Do you want to learn how to save money as a vegan? I’ve been eating a vegan diet for around 10 years and have learned a lot over the years! Eating a vegan diet can be great for your health, the environment, and animals, and it also doesn’t have to be expensive. With a few strategies, you can enjoy a vegan diet that includes delicious meals without spending too much money.
Do you want to learn how to save money as a vegan?
Eating a vegan diet can be beneficial for your health, the environment, and animal welfare. However, many people believe that it can be costly. The good news is that with a few smart strategies, you can enjoy a delicious vegan diet without breaking the bank.
In this article, I’ll share practical tips and money-saving tricks to help you save money while living a vegan lifestyle. Whether you’re fully vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these tips will help you eat well on a budget.
Recommended reading: 13 Vegan Meal Prep Recipes You Will Love
How To Save Money as a Vegan
Here’s a list of ways you can save money as a vegan.
1. Buy food in bulk
Buying food in bulk is one of the best ways to save money on groceries. Staples like rice, beans, pasta, oats, and lentils are often cheaper when purchased in larger quantities. These items can last for months in airtight containers, making them a smart investment. Many grocery stores, including international ones, offer bulk sections.
You can find airtight food containers on Amazon here.
2. Buy frozen
Frozen fruits and vegetables are a fantastic way to eat healthy while saving money. They are often more affordable than fresh produce, especially when out of season. Frozen options retain their nutritional value and can be used in a variety of dishes.
3. Go to discount grocery stores
Discount grocery stores can offer significant savings. For instance, stores like Grocery Outlet buy overstock or nearing expiration items, allowing you to snag great deals on vegan products.
4. Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s is a go-to for affordable vegan staples. They offer a variety of vegan meat and cheese substitutes at reasonable prices, making it easy to stock up on essentials.
5. Costco
Costco is another excellent option for bulk vegan staples. They offer items like Impossible Burger Patties and tofu at competitive prices, making it a great place to shop for your vegan needs.
6. Plan your meals
Meal planning can save you a significant amount of money. By knowing what you’ll eat throughout the week, you can buy only what you need and reduce food waste. Consider using tools like ChatGPT to help create meal plans based on what you already have.
7. Make your own vegan treats
Creating your own vegan treats can be both fun and cost-effective. Experimenting with recipes can lead to delicious results while saving you money.
8. Repurpose leftovers
Leftovers can be transformed into new meals. For example, leftover roasted veggies can be blended into soups, and cooked beans can serve as a base for veggie burgers.
9. Shop online
Online grocery shopping can also be a money-saver. Platforms like Amazon Fresh often have sales and discounts, making it easy to find deals on vegan products.
10. Buy foods that are in season
Purchasing seasonal produce can lead to significant savings. For instance, strawberries can be much cheaper in season compared to out of season. Familiarize yourself with seasonal produce to maximize savings.
11. Compare grocery stores and their prices
Getting to know the prices at different grocery stores can help you save money. For example, pasta prices can vary significantly between stores, so shopping around can lead to better deals.
12. Shop with a grocery list
Always go to the grocery store with a list. This helps you stay focused and avoid impulse buys, ensuring you only purchase what you need.
13. Analyze how much vegan alternatives are costing you (versus making them yourself)
Sometimes, making your own vegan substitutes can be cheaper than buying them pre-made. Consider DIY options for items like cashew cheese or veggie burgers to cut costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are commonly asked questions about how to save money as a vegan.
What does being vegan mean?
Being vegan generally means avoiding animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs. It often extends to avoiding animal-derived products in other areas of life as well.
Does being vegan save money?
Being vegan can either save or cost you money, depending on your food choices. A whole foods, plant-based diet is typically more economical than relying on processed vegan substitutes.
What are the best tips to eat cheaply as a vegan?
Some effective tips include building meals around staples, buying in bulk, and cooking at home to minimize costs.
What are some ideas for cheap vegan meals for a week?
Some go-to cheap vegan meals include overnight oats, toast with hummus, scrambled tofu, and veggie stir-fries.
Are vegan food substitutes worth it?
Vegan substitutes can be worthwhile for those who enjoy them, but it’s best to purchase them on sale or at discount stores to keep costs down.
