Tim Hortons on a Budget: $5 Meal Hacks That Fill You Up
Tim Hortons may not be the cheapest fast food joint around anymore, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still eat well on a budget. Whether you're a student, a commuter, or just trying to keep your wallet from crying, there are ways to make your Timmies order stretch without skimping on satisfaction.
Here are the best Tim Hortons $5 meal hacks—with smart combos, filling snacks, and drink tips that prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to fuel up.
💡 Hack #1: Build Your Own Budget Breakfast Bowl
Forget the biscuit or bagel—go straight for the protein.
Order:
Side of sausage or bacon (~$2)
Add a cheddar cheese slice (~$1)
Brewed coffee or tea (~$2)
Total: ~$5.00
Why it works: High in protein, low in filler, and keeps you full.
Pro tip: Ask for it “in a bowl” or as a side combo. Many Tims locations will let you piece it together if you ask nicely.
🍳 Hack #2: English Muffin Breakfast Sandwich + Small Coffee
One of the most reliable and filling breakfast deals.
Order:
Sausage, egg & cheese on English muffin (~$3.79)
Small brewed coffee (~$1.80)
Total: ~$5.60 (often less with app deals or combos)
Why it works: Balanced protein and carbs with enough caffeine to get going.
Pro tip: Drop the cheese or sauce to shave off a few cents and calories.
🥣 Hack #3: Small Oatmeal + Tea
Healthy, hearty, and surprisingly cheap.
Order:
Small plain oatmeal (~$2.79)
Herbal or green tea (~$2.00)
Total: ~$4.75
Why it works: The fiber keeps you full longer, and tea adds warmth and hydration.
Pro tip: Ask for no brown sugar to keep it clean. Bring your own cinnamon or stevia for flavor.
🧀 Hack #4: Snack Combo: Cheese Slice + Bacon + Iced Coffee (No Base)
This one's for the low-carb crew—or anyone wanting a light but filling snack.
Order:
Cheddar cheese slice (~$1.00)
Side bacon (~$2.00)
Iced coffee, no base, with cream (~$2.00)
Total: ~$5.00
Why it works: High fat and protein = long-lasting satiety.
Pro tip: Iced coffee with no base is way cheaper and has fewer calories too.
🥯 Hack #5: Plain Bagel with Butter + Small Coffee
Still one of the most iconic cheap breakfasts around.
Order:
Plain bagel with butter (~$2.19)
Small brewed coffee (~$1.80)
Total: ~$4.00
Why it works: Simple, carb-heavy energy for a long morning.
Pro tip: Use the app to double up on points or get BOGO deals.
🥤 Bonus: Use the Tim Hortons App to Save
The Tim Hortons mobile app regularly features deals like:
$1 coffee promos
Breakfast sandwich + drink combo deals
Loyalty points that turn into free food
Budget pro move: Combine app deals with a custom order and you could get breakfast, lunch, or a snack for under $5.
🚫 What to Avoid on a Tight Budget
These items will eat your $5 before you’re even full:
Specialty drinks (Iced Capp, lattes) – $3–5 by themselves
Muffins and donuts – overpriced for how long they keep you full
Wraps and loaded sandwiches – usually $6–8 and not customizable
❤️$5 Can Still Go Far at Timmies
Even with prices creeping up, Tim Hortons still has solid value if you know how to order. Stick to basics, combine sides, skip the sugar bombs, and use the app like a pro.
With the right strategy, you can eat well, feel full, and still stay under $5.
No regrets. No broke bank account. Just smart, satisfying meals.
