Ideas for Cheap or Free Kid's Halloween Costumes

I am the worst when it comes to buying my children's Halloween costumes on time.  I usually wait until the day before, leaving me with almost no choices, damaged goods or a costume that's so risque that it makes me cringe to know that some people might be buying it for their child.

This year, I've decided to make some changes that will not only put me in control but also save me some money.  Like anything in life, planning ahead makes all the difference in finding what you want for less or even nothing.

First, have your child write a list of five things that they would like to be this year and let them rank it in order from favorite to least favorite.  Whether you're shopping online or attending a neighborhood swap party, the more flexibility you have in costume choices the better to get a great deal or score one for free.

After going through the list, come up with a game plan.  Are you going to purchase a costume new for under $40, attend a swap and get it for free (in exchange for a gently used costume) or do a trade online?  These are all questions you need to ask yourself.

After everything is said and done, it's time to start your costume search.  But where?  I've compiled a list of three places where you can buy a costume on the cheap, get it for free or just pay a nominal fee with shipping.

Etsy - One of my favorite sites to find unique items.  I've gotten some great one-of-a-kind clothing items, as well as jewelry from local and non-local designers.  The prices are very reasonable and sometimes so low that it's hard to believe any profit is made from the sale.

The Costume Section of Etsy has some really cute costumes and accessories for really great prices.  For example, a designer is selling her own rendition of the Rapunzel hair piece for $7. A similar Rapunzel hair piece from Disney is being sold for $19.50.  Clearly, you can see the savings.

Another great thing about Etsy is that if you don't find something that you want, you can message the designers to see if they can make a costume that fits your child's needs.  While anything custom-made can sound very expensive, you might be surprised to see how little they will charge you (of course it depends on how elaborate or simple the costume may be).

National Costume Swap Day -  This year, National Costume Swap Day is on Saturday October 8th, 2011.  On this day, swap events will be held all over the country (If you can't find an event near you, host your own swap event).  Basically, you bring in your old costume, preferably gently-used and swap it for another costume at the event.

Every event has their own criteria, so make sure you read the detailed information on the site.  The bigger the event, the more choices you have and ultimately you will have a better chance at getting something that's on your list.  I personally think swap events are great for recycling a used item in your house that you no longer use for something that you need.  Not only will you save money, but you will also help save the earth.

thredUP - This site allows for you to swap clothes online.  You just have to pay $5 + shipping.  This year they will be hosting a virtual Halloween Costume Swap starting September 13th, 2011. 

Go to the site to browse the selections they have available.  It's free to join, free to list and free to send.  The best part about this service is that everything is handled at the comfort of your home.  If you don't like the hustle and bustle of your local costume swap, this can be an alternative.  It works like a local swap but with this service, just pay for $5 + shipping ($10.95).

Buying a Halloween costume shouldn't be an exhausting experience.  It should be an exciting and fun time for both you and your child.  This year, think out of the box, try some non-traditional ways and have a game plan. 

What are some other ways that you'll be looking for your child's costume this year?