Internet Freebies

Let’s face it; Internet service isn’t cheap. It is however the perfect tool for being cheap. When used properly, the Internet can yield countless freebies. Here's what you need to know to get started:

There are essentially three approaches to finding free samples on the Internet: checking free sample sites, doing web searches and participating in discussion boards.

Free Sample Sites

Free sample sites are a great starting point. These sites list lots of free samples that are available around the web, and provide links to the respective sites.

The benefit of using these sites is that someone else is doing a lot of the work for you. You won’t have to spend a ton of research time to find the samples you desire.

By far, one of the best free sample sites on the web is Start Sampling . This website operates on a membership basis. Once you subscribe, you have access to tons of high quality samples.

In recent months offers have included a free full-sized sample of name brand toothpaste, as well a variety of free year-long magazine subscriptions.

Additional sites worth checking out include: mommysavers.com and freebies.about.com. Both sites feature daily updates, and are among the first to list new offers.

Walmart also offers frequent freebie offers. Just go to walmart.com and click on the "In Stores Now" tab to view the current offers.

At the time of publication, there were Walmart offers from John Frieda, Neutrogena, Hallmark, Garnier and Poise.

Web Searches

Web searches can lead to even more free samples that may not be listed on free sample websites. To locate these, there are several basic key words to search under. Free sample, free samples, free trial, trial offer, free product and free product offer are all excellent search words. For the best search results, be sure to try all of the above-mentioned key words. A sample that might come up under “free sample,” may not come up under “free samples”, and vice versa. As you gain experience, you may find other key words that work for the particular product samples you are looking for.

Word of Mouth

Frugal discussion boards are also a great source for freebies. Check out our Frugal Family Discussion Board for offers or visit the board at Frugalvillage.com.

Spend a little time exploring the web, and you're sure to turn up some great freebies.

An earlier version of this article appeared on Suite101.com.

-Erin Huffstetler

  Erin Huffstetler is a freelance writer specializing in frugal living tips and tricks. Her work has appeared in numerous print and electronic publications including Family Circle, Guideposts For Kids and Pregnancy. As the stay-at-home mom of two young kids, Erin is always looking for new ways to live better for less. For fun decorating and craft project ideas check out Erin's "Trash to Treasures" and "Bead Making Basics" courses at Suite101.com.