Is a meal kit subscription worth it for one person?
Cost and Convenience
Meal kits typically cost between $8 and $12 per serving before shipping, though promotional discounts can lower that for the first few boxes. For one person, a two-serving plan means leftovers or wasted food if you don't eat both portions, so check if single-serving options exist.
The main benefit is not having to plan meals or shop for specific ingredients. If your time is limited or you dislike grocery shopping, that convenience can be worth the premium. If you enjoy cooking and have time, buying your own groceries is usually cheaper.
- Per-serving cost: often $8–$12
- Shipping: sometimes free, sometimes $5–$10
- Portion sizes: two-serving plans may be too much for one
- Variety: kits rotate weekly, which can reduce boredom
- Waste: excess packaging and unused ingredients
What to Check Before Subscribing
Look for plans that let you choose single servings or skip weeks easily. Some services have minimum orders or require you to cancel well in advance. Also consider whether the recipes fit your dietary needs and skill level.
If you just want to try it, sign up for a discounted intro box, then decide if the full price feels worth it. Many people find they enjoy it for a few weeks and then go back to regular shopping.
Common mistakes
- Assuming meal kits are always cheaper than groceries—they usually aren't.
- Forgetting to cancel or skip a week and getting charged for a box you don't want.
- Ordering two-serving plans for one person and letting half the food go to waste.
