How to get free stuff (Pt. 1)

DeScott Evans: Free Sample, Try One' , ca. 1890, oil on canvas. 60,5 x 25,4 cm. Private Collection.

Getting your hands on free samples doesn’t have to hurt. (Photo Credit: Public Domain/De Scott Evans/Wikipedia)

Provided the merchandise you’re receiving isn’t caked with mold or the bodily fluids of the previous owner, their pets or the random passerby, free stuff is great. If you find out how to get free stuff early on in life – without having to break the law or use unspeakable sexual favors as barter – you’ll save lots of cash. Here’s a haven of free stuff, free samples and freebies that will rock your cash-saving world.

How to get free stuff tip No. 1: Ask for it

If you like a certain company’s products, friend them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter. Some free offers will occasionally float down the pipeline. If that doesn’t work, however, write them a letter or call them and ask for freebies. If you blog about the stuff, that can increase your success rate.

How to get free stuff tip No. 2: Dive into the dumpster fray

Sometimes, going for free items means being willing to get your hands dirty. While you wouldn’t necessarily want to do this if you live on skid row, check out the dumpsters at large apartment complexes near the end of the month. You’re likely to find some furniture people didn’t want to take during a move-out. Sanitize and enjoy.

How to get free stuff tip No. 3: Download the legal stuff

While online piracy isn’t legal, there are plenty of ways to procure software freebies that do not violate the laws of the land. Ebooks and free apps are just two examples.

How to get free stuff tip No. 4: Hit the casino tables hard

While gambling is ultimately an expensive, losing proposition, casinos notice frequent players. You may lose money on the tables and slots, but the casino appreciates your business and may very well hand out free drinks. If you give your server tips, you maintain a spot in line, too.

How to get free stuff tip No. 5: Age and cash in

Sure, it’s hell getting old. But you might get a free sundae at your favorite family restaurant, if not an entire meal. Make a point of eating out for your birthday and enjoy the freebies. Make sure to tell the prostitutes in the alley near the restaurant that it’s your birthday, too. But don’t say more than that, or you can be arrested for solicitation.

How to get free stuff tip No. 6: Get out the metal detector

Yes, it will make you look like one of those people, but having a metal detector can actually pay off. Put on your headband, wrist bands, fanny pack, Stride-Rite Velcro shoes and hit the beach. Scanning the sands for the precious metals people leave behind can unearth spare change, but occasionally, valuable jewelry is the result. Ignore the snide comments the bronzed beach denizens will hurl your way, you’re on the road to riches through the accumulation of free stuff!

A similar path to riches would be to pan for gold in the river. That’s great for 1859, but not as fruitful today.

How to get free stuff tip No. 7: Be a giveaway joiner

Whether it’s the radio, a TV talk show, a podcast, Twitter, Facebook or a company’s webpage, be on the lookout for freebies that are given away as a part of a contest. Sure, you’ll be inundating yourself with advertising, but you’ll be giving yourself a chance to grab the swag.

How to get free stuff tip No. 8: Use your credit card

While using a credit card to pay for everything is rarely a good idea, rewards programs for cash back or airline miles can be worth their while. Pick your spots, rack up the rewards and pay off your credit card balance in full each month.

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