I always start to hyperventilate about Pesach beginning January 1—because between cleaning, shopping and cooking, not only can it be physically taxing, but it can be financially daunting as well. If you’re anything like me, and have a Costco closet in the basement ready for company and lots of teenage boys on any given Shabbos, you’re stocked up (and probably prepared for another shutdown). The beginning of the secular year is the time I allow myself to begin cleaning out freezers and pantry items. It’s a necessary step in the exhilarating and overwhelming process of preparing for Pesach. Between kosher-for-Pesach groceries, special kitchenware, holiday travel and festive meals, costs can quickly spiral. But just because tradition calls for a meaningful celebration doesn’t mean your budget needs to be stretched beyond reason. With smart planning and strategic spending, you can enjoy the holiday fully while keeping costs in check.
1. Take Inventory and Shop Your Pantry First
Preparation is key to a budget-conscious Pesach. Before making any purchases, take a thorough inventory of what you already have in your pantry. Many year-round pantry staples may already be kosher for Pesach, including certain brands of almond flour, canned mushrooms, mandarin oranges, matzah ball mix, sugar, spices and unflavored ground coffee (consult the OU Pesach Guide for a comprehensive list). Utilizing what’s already in your kitchen helps reduce unnecessary spending and clears up space for what you actually need.
Inventory the Pesach products and start a list of what we already have once Purim arrives. This allows you to avoid unnecessary duplicate purchases and focus only on what is essential.
Preparation is key to a budget-conscious Pesach.
2. Plan Ahead and Buy Early
Pesach prices tend to increase as the holiday nears. To mitigate rising costs, begin shopping as soon as stores begin stocking Pesach products. Meat and poultry, for example, are often available at lower prices in the weeks following Purim.
A detailed shopping list is essential. Determine your guest list, create a menu and list out required ingredients to prevent impulse purchases, particularly of high-priced pre-packaged Pesach foods.
To further refine budgeting for future years, consider maintaining a price list of Pesach essentials from various stores. Additionally, tracking item usage in a spreadsheet can provide valuable insights for next year’s shopping.
3. Know Where to Splurge and Where to Save
Certain Pesach essentials—such as high-quality matzah and wine—warrant a higher investment, as they are integral to the Seder experience. However, many convenience items—such as pre-made seven-layer cakes and boxed cake mixes—come at a significant markup. Baking from scratch using simple ingredients like almond flour and potato starch is a cost-effective, healthier and tastier alternative.
4. Simplify Your Seder Menu
A successful Seder does not require an elaborate multi-course meal. A well-prepared selection of traditional dishes—such as chicken soup, simple yet delicious spiced chicken, brisket and roasted vegetables—can be delicious, cost-effective and always a crowd pleaser.
For additional inspiration, numerous Pesach cookbooks, Facebook groups, blogs and Instagram posts offer simple, nutritious salad recipes without requiring a pantry full of specialty ingredients.
If hosting a large gathering, consider a potluck-style meal where guests contribute a dish. This reduces costs while fostering a communal and enjoyable experience.
5. Optimize Kitchen Preparation Costs
Making Pesach for the first time? It is advisable to start with a minimal selection of kitchenware and cheaper appliances and build incrementally each year. Discount retailers, warehouse clubs and major sale events (such as Black Friday or Prime Day) offer opportunities for cost-effective purchases.
Additionally, kashering existing cookware—rather than purchasing an entirely new set—can result in substantial savings. Many metal pots and utensils can be made kosher for Pesach through boiling or other standard methods. Consult your local Orthodox Rabbi.
Pesach is a celebration of freedom, and that includes financial freedom. . . . it is possible to enjoy a joyous and fulfilling holiday while staying within budget.
6. Manage Holiday Travel Expenses Strategically
Pesach programs at luxury resorts offer an enticing experience but come with significant costs. A more budget-conscious alternative is renting a vacation home with a kitchen, allowing for self-prepared meals while still providing a relaxing change of environment.
For example, a few years ago, we hosted family for the first days of Pesach and later traveled to Miami for the remainder of the holiday. By utilizing credit card points to book an Airbnb and preparing meals in advance—including freezing pre-portioned dishes—we enjoyed an affordable and stress-free getaway. A single suitcase (yes, fifty pounds!) carried frozen meals for each day, supplemented with fresh produce and basics from a local grocery store. This approach combined financial prudence with the benefits of a vacation.
If staying with family, consider contributing groceries or preparing meals in advance to share the financial and logistical responsibilities.
7. Maximize Leftovers and Reduce Waste
Pesach groceries often come at a premium, making it essential to maximize ingredient usage. Plan meals that allow for repurposing leftovers—such as roasting a whole chicken for one meal and using the remaining meat for salads or soups. Kugels, matzah brei and vegetable-based dishes can also be repurposed creatively.
If excess Pesach staples remain after the holiday, many—such as matzah meal, nuts, almond flour and spices—can be used year-round or stored for next Pesach.
Final Thoughts: Celebrate Meaningfully Without Financial Strain
Pesach is a celebration of freedom, and that includes financial freedom. By planning ahead, making intentional purchasing decisions and focusing on meaningful traditions rather than unnecessary expenses, it is possible to enjoy a joyous and fulfilling holiday while staying within budget.
Embracing a simpler, more mindful approach to Pesach may not only save money but also enhance the true essence of the holiday.
Atara Mauskopf, aka The Points Queen, is a former Wall Street executive turned consultant, helping individuals and small businesses master budgeting, optimize spending and maximize credit card rewards for free travel. She also volunteers as a financial coach for the OU’s Living Smarter Jewish program, assisting families with budgeting and debt management. Contact Atara at atara@livingonpoints.com.