How to get free stuff!
They say that there is no such thing as the word “free” in today’s world. I beg to differ. As a self-proclaimed penny pinching, closet couponer, I know that statement couldn’t be further from the truth. There are plenty of companies willing to give away their products and services at no cost to you. You, my friend, just have to know where to find such a bargain.
In today’s economy, the ability to stretch a dollar is a necessity not something to hold you over between paychecks. That’s why I felt it was appropriate to write a primer for my fellow deal seeking dudes and divas. Here’s how a beginner can get started scoring free stuff:
- Set up an email address specifically for the purpose of signing up for freebies. You can do this through AOL, Yahoo, Gmail or Hotmail. Note that this address will need to be cleaned out from time to time to eliminate junk mail. You will also know about exclusive offers by reading the email that is sent to you by your favorite companies and freebie sites.
- Visit websites that offer nothing but free samples and money saving offers. A few of my favorite include Your Daily Freebies (http://www.freesamplesite.com) and Absurdly Cool Freebie Finder (http://www.absurdlycool.com). Walmart.com (http://instoresnow.walmart.com/In-Stores-Now-Free-Samples.aspx) is also another great resource for free samples of shampoo, contact lens solution, and snack foods.
- Watch Facebook like a hawk. Your favorite companies offer all sorts of giveaways online. Simply “Like” their page and gain access to special offers and free samples. I have received coupons for free haircare products, a NetiPot, and even t-shirts by filling out forms with my information on Facebook. There’s one word to describe a mailbox full of freebies—awesome!
- Pair up your coupons with store deals. The key to successfully using coupons is pairing them up with advertised sales. For example, your favorite grocer is running a special on deodorant and it is on sale for $1. You have a couple of coupons for .50 cents off. The grocer doubles your coupon to a $1 and voila, your deodorant is free. That’s why it pays to study your weekly circulars.
- Be willing to write a review. If you have a blog, chances are companies will send products to you free of charge in exchange for a review. This is a great way to build a relationship with companies of all sizes. I have reviewed everything from books to movies to eco-friendly products and musical instruments.
You don’t have to spend hours upon hours scouring the internet to get the best free stuff around. Just follow the suggestions that I have listed here and prepare to have your inbox and mailbox flooded with freebies. Have your own suggestions? Please share them below!
Author: Charissa
Charissa is into frugal living and saving money.
