From budgeting tools to savings accounts, we’re here to help you plan ahead for every season spooky or not.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy DIY costume ideas for adults?
Some of the simplest costumes start with everyday clothes: a black outfit and sunglasses make you a spy; jeans, a white shirt, and fake blood create a zombie look; or tape some colored paper circles to a shirt for a quick “gumball machine.” The goal is fun, not perfection.
How much should I budget for Halloween costumes?
It depends on your household and how many people are dressing up, but a good rule of thumb is to keep it under $25 per person. Remember many of the best ideas come from reusing or repurposing what you already have.
Where can I find affordable costume materials?
Check thrift stores, dollar stores, or local buy-and-sell groups online. You can also ask around friends and neighbors often have extra costume pieces they’re happy to lend or give away.
Is it cheaper to make or buy a costume?
Usually, making your own is cheaper especially if you use materials, you already own. But don’t forget to factor in time and supplies. If you find a complete costume on clearance, it might cost the same (and save your sanity).
Ready to make your money go further this fall? Connect with People Driven Credit Union for smart ways to save, budget, and make every season more affordable.
