10 Tips For Halloween Savings

1. Look for Military Discounts: From craft stores like Michaels to retailers such as Target and even online specialty shops, military discounts can stretch your budget. Always carry your military ID and ask—even if discounts aren’t advertised.
2. Hit Thrift and Secondhand Shops: Goodwill, Salvation Army, and local consignment shops are treasure troves for costumes, décor, and party props at a bargain. A flannel shirt can become a scarecrow, or an old gown a spooky ghost bride.
3. Swap and Share Costumes: Coordinate a Costume Swap Day with friends, your unit, or your FRG (Family Readiness Group). Kids outgrow costumes quickly, and swapping saves money while offering “new” looks every year.
4. Save Smart on Candy: Buy closer to Halloween when prices drop or pool money with friends to buy bulk bags at the commissary or warehouse clubs.
5. Host a Potluck Party: Instead of footing the whole food bill, make your Halloween party fun and affordable by asking guests to bring a snack, dish, or dessert.
6. Go DIY with Costumes: Pre-made costumes can cost $40–$60+. Instead, use what you have, grab accessories at the commissary exchange, or get creative with DIY ideas.
7. Invest in Quality Decor—on Sale: If you love decorating annually, buy sturdy decorations that you can reuse. Shop clearance racks right after Halloween for the best deals on long-lasting items.
8. Make Your Own Decorations: Turn Halloween prep into family fun with DIY décor. Paper bats, mason jar lanterns, and cardboard tombstones add atmosphere at low cost.
9. Send Free Invitations: Save the money you’d spend on paper invites by using Evite, Facebook, or email for your party invites. It’s free, fast, and easy to track RSVPs.
10. Get Free Pumpkin Stencils Online: Skip overpriced carving kits and find free templates on sites like PumpkinPile.com and ZombiePumpkins.com. With a spoon, knife, and some imagination, you can create show-stopping pumpkins for just the cost of the gourd.

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