Halloween can be expensive, here’s how to save money
It is no secret (especially for those with kids) that Halloween can be expensive. Between costumes, candy and decorations—things can really add up.
It was just reported last year that Canadians spent $400 million on Halloween, with on average $52 on costumes, $43 on decorations and $42 on candy.
And according to a new poll, Albertans are the most generous when it comes to giving out candy at Halloween:
More than seven in 10 Albertans – or 72 per cent – will hand out candy to kids this Halloween, according to a new Canada-wide Insights West poll. That’s compared to the national average of 54 per cent. [Global News]
By no means is anyone suggesting that you forego Halloween if it’s something you want to partake in, but here’s some ideas for how you can save some money doing it:
- Second-hand costumes: with some designer brands getting in the costume game, some costumes can land you between $50 to $150. Consider checking out sites like Varage Sale or Kijiji to look second-hand, or even try Value Village or Salvation Army which would carry used costumes as well.
- DIY: The rise in popularity of Pinterest has made the do-it-yourself costumes much easier to create. The Internet is full of ideas on how to create a costume for yourself and your kids.
- Go bulk: when it comes to candy, if you buy at places like Costco or Walmart, you can take advantage of bulk pricing and purchasing. Another timeless money saving trick, is to look for coupons or promotions before you go anywhere.
- Dollar store decor: if you are one of those people that likes to go all out in creating that “haunted house” effect at home, opt for dollar store options. If you can repurpose things you already have, even better, but that won’t work for everyone.
- Keep things: once Halloween is over, consider keeping decorations and costumes that are in good shape for the following year. If your kids grow out of stuff, you can sell it the next year and make some money for a replacement.
Have some more tips for this time of year? By all means, share it with me on social media!
