Going vegan is much more than just a dietary choice; it's a lifestyle that speaks to the importance of compassion and sustainability. It’s not only good for your health, but it can also help reduce our impact on the planet. So it's easy to see why it's so crucial for everyone to consider switching to a plant-based lifestyle! Not only is it healthier for you, but it's also kinder to animals and more protective of the environment.
So what's holding you back? It may be the popular misconception that going vegan will require you to break the bank. You already need to take care of all of life's expenses without adding yet another item to the list, right? But did you know that switching to this particular lifestyle doesn't have to be intimidating or expensive? In this blog post, we'll break down the most effective tips and tricks to achieving a vegan diet on a budget.
Budgeting hacks for vegans or would-be vegans
Going plant-based isn't only great for your health, but it can also save you money! Check out this essential list of vegan-friendly budgeting how-tos:
1. Go local.
Eating vegan can be expensive, but going local can help you save big! Instead of buying high-priced specialty vegan products from the store, support your local folks by checking out your nearest farmer's market for fresh produce. Load up on locally-grown ingredients to create budget-friendly and delicious meals. You might even be surprised by the occasional offerings of fruits and veggies at remarkably reduced rates.
2. Prepare your own meals.
Prepping meals at home can help you save money and stick to a “green diet." First, invest in some kitchen essentials, like a good set of knives, pots, and pans. Then, try stocking up on staples like off-brand whole grains, legumes, tofu, nuts, and seeds while getting creative in the kitchen. You'll be surprised at what tasty and wallet-friendly meals you can create!
3. Buy in bulk.
Bulk buying can be a great way to satisfy your nutritional requirements and still meet your budgeting goals. Start by checking out local outlets, markets, and other suppliers that offer quality vegan products in larger quantities. Invest in some bulk-friendly storage containers and keep track of expiration dates, so you don't end up wasting food. With some strategic shopping, you can make sure your pantry is always stocked with vegan ingredients and still have enough funds to earmark for other expenses.
4. Buy what's in season.
Saving Mother Earth, getting enough nutrition, and staying hydrated are all possible in one go without breaking the bank. For instance you can get your hydration levels up with affordable yet effective, plant-based hydration supplements. Yet, if you want something that you can incorporate in your diet, how about indulging in thirst-quenching beverages and shakes loaded with the season's offerings. But where do you find these?
Easy-peasy! Research what fruits and vegetables are currently in-season in your area. These will tend to be cheaper than out-of-season produce! Community markets are also great for seasonal produce, as you'll often find items that don't appear in the bigger chain supermarkets. Consider joining a packing co-op or subscribing to local veggie boxes which deliver produce directly to your doorstep. So, enjoy the abundance of the season’s best ingredients, get the nutrient- and electrolyte-replenishment you need, and score the best bang for your buck!
5. Keep recipes simple.
When it comes to vegan cooking, simple is best! Look for recipes that only require a few basic ingredients, and avoid those that call for lots of expensive items. Also, don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs to give your dishes more flavor without resorting to pricey extras. With all the awesome vegan recipes out there, you won't even miss the meat! So get cooking and start saving money!
6. Stick to your grocery list.
Going vegan on a budget requires careful planning and sticking to your grocery list. Make sure to plan out what you need for the week to avoid any last-minute purchases that may not be vegan-friendly. Before going to the store, make a list of essential ingredients, and be disciplined about keeping to it! Remember to use coupons where you can! By being mindful of your spending habits, you'll soon discover that eating vegan doesn't have to dent your finances.
7. Buy frozen food.
Frozen fruits and vegetables are often much more affordable than their fresh counterparts. Plus, they are just as nutritious since they are frozen at the peak of ripeness. Look for products without added sugar or salt and read labels to ensure the ingredients fit in with your vegan lifestyle. You can also buy frozen legumes, such as beans and tofu, which offer great value for money. These can also be great to have on hand in case you run out of fresh produce. With some clever shopping, you'll soon discover that eating vegan on a budget is definitely possible!
8. Freeze leftovers.
To save money and make vegan cooking easier, consider freezing your leftovers. Most cooked dishes can be frozen for up to three months, so take advantage of this, and freeze them in single-serve containers. This will make it quicker and easier for you to prepare meals throughout the week. Do note that you can freeze almost anything (even fruits and vegetables!), making them last much longer than they would in the fridge. So next time you cook a big batch of food, remember to pop some leftovers in the freezer. It'll save you time and money and help you sustain the vegan lifestyle you desire.
9. Grow your own food.
Growing fruits and vegetables in your garden or patio can be a great way to be economical while still eating delicious, healthy meals. When planning out your gardening space, look for plants that are easy to grow with little maintenance. Herbs are also an ideal option, as they can provide you with tasty garnishes throughout the season. You may even want to try sprouting your own legumes and grains. These will require very little space and can often be ready for harvesting in just a few days! With some planning and hard work, you'll soon have enough vegan-friendly produce to last all season long!
A final note
It's true—when it comes to going vegan, there are more benefits than drawbacks! So why not give it a try? Start off with the simple yet effective tips we shared, and you’ll be well on your way to a more sustainable lifestyle for yourself and the planet without burning a hole in your pocket! For more eco-friendly hacks, visit the blog of Plant Faced Clothing today!
