September 11, 2025

From getting dinner in residence to grabbing a quick snack on campus, it's easy to swipe through your meal plan without thinking about what you're spending. With a few helpful tips, you can enjoy all the great food options while keeping your budget on track. 

Here are some ways to make the most of every dollar:

1. Check your meal plan balance regularly

   Don't let your meal plan dollars be out of sight, out of mind. Check your balance online any time or ask the cashier when you are paying for your meal. 
    

2. Eat in residence as much as possible
   
   You save about 50% on meals made in residence by our chefs, since you've already paid the overhead fee (maintenance, operations, etc.) at the start of the school year. This discount only applies in residence—not at other campus eateries or off-campus meal plan partners. 

   Pro tip: you're not limited to your own building. Grab lunch at any residence dining hall, which makes it easy to eat near your classes.
    

3. Take only what you'll eat
   
   In-house made meals put on a plate are charged by weight. Make each dollar count by choosing portions you'll actually finish—or let the serving staff know how much food you'd like. They're happy to help!

   Pro tip: use your Choose2Reuse container to take your leftovers to go and save it for the next day.
    

4. Drink smart
   
   Choose fountain drinks over bottled. When you're in the dining hall, head to the self-serve station instead of the fridge. With a variety of juice and milk available, it's an easy way to stay refreshed while stretching your dollars further.  

   Pro tip: bring a refillable water bottle. With over 200 refill stations across campus and in residence, staying hydrated is simple—and it won't cost you a thing.
    

5. Plan your meals ahead
   
   If you know you'll be on campus all day, stock up from the To Go fridges in your dining hall with a sandwich or salad bowl. It's a quick, affordable option that helps your meal plan dollars go further—and saves you from turning to off-campus delivery.

   Pro tip: with your travel mug, a drip coffee in residence costs only $1.37 compared to $2.59 for an iced coffee at Tim Hortons. Small swaps like this add up quickly, helping your dollars stretch further while keeping things sustainable. 
    

6. Save sweets for the sweet moments
   
   Desserts are a tasty way to celebrate but buying them too often can quickly use up your meal plan balance. Save them for special moments—like after finishing a tough exam—when the reward feels extra sweet!