In the lead up to October 31, frightful figures begin to appear traipsing along high streets up and down the country.
Look carefully and you'll spot them: the frazzled parents making their way among the shoppers, unable to rest until they've found a costume that will not only please their child but which also carries a price tag that doesn't make them recoil in horror.
It's an annual curse, which most of us are resigned to, but this year could be different. To help you avoid turning into one of these zombie-like creatures, we've scoured the supermarkets and online retailers to bring you the best affordable Halloween outfits for kids this year.
You can turn your child into a pumpkin for just £1 - now that's a price even Cinderella wouldn't turn her nose up at!
Or they could dress up in the most terrifying jester outfit we've ever encountered - not advisable if anyone coming to your Halloween party suffers from Coulrophobia!
We've also found great costumes for wannabe Gruffalos and Monster High fans.
Click through the gallery below for our pick of 2014's best Halloween outfits for kids aged one to 14.
Got a younger sibling who wants to get invovled in the fun? We've also found the best Halloween fancy dress costumes for babies.
And you might find these guides useful: