Thinking about how to save money on a vegan diet in 2025? You’re not alone! Many people believe that a plant-based diet is expensive, but the truth is that it can be incredibly affordable if you know how to shop and plan wisely. In fact, studies show that a vegan diet can save you up to $750 a year compared to a meat-based diet!

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting your plant-based journey, this guide will show you how to eat well without breaking the bank. We’ve got you covered, from affordable vegan meal planning to budget-friendly vegan grocery lists. Let’s dive into 13 actionable tips for going vegan on a budget in 2024!

Not sure what affordable cooking appliances and must-have tools you need to make vegan cooking faster, easier, and more delicious. Check out my blog to discover the best plant-based cooking equipment for quick meals in 2025! 

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Why Going Vegan Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive in 2025

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Many people assume that a vegan diet is expensive, but the truth is that it can be incredibly affordable if you know how to shop and plan wisely.

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Debunking the Myth of Expensive Veganism

• The idea that veganism is costly often comes from focusing on expensive processed foods like vegan cheeses and meat substitutes.
• A whole-food, plant-based diet centred on grains, beans, and seasonal produce is far more affordable.
• Many vegan staples are cheaper than their animal-based counterparts.

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How a Vegan Diet Can Save You Money

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• By prioritizing affordable vegan meal planning, you can significantly reduce your grocery bill.
• Staples like rice, lentils, and frozen vegetables are cheap and highly nutritious.
• Avoiding overpriced processed foods and focusing on whole foods keeps costs low.

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Affordable Vegan Staples vs. Expensive Meat and Dairy

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• A pound of lentils costs about $1 and provides more protein than a pound of beef, or more.
• Plant-based milk is often cheaper than dairy milk, especially if you buy store brands or make your own.
• Seasonal produce is more affordable and fresher than out-of-season options.

Tip #1: You’re Probably Already Eating Vegan Foods

Did you know that many everyday foods are already vegan? From Oreos to pasta, you might already have a head start on your plant-based journey.

Accidentally Vegan Foods

• Oreos, many breads, and even some chips are vegan.
• Check labels to confirm; you’ll likely find more options than expected.
• Many condiments, like ketchup and mustard, are also vegan.

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Pantry Staples You Already Own

• Items like rice, pasta, peanut butter, and spices are often vegan and budget-friendly.
• Take stock of what you already have before heading to the store.
• Use these staples as the foundation for your meals.

Budget-Friendly Vegan Snacks

• Stock up on affordable snacks like popcorn, nuts, and dried fruit.
• Fresh fruits like bananas and apples are cheap and nutritious.
• Homemade energy balls made from oats, peanut butter, and dates are a great option.

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Tip #2: Transition Slowly to save money on a Vegan Diet

Going vegan doesn’t have to happen overnight. Taking it slow can make the transition easier and more sustainable.

Start Small with One Vegan Meal a Day

• Begin by replacing one meal daily with a vegan option, like oatmeal for breakfast or a bean burrito for lunch.
• Gradually increase the number of vegan meals as you get more comfortable.
• Focus on meals you already enjoy that happen to be vegan.

Experiment with Weekly Vegan Recipes

• Try one new vegan recipe each week to build confidence and discover what you enjoy.
• Look for recipes that use affordable ingredients like beans, rice, and seasonal produce.
• Keep a list of your favourite recipes for easy meal planning.

Try Meatless Mondays

• Dedicate one day a week to fully plant-based eating to ease into the transition.
• Use this day to explore new recipes and ingredients.
• Over time, you can add more meatless days to your routine.

Tip #3: How to save money on Plant-Based Milk in 2025

Plant-based milk doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of research, you can find options that fit your budget.

Compare Prices of Soy, Oat, and Almond Milk

• Soy and oat milk are often cheaper than almond or cashew milk.
• Look for store brands to save even more.
• Buy in bulk when possible to reduce costs.

Choose Fortified Plant-Based Milk

• Opt for milks fortified with calcium and vitamin B12 for added nutrition.
• Check labels to ensure the milk meets your dietary needs.
• Fortified milk is especially important for replacing dairy.

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Make Your Own Nut or Oat Milk at Home

• DIY milk is a fraction of the cost and allows you to control the ingredients.
• All you need is a blender, nuts or oats, and water.
• Homemade milk can be customized to your taste preferences.

Tip #4: Meal Planning with Canned and Dried Beans

Beans are a vegan’s best friend—cheap, versatile, and packed with protein.

Canned Beans for Quick Meals

• Use canned beans for quick dishes like chilli, salads, and tacos.
• Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium content.
• Keep a variety of beans on hand for different recipes.

Dried Beans for Bulk Cooking

• Cook dried beans in bulk and freeze portions for later use.
• Dried beans are even cheaper than canned and have a longer shelf life.
• Soak beans overnight to reduce cooking time.

Budget-Friendly Bean Recipes

• Try recipes like lentil soup, chickpea curry, or black bean burgers.
• Beans can be used in everything from breakfast scrambles to desserts.
• Experiment with different spices and flavours to keep meals interesting.

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Tip #5: Stock Up on Essential Vegan Staples

A well-stocked kitchen makes low-cost plant-based meal prep a breeze.

Fridge Staples for Quick Meals

• Keep plant-based milk, tofu, and vegan cheese on hand.
• Fresh produce like carrots, celery, and leafy greens are versatile and affordable.
• Hummus and salsa are great for quick snacks or meal additions.

Pantry Staples for Versatile Cooking

• Stock rice, pasta, canned tomatoes, and spices.
• Whole grains like quinoa and barley add variety to your meals.
• Keep a variety of nuts and seeds for added protein and crunch.

Frozen Staples for Convenience

• Frozen fruits and vegetables are affordable and perfect for smoothies, stir-fries, and soups.
• Frozen berries are great for oatmeal or smoothies.
• Frozen spinach and peas can be added to almost any dish.

Tip #6: Shop Smart for Fruits and Vegetables

Produce doesn’t have to be expensive if you shop strategically.

Buy Seasonal Produce for Savings

• Seasonal fruits and vegetables are cheaper and fresher.
• Visit farmers’ markets for the best deals on seasonal produce.
• Plan meals around what’s in season to save money.

Use Frozen Fruits and Vegetables

• Frozen produce is just as nutritious and often more affordable.
• Use frozen fruits for smoothies and desserts.
• Add frozen vegetables to soups, stews, and stir-fries.

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Find Discounts at Farmers’ Markets

• Visit farmers’ markets or grocery stores late in the day for discounted fresh produce.
• Look for “ugly” produce that’s perfectly good but sold at a discount.
• Buy in bulk and freeze or preserve excess produce.

Tip #7: Buy in Bulk and Cook in Batches

Bulk buying and batch cooking are key to eating vegan without breaking the bank.

Save Money with Bulk Buying

• Purchase grains, beans, and nuts in bulk to save money.
• Look for bulk bins at grocery stores or shop at wholesale clubs.
• Store bulk items in airtight containers to keep them fresh.

Batch Cooking for Busy Days

• Prepare large portions of meals like soups and stews, then freeze leftovers.
• Batch cooking saves time and ensures you always have a meal ready.
• Use meal prep containers to portion out meals for the week.

Meal Prep to Avoid Takeout

• Plan your meals for the week to avoid last-minute takeout.
• Prep ingredients like chopped vegetables and cooked grains in advance.
• Keep a list of quick, easy recipes for busy days.

Tip #8: Embrace Store Brands and Sales

Store brands and sales can make vegan shopping even more affordable.

Choose Store-Brand Plant-Based Products

• Store brands are often cheaper and just as good as name brands.
• Look for store-brand plant-based milk, tofu, and snacks.
• Compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Use Flyers and Apps for Discounts

• Check flyers and apps for deals on vegan staples.
• Sign up for grocery store newsletters to receive exclusive discounts.
• Plan your shopping around sales to maximize savings.

Join Loyalty Programs for Extra Savings

• Sign up for grocery store loyalty programs to earn rewards.
• Use loyalty points to get discounts on future purchases.
• Take advantage of member-only sales and promotions.

Tip #9: Learn to Read Food Labels

Reading labels is essential for avoiding hidden animal products.

Identify Hidden Animal Ingredients

• Watch out for ingredients like casein, whey, and gelatin.
• Be aware of less obvious animal-derived additives.
• Use online resources to check if a product is vegan.

Look for Certified Vegan Labels

• Certified vegan labels make shopping easier.
• Look for logos from organizations like Vegan Society or Certified Vegan.
• These labels ensure the product meets strict vegan standards.

Scan Ingredient Lists for Non-Vegan Additives

• Always check ingredient lists for animal-derived additives.
• Be cautious of products that may contain hidden dairy or eggs.
• When in doubt, contact the manufacturer for clarification.

Tip #10: Supplement Wisely

Supplements can help you meet your nutritional needs on a vegan diet.

The Importance of Vitamin B12

• B12 is essential for vegans and can be found in fortified foods or supplements.
• Deficiency in B12 can lead to serious health issues.
• Include B12-fortified foods like plant-based milk and cereals in your diet.

Affordable Multivitamin Options

• Look for budget-friendly multivitamins to cover any nutrient gaps.
• Choose a multivitamin specifically designed for vegans.
• Check for essential nutrients like vitamin D, iron, and omega-3s.

Budget-Friendly Supplement Shopping

• Check stores like Costco or online retailers for affordable supplements.
• Buy in bulk to save money on supplements.
• Look for sales and discounts on vegan-friendly brands.

Tip #11: Avoid Overpriced Vegan Processed Foods

Not all vegan foods are healthy or budget-friendly.

Prioritize Whole Foods

• Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes.
• Whole foods are more nutritious and affordable than processed options.
• Use whole foods as the foundation of your meals.

Limit Vegan Junk Food

• Enjoy vegan treats like plant-based burgers and desserts in moderation.
• These foods can be expensive and less healthy than whole foods.
• Save them for special occasions or as occasional treats.

Read Labels for Added Sugars and Sodium

• Check labels for unhealthy additives in processed vegan foods.
• Look for low-sodium and low-sugar options.
• Choose products with minimal ingredients and no artificial additives.

Tip #12: Stay Motivated by Remembering Your “Why”

Staying motivated is key to sticking with a vegan lifestyle.

Health Benefits of a Vegan Diet

• Focus on how a vegan diet can improve your energy, digestion, and overall health.
• Many people experience weight loss and improved cholesterol levels on a vegan diet.
• A plant-based diet can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.

Environmental Impact of Plant-Based Eating

• Remind yourself of the positive impact on the planet.
• A vegan diet reduces greenhouse gas emissions and conserves water.
• Plant-based eating is more sustainable than animal agriculture.

Ethical Reasons for Going Vegan

• Stay connected to your compassion for animals.
• A vegan diet reduces animal suffering and promotes animal welfare.
• Many people find ethical reasons to be the most motivating factor.

Tip #13: Eating Out Without Breaking the Bank

Eating out as a vegan doesn’t have to be expensive.

Use Apps Like HappyCow to Find Vegan Restaurants

• HappyCow is an excellent resource for finding affordable, vegan-friendly restaurants.
• The app provides reviews, menus, and directions to vegan eateries.
• Use it to discover new restaurants in your area or while travelling.

Modify Menu Items at Non-Vegan Restaurants

• Ask for vegan modifications, like swapping cheese for avocado.
• Look for dishes that can be easily made vegan, like salads or pasta.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions about ingredients and preparation.

Look for Daily Specials and Discounts

• Take advantage of daily specials and discounts to save money.
• Many restaurants offer vegan options on their daily specials menu.
• Use coupons or loyalty programs to get discounts on vegan meals.

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Conclusion

Going vegan on a budget is easier than you think! By following these 13 tips, you can enjoy a healthy, plant-based lifestyle without overspending. Start small, plan ahead, and remember to celebrate your progress along the way.

Start Your Budget-Friendly Vegan Journey Today

Ready to take the next step? Begin with one tip today and see how easy it is to eat vegan on a budget.

Share Your Tips and Join the Community

Sign up and join the Chuswell plant-based community today. Let’s make easy and affordable recipes with ingredients you recognize! Question to ponder? Share your favourite budget-friendly vegan tips in the comments below. Let’s build a community of savvy, plant-based eaters together!

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