A costume, a bag of candy and something for the front porch. Halloween spending often starts small, then grows one extra purchase at a time.
That is a timely conversation for U.S. households this October. The National Retail Federation's 2026 Halloween survey puts expected spending at $13.5 billion. It also finds that 13% of consumers plan to buy Halloween items from local or small businesses.
Those are shopping intentions, not completed sales or a budget anyone needs to match. The useful question is smaller: what would make Halloween enjoyable for your household without leaving an uncomfortable bill?
Start with the plan, not the shopping cart
Before browsing, decide which parts of the holiday matter to you. Perhaps that means one costume and handing out candy. Perhaps it means a simple gathering rather than decorating the whole yard.
Set one total limit, then divide it among costumes, treats, decorations and any event admission. Keep travel and last-minute supplies inside that limit.
Check what you already own. A plain jacket, scarf or hat might finish a costume. Decorations from last year may need rearranging rather than replacing. Reusing something is usually easier to budget for than finding a discount on a new version.
NRF reports that 34% of consumers would look for reusable items if prices rise. That supports a practical approach, but it does not prove every reusable product is good value.
Is a costume swap worth trying?
A swap can help when children have outgrown last year's outfit or an adult costume is unlikely to be worn again. Ask friends or check whether a library, school or community group has announced an event.
Verify the event with the organizer. We have not confirmed a particular swap in your town, and an old social post may describe last year's gathering.
For a private exchange, agree on what is included. A costume photo might show a mask, gloves and shoes that are not part of the offer. Ask for measurements rather than relying only on a size label.
Our suggested checklist:
- Check seams, fasteners and any loose pieces.
- Ask about cleaning instructions and disclose damage when offering your own item.
- Make sure the wearer can walk and see comfortably.
- Avoid an outfit that trails on the ground or needs unsafe alterations to fit.
- Check the condition in person before treating the exchange as complete.
Used decorations: check the whole setup
A low price is less useful if the item needs a missing stand, replacement adapter or a special part you cannot find.
Ask the seller to show the actual item, not just its original product picture. For powered decorations, request the model information and a demonstration where it is safe to provide one. Look for damaged cords, cracked housings or exposed wiring, and pass on damaged electrical items.
Check the manufacturer's instructions for indoor or outdoor use. A decoration that looks suitable for a porch may not be designed for rain. Search the model on the Consumer Product Safety Commission recall site before buying.
The CPSC's Halloween safety guidance warns about the combination of candle flames and flammable costumes. Our suggestion is to use battery-operated lights rather than open flames around costumes and decorations, and keep walkways clear.
Compare pickup cost with the saving
Here is an illustrative example, not a current offer: a used decoration costs $15, while a comparable new one costs $22. If pickup means a long trip and the used version lacks its mounting parts, the saving may disappear.
Compare the full cost, including travel, cleaning and missing accessories. Do not assume a private seller offers the same return policy as a store.
When buying candy, consider the number of visitors you reasonably expect rather than the size of the display at the store. Choose products with intact packaging and check labels, especially if you are managing food allergies.
What Malibu Miley suggests
Spend on the part of Halloween your household actually enjoys. Borrow or reuse the rest where it is practical and safe.
If you list costumes or decorations, include current photos, dimensions, working condition and a clear list of included pieces. Do not describe an untested electrical item as working.
For buyers, use our marketplace safety guidance before arranging pickup. A local listing is not proof of product safety or ownership.
Is buying secondhand always cheaper?
No. Compare the complete cost and condition with an equivalent new item. An inexpensive item that needs repair or a long collection trip may be poor value.
Where can I find local Halloween activities?
Start with official library, parks department, school or organizer pages. Confirm the date, admission price and any age restrictions directly. This article does not list verified events for a specific city.