Halloween is almost here, and Americans are spending more than ever.

The National Retail Federation projects consumers will shell out a record $13.1 billion this year on costumes, candy, décor and even greeting cards. Costumes remain the biggest expense, totaling about $4.3 billion. Decorations account for $4.2 billion, candy $3.9 billion and greeting cards $700 million.

Average per-person spending is projected at $114.45, also a record high. Of that, people will spend $37.62 on costumes, $36.85 on decorations, $34.24 on candy, and $5.74 on greeting cards.

Families don't have to let spooky season scare their budgets. Here are some strategies to save money this year.

Costume savings

Consumer savings expert Andrea Woroch recommends shopping secondhand to save on costumes.

"You can go

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