Halloween has become one of the UK’s biggest seasonal celebrations, with spending on costumes, decorations and themed events continuing to grow.
As a mum, I have already found myself buying three costumes for different Halloween occasions this year. For many families, the costs can add up quickly.
That is why some parents say they are increasingly turning to costume swaps, second-hand outfits and homemade creations rather than buying new every year.
Earlier this month, businesses told the BBC that Halloween had become more important than Christmas for some attractions and retailers, while a survey found 36% of shoppers planned to celebrate Halloween this year, up from 27% in 2025.
From Facebook groups dedicated to swapping outfits to charity shop bargains and creative upcycling projects, families are finding ways to embrace the spooky season without frightening their finances.
For Birmingham mum Mandy Thomas, finding affordable costumes became essential when her daughters were younger.
“I figured out really quickly that I needed to cut costs where I could when Halloween came around,” she said.
“There would be a school event, trick-or-treating and a friend’s party, and they didn’t want to dress up as the same thing every time.
“A friend put me onto these Facebook groups where people swap or sell costumes really cheaply.
“When one of them wants to be a specific character, I search eBay or Vinted and I usually spend a quarter of the original price.”
