INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Halloween is just around the corner and a national trade group expects this year’s holiday to break spending records in the United States.
The National Retail Federation predicts consumers will spend $12.2 billion on Halloween candy, costumes and decorations this year. That’s an increase from last year, when the U.S. spent $10.6 billion.
Before the fun, the Better Business Bureau of Northern Indiana is offering trick-or-treaters and Halloween lovers some tips on how to save money during the planned record-breaking season.
When it comes to costumes, local office manager Rick Walz recommends reusing old clothing to create a new outfit for your celebrations. He also suggests perhaps renting a new one this year instead of buying one. Both tips can also save closet space.
Buy candy in bulk! Walz says you can save money per piece of candy by buying multiple pieces at once. He adds that with the predicted increase in Halloween sales, more trick-or-treaters will come to the market. And who doesn’t love leftover candy?
For special events or haunted houses, Walz reminds potential visitors to check online reviews before purchasing tickets.
When shopping online, regardless of the time of year, shoppers should double-check that they are using websites whose URLs begin with “HTTPS.” The “S” stands for safe.
“Check out the site’s privacy policy and contact information,” Walz said in a news release. “If it’s not clearly listed or there’s only one email address to contact, take that as a big red flag and shop elsewhere.”
He also says that online shoppers should use credit cards rather than debit cards, as these typically offer better protection against fraud.
Seasonal stores often offer fun and creative decor items that shoppers can’t find at any time of the year.
Personal buyers should ask for a website or contact information in the event of a return.