Halloween can feel like a full-contact sport for your bank account. Between costumes, decorations, and candy, the National Retail Federation reports that the average American spends over $100 per person. Yikes! But fear not, spooky-savvy friends—you can have a hauntingly good time without selling a kidney. Here’s how to celebrate Halloween on a tight budget, without sacrificing fun, frights, or Instagram-worthy moments.
And remember: you can save even more when you shop with discounted gift cards from CardCookie — it’s like getting an extra treat for your wallet.
You don’t need a store-bought vampire cape or a $70 princess dress to win the Halloween game. In fact, thrift shopping or repurposing what’s already in your closet can save 50–70% compared to buying new (source: thrift store studies).
Think outside the box: a ghost costume? Grab an old white sheet and snip some eyes. Zombie chic? Use leftover Halloween makeup to create a terrifyingly budget-friendly look. Or get punny: tape a few printed paper “hashtags” on a black shirt, and voilà—you’re a “social media influencer.” The key is creativity over cash.
Decorating can be one of the most expensive Halloween habits, with households spending $30–50 on average. Luckily, DIY decorations can cut that cost by up to 80%.
Grab some old jars, paint them black, and carve spooky faces for instant candle holders. Turn cardboard into gravestones, or drape some cheesecloth to create ethereal ghost effects. Even a few strategically placed cobwebs can transform a room into a haunted mansion. Remember, it’s not about scaring everyone to death—it’s about the thrill of the illusion (and your wallet staying alive).
Pro tip: stretch your savings even further by grabbing discounted Lowe’s or Home Depot gift cards to stock up on supplies for your DIY projects. Your house will look frightfully festive—without haunting your budget.
Candy is a Halloween must, but pre-packaged options can be pricey. Making your own treats can save 40–60% versus store-bought sweets. Try popcorn balls, homemade caramel apples, or seasonal fruit with a spooky twist.
Hosting a “build-your-own-candy bag” station is also a fun, interactive way for kids to get creative—and it’s way cheaper than buying a mountain of pre-made candy. And don’t worry: homemade treats still get the same delighted screams when kids shout “trick or treat!”
Bonus tip: buy your ingredients with a discounted Target gift card from CardCookie and enjoy extra savings on your sweet creations!
You don’t need a ticket to a haunted house to have fun. Hosting a Halloween movie night, pumpkin-carving contest, or neighborhood scavenger hunt can bring all the thrills without draining your bank account.
Combine these activities with a spooky playlist and dim lighting, and even your living room will feel like a haunted mansion. A simple home event can save $50–100 per person compared to paid Halloween activities, according to cost analysis studies. Bonus: you can control the candy-to-scare ratio!
Save even more: use discounted Walmart gift cards to buy snacks, decorations, or pumpkins for your DIY party and keep your spooky season budget-friendly. \
Think of Halloween as an investment: spend wisely now, scare smart next year.