How to avoid overspending on last-minute Halloween purchases

HUNTINGTON, WV (WOWK) – As the Halloween weekend festivities approach, many people are gathering their last minute purchases and costumes.

Those who do their last minute shopping see much higher prices. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that even the price of candy has increased 3.4% since last year.

The National Retail Federation says that, on average, 7% of men and 14% of women shop for Halloween during the last two weeks of October, when prices are typically higher due to a lower supply. and higher demand.

A local financial adviser, Sean Hornbuckle, says there are ways to avoid last-minute splurging.

How can I avoid overspending?

“With sales skyrocketing right now, I would be looking for the best deal… This is an opportunity to use our creative spirit. Going back to the days when you just found something in the house and made a makeshift costume, I think that would be pretty fun and creative for the kids, ”he explains.

He says visiting local stores for last-minute costumes could help you spend less. He also advises people to start planning ahead and thinking about next year right now.

How can I plan for next year?

“When people don’t shop at the last minute, when they grab things out of season, the prices will naturally be more affordable. So I’m thinking about taking that opportunity right now – with prices skyrocketing – looking forward to next season and trying to shop between August and September. It will be early, but you can probably get a better deal that way, ”says Hornbuckle.