Average spending for Halloween has increased over 50 percent from 2005, according to the National Retail Federation. This year, shoppers are expected to spend a collective $6.9 billion on candy, decor, costumes, parties and more.
Though Halloween is becoming a big-dollar holiday, you don't have to spend an arm and a leg to celebrate in style. Check out these six tips to cut your spending in half.
1. Get Diabolical with DIY
 Halloween is one of the best holidays for DIY decor since everything is supposed to look old, broken, dusty or otherwise disheveled. From a flesh-eating pumpkin to a wheelbarrow filled with dirt and bones, Inspiring Pretty has some awesome ideas for DIY decor.
2. Go Coupon Crazy 
Following a less-than-stellar back-to-school season, retailers are eager for your holiday dollars. That means deals, coupons and promotions will abound leading up to Oct. 31. Instead of scouring circulars, download the free Coupon Sherpa mobile app for instant access to such deals as 20-percent off one item from Spirit Halloween.
3. Haunt Your Local Thrift Shop
 One of the best places for cheap decor and costumes is your local thrift store. In addition to used costumes, most thrift shops offer new accessories like wigs and stockings. Shop early to beat the crowds and find the best selection.
4. Don't Be Frightened by Freebies 
They say there's no such thing as a free lunch, yet freebies have become an increasingly popular and effective method for companies to promote their products. Hit up MrFreeStuff.com for the legitimate offerings including a free trick-or-treat bag from York Photo through Oct. 31.
5. Wait for Wicked-Good Deals 
Holding off until the last minute to buy Halloween candy and decor will likely score you big savings. By late October, retailers are eager to rid their shelves of witches and warlocks to make room for ribbon and reindeer. Plus, putting off candy purchases will likely save your waistline, too.
6. Get Crafty with Costumes
 This year's most popular costumes can be easily created from items you already own. If your daughter is dying to be Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games, follow this simple tutorial to achieve the look for less. Among the top costumes for boys are the cast from Duck Dynasty, where a beard, camo and stars-and-stripes headband are all that's required. 


Kendal Perez is a frugal blogger who helps fellow shopaholics find hassle-free ways to save money. As the marketing coordinator for Kinoli Inc., site manager for a family of money-saving websites, Kendal has the resources to be an extreme couponer but prefers a less complicated approach to staying in-budget. Kendal has been quoted in such media outlets as People StyleWatch, CNN Money, FOX, ABC and Kiplinger's Personal Finance. For savings tips and more information, visit HassleFreeSavings.com.
