How to Build Your Subway Meal Without Overspending

Build Your Next Meal for Less

Subway is already pretty affordable, but spending more than you had planned usually happens because of small decisions. Getting extra protein, a pricey add-on, or a combo that you didn’t really need will take your lunch over budget. Keep these things in mind when ordering to lower your total at Subway:

Know What You Want
Pick one of the following options before ordering:

• A filling meal for the lowest price
• A lighter meal that still feels complete
• Two meals for the price of one

Choose the base of your meal first, then commit to what you want. If you’re not super hungry, a 6-inch sub is usually enough when it’s built for volume with vegetables and bold sauces. If you’re hungrier than usual, or you’re going to split your meal or save it for later, go for a footlong sub. If you’re thinking about skipping the bread, opt for a protein bowl, which is incredibly filling and still budget-friendly.

Don’t Let Additional Costs Sneak In
By using the 1/1 rule, you’ll be able to avoid extra costs. Stick with:

• 1 protein
• 1 cheese

Then, you can load up on vegetables, sauces and seasonings that will make you feel like you’re getting more food for less. Ask for all your favorite veggies, add seasonings like salt, pepper, oregano, oil and vinegar, and toast the sandwich for added texture.

If you do want to pay for an upgrade, be selective. You can choose from an extra protein or bacon or premium cheese. That way, you’ll get what you want while only paying for one add-on. And be picky when it comes to sides. If a sandwich is enough to fill you up, skip the chips and bring your own drink. You’ll avoid paying more money for a combo when really all you need is a single sandwich.

“The biggest budget mistake at Subway isn’t the sandwich, it’s the upgrades that happen on autopilot. Deciding your price point before you step up to the counter keeps the order intentional and prevents those small add-ons from quietly adding 30% or more to the total,” says Sarah Williams, veteran savings analyst at CouponCabin.

How to Stretch One Order Into Two Meals

One of the easiest ways to stretch your budget at Subway is to get two meals for the price of one. That means ordering a footlong sub, and eating half for lunch and the other half for dinner. It’s that easy!

The key to this hack is keeping your leftovers from getting soggy. We suggest ordering sauces and oil-based toppings on the side, so that your bread stays intact. If you’re able to, store the second portion separately from veggies that add moisture until it’s time to eat. When you’re ready for the second half, re-toasting the bread can help the sandwich feel fresh. Pair it with chips you already have at home to round out your meal.

Always Check for Daily Deals or Specials

Subway coupons or limited-time specials can change what a meal costs from one day to the next, so always be sure to look for the latest deals. You can even ask a Subway employee if there are any discounts available that day. They’ll be able to help steer you in the right direction for savings.

Where to Look for Deals
Check these few platforms before placing your order:

• Our Subway coupons page
• The Subway app or website
• Emails from Subway if you’re a member
• Signage near the register or menu if you’re in-store
• Receipt offers from a recent visit

“Subway pricing can vary by location and promotion cycle, so a deal that works one week may change the next. Checking the app before ordering often reveals digital-only offers that lower the cost of a footlong more than in-store signage,” says Jessica Hayes, veteran savings analyst.

Don’t Overspend at the Register

If you’ve made it this far in building the perfect, most affordable sandwich, don’t let your budget go at the register. Ask yourself if you want chips, a drink or a delicious chocolate chip cookie. If the answer is yes, you can fit it into your budget! Be sure to get the lower price of a combo (a sandwich, chips and a drink), and ask about cookie deals. Sometimes you can bundle cookies together for a lower price. But, if you’re not feeling a side, don’t be afraid to say no to a bag of chips. Your budget will thank you!