Halloween on a Shoestring

Halloween is almost here, and let’s be honest — some of us have pockets as empty as the school hall on a Sunday night. But don’t stress, I got you. If you’re rich and bougie, this isn’t your kind of financial spread. This is for the rest of us, the everyday students who are making smart choices, cutting extra costs, and still finding ways to live, laugh, and thrive.

Now let’s make Halloween fun without maxing out our wallet. 

1. Costumes That Cost (Almost) Nothing

Here’s the golden rule of college Halloween: You don’t have to buy the costume; you can borrow it, thrift it, or make it yourself. Start with what you already own! Old hoodies, black jeans, flannels, and a little makeup can transform you into a vampire, zombie, or ‘90s throwback in minutes. Thrift stores and Goodwill are packed with costume gold; add a cheap wig, a little eyeliner, or follow a quick makeup tutorial on YouTube, and you might just win “Best Dressed” at the party.

Alternatively, swap with your best friend or cousin, and borrow their old costume.

Need fake blood? Red food coloring, cornstarch, and water will do the trick. And the ultimate hack? Facebook Marketplace and neighborhood yard sales. Trust me, they’re treasure chests of cheap costume pieces and, maybe, free extra pieces.

2. Candy and Snacks That Don’t Break the Bank

Candy doesn’t need to drain your wallet either. WinCo bulk bins are a great way to stock up without spending too much, and other places like Dollar Tree or Target’s dollar section have fun, themed snacks that look great on a table. If you want to go a little further bake something simple like brownies with candy eyes, way cheaper and more fun than buying overpriced candy bags. Or better yet, make it a group effort: Ask your friends to bring their own snacks so everyone gets a variety without anyone spending a fortune.

3. Easy Apartment Decorations

A few creative touches go a long way. It’s time to channel all the DIY bones in your body and put them to work. Black trash bags and scissors can be turned into streamers or spiderwebs. White bedsheets make the perfect ghost backdrop or curtain cover. Empty jars and fairy lights instantly create a spooky glow. YouTube and TikTok DIY tutorials are full of fun decoration ideas you can make for almost nothing. Plus, you’ll have tons of content for your socials.

4. Party Ideas That Don’t Cost Much

Halloween parties don’t have to be big or expensive to be fun. Keep it cozy and creative. Host a spooky movie marathon with Netflix, blankets, and popcorn, or a pumpkin painting night instead of carving. FYI, mini pumpkins are cheaper and way less messy. Or set up a simple photo corner with a white sheet and a few LED lights for some cute Instagram pics. If you’re really on a money diet, then the movie marathon is the way to go. 

Classic Halloween films, good friends, snacks, and vibes. What more do you need? VIBES OVER PRICE TAGS Halloween isn’t about how much you spend. Honestly, nothing in life is. It’s about the energy, the fun, and the people you share it with. A few thrifting finds, some creative DIY, and good friends are all it takes to have a night you’ll actually remember.