Cash advice:
How to bag a freebie
1 Divide & conquer
If you’re just starting your freebie-finding mission, set up a new email address just for offers. Once you get started you’ll get regular correspondence, and separating them will stop you missing any. Magic Freebies UK emails a daily newsletter with all the latest freebies. Companies usually offer a free incentive when you sign up to their newsletter, such as Krispy Kreme, which offers a free doughnut when you join.
2 EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS
I’m not a morning person, so I enjoy free Caffè Nero lattes every week with the O2 Priority Moments app. I can also get daily free hot drinks from Waitrose with my Waitrose card, and even from Ikea.
3 Celebrate in style
Companies are willing to spoil you on your birthday. I’ve created a huge list at magicfreebiesuk.co.uk. You can get cocktails for you and six friends at TGI Fridays, a free £11.50 Benefit brow wax at Debenhams, and a free main at Frankie & Benny’s. There are also lots of in-store freebies to pick up, such as cookies from Subway or Millie’s Cookies. So enjoy!
4 Be social
Social media is an easy way to get in the know about freebies, so start ‘ liking’ and ‘following’ brands so you don’t miss out. Companies like Aveeno and Chanel host giveaways on their Facebook page while others use Twitter, so it’s key to keep an eye out across all channels. Also, be alert. I once tweeted a brand about a spelling mistake on their website and they sent me a freebie, so it’s definitely worth being active on these platforms.
5 Get ahead of the curve
Sites such as supersavvyme.co.uk, beautyontrial.co.uk and bzzagent.co.uk offer free trials of products that haven’t even launched yet in return for feedback. Register as a member, apply for trials and soon you should be getting goodies delivered to your door.
6 DONT BE SHY
Beauty brands such as Clinique, Clarins and Estee Lauder all offer free samples at their counters. I remember picking up my first counter freebie. I felt so cheeky. However, the staff are happy to give away freebies, because it encourages you to stay brand-loyal.