5 Hacks for Thriving as a Vegan

Written By Kory Sherland

Lentil ‘meatball’ spaghetti (all vegan). Yummo!

Whether you’re new to veganism or have been plant-powered for years, it’s always helpful to have a few practical tips up your sleeve. Going vegan is one of the most impactful choices you can make—for animals, the planet and your health—but it doesn’t have to feel hard or overwhelming.

Here are five tried-and-tested vegan hacks to make life easier, healthier and more delicious.

1. Master 3 Go-To Meals You Can Make on Autopilot

We all have those days where energy is low or time is tight. That’s where your go-to meals come in. Pick three simple, nutritious vegan meals you can whip up with pantry staples and minimal effort.

For example:

  • A hearty lentil and veggie curry with rice or quinoa

  • A tofu stir-fry with tamari, garlic, and whatever veg you’ve got on hand

  • A chickpea salad sandwich or wrap with avocado and leafy greens

Rotate the spices, sauces, or veggies to keep it interesting. These default meals become lifesavers when you’re too tired to think.

2. Get Familiar With Vegan-Friendly Labels (and Hidden Animal Ingredients)

Reading labels becomes second nature over time, but there are a few sneaky ingredients to watch for—like whey, casein, gelatine and cochineal (a red dye made from insects).

Apps like Fussy Vegan can help decode ingredients while you’re out shopping.

Many products now carry a ‘vegan’ label like the Vegan Australia certification program, but when in doubt, go for whole foods or items with short, simple ingredient lists.

3. Batch Cook and Freeze Your Favourites

Meal prep doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the kitchen. Doubling a recipe and freezing portions for later is a smart way to stay nourished without the daily effort.

Cook a big pot of soup, stew, curry or pasta sauce, then portion it out into containers. Future you will be very grateful when life gets busy.

Want to learn about plant-based nutrition while you prep? Pop on a podcast like The Proof with Simon Hill, a vegan Aussie nutritionist who interviews experts from around the world.

Curries are great to batch cook so you can freeze portions for later.

4. Find a Vegan Dietitian (or Follow One Online)

Navigating nutrition is easier—and more empowering—when you have guidance from qualified professionals. A vegan dietitian can help you personalise your food choices, ensure you’re covering your nutrient bases, and answer questions about supplements like B12, iron, and omega-3s.

Two great resources to explore:

Even following a few credible dietitians on social media can boost your knowledge and confidence.

5. Stock a Vegan Snack Drawer (or Bag!)

Whether you’re working from home, running errands, or heading out for the day, having a few trusty snacks on hand can prevent hunger and help you stay energised.

Great vegan snacks include:

  • Mixed nuts and seeds

  • Bliss balls or muesli bars

  • Dark chocolate

  • Dried fruit

  • Roasted chickpeas or edamame

  • Hummus with crackers or veggie sticks

Having snacks nearby also makes it easier to resist the temptation of unethical or unhealthy options when you're out.

Final Thoughts

Veganism is about making conscious, compassionate choices that reflect your values, choices that reject animal exploitation and support a more just and sustainable world. With a few practical strategies in place, you can thrive on a vegan lifestyle without unnecessary stress or confusion.

These five hacks aren’t just life-savers when things get busy, they’re part of building a life that reflects kindness to animals, care for the planet, and nourishment for your body.

You don’t need to have it all figured out from day one. Just begin, keep learning and explore all the wonderful choices and benefits of being vegan.

Kory Sherland
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