Save Money on Meal Delivery Services: Best Discounts, Hacks, and Meal Plans

Meal delivery services have become increasingly popular, offering convenience and helping us save time by delivering fresh, ready-to-cook ingredients or pre-cooked meals directly to our doorstep. However, the cost of these services can add up quickly, especially if you're using them frequently. Fortunately, there are several strategies to save money while still enjoying the benefits of meal delivery services. In this guide, we'll explore the best discounts, clever hacks, and budget-friendly meal plans that will help you cut costs without compromising on quality.

Take Advantage of First-Time User Discounts

Most meal delivery services offer significant discounts for new customers, making it one of the easiest ways to save money. These discounts can range from 40% to 80% off your first few orders, depending on the service. Here's how to maximize this offer:

1.1 Look for Introductory Offers

When signing up for a meal delivery service, search for promo codes or check the website for introductory offers. Some services provide a steep discount on your first order or a subscription. For example:

• Blue Apron: Offers up to $110 off your first four orders.
• HelloFresh: Frequently runs promotions where new users can save 50% on their first box and get 15% off for the next few deliveries.
• Freshly: Typically offers $40 off your first two orders.

1.2 Combine with Referral Programs

Many services have referral programs where you can get additional discounts for referring friends or family members. If you already have friends who use meal delivery services, ask them for a referral code. Additionally, refer others to the service and get further discounts on your next order.

1.3 Read the Fine Print

Ensure you understand the terms and conditions of the promotional offer. Some discounts only apply if you sign up for a subscription plan, while others might require a minimum order amount.

Opt for Subscription Plans and Family Bundles

While subscription plans may seem like a commitment, they often come with substantial savings, especially if you're planning to use the service regularly. In addition, some services offer family-sized bundles, which are more economical for those cooking for multiple people.

2.1 Meal Delivery Subscriptions

Meal delivery services usually provide the option of a weekly or monthly subscription, which often comes with a discount. Here's why opting for a subscription can save you money:

• Price Per Meal Drops: Most services charge less per meal when you subscribe compared to ordering a single box or meal. For instance, HelloFresh offers meals as low as $5.66 per serving if you choose a subscription.
• Customization: With a subscription, you can choose the number of meals and servings you want, tailoring it to your budget. Some services even allow you to skip weeks or pause your subscription, giving you flexibility.

2.2 Family Bundles and Larger Servings

For families or people who cook in larger quantities, many meal delivery services offer bundles with bigger portions at a discounted rate. These meal kits usually have recipes that serve four or more people, and they are often more cost-effective than smaller kits.

• Home Chef: Offers family-style meals that serve up to six people, providing larger portions for a lower price per serving.
• Sun Basket: Offers "Family Bundles" that include multiple servings of the same meal, ideal for larger households.

Opting for larger meal plans can help reduce the per-serving cost, making meal delivery more affordable for families or those who prefer to meal prep.

Use Meal Delivery Services in Conjunction with Grocery Shopping

Meal delivery services can be a convenient and time-saving option, but they are often priced higher than traditional grocery shopping. To save money, consider using meal delivery for some meals and supplementing with groceries for others.

3.1 Pre-Cooked Meals as a Convenience Option

Many services like Freshly offer fully cooked meals that just need reheating. While these are convenient, they tend to be more expensive than meal kits. Instead of relying on pre-cooked meals every day, consider using them for a few days a week when you're particularly busy, and cook from scratch on other days.

3.2 DIY Components

Many meal kits provide ingredients that can be easily found at your local grocery store. You can save money by purchasing the same ingredients from a supermarket or farmer's market, especially for pantry staples like rice, pasta, and beans. Consider using meal delivery kits as a guide for meal ideas and then buying the ingredients separately in bulk, especially for non-perishable items.

3.3 Seasonal Produce and Sales

Keep an eye on the seasonal produce and special sales at your local grocery store. Buying fruits, vegetables, and meats in bulk when they're on sale can help you save money. You can then incorporate these into the meal plans provided by your delivery service to create a more cost-effective approach to meals.

Sign Up for Loyalty Programs and Discounts

Some meal delivery services offer loyalty programs or additional discounts for long-term customers. Here are some ways to make the most of these programs:

4.1 Sign Up for Newsletters

Meal delivery services often send out exclusive discounts and special offers to their newsletter subscribers. By signing up for their mailing lists, you can stay updated on flash sales, holiday promotions, and loyalty rewards. Some services also provide discount codes during special events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or New Year's promotions.

4.2 Refer and Earn Discounts

Most meal delivery services have a referral program where you can earn credits or discounts by referring others to sign up. The more people you refer, the more credits you accumulate, which can be used for future meals. Check if your preferred meal service offers these types of programs and make sure to share your referral code with friends and family.

4.3 Loyalty Programs

Some services like Green Chef and EveryPlate offer loyalty or rewards programs for long-term subscribers. These programs might include birthday discounts, exclusive deals, or even access to special menu items.

Batch Cooking and Freezing Meals

Meal delivery services are perfect for people who want convenience without having to spend too much time in the kitchen. But if you're looking to save money, consider using the kits as an inspiration for batch cooking and freezing meals.

5.1 Make Larger Portions

Instead of cooking just the one meal provided by the kit, consider doubling or tripling the recipe. This way, you can stretch the ingredients into multiple meals. Freeze portions of these meals for future use, saving time and money down the road.

5.2 Use Leftovers Wisely

If your meal delivery kit comes with extra ingredients, consider using leftovers in future meals. For example, extra vegetables can be used for stir-fries or soups, and grains can be repurposed for grain bowls or salads. Avoid letting any ingredients go to waste, and you'll get more value from each meal.

5.3 Freezing Meal Kits

Some meal delivery services offer frozen meal kits that you can store and use later. If you're not able to cook all the meals within the week, freezing them can keep the ingredients fresh and extend their shelf life. For pre-cooked meals, freezing them can also help you preserve food and have a quick meal ready when needed.

Opt for Smaller Meal Plans or Less Frequent Deliveries

Another way to save money is by reducing the frequency or size of your meal plan.

6.1 Skip Unnecessary Deliveries

If you're using a meal delivery service weekly, try skipping a week or two. This gives you the chance to cook for yourself or use leftovers, which can help stretch your food budget. Many meal delivery services allow you to skip weeks or cancel orders with minimal hassle.

6.2 Choose Smaller Plans

Some services offer plans that are designed for one or two people. If you're cooking for yourself or just one other person, choose a smaller meal plan that includes fewer meals per week. These plans typically cost less and can help you save money while still enjoying the convenience of meal delivery.

Conclusion

Meal delivery services are a convenient way to eat healthy and save time, but they don't have to break the bank. By taking advantage of first-time user discounts, signing up for subscription plans, using grocery shopping alongside meal kits, and being mindful of your meal portions, you can save a significant amount of money. Additionally, utilizing referral programs, loyalty rewards, and batch cooking can help you further maximize your savings. With these strategies in mind, you'll be able to enjoy the convenience of meal delivery without sacrificing your budget.

View Product