I think almost everybody likes to get something for nothing, or failing that, get something for a substantial discount. There are many, many ways to get free stuff and I am sure most of you have your own favorite ways but I thought I would include some of my tips on how to get things for free or almost for free.

Tip #1

My favorite place to get free stuff is the grocery store. Most grocery stores these days have tons of free samples that they give away to get you to try new products or switch from existing brands. I am sure you have all seen and tried them at least once. One extra thing to look for at these in-store promotions are coupons you can use to buy the product at a discount. Only of course if you like it.

Tip #2

A great way to get free services is to look for new store openings in your area, especially ones that offer services such as hair cuts, waxing, tanning, etc. These types of businesses will often offer their services free or at a substantially reduced cost to try to get word of mouth about their store going and/or use you as a demonstration of their work. If you live in a big city there are usually dozens of new stores opening every week so keep your eyes open.

Tip #3

Another great way to get free stuff is to look on websites such as craigslist.org or your local classifieds section of the newspaper for the free stuff section. Often you can get things for free from people who no longer want them simply by offering to go pick them up. I find it surprising the kind of things that people are willing to give away simply because they no longer want them. Check your local listings and see what turns up.

Tip #4

A 4th great way to get free stuff is to get free product samples or free trials of products or services. Often companies are more than happy to give a sample of their product for you to try, especially if you are seen as being likely to purchase the product in the future. The benefit to you is that you can try new products virtually risk free. If you are looking for a specific free sample or free trial from a company, I recommend contacting the company directly to see what, if any, free samples they offer. On the other hand if you are looking for companies that offer free sample of their products check out the tip below.

Tip #5

Now, this is my favorite tip although I am a little biased since I run a "free samples" website and newsletter. One of the best ways to find free stuff is simply to search for it on Google or any other search engine. There are hundreds of websites claiming to offer free stuff from free product samples to free registration. One word of warning though, make sure the websites explains what is required to get your free thing. For example, check if there are shipping and handling fees, credit card requirements, trial term length etc. The web is the best place to find free offers, just be careful which websites you use.

I hope you find those tips useful and I hope you are able to use some of them to help you find free stuff you are interested in.

Ian Wright is a recent university graduate who knows the value of getting things for free. He currently runs a Free Samples Newsletter as well as a list of his Top 10 Best Free Samples. http://www.free-samples-newsletter.com/top10.html