Here are my basics:
- Hydroponics: lettuce, basil, strawberries, microgreens. Cost to implement well ~ $350CDN
- Yoghurt: Cost to implement well ~ $50
- Crochet + yarn: mainly for making dishcloths. $5
- Mayo: I like mayo, obviously, but it doesn’t last very long. Has anyone made mayo that lasts as long as store bought?
More advanced ideas?
- locally sourced meat and eggs: is this cheaper? I’m in Vancouver BC and there are a lot of farms in the valley. Logistics seems challenging.
- jarring: is it worth learning how to do this and investing in the equipment? volunteering at a farm: I’m sure this would net some food
- solar power or bike generator: electricity is cheap here
- minimalism: I’m realizing this is a lifestyle. It has taken me a while to reduce, and I’m still reducing. Are most of you like this?
And things that can save money, but I don’t want to do:
- Bread: I don’t like making bread. Bread machine vs. buying a mixer?
- Beer: I’d like to but last time I tried it was messy and space consuming
- switch to cotton socks and underwear. Quantity over quality.
- no alcohol or drugs: What’s your experience?
- meal prep: savings seem big if combined with jarring. But if I had food prepped I’ll eat it, cheaper to skip meals?
Any other ideas welcome. I’m looking to save $$$ by spending $$
If you’re willing to try bread on easy mode, don’t forget “quick breads” made with baking soda instead of yeast. They’re much simpler and don’t need time to rise, or a bread machine to make. You can just chuck the ingredients in a bowl, mix, then dump in a bread pan or two, then bake. Banana bread or pumpkin bread are great for breakfast for a few days, and Irish soda bread can make a decent sandwich or toast. You still get to enjoy hot fresh bread with whole ingredients but much less hassle.