5 Tips to get FREE Stuff When You Go Out

If it’s one thing I know well, it’s how to get something for free (or at a heavy discount). Every time I go out with my friends, they are always asking me how I end up getting things for free. I’ve decided, it’s finally time to share my secrets so that you can find yourself enjoying some free stuff next time you go out!

I’m going to keep the names of the restaurants/stores private so that no one gets in trouble!

1) Ask for it.  This may seem too simple, but in reality, no one does it and it really does works! For example, not long ago I was at donut shop with one of my friends. Instead of simply ordering my donut and leaving, I asked the guy working “Is it buy one get one free today?” He looked at me like I was a little crazy (I’m used to that though) and said it wasn’t, but I could have a free donut since I asked.

This isn’t a unique experience either. Last month I was shopping at one of my favorite stores in Chicago. I fell in love with this sweater, but it was $180 (and that just wasn’t happening). I told the sales lady I wanted the sweater, but could only afford $100. She said it wouldn’t be a problem and somehow managed to take 45% off the sweater for me at the register.

Now, I’m not saying this always works, but one motto I live by is, “It never hurts to ask.” The worse someone can say is no! Also, you have to be fine with taking rejection or dealing with odd looks. I totally am, but I understand if you’re not. Thats why I have 4 more tips for you :).

2) Go towards the end of the day. A lot of times, if you head to a restaurant towards the end of the day, they will be getting ready to throw out a lot of food. For example, I went over to a sandwich shop around 8:00 at night. I knew that they only use fresh bread every day, so I asked them if I could have a few extra pieces to take since they were going to toss it anyways. Without hesitation, one of the girls filled up a huge bag full of this delicious bread for me. I took it home, chopped it up and froze it for quick and easy croutons whenever I needed!

3) Have a conversation/become friends with whoever is serving you. This is an easy one and probably the most successful in terms of how often it works. All you have to do here is strike up a true and genuine conversation with whoever is waiting on you.

For example, the other day I was at a local farmers market and there was a delicious (but expensive crepe stand). While ordering my crepe, my boyfriend and I began chatting with the guy cooking. We asked him about his life, family and his passion for crepes. I talked to him about my passion for food as well! After about 5 minutes of talking with him he said we HAD to try his dessert crepe and started making it for us to try…for FREE!

4) If you live in Chicago, use the app “Freebie”. This app is pretty cool! Basically, it “allows users to access goods, services and experiences around Chicago for free, while helping businesses gain traffic, awareness and loyalty”. Essentially, the app tells you which businesses are willing to give you things for free in exchange for your tweet or Facebook post about it. The more social media friends you have, the more that Freebie gives you access to great deals!

To learn more about this app, click here.

5) Start a blog. This one I just recently realized (obviously). The instant you start writing a blog and people start following it, people want to give you free stuff so that you will write about it! Word of caution though…stay true to yourself. Don’t give in and write good things about something you don’t believe in just because you’re getting it for free. You will lose credibility and then no one will want to hear what you have to say!

Well, that’s all! I hope you can take something away from this blog post. Let me know if any of my techniques worked for you 🙂

Love always,
Erica