Last-Minute Halloween Costumes for Kids on a Budget: Easy DIY Ideas Parents Will Love
Halloween is just around the corner — and for our Little Scholars, it’s one of the most magical times of the year! From spooky ghosts to silly pumpkins and brave superheroes, dressing up is a chance for children to explore creativity, pretend play, and imagination.
At Little Scholars, we love seeing our children light up when they put on their costumes. But we also know that sometimes, time (and the budget!) can get away from us.
If you’re wondering, “What Halloween costume can I make at the last minute?” — don’t worry. We’ve got you covered! Here are some of our favorite easy, affordable, and crowd-pleasing Halloween costume ideas for kids, inspired by what we’ve seen our Little Scholars wear over the years.
The Classic Ghost Costume (DIY & Budget-Friendly)
You can never go wrong with a classic ghost costume — it’s timeless, simple, and spooky in all the right ways.
What you’ll need:
- A white sheet or old pillowcase
- Scissors for eye holes
How to make it:
Cut out eye holes and pop the sheet over your child’s head. You can cut the bottom in fun jagged edges or keep it simple.
Quick tips:
- Cut the sheet poncho-style so little arms can move freely.
- Use a marker to draw fun ghost faces — happy, spooky, or silly — so every ghost has its own personality.
It’s one of the easiest last-minute Halloween costumes for kids, and it never fails to impress!
DIY Frankenstein Costume (or a Friendly Little Monster!)
If you’re looking for something with a bit more character, Frankenstein is a Halloween favorite that’s easy to recreate at home.
Here’s how to make your own Frankenstein costume:
- Start with a green t-shirt (or paint one).
- Use felt or fabric scraps to make stitches and scars.
- Cut cardboard or foam “bolts” and attach them to a headband.
- Messy, spiked hair and green face paint complete the look!
- Add some eyeliner stitches around the mouth and forehead for extra fun.
💡 Variation: Got leftover fabric or craft supplies? Turn it into a colorful DIY monster costume with mismatched patches, horns, and fuzzy details — a great twist on the Frankenstein look!
Pumpkin & Skeleton Costumes (Easy Store-Bought Options)
If you’re running short on time, you can still find budget-friendly Halloween costumes at local stores like Kmart — both for under $15!
- Pumpkin Jumpsuit: Bright, soft, and perfect for layering over a t-shirt. Ideal for toddlers and busy trick-or-treating nights.
- Skeleton One Piece: A comfy, one-piece costume that’s equal parts cute and spooky. Add a touch of white face paint, and your little one will be ready to dance the Monster Mash!
These store-bought options are quick, affordable, and stress-free — perfect for parents looking for last-minute Halloween ideas.
- Messy, spiked hair and green face paint complete the look!
- Add some eyeliner stitches around the mouth and forehead for extra fun.
💡 Variation: Got leftover fabric or craft supplies? Turn it into a colorful DIY monster costume with mismatched patches, horns, and fuzzy details — a great twist on the Frankenstein look!
Witch or Wizard Costume
A Halloween favourite that never gets old!
If you’re short on time (or don’t want to splurge), grab a black t-shirt and a tutu for a quick DIY witch look. Add some green face paint and a broom made from a stick and paper streamers — and you’re done!
For an easy store-bought option, Kmart’s Witch Costume is both affordable and adorable. Pair it with sneakers or boots, and your child will be ready for a day of spooky fun.
Superheroes, Storybook Stars & Everyday Heroes
If your child already knows exactly who they want to be, don’t stress!
Your local retailers have plenty of ready-to-go costumes featuring favourites like Batman, Spider-Man, Darth Vader, Bluey, firefighters, princesses, and more.
Check out Kmart, Big W, Target, or Spotlight for affordable options that fit most budgets and ages.
And if all else fails — pull out your favourite Book Week costume! It’s a great way to reuse and recycle outfits your little one already loves.
Join Our Spooktacular Halloween Event!
We’re celebrating Halloween with a night full of fun at Little Scholars Ormeau 2 on Friday, 31 October!
Expect:
- Trick-or-treating
- A sausage sizzle
- Children’s activities
- A DJ and disco
- And so much more!
Whether you’re a Little Scholars family or part of the local Ormeau community, everyone’s invited — so grab your costume and come join the fun!
Final Thoughts
Halloween doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With a little creativity — and a few household items — you can create fun, memorable costumes your kids will absolutely love.
At Little Scholars, we believe Halloween is all about imagination, joy, and making memories together. So grab a sheet, some face paint, and a dash of creativity — your perfect costume is closer than you think!
