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How to Start Couponing and Make Life-Changing Financial Habits

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You don’t need to be knee-deep in debt to learn how to start couponing.

If you’re looking to save money, but can’t sacrifice your Starbucks fix or unsubscribe to your Netflix account, you’d be surprised that a little organizing, planning and commitment to really make couponing a part of your daily life can make a huge dent on your finances.

Couponing isn’t exclusive to a particular class in society either.

This is true:

Once you’ve learned how to maximize coupons and save money, there’s a big chance you’ll never want to stop and including coupons from your day-to-day life becomes a natural thing.

This guide on how to start couponing should help you figure out a plan and avoid getting drowned in unnecessary coupons.

How Do Coupons Work?

Different kinds of coupons exist.

Manufacturers, your favorite local grocery store, and other companies all create coupons for consumers. They do this to promote their products, get rid of overstock, introduce new items, or just bring in new customers.

As a consumer, these coupons can save you hundreds of dollars in cash simply by buying products against them.

You don’t have to do anything more.

Just watch the savings pile up and continue couponing even if you feel you’ve saved enough…

Get exclusive discounts from a specific grocery store, brand, manufacturer, and so on.

It is so natural that millions are processed every day and manufacturers reimburse up to 8 cents per coupon.

7 Steps to Learn How to Start Couponing

Couponing isn’t as serious a change as starting a family, or moving houses, but it’s a big enough change that requires commitment for it to actually work to the advantage of your finances.

If done right, couponing can save cash from your weekly grocery budget, stock your pantry with discounted goods, buy in bulk to resell as retail, or even to help underprivileged people.

Follow these steps to couponing, if you’re ready to make money grow out of thin air:

1. Get Your Couponing Supplies Ready

Couponing can quickly overpower your life if you’re not prepared, which is why you should do a bit of planning before you get started.

GET SUPPLIES: First off, get some supplies. A calculator, pair of scissors, and a couple of envelopes or binders you’re not using. Get your printer out of the storage, if you have one.

MAGAZINES & NEWSPAPERS: Organize your mail subscriptions and Sunday newspapers. Of course, you may not need traditional coupon sources (magazines/newspapers) if you can find some online or straight from your local store. It will depend on what coupons are available for your unique situation and spending habits.

TIME: While you’re still a beginner and getting used to couponing, set aside a few hours each week for acquiring the coupons. You can set this a day before your grocery day, or Monday (once your Sunday newspaper and other subscriptions reach home). You’ll get the hang of scheduling your couponing as you go.

LEARN THE LANGUAGE: It can be confusing to jump into the world of couponing if you don’t know the different terminologies. Here are some common terms used:

  • Store coupons – Only valid at the specific store.
  • Manufacturer coupons – Not valid at all stores, but those that accept coupons and have products from that specific manufacturer may consider these types of coupons.
  • Store coupon policy – Know that stores don’t have the same policies, so if you’re new at couponing and want to see if your favorite stores will accept coupons, then ask about their policy while planning.
  • Expiration dates – Coupons are only valid for a limited time, so make sure you check out expiration dates first before using them. Use the FIFO (first in, first out) rule.

2. Seek Out Local Coupons

The most obvious source of coupons near you is your local grocery store, but you’d be surprised there are other ways of finding coupons nearby.

At the store, be on the lookout for:

  • Coupon booklets – Aside from store flyers, stores also print out booklets or mini magazines that contain a year’s worth of coupons. You can get these free usually near the cashier.
  • Coupon printers – If you’re lucky to have store with in-store coupon printers, you don’t need to snip-cut-and-store your coupons. You just have to get a loyalty card, scan it on the printer and you’ll receive current and valid coupons. These types of coupons can be used in conjunction with manufacturer’s coupons.
  • Coupons hidden on aisles – Sometimes, either the manufacturer or store places a bunch of coupons in front of the product you can use them for. They have varying expiration dates as well, so if you buy this item regularly, save a couple for your collection.
  • Store receipt – This isn’t for those with bad eyesight, mostly because the print can be so small, but some stores print out coupons with your receipts. This isn’t general coupons either – stores print coupons specially for you based on your loyalty card, purchase history or commonly-bought products. FYI, the register printer is called a Catalina, which is why you’d hear the term “Catalina coupons” when referring to store receipt coupons.

At home, you can also find coupons directly in your mailbox from things like local newspapers, store flyers, manufacturer flyers, and so on.

Before throwing products in the trash, check for coupons hidden inside the box, can or other types of packaging. If you find one, check expiration dates and keep valid ones with the rest of your stash.

3. Find Coupons Online

Finding coupons online is trickier than getting coupons traditionally, because the internet is vast and can quickly turn into a black hole if you’re not careful.

To maximize your time finding coupons online, here are 3 websites you should focus on:

Store Websites

Check if your favorite store like Target has an app.

Download it, so you’ll be able to check coupons easily.

For stores without apps, check if they have a Facebook page, Twitter account or an official website. Bookmark these sites, so when it’s your schedule to gather coupons again, you can access updates to your favorite stores quicker.

Manufacturer Websites

Familiarize yourself with manufacturer names of the products you love.

Bookmark the webpage where a particular manufacturer publishes coupons.

For example, Proctor & Gamble is the manufacturer of Gillette razors, Pantene shampoo, Crest toothpaste, Herbal Essence hair products, Pampers, and a whole lot more.

Some coupons here are printables (you print it the old-fashioned way), while others can be loaded onto a card (like Rite Aid).

Coupon Websites

There are hundreds of websites that find, upload and organize coupons for you.

This may sound like a good thing now, but it can be overwhelming to check hundreds of sites every time you need coupons. As such, choose only a handful (preferably the most complete, up-to-date, regularly updated and has many products you’re interested in).

Your personal list of coupon websites and apps will probably change as you go, but make sure you keep your list down to 3 or a maximum of 5 sites.

Here are the 10 most popular coupon sites:

  1. Coupons.com – It is the most popular couponing aggregator around.
  2. Swagbucks – This site is an all-around money-generating goldmine that turns your ordinary tasks like web browsing or grocery shopping into cashbacks. Use Swagbucks’ coupon aggregator, which earns you 1 Swagbuck for every coupon redeemed in store. You can exchange 100 Swagbucks for $1, or load your Swagbucks into gift cards.
  3. Ebates – This site has been around since 1999. Get coupons, rebates, cashbacks from hundreds of brands.
  4. Amazon coupons – If you love shopping on Amazon, bookmark the coupon page to check for relevant coupons before checking out.
  5. Groupon – It’s a popular discount site for restaurants and getaways, but this site also has coupons for many brands like Adidas, ASOS, Bed Bath & Beyond, American Eagle, and a whole lot more.
  6. Don’t Pay Full – Ideal for online shopping across multiple online stores, Don’t Pay Full has tons of online coupons you can redeem without a catch.
  7. RetailMeNot – Get coupons to use on pharmacies, health stores, restaurants, all-around stores like Target, Best Buy, JCPenney and so much more.
  8. Savings.com – You can find coupons per brand like Banana Republic, GAP, or by store like The Home Depot, Macy’s, Kohl’s, HP, Walmart, etc.
  9. RetailMeNot Everyday (formerly RedPlum) – Known best for coupons you get via mail, RedPlum acquired the online coupon site RetailMeNot for $630 million in 2013 and rebranded to RetailMeNot Everyday. You can find both online and in-store coupons here.
  10. SmartSource – Available as Direct2Card or printable coupons, SmartSource organizes coupons by category (food, drinks, household, personal care, etc.).

Coupon Apps

Like coupon websites, coupon apps can take up a lot of your free time. Check Google Play or the Apple Store and you’ll find dozens of coupon apps available for free download. I recommend choosing just an app or two to prevent getting overwhelmed. Here are the most popular coupon apps:

  • Ibotta (Android/iOs) – This app has reportedly gave back $500 million to consumers. It’s free to use and allows users to scan items while shopping.
  • SnipSnap – If you’re getting overwhelmed by your couponing, this app can help you get your printed and online coupons organized digitally. Its “near me” filter feature is super useful to learn which coupons are valid locally.
  • Yowza!! (Android/iOs) – Unlike other coupon apps wherein users upload coupons, this app also lets retailers and brands share coupons directly into the app.
  • GroceryIQ – Made specifically for grocery coupons. Works with loyalty cards.
  • Coupon Sherpa – Coupons arranged by brand, store and type of product.

4. Know Your Coupon Rules

Every store and manufacturer have different coupon policies. It may be confusing at first, but you’ll eventually get the hang of it if you keep on using coupons for a particular store or brand.

Some common coupon rules include:

  • Print on the coupon must be legible and clear; Barcode should be visible and scannable
  • Remit address printed should be valid
  • Expiration dates must be indicated or printed with “No Expiration Date”
  • Manufacturer coupons are printed with “manufacturer coupon”
  • Photocopies of a coupon is not allowed
  • Stores accept only one manufacturer coupon per item
  • Maximum coupons a user can use per brand, per manufacturer, per day depends on the store
  • Coupon limits exist and vary between stores to avoid extreme couponing
  • Coupons can be printed black-and-white or colored – they will be valid as long as text is legible

These rules can change without prior notice.

Some stores regularly tweak their policies, usually when manufacturers publish new rules.

5. Start Doubling Your Savings

You can double your savings simply by taking advantage of the following:

Join Loyalty Programs

Coupon sites and apps sync with loyalty programs of popular stores, so it makes sense to join loyalty programs of your favorite stores if you’re going forward with couponing.

Coupon Overage

If you have extra coupons for an item, you can use it against other items in your cart that don’t have coupons.

For example, you have a coupon for $5 off Listerine mouthwash and you get a bottle on clearance for $2. With your coupon, you can use the $3 difference on something else in your cart.

Know that some stores frown upon coupon overage, while others accept this with open arms.

Check with each store to know which stores you can use this trick with.

Price Match Policy

If you have proof that competition has a price lower than what your store has, you use this price-match policy on top of a coupon for extra savings.

Coupon Stacking

In this trick, you “stack” a manufacturer’s coupon with a store coupon and use together within a single transaction.

Double check the store’s coupon policy if this is allowed.

Buy One Get One (BOGO) Coupons

BOGO coupons are common among drugstore chains and big stores like Walmart.

This can be a huge price saver, especially if you’re a fan of bulk shopping.

“Double and Triple Coupon Days”

What’s cool about these kinds of promos is that the store doubles or triples the value of coupons (up to a certain amount).

Not all stores do this, but if you’re lucky enough to be near a store that does, make sure you know the schedule for additional savings.

Become a Reseller

If you’re able to buy a lot of the same products, you can resell them for profit.

Note that stores have policies to prevent hoarders from buying unnecessary amounts of products of the same likeness.

Learn all about these policies if you decide to become a reseller.

6. Go Shopping!

Now that you’ve gathered and organized your coupons, now is the time to use them.

Make a grocery list as you normally would, then bring out your binder of printed coupons, coupon app, or coupon websites, as you figure out which coupons you can use.

List the coupons beside an item on your grocery list ($1 off from eBates, 50% off via SnipSnap, and so on).

Your strategy, or the time you use your coupons to incorporate as much money-saving combos possible, will get better over time. But it won’t improve until you practice using all possible coupons.

Learn when stores send out coupon flyers, schedule when manufacturer coupons are updated, special coupon deals of brands, and so on.

Once you’re at the cashier, see if the coupons are being used. If issues occur, ask the cashier why a coupon isn’t valid. With practice, you’ll understand the process and follow coupon rules smoothly.

7. Reorganize your Coupon Stash (and Repeat)

Always clean your coupon stash for expired coupons. Reorganize, then go back to step 1.

How to Make Couponing a Habit

You’ll find that every coupon saves you just change (cents to a dollar or two).

This may not seem like a big deal, but if you add up all the savings you get from your weekly food grocery, monthly clothes shopping, or quarterly stock up of household supplies, using coupons can actually improve your finances quite a lot.

Couponing is free. You just need a bit of time and effort to master how to play the game.

Track how much money you save at every transaction.

Make a log book of your receipts and savings. Doing this gives you plenty of motivation, especially if you’re trying to save for a vacation without the stress, or bulking up your retirement fund.

With practice, couponing can become a habit your finances will thank you for, and be an effective way of earning mindless money.

Selling Plasma 101: Here’s How to Donate Plasma For Money

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People often donate their blood, but did you know that you could donate plasma for money?

Technically, you CAN sell blood. But since hospitals don’t like using it due to the potentially unsafe blood supply from “donors” lying about illnesses to earn cash, the FDA warns about it and asks all sources to label blood that came from paid donors.

There’s another serious reason why blood is tricky to sell: whole red blood cells can be tested for diseases, but they are too fragile to undergo any kind of virus removal processes. After testing, blood goes directly into another person.

Good news:

There’s a specific PART of your blood that can be sold. It’s called blood plasma and it makes up about 55% of your blood.

To obtain plasma, blood is drawn from your arm, then parts of the blood are separated via a special machine. The goal is to collect the plasma (a pale yellow liquid made up of water, enzymes, proteins, and antibodies), while the red blood cells and other leftovers are placed back into your body.

Plasma can be used in treating various health problems such as leukemia, blood disorders like hemophilia and medical emergencies like burns. It can also help people who are undergoing transplant surgeries. The properties of plasma are also used in developing medicine for rare diseases.

Interested? Read on if you want to make money in one day and decide if this is something you want to pursue…

What Are the Requirements for Donating Plasma?

Like donating blood, not everyone can donate plasma for money.

The general requirements for donating plasma include:

  1. Legal age – Donation centers typically allow donors from 18 to 69 years old, but the minimum age requirement could still change based on local or state laws. A written consent from a parent or guardian may be allowed, on a case-to-case basis.
  2. Weight – Your weight will determine how much plasma you can donate (and ultimately how much you can earn from each donation). The FDA has three weight range: 110 to 149 pounds, 150 to 174 pounds, and 175 to 400 pounds.
  3. Physically healthy – You should have no infectious diseases. There will be a basic check-up during your first visit to the donation center, so you must pass a heart check, urine test and blood prick test (to determine your iron, hemoglobin and blood levels). In some centers, donors are also tested for their reflexes.
  4. ID or other proof of identity – You must have your Social Security Card or a copy of it, other government ID, and proof of address.

Except for the physical tests, these requirements are often only needed during your first donation with a particular company.

Note that every plasma donation centers may have specific requirements, so check their websites before your visit.

What are the Restrictions that Prohibit You from Donating?

If you are deemed not an eligible donor after your physical test, you may be given one of two types of deferrals: temporary or permanent.

Temporary deferrals are given to would-be donors who:

  • Weigh below 110 pounds
  • Come to the centers sick with not-so-serious illnesses such as flu or tummy ache.
  • Are recovering from a recent surgical procedure
  • Have low levels of iron or hemoglobin
  • Recently got a tattoo or any kind of piercing

After your physical test, the center will determine when is the right time to go back, what you need to do to become eligible for another go in the future..

Permanent deferrals are given to interested donors who:

  • Are positive for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis
  • Suffer from any blood-related disorder or disease (such as leukemia)
  • Have mental illness or anyone who does not understand the process involved with plasma donation

As its name suggest, potential donors given permanent deferrals are not (and will never be) eligible as a donor. There’s a chance you can overturn this decision with a second medical opinion.

Does Donating Plasma Hurt?

This is a valid and most common concern among potential donors. When it comes to pain, it is typically no more painful than donating blood. To answer this question, you need to understand the process involved in donating plasma.

How long does donating plasma take?

First-time donors should spare 2 hours or more for the basic physical test and filling out paperwork.

Once you’ve finished tests and paperwork, the entire procedure takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

If you weigh 150 to 400 pounds, it will take longer because more plasma will be taken.

What’s the process of donating plasma?

If you’ve ever donated blood before, the discomfort you felt from that experience will likely be the same for when you donate plasma for cash.

When it comes to the pain involved, the first discomfort you’d feel is the pricking of your finger during the basic blood test. The phlebotomists will then use an IV and needle to draw your blood. Of course, you’d feel hurt if they can’t find a vein, or if they blow a vein.

Once the needle is in, the plasma will be separated and taken, while the blood returns to your body. The returned blood is mixed in with saline, which can lead to some discomfort and cause you to feel cold.

People sometimes get dizzy during this stage, especially if the donor is somewhat dehydrated. This is the reason why donation centers recommend would-be donors to temporarily avoid diuretics (like coffee and alcohol) and instead drink a lot of fluids the day before and the day of donation.

Are there side effects to donating plasma?

Generally, people who donate plasma don’t experience any side effects.

But in rare cases that it does, they may experience one or more of these things:

  • Bruising – Some people who are sensitive to needles and bruise easily can experience tenderness, swelling or pain at the injection site during and after the procedure. This should subside after several hours though.
  • Allergic reaction – Every donation center uses different disinfectants (like iodine) for cleaning donor’s injection site. Some people may have allergic reactions to these chemicals. Let the phlebotomists know if something feels amiss.
  • Citrate reaction – Used to prevent blood clots during plasma collection, citrate can cause a reaction to donors that often felt as tingling around the mouth, nose or fingers. Shortness of breath, irregular pulse, chills and twitching are severe signs of a citrate reaction.

How Often Can You Donate Plasma?

The American Red Cross guidelines state that people can only donate once every 28 days.

However, since this is only a “guideline” and not law, donation centers accept plasma donations from a person up to two times within a 7-day period with at 24 to 48 hours in between to give the body time to “refill” plasma lost from the previous donation.

How Much Do You Get for Donating Plasma?

Private blood banks and donation centers pay people $20 to $50 per donation.

Based on FDA’s weight range, you can earn:

  • $15/donation if you weigh between 110 to 149 pounds
  • $30/donation if you fall between 150 and 174 pounds, and
  • around $45 if you’re on the third weight tier from 175 to 400 pounds.

The number of times you donate each week can also affect the amount of extra cash you can get from donating plasma.

Other factors that make the pay range higher include:

  • First-timers – Plasma is big business and private companies know this. As such, they spend ads, referrals and various promotions (like coupons) to attract new donors. This is the reason why first-time donors are paid higher ($50 or more) than repeat donors.
  • type AB Blood – If you have this blood type, it means you’re part of the 4% of the population with it. Plasma from this blood type is “universal,” which means it can be used by anyone regardless of blood type. As such, plasma donation centers give a higher rate to people with AB blood type.
  • anti-D – This special anti-body protects babies from HDN (Rhesus Haemolytic Disease of the Foetus and Newborn), a disease wherein a mother a mother with Rh (D) negative blood is pregnant with a baby that has Rh (D) positive blood. In HDN cases, the mother’s blood develops an antibody that sees the unborn child’s red blood cells as a threat and destroys them leading to brain damage, liver disease, or death.
  • Demand – if there’s a particular protein a center needs, or if business is slow, rates may suddenly become more competitive.

You might feel icky with coupons and “deals” for donating plasma, but know that you are technically selling your plasma to businesses, which in turn, sell it to pharmaceutical companies, labs and hospitals for a wide range of medical use.

In fact, some of these donation centers even give donors their own debit cards to make processing of payment smoother, and send referral fees, reward points, and other credits easier.

How to Find a Plasma Donation Center

There is no governing body of all plasma donation centers, but FDA does inspect these locations for compliance.

Your best bet is to look for online reviews from past donors and find a plasma donation center near you (so it’s easier to see if they are in compliance with state and FDA laws).

Because plasma donation centers are run by private companies, they only require regular business license to operate. If you want to make sure you’re dealing with legitimate plasma donation centers, you can also check if they are listed on the International Quality Plasma Program (IQPP).

Search “plasma donations centers near me” or see if there’s a branch of these popular centers in your area:

  1. BPL Plasma Donation Center – Has 14 locations across the US. Allows each donor to sell plasma twice a week. $300/month extra cash possible – more if you refer other people or participate in promos and other programs. Payment is topped up on a prepaid card.
  2. Octapharma Plasma– One of the biggest names in the plasma donation industry with over 100 locations across the United States. Pays up to $50 per donation and allows two donations in a 7-day window as long as there’s a 48-hour gap). Offers plenty of incentives, including a loyalty program and frequency bonuses. Octapharma Plasma pays with its own prepaid debit card.
  3. Biotest Plasma Center – With 12 locations (Texas, Pennsylvania, Florida, Ohio, etc.). Donors are allowed up to two times of donation per week (with a 24-hour in between donations). $50/donation is paid straight to the donor’s Biotest re-loadable MasterCard debit card, where referral and other bonuses are also deposited.
  4. Grifols– Similar to Octapharma in that it has over 100 locations, but this company can be under different names such as Plasma Resources, Talecris, Biomat USA, among others. Paid by prepaid debit card, Grifols pays donors varying fees for one location to the next.
  5. KEDPlasma – Available in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Nebraska, Ohio, South Carolina, and Texas, KEDPlasma can pay up to $400 per donation for those with special proteins and antibodies. Donors can also visit the center up to twice a week, as long as there’s a day in between donations. Payments are sent via a Wirecard prepaid card.
  6. CSL Plasma– Located in 39 states and multiple centers within each state. New donors can be paid up to $400 either via the CSL Plasma Reloadable Debit Card, or as rewards via CSL Plasma’s iGive Rewards Program.
  7. Interstate Companies – You can find these centers in over 14 states across the US. Payment varies by location, but all of them pay via prepaid debit card. People are allowed to donate twice a week with 2-day gap between donations.
  8. Biolife Plasma Services – Available in over 30 states. Earn up to $70/week if you donate the maximum 2 donations per week. Schedule appointments via its own app, and receive payments via the BioLife Debit Card.
  9. Physicians Plasma Alliance – This one is only located in Tennessee, but it has to be included here mainly because this center can pay up to $500 per donation. Earn more by donating up to two times per week and by sending referrals, then get paid via prepaid debut card.
  10. ADMA BioCenters – This one is also available in just one location in Georgia. Eligible donors can visit twice per week and paid via cash card. There are incentives for repeat donors and other programs.
  11. GCAM Plasma – Pays $25 to $30 per donation via debit card. You can donate twice a week with 2-day waiting period between donations. Available in California, Idaho, Indianapolis, Texas, and Washington.
  12. B Positive – This center is available only in New Jersey and Maryland. It’s got a cool refer-a-friend program that pays $20/referral via its own B Positive Visa debit card. As for the donations, eligible donors can be paid up to $50/week for two sessions within a 7-day period.

The Bottom Line

Selling plasma isn’t probably the most traditional thing you can sell to make money, but this industry is thriving and it won’t stop anytime soon.

Donating plasma can help save lives. You may not be directly giving your blood to another person, but companies involved in these donation centers use your donated plasma to manufacture medicine, antibodies, and other medicinal products that help others with blood diseases and disorders.

If you tried donating plasma for money, but don’t want to repeat the experience, you can still earn from this business by referring a friend, sharing a social media post of a private center, or participating in other promotions.

If selling plasma for money isn’t for you, but you need extra cash to pay your credit card, buy groceries, or add regular deposits to your emergency fund, explore the site some more and check out our guide to make money online fast doing no-brainer things like watching movies, and so on.

75 Ways to Get Free Samples by Mail in 2023

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Everybody likes getting free stuff. There’s no question about it. Even better when you can get a ton of free samples by mail.

New brands do this to introduce their products to the world, get feedback and hopefully word of mouth will do its magic in spreading news about those products.

Old brands do this as a quick way of reaching customers and receiving instant feedback from their target market. Some companies send free samples by mail to build a loyal customer base, while others do it for market research.

Regardless of the reasons why companies send free samples by mail, the question you should be focusing on is HOW to get included in these mailing lists.

How do you get free samples in the mail?

The method chosen by companies to send free samples to consumers vary significantly. These may be any of the following:

  1. People who agreed to receive products and promotions while joining a newsletter or company’s program.
  2. Influencers who are active online with a significant number of followers, which are within the target market of a particular company
  3. People who took part of an online survey and wanted in on product testing
  4. Fan club members of a particular brand
  5. Rewards websites that partner with multiple brands and send consumers these gifts as rewards
  6. Apps or companies in the “subscription gift box” category
  7. People who review certain brands via blog, videos, social media and are rewarded with more free samples
  8. and many more.

Where to Get Free Samples

For the largest selection of free samples, head directly to Amazon’s Product Sampling page.

Amazon free samples

Pick the categories you are most interested in and Amazon will send hundreds of free samples directly to your door.

There are 3 places to find free samples online:

1. Companies Known to Send Free Samples

Olay Club, Allure, Proctor & Gamble, Betty Crocker, Try Gillette, Kotex, and Yogi Tea are just some brands that send free samples by mail.

You just have to fill-up a form, register, send a sample request, or just click a button.

2. Useful apps for hunting free samples

There are more and more apps popping left and right that follow the footsteps of Influenster (iOS, Android, desktop), Claim It!, Gift Box, Just Free Stuff, and other apps that can help you hunt for free samples that you can receive by mail.

3. Third-party websites that organize all the freebies from various companies

Some of these websites earn through online advertising, while others through affiliate marketing.

As long as the website doesn’t ask you to pay a joining fee upfront to access their list of free samples, they’re good to go.

The following third-party websites link consumers to brand products.

75 Free Samples You Can Receive by Mail

Free product samples usually go hand-in-hand with coupons and gift cards.

Sometimes, companies reward you with gift cards that you can spend to choose with products to buy with it.

But if you wish to stick exclusively with free samples, here are over 100 products you can check out:

Free Food and Drink Samples by Mail

  1. Starbucks – Get free Starbucks samples direct to your door.
  2. Better Coffee Co. – Get to taste free coffee samples that the company claims is better than the coffee you’re used to.
  3. Minute’s White Rice – Sign up and become a member of the Riceipe Club to receive free food samples.
  4. Nut-free Peanut Butter – Wow Butter is here to save those with nut allergies, but miss their peanut butter fix.
  5. Emergen-C – This energy drink to give you an extra boost of energy when you’re on your last leg, or feeling under the weather.
  6. Nate’s Jerky – Love you some jerky? You just have to tell Nate’s Jerky that you want to try their products out and they’ll gladly send you some free food samples.
  7. Truvia gum – Get samples of the Truvia products, most of which are made with natural sweetener.
  8. New Hope Coffee – For coffee lovers, there’s no such thing as too much free Coffee samples.
  9. Minute Mixology cocktail mix – Get your single-serve cocktail fix with Minute Mixology’s drink samples.
  10. Xorknob – If the name sounds a bit alien to you, it’s because this free food sample is actually a fun, alien treat. The company behind this product is on an aggressive marketing to land the shelves of big groceries like Trader Joes.
  11. Special bottled water – Nestle’s giving out sparkling ice spring water.
  12. Choco Kindle Chocolates – Free chocolates? Sign us up! The Apple Seed company wants to know what you think about their new line of chocolate bars.
  13. Wise Company’s Emergency Food – Want to know what emergency food tastes like? This company sends free meals to people interested in storing food to be used during emergency situations.
  14. Death Wish Coffee – Has one of the coolest brand names on this list, Death Wish Coffee is not for the faint of heart. You’ll need to sign up for a chance to get free strong coffee samples by mail.
  15. McCormick Consumer Testing Program – Those who love to cook will definitely go crazy over these free food samples from McCormick. From spices to sauces, you’ll get first dibs on products before they get launched in the market.
  16. RainyDay Solutions – Like Wise Company’s Emergency food, except a bit fancier, you’ll get to taste lasagna, chicken teriyaki and beef stroganoff with noodles.
  17. Mills Advisory Panel – Join this panel and be one of the thousands of people testing out General Mills products for free.
  18. Godiva – Ahhh from the makers of delectable chocolates, Godiva, who would even say no to these free chocolate samples?
  19. Little Nut World – Squeezable baby food that comes in a mess-free packaging. Unfortunately, only one person a month is chosen to receive free samples.

Free Makeup Samples by Mail

  1. Olay Whips – Receive a deep hydrating eye gel and facial cleaning cloths.
  2. Makeup remove clothe by MakeupEraser – You have to follow MakeupEraser on Instagram and ask for free samples.
  3. L’oreal Paris Sugar Scrub – This newly-launched sugar scrub is ideal for helping people with dry skin get softer skin.
  4. L’oreal Makeup – There’s also a page dedicated for those who love L’oreal makeup brands like Lancome, RedKen, Garnier, and more.
  5. Pretty Thrifty – This site is pretty popular, mostly because of all the free beauty samples it sends to its massive following of over 90k on social media.
  6. Makeup.com Samples – Just like Pretty Thrifty, the free makeup samples you can get vary depending on product availability. It’s a third-part site with hundreds of beauty products ready to be given away.
  7. Sephora Collection – Get a clay facial mask free if you follow Sephora on Instagram and DM your address and other shipping details.
  8. Elle Inner Circle – There’s no specific free products listed here, but as a member of the Elle Inner Circle, you get first dibs on major beauty products and perfume.
  9. Temana – Makers of effective toners, serums and facial wash, you can receive free beauty samples by mail simply by filling up the Temana form.
  10. ConvaTec Sensi-Care String Free Wipes – Perfect for removing makeup, this non-alcoholic wipes are formulated as a gentle makeup remover that doesn’t cause dry skin.
  11. Allure – You’ll need to answer a comprehensive survey (mostly about beauty products and your personal routines/preferences), before you can join as ‘Allure Beauty Enthusiast.’ If you’re accepted, you’ll receive free beauty product samples by mail periodically and you’ll be asked for some feedback about the products.
  12. Glamour Glamspotters – Like Allure and Elle’s Inner Circle, this requires answering a comprehensive survey, before being allowed to join. It’s worth it though, since Glamour sends off a ton of beauty and makeup free samples.
  13. Smashbox – This popular brand gives away a box of cosmetics every time you order items from its store.
  14. Marie Clare – Join Marie Claire’s Velvet Rope Club to receive a ton of makeup, including lipsticks, mascaras, and more from top brands.

Free Toiletry samples by Mail

  1. Schwarzkopf Smooth N Shine Straightening Polisher – You do have to join DigiTry first so you can try this hair care product.
  2. Gucci Fragrance – You have to sign-up before you can receive Gucci’s Bloom perfume.
  3. VO5’s Sulfate Free Shampoo, Conditioner and Hot Oil – These sulfate-free hair care products are available if you sign into DigiTry.
  4. Salon Grafix Hairspray – It’s available on DigiTry, too! And there are shampoos and conditioners that you can get as free samples.
  5. Tena Intimates – Get a free set of menstrual pads from heavy to thin lights.
  6. Perricone MD – You’d have to order anything from this brand of dermatologist-approved skincare products, before you can receive a free gift of samples.
  7. Pink Panel – As a member of the Pink Panel (or testers hired by research firm, The Benchmarking Company), you get to receive free skincare and makeup products by mail for you to try. Sometimes, pocket money of $50 to $200 is included with every assignment.
  8. Bromley’s Razors – Try out Bromley’s 7-blade razor, which reportedly cuts so smooth you wouldn’t go back to your regular brand.
  9. Prescriptives – Buy your toiletries here and get a box of free samples every time.

Free Cleaning Supplies by Mail

  1. Brillo Connection – Join Brillo’s website and receive free cleaning supplies by mail ranging from wool soap pads to fancy sponges.
  2. Smiley360 – Smiley360 is a network with a massive list of free samples, but if you’re out to look for cleaning supplies, you won’t get disappointed by the year-long offerings found on the site.
  3. Snuggle Bear Den – You’d have to register to join the mailing list. Once there are free samples available, you will be sent a notification e-mail that indicates the task required (take a survey, fill up a form, etc.) to qualify for a freebie sent by mail.
  4. Grove Collaborative – Sends people environmentally-conscious household essentials, such as cleaning products and paper plates.
  5. 5 Garbage Bags – Here’s a must-have for your household cleaning – garbage bags! And you get to try out the company’s heavy duty bags!

Free Health Products by Mail

  1. Social Nature – Anyone can become a member of this free sample site focused on vegan and eco-friendly products.
  2. Amnesty Bar – For the health-conscious who loves protein bars, the Amnesty Bar also claims to promote good liver health.
  3. Back to Nature Snacks – If you’re trying to get healthy, but chips are your weakness, these snacks could be your savior. Sign up and cross your fingers for a chance to receive full-sized samples.
  4. Natural Vitality Drinks – Free lemonade drinks for people who need extra dose of magnesium or a way to lower stress levels.
  5. Stevia – Get a free bottle of Terra Sweet’s Stevia, which you can use as alternative to traditional, high-carb white sugar. Ideal for coffee and teas.
  6. Universal Nutrition Whey – Receive free protein whey by mail, if you’re bulking up with protein but don’t care for a carnivore diet.
  7. Smarty Pants Vitamins – Gummy vitamins for kids and adults.
  8. Veggie Pops – It’s high in fiber and made of real veggies, these snack pops are free for your taking, just sign up on their website and wait for your samples by mail.
  9. Breath Right Nasal Strips – Extra strength nasal strips for people who have a hard time sleeping.
  10. Essential Oils – Essential oils are no longer a fad. Get in with mixing and blending your own potions, Start with these free essential oil samples.
  11. Prevail – Receive adult diapers and women’s pads by mail, just sign-up and request your free samples.
  12. Angel’s Touch Cream – This pain relief cream is a must-have for most households. It’s so in-demand that the company limits one sample per household.
  13. Sasmar Lubricants – Get water-based and silicone-based lubricants as free samples.
  14. OxyLife – Building your first aid kit? This company is sending free samples to its line of over-the-counter organic medicines, including stress relief capsules, natural laxatives, sleep aid, energy enhancers and vegetarian pain relief pills.
  15. Livrelief – This cream helps relieve muscle pain, joint pain, pain from arthritis and other bruises and ailments, There’s no harm in trying it out.
  16. Tena Men’s Incontinence Guard – Sends a kit of adult diapers or incontinence pads.

Miscellaneous Freebies

  1. The Imagination Library – Founded by the legendary singer Dolly Parton, this library sends free books to kids of all ages.
  2. Brooks – Receive free workout clothes and shoes, so you can test the latest in exercise gear.
  3. Depends – How about some free underwear for men and women?
  4. CondeNast Try It – If you’re looking for free magazines sent by mail, the Conde Nast group handles lifestyle magazines, Allure, Self and Vogue.
  5. Nupro Pet Supplements – Don’t forget your pets! There are tons of free samples for your dogs, cats and other beloved pets too!
  6. Texas Mills Dog Food – Like this dog food from Texas Mills
  7. Ageless Paws Treats – Or these free freeze-dried treats for your cats and dogs
  8. Wizsmart Pee Pad – Or these awesome invention to save your home while potty-training your pets.
  9. Tuttle Envelopes – Sends stationery and envelopes. Perfect for the crafter in you!
  10. HomeSchool – Receive free notebooks, pens, and other school supplies
  11. Parenting.com Mom Tester– The free samples included are geared for moms and kids
  12. Mead4Teachers – Get free notebooks and other school supplies if you’re a teacher.

Samples from Big Retailers

Your favorite retailers also have year-round free sample boxes that they give away. Make sure to check out:

These stores have different requirements. Some send out boxes every month, while others do it on a quarterly basis.

The Free Sample Bottom Line

If you’re looking for free baby samples, I didn’t include any on this list because I’ve got a huge list of baby product freebies on this post.

For those who are celebrating their birthdays soon, don’t forget to check out what birthday freebies you can get, and which restaurants give away free meals for birthday celebrants.

Rewards and cash-back sites also allow you to save as many credits as you can, which you can then use to “pay” for samples listed on their sites.

There’s also the exciting world of paid product testing where you can actually get paid to test products and provide feedback to companies.

How to Make the Most Money as a Mobile Bartender

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Becoming your own boss is a dream for many people trapped in the rat race.

Freelancing gives people the freedom to work flexible hours, while enjoying what they do and hopefully earn more than enough as their former 8-to-5 jobs.

Bartending is a side hustle you can turn into a full-blown freelance career or business. If you’re looking to switch careers or have been bartending most of your adult life, read more for a comprehensive guide in turning mobile bartending into a full-time business.

How to Most the Money with Mobile Bartending

Mobile bartending involves packing your bar and bringing the drinks and party to another location. Usually, birthdays, weddings, stag parties, and other events can benefit from a portable bar.

So who can make money with a portable bar?

  • Bartender – The most obvious person who can turn mobile bartending into gold is someone who has experience bartending in the past. You’d have practice talking to people and first-hand knowledge of working the tools of the trade.
  • Owner of a Bar – Like the bartender, you know how to work the bar and communicate with your patrons. You may not know many fancy mixes as your bartender, but having a menu card for drinks can solve this problem quick. If your in-house bartender is OK with working extra hours, you can find bartending jobs on his behalf in exchange for carrying the bar’s name.
  • Caterer and Restaurant Owner – Entrepreneurs in the catering, dining and restaurant industry can also include mobile bartending packages into their regular services, hitting two birds in one stone.

The person who can make the most money with mobile bartending is the one who chooses to roll with portable bars on a full-time scale. If you do this only as a side gig, then you’ll earn less money. It’s that simple.

Pros & Cons to Bartending

Bartending isn’t something people would call a career – it’s usually a temp job while waiting for something better.

For example, working students in need of cash, actors working their way up, and so on.

Fortunately, the stigma of bartending as a temp job can now end as more and more people find success in bartending private events either as a freelancer or business owner.

However, you still have to weigh the pros and cons of mobile bartending to determine if this income-generating gig is something you’d like to pursue:

Pros of Mobile Bartending

The main advantage of bartending for events is the flexibility it gives you.

You can have a day job and work on your mobile bartending at night or during weekends, but it’s totally up to you if you want to be aggressive with your schedule or not.

You can even lie low for a while and pick up your bartending right where you left off.

Aside from the flexibility mobile bartending brings, there are several advantages to this income potential:

  • Good money – A freelance bartender can earn $25 to $50 an hour. In events like weddings that have strict hours at venues, bartending gigs may be packaged as two- or three-hour work and priced $200 to $500.
  • Free Food – You’ll be hired to cater events, so most jobs involve free food and drinks. And
  • Networking – Because the job isn’t as hectic as bartending in nightclubs and similar venues, you’ll be able to communicate with guests more properly and if you’re lucky, make connections for future business.
  • Fun – If you love every part of bartending, you’ll appreciate it more with a mobile bar since you’re not stressing about long work hours and you get to enjoy the party.

Cons of Mobile Bartending

Of course, mobile bartending isn’t for everyone.

This is especially true for people who feel their weekends are sacred days for family or church, or that you prefer working in the mornings.

Holidays are also in-demand for events, so if you want to earn as much as possible, you might have to miss a lot of holidays in exchange for mobile bartending jobs.

Another problem with this business is that it can have downtimes on certain seasons, which means the gigs you receive around Christmas time cannot match slower months such as August. This directly affects the money you earn, so you have to take note.

Bartending Gigs: Where to Find Event Bartending Jobs

If you’re already a bartender and have known the industry inside and out, you’ll probably have an easier time finding event bartending jobs than the rest. However, if you’re new to this and have no networking in place yet, here are some websites that list bartending gigs:

  • ShiftGig– Catering and restaurant businesses (tagged as “I’m a business”) post jobs to find qualified people to work in and out of the kitchen. Event bartending jobs listed here will include number of hours for shifts needed.
  • iHobNob – Looking for employment in the food and drink industry? Post your resume here or find bartending jobs with a quick search.
  • Good Food Jobs – This site supports a wide range of businesses from farms to restaurants in their search for waitresses, bartenders, and other people in the food industry.
  • FoodForce– Beginners to senior-level positions are available here, but mostly from companies offering specialty and natural foods.
  • Proven – On this site, bartenders and other skilled workers can post their skills and need for employment directly on company’s Proven profiles.
  • Poached– This staffing solution is aimed at giving jobs for bartenders, restaurant workers, baristas and so on.

These sites are just the tip of the iceberg – you can find a many more specific to the food industry.

10 Things You Need to Start Bartending Private Events

Mobile bartending isn’t a new business, but there are not enough guides around to show freelancers how to start bartending private events.

If you’re serious about bartending on-the-go, here are 10 things you should know:

1. Business plan

Even if you’re starting a mobile bartending business small, you still have to craft a plan. Do your research, compute in/out finances, and create a feasible business plan.

2. License and permits

If your bartending gig requires you to sell alcohol, you or the event venue owner should obtain a Temporary Events Notice (TEN).

For private parties like weddings, the host usually pre-pays the drinks so guests could consume them at the event.

Large-scale events obtain permits that often include alcohol license as well.

3. Insurance

Liability insurance is a part of the business permit requirement, since this insurance will help you cover expenses if any accident occurs during the event.

4. Register the business

If you have big plans for your mobile bartending, make sure to register your business before making big investments.

5. Get Equipment

Aside from obtaining the ice and drinks, you’ll also need basic equipment like coolers, bucket, trash bin, tables, knife, utensils, cutting board and glassware.

6. Build a website

The easiest way for bartenders to book gigs is to let guests find you.

Create a fully functional and engaging website, which will serve as your digital “calling card.”

7. Get a social media game

Know the ropes how to become popular for every social media profile available.

Bartending can be competitive, especially in smaller towns, so step up your game because your social media presence can even make or break your business.

If you’re not sure how to take advantage social media, here’s a more comprehensive guide to follow for Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

8. Expand your network

As a business owner and bartender, it’s your job to continuously build your network for future gigs.

9. Specialize

If the city you’re based in has plenty of competition, you can choose a niche to specialize on.

There are portable bars that cater exclusively to wines, or craft beers.

Some bartenders choose to go with cheaper drink “stalls” and on-the-go trolley bars, while others go with more expensive, motorized vans or vehicles ala-foodtrucks.

10. Be original

The easiest way for people to notice you (and recommend to other people) is to create a buzz.

Make your bartending gig fun and guests around you will notice.

Invent drinking games, create challenges, and so on.

If you’re lucky, you can even get your gimmick viral. However, make sure you’re organized enough to keep a 12-month gig calendar to accommodate them once the demand increases.

Go Freelance or Stay Employed?

Bartenders employed with a nightclub, bar, restaurant, or hotel will have no problem with income, since they are technically still working on an 8-to-5 shift.

On the other hand, a freelance bartender will more likely be able to start his/her own business.

Running a mobile bartending business is possible even if you want to just pick up gigs here and there.

Of course, it is better to set-up a legitimate business and become a business owner as well, so you don’t have to worry about licensing and permits once you decide to go big.

Whichever route you take, your bartending skills and networking will be the reason you’ll get far.

As such, make sure to practice your bartending skills regularly and improve your knowledge with cocktails, drinks and everything in between. Marketing your brand and advertising your mobile bartending business everywhere you go should be a priority.

Follow These 30 Smart Money Saving Tips To Spend Less

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There are more money saving tips than just putting money aside into a savings account or money market account.

Those things are important and shouldn’t be ignored, but the true essence of saving money absolutely lies in spending less.

Read on for everyday money saving tips that will help get you on track to spending less so you can save more.

There’s no denying that money is an essential tool that gets us what we want and need. Although, those wants are usually unnecessary expenditures that can easily be cut.

Not that this means you shouldn’t have fun – it’s your money and you worked hard for it. Life isn’t just about paying bills after all. But the beautiful thing about saving money is that you can tighten the coin purse a little and still have your cake too.

Here are my top money saving tips to reduce spending in every aspect of your life.

30 Money Saving Tips You Can Apply Today

I’ve broken down the top tips in a few main categories.

Check them all out. You may be surprised when you look at your finances how much money you are simply throwing away.

Saving Money Starts at Home

1. Avoid and unsubscribe

Temptations come in all forms, and online shopping is a big problem for some.

Try to unsubscribe from a few marketing newsletters and limit your visits to your favorite shopping sites. That way you’ll be less likely to buy things impulsively.

Also, remind yourself to not buy what you don’t need and can’t afford. Place a sticky note on your monitor if you must.

2. Maintain your house, car, and appliances

It’s frustrating when something breaks, especially when you have to fork over hundreds of dollars to repair or replace it.

Instead, try to keep up with regular maintenance of your car and house.

It’s much cheaper in the long run to maintain something than having to fix it.

3. Negotiate, negotiate, negotiate

My best money saving tip for the home simply involves paying less for things like bills.

Call around to get the best deals on house and car insurance, and don’t be shy about letting the company know you’ve gotten a better deal – they will try to beat it.

4. Refinance Your Mortgage

Have a look at your mortgage and interest rate.

Refinancing is a good option if you can get your interest rate reduced, which is likely to happen if you’ve been paying on time for years.

Plus, your credit score might be better now than it was back when you applied.

5. Scrimp where you can

We’re often guilty of using more of certain things than we have to.

For instance, the washing powder sold today is extremely concentrated and you only have to use a little to get your clothes clean, usually even less than the packaging suggests.

6. Turn down the heat

Water heaters are almost always warmer than they need to be. The Department of Energy recommends that a water heater should be set to 120 degrees.

Also, if things are too warm in the house, consider closing the blinds or curtains in the room (a very effective method for keeping the heat out) instead of turning on an aircon or fan.

7. Grow your own

It’s much cheaper to grow your own food and many vegetables and herbs can grow in pots so you don’t even need a big yard to do it.

Entertainment Money Saving Tips

8. Find free activities

When you’re bored, find free activities like going for a hike and bringing a picnic instead of walking around the mall aimlessly and later walking out with a bunch of stuff you didn’t need and a meal at an attached restaurant.

9. Find cheaper alternatives

Things like cable bills can be cut in favor of streaming services.

These are often cheaper and provide the same amount of entertainment.

10. Try hobbies that get cheaper over time

Boardgames, for instance, may seem relatively costly when you initially buy them, but they’re one of the cheapest forms of entertainment.

It’s a one-off expense and you and others can get dozens or even hundreds of hours of fun out of it.

11. Look for discounts

Get the early bird tickets or keep track of your favorite places and see when they have discounts. Theme parks often have seasonal discounts.

Groupon is also still running. If you haven’t heard of this company yet, I suggest you read up on them now.

Money Saving Ideas For Shopping

12. Get crafty

Shopping may be a cathartic experience for some, but getting creative can feel just as fulfilling, and it’s often cheaper too.

You can make your own soaps, gifts, art, and even furniture.

13. Do it at home

Make your own breakfast and coffee at home in the morning instead of stopping for fast food or paying for the cafeteria at work.

14. Write a shopping list

Write down a shopping list (not when you’re hungry!) and stick to it when you go to the store.

That way you won’t impulsively buy treats.

15. Try the store brand

What name brand products do you use that could be replaced with the store brand?

If you hate it, go back to name brand the next month, but if you don’t notice a difference then you can save that much every time you buy.

Start with toiletries (toilet paper, paper towels, kleenex, shampoo, toothpaste, etc.).

16. Use rewards cards

Lots of retailers and shopping centers have rewards cards that you can use to both save money and earn rewards like points or cash.

17. Quality over quantity

People usually think it’s better to buy cheap clothes or furniture but prioritizing quality can be cheaper in the long run.

It’s better to buy more expensive clothes that last for years than having to buy new pieces every season.

18. Eat out less

Cook more because it’s cheaper and you can reuse ingredients.

Instead of going out with friends, rotate who’s house you go to and make meals together or have everyone bring something.

19. Pick the cheaper option

When you do eat out at restaurants, first scan the menu for the cheapest items and see if they sound good.

You don’t always have to order the cheapest thing, but might as well check it out before jumping right to that $50 steak.

Most restaurants give you so much food that you end up with leftovers. Consider skipping an appetizer/upgraded sides.

Plus alcohol and drinks always have big markups at restaurants and you can save by opting for water (it’s healthier too).

20. Sell & Buy Cheaper Gift Cards

I talked about Cardpool a few years ago, but it’s still going strong, and a good way to save money through gift cards.

The basic premise of the site is that you can sell any gift cards you don’t want to use and, if you want, you can also buy discounted gift cards other people are selling on the site.

Saving on Transportation

21. Carpool

Do any of your co-workers live near you?

You could carpool and save money on gas and put fewer miles on your car for future car repairs.

22. Use public transportation

Public transportation is a cheaper alternative to driving yourself and you can try to find coupons or online deals that make it even cheaper.

Of course, this money-saving tip only works if there’s a reliable public transport system in your area.

23. Walk when things are nearby

Do you drive to places that are close by?

Could you walk or ride your bike?

Bonus – if you get extra exercise like this maybe you can cut your gym membership.

Saving on Healthcare

24. Use generic brands

Try the generic over-the-counter medicine and ask your doctor for generic alternatives when he/she is writing out a prescription.

25. Be healthy

Being healthy means you’ll have to spend less on your health overall through fewer visit to medical professionals.

It can also mean a reduction in your health insurance.

26. Let go of unhealthy habits

Stop smoking.

It’s expensive.

27. Exercise at home

There are plenty of ways to get a workout at home (YouTube can help, depending on what type of workout you want) and forego the expensive gym membership.

Save Money While Traveling

28. Try credit rewards cards

When used correctly, a credit card can be beneficial in more ways than one.

Many credit card companies offer travel rewards cards that collect points you can redeem for either cash or cheaper travel. There are plenty of cards to choose from these days.

29. Try backpacker hotels

Sure you’ll have to share the facilities with a few other people, but if you spend less on accommodation then you can both save and spend more on things like food and attractions.

There are plenty of tips online on how to choose a backpacker hotel and how to stay safe no matter where you are.

30. Make friends in new places

A great thing about the internet is that it’s possible to become friends with anyone anywhere in the world.

Take advantage of that and get a penpal who you can stay with when visiting a new country.

If you’re keen on saving for your next trip in addition to while you’re traveling, you can also check out these 20 ways to save for a vacation.

The Bottom Line

Changing spending habits to save money can be easy if you put your mind to it.

One final tip: Think of time worked instead of dollars spent.

That way, you’ll get a new perspective on spending money. For instance, if you want to buy something for $100, think of how many hours you had to work to afford that thing and then consider whether it’s worth it.

If you have any great money saving tips of your own, share them in the comments!

How to Save Money and Raise Your Bank Balance

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Life always seems to be getting more expensive and saving up for anything can seem like a daunting task when every cent counts. Here are my tips on how to save money – whether you’re saving for a big splurge or a rainy day.

I normally talk about all the different ways there are to make money, and while there are plenty, it’s just as important to think about what you’re going to do with that money once you get it.

Not to get preachy here, but:

One of the benefits of making side-cash is that it’s easier to save that money than your regular income because it’s cash that wouldn’t have been in your pocket anyway.

Resist the urge of overspending and follow some of these savings tips. Start saving now and you too can have more than a gum wrapper and some old gift cards in your wallet when the inevitable end of the month rolls around.

The Best Way To Save Money

I could give dozens of small tips and tricks about saving money but that won’t matter to someone who isn’t committed to following them.

A big element of saving money is having the right mindset.

Truly, the best way to save money is to simply make a mind-shift towards a more frugal way of living. That’s half the battle won.

Of course, knowing how to save money is the other half. In all my research, I’ve found that the best way to save money is through a savings account.

Why choose a savings account?

It yields lower interest than some other methods like money market funds and high-yield bank accounts, but it’s also the lowest-risk option.

Money in a savings account (in the US at least) is also insured up to a certain amount by the FDIC, making it a very safe and secure method of putting away your hard-earned income.

Plus, savings accounts typically don’t allow the money to be drawn through normal methods like check-writing or they limit the number of times per month you can withdraw, which can result in less spur of the moment spending.

Top Ways to Save Money in 2019

I went digging and found some general tips as well as more in-depth methods of saving money through a savings account.

5 General Savings Tricks

1. Establish a Budget

Your budget is your first line of defense against spending what you don’t have, but it’s also the only way you’re going to know how much you can save.

You can either take pen to paper or go the digital route (there are plenty of nice budgeting apps out there) and start taking all of your expenses into account. It’s probably best to save up all your receipts for the first month to see what your spending habits are like and then set up a fixed budget from there.

Make sure there’s a savings account on the debits side of your list.

2. Save Where You Can

One of the most common benefits of setting up a budget is that it allows you to see where you can cut expenses and save more.

There are almost always places where we can scrimp a little so we can put the difference into a savings account.

3. Plan Ahead

Planning ahead is the easiest way to save money.

Say you’re going to a festival or planning a trip; the only way to know you’re not going to overspend is to plan your way through it. Things like meals, travel expenses, and buying souvenirs can all be planned ahead.

On a side note: If you’re serious about saving up for your next vacation then check out my guide on the top 20 ways to save money for your next vacation – without the stress!

4. Set Up Saving Goals

Having a goal to work towards assures success more often than not when it comes to saving money.

Short-term goals are better than long-term ones because it feels easier to aim for $50 a week, for instance, than trying to save $1000 in 3 months.

5. Find Those Discounts

There are plenty of ways to spend less and save money. Finding discounts is one of the most common ways to do just that.

Newspapers, some blogs, and supermarket fliers usually have discounts or coupons and it’s easy to stay up to date. In fact, plenty of people only buy certain stuff when they’re on discount.

Also, look out for seasonal discounts on clothes and events like Cyber Monday for big-ticket items like electronics.

Then put the difference between the item’s original price and discounted price into your savings account.

4 Easy To Follow Ways to Save Money

1. Set Up an Automatic Savings Plan

Many banks or employers allow you to auto set a portion of each paycheck to go into a retirement account or savings account.

You can discuss this with either your HR person at work or with your bank.

This way, the saving is done automatically for you every time you get a paycheck. What makes this so easy is that, after a while, you don’t even see that money as spendable income anymore since it automatically goes into your savings account.

2. Save Any Unexpected Gains

Whether it’s a present from a relative, tax returns, or a bonus at work, getting money unexpectedly is always a nice surprise.

Sometimes, that cash comes in handy for things we really need, but usually, most people just end up spending the cash because it’s there. Instead, opt to put that windfall into a savings account so you can boost your savings with cash you wouldn’t otherwise have had.

3. Throw Away Your Loose Change… Into Your Savings

Loose change might not seem like much, but you’d be surprised by how quickly it can all add up.

The next time you receive change, throw all of that into a container to take to the bank. They have change counters that can quickly count all those coins and bills so you don’t have to.

4. Get Bigger by Eating Out Less

Yeah this is a pretty common tip, but that’s because it works. Eating out can be cheap depending on where you go, but it becomes expensive when you do it a lot.

Buying and making food at home is much cheaper in the long run because you get a lot more out of the ingredients. The money you save by eating at home can then help your savings account grow instead.

Hunker Down and Try These 6 Serious Money Saving Tips

1. Limit Buyers Remorse

One way to save money is by waiting before you make any big purchases.

Impulse buying is the mortal enemy of any budget and all money experts agree that it’s good to wait a few hours before buying an item, preferably 24 hours if you can.

2. Match Up Your Spending and Saving

When you buy any non-essential items, match up your savings first. If you can’t afford to save the same amount that you want to spend, then it’s probably a good idea to forgo that purchase.

Follow-up is key here too:

If you can match your spending and saving, then it’s important to not just give yourself the go-ahead to spend that money but also put the same amount into your savings account.

3. Start a Separate Account for Big Purchases

This might seem like a pain to do, but it pays off in the end because you don’t end up accidentally spending that money on something else.

It might take a couple of months before you buy that thing you want, but you’ll know it’s something you want and you won’t be paying the interest you would have been paying if you had put it on a credit card.

4. Get an App That Rounds Up

A lot of people pay through digital methods like Samsung Pay and Zapper these days.

Apps are extremely convenient and this convenience also extends to apps that help you save.

Qapital and BoostUp are two examples of apps that “round up” your purchase and put the difference into a savings account. There are plenty of variations, including ones that invest your change or automatically save money in your debit account based on your purchasing habits.

An app can be an easy way to start saving money without even thinking about it.

5. Wait as Long as You Can Before Creating New Debt

Try to wait as long as possible to buy a new car, for instance, if your current car is already paid off. Each month without that car payment is money that can go directly into your savings account.

6. Opt for Cash Instead of a Card

People find it much easier to give away money when they don’t actually see that money going out of their pockets.

Using cash is a good way to keep track of how much you’re actually spending and usually helps keep overspending in check.

The Bottom Line

Saving money can seem just as complicated as getting it.

But just like there here are easy ways to make money, saving money can be a cinch too if you know how to do it and stick with it.

48 Free Baby Samples for Expecting Parents

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Everyone knows babies are expensive, but free baby samples can help alleviate some of the costs.

If you’re a new parent, you most likely just realized how wet wipes and diapers can add up and actually put a dent on your monthly budget.

As a slightly more experienced parent, I’m here to tell you that’s it’s perfectly OK and normal. Most middle-income American families spend about $13,000 per child every year.

This is the reason you should grab every freebie you can get. There is a lot of free baby stuff to be found all over the Internet.

You just need to know where to look.

Where to Find Free Baby Stuff

It can be very overwhelming to go through thousands of websites. I know it firsthand. To create this post, I’ve visited all of them.

But here’s how you can categorize them easier:

• Companies with Baby Products or Services

Companies like Huggies, Pampers, Avent, etc. are all vying for your love. They want you to choose them. And they’re willing to give away baby stuff for free, so you and your baby could try out their products and hopefully become a loyal customer for at least 2 to 3 years.

Most of the time, you need to register with their respective websites and become a part of the “club.” It’s free, so go crazy with joining all of them.

• Coupon, voucher and rewards sites

You can find coupon websites aimed exclusively for parents (or a general one), but both types of sites give you access to vouchers or coupons with discounts ranging from 5% to whopping 90% off.

• Online stores and other Websites to Join or Bookmark

General stores like Target, Walmart, Costco, and other similar stores, as well as smaller companies selling baby stuff may also offer freebies every now and then. Sometimes, the freebie can be a welcome gift, seasonal offers, and so on.

• Websites that send out free baby samples by mail

These websites are special because not all deals you see will send out samples by mail 100% free. This types of offers can fall under any of the three categories above; the main difference is that you can actually receive baby products directly on your doorstep.

48 Ways to Get Free Baby Samples

First, create a FREE Amazon Family account if you have a newborn or a new baby on the way.

They will ship you giant welcome box FILLED with all kinds of free baby stuff. Plus, you get insane discounts on baby essentials and cash back bonuses.

If you’re new to this parenting thing, it’s good to get as much free baby samples as you can, especially from diaper companies, milk and other items that you’d use most often from the time your baby is born and the next 24 months after.

  1. Huggies – Aside from the Rewards system that allows you to keep earning points and exchange them for Huggies products, the company also has sweepstakes and coupons straight off the website.
  2. Pampers – Pampers always has an offer for newcomers who are joining its e-mail list. This can be free baby diapers, Ergobaby products, discounts on specific items, or other offers.
  3. Enfamil – Become a member of the company’s “Family Beginnings” and receive vouchers, coupons and a chance at a $25,000 scholarship for your baby. Enfamil isn’t just perfect for expecting moms/dads, the company even gives away milk for toddlers if you request it here.
  4. Luvs Diapers – Register on the site and receive year-round offers, promotions and a chance to win a year’s supply of diapers for your kid.
  5. Similac – Become one of “Similac Strong Moms” and receive free baby samples every now and then, on top of regular discounts and coupons for milk formula.
  6. GoodNites – For potty training moms and dads in need of bedwetting protection, join GoodNites for discounts and freebies.
  7. The Honest Co. – This Jessica Alba’s eco-friendly, wellness brand. You can get an Essentials Bundle or Diapers+Wipes Bundle free by joining the site, choosing your kit, and checking out. You only pay for the $5.95 shipping charge. But make sure to cancel your account sometime in the next 7 days.
  8. Bambo Nature – Bambo Nature sometimes offer freebies on the site, but if you’re already a customer, join the club for its Rewards Program. Newcomers can also take advantage of the company’s own baby registry.
  9. Seventh Generation – Makers of chlorine-free cleaning products, Seventh Generation has also expanded into baby items like diapers, wipes, body wash, lotion, and more. If you’re interested in free baby stuff, join the subscription service and receive a trial package that include a set of diapers and wipes.
  10. Gerber – While Gerber’s website is currently down, the company has been known to offer free samples with its MyGerber program. Call Gerber’s customer service at 1-800-408-7277 to check if they can mail some baby stuff to your area.
  11. Nature’s One – Get free baby formula by registering online, checking out products and choosing the sample SKU when you add the product you want to try into your shopping cart. Click “Add Free Sample” button, answer a quick survey, pay for shipping, and wait for the items at home.
  12. Cuties – Want to try out another diaper brand? Cuties may have ongoing free diaper samples, so make sure to register for its newsletter to be notified whenever free samples become available.
  13. The National Diaper Bank Network – This isn’t a private company (like the rest from this list), but this movement helps low-income families score free diapers they could pick up locally, anytime of the year. Check the website for the assigned contact person per state.
  14. Rufflebuns.com – Use the promo code “RB60OFF” and get a $60 discount, which can buy about three pairs of ruffled baby bloomers.
  15. Baby Box University – Not only can you get a free baby box (where newborns sleep instead of a crib as a way to reduce infant mortality rate), new parents also receive free parenting classes online. The baby box also includes other baby stuff like diapers and wipes. Check if your state is included; You’ll only need to take a quiz to join the program.
  16. BabsyBooks.com – Use the code “GET5FREEBOOKS” and receive baby board books for free. Just pay for shipping fees and you’ll get five board books that would normally cost $40.
  17. BabyLeggings.com – Receive worth $50 of baby leggings (that’s around 5 pairs) as long as use the code SPRING50.
  18. Everyday Happy – Get free diapers and soft bamboo wipes in a free trial box.
  19. CarSeatCanopy.com – Use the code “FREECANOPY1” and get a canopy worth $49.95 for free. You need to pay for shipping, though.
  20. Seven Baby – If you’re interested in baby wearing, you can get a free baby sling (worth $39.95) by entering the code “FREESLING4ME” at the checkout. You need to shoulder shipping fees though.
  21. Dollar Diaper Club – This subscription-based organic diaper company has a free trial that includes 10 wipes and 6 diapers. You just have to pay $5.95 for shipping and handling.
  22. CustomPacifiers.com – Receive 3 free pacifiers that you can customize by entering the code “50261DA82” at the checkout.
  23. NursingPillows.com – Pay for shipping and use the code “PJBABY” to receive a free nursing pillow worth $39.95.
  24. LittleWanderers.com – Get two pairs of baby shoes free by entering the code “SUMMER” at checkout.
  25. Simply Right – Receive a free bundle of wipes and diapers by filling out a form.
  26. LittleFans.com – For parent-to-be’s who are fans of NFL, MBA and NCAA, you can get sports themed baby items like pacifiers, bibs, clothing on the site. Register so you can receive $35 worth of freebies.

This list isn’t complete.

There’s still a chance to get freebies from brands that do not have free baby samples listed on their websites. There’s no harm in asking via e-mail, online chat, or phone. You’d be surprised at how many companies are generous enough to send free baby stuff by mail, especially if you’re willing to shoulder shipping cost.

Of course, be ready for rejection because this doesn’t always work. But sending out baby sample requests are worth your time – after all, it could slash over $500 of your annual expenses for the first few years of your baby’s life.

Free Online Vouchers for Baby-related Stuff

Some of these websites were made exclusively for babies, while others are sources of general vouchers (with baby categories you need to search manually):

  1. Retail Me Not – Get dollar-offs or percentage discounts on baby clothes, food, transportation and other items.
  2. Cash Back Base – Receive cashbacks from baby items you purchase from Amazon. This website only lists down existing deals currently available.
  3. Natural Baby Company – This company has a comprehensive range of baby products from toys to clothing, furniture to transportation, and other items. Every time you buy from this store, you’ll earn rewards. You get 5 points for every dollar spent. You can then use these points to save future purchases, since 100 points can deduct a dollar from your total.
  4. The Baby Cubby – While this site sells baby accessories and furniture like mattresses, strollers, and diaper bags, it also carries basic needs like wipes and clothing. Create an account and you’ll be included in the rewards program automatically. Each dollar you spend on the store gets you back 5 points, which you can use to get more free baby stuff in the future.
  5. TargetRED – This rewards card from Target gives customers 5% cashback anytime, anyday.
  6. Kmart’s Shop Your Way – This is Kmart’s rewards points program, which exchanges 1000 points to $1. Members also receive coupons regularly for exclusive discounts.
  7. Kelly’s Closet – Join the Diaper Dollars Rewards Program and take home free diapers. A dollar spent equals 1 point, which you can use for future purchases. Collect 225 points for $10 gift card, 500 points for $30 gift card, 750 points for $50 GC, and 1000 points for $75 GC.
  8. The Green Nursery’s Baby Books – Collect points or “Baby Bucks” by joining the rewards program, referring friends to join and every time you buy from the store. Every 100 points is worth $1, while every 100 points spent equals $1.

Many people just throw product packaging without a thought. If you’re guilty with this, make sure to double-check packaging since promo codes and freebies are often printed there.

Get-paid-to sites also let you save money for shopping baby items. With these websites, you’ll need to complete a quick task, such as filling out a form, signing up, downloading an app, playing online games, watching videos, shopping online, taking surveys, browsing the web, etc., and rewarded with points (redeemable as cash or vouchers), gift cards, or sometimes PayPal cash.

We’ve got a long, long list of get-paid-to sites featured in the past, such as Swagbucks, Ebates, and InboxDollars, but here are some more sites to check out: TreasureTrooper, Irazoo, SquishyCash, GrabPoints, CreationsRewards, Gift Hunter Club, Perk, Coins Rewarder, SuperPay, Earnably, FreebiePoints, QuickRewards, EarnHoney, Grindabuck, BeFrugal, Loot Palace, ShopAtHome and many more.

These websites often have a sign-up bonus ranging from $1 to $10, which can easily add up if you join them all.

Must-Join Online Stores that Give Away Free Baby Stuff

The following websites are mostly free to join. The following sites are a mix of online stores, parenting communities, magazines, info sites, baby registries, and other websites that you should join and bookmark if you’re looking for free baby stuff.

  1. HelpAMotherOut.org – This organization was built to provide disposable diapers to low-income families in the Northern and Southern California.
  2. Babycenter – As a comprehensive guide for new parents, pregnancy, toddlerhood and everything about babies, this website has a ton of advertisers who are more than willing to enter this target market using free baby stuff.
  3. NeedHelpPayingBills.com – Not only does this organization help people pay their bills during their darkest hours, it also helps parents with free baby diapers.
  4. Freebie Mom – As a master of everything free and for babies, this blog shares vouchers, discounts, exclusive promos, and other deals for the mom wise enough to grab baby-related freebies.
  5. Babysamples.com – This blog does the job for you in searching for new (and old) deals, discounts and free baby samples available across different brands. You don’t need to register; just bookmark the site to check new updates.
  6. Everyday Family – Join the program and enter regular diaper contests (with prizes worth $750). If you’re not lucky enough to win, you still have plenty of information about baby stuff freebies and coupons for baby companies.
  7. Amazon Mom – This program from Amazon gives parents 20% discount on diaper purchases with free 2-day shipping. Newcomers even receive a free trial and $10 Amazon credit if you refer people to the program.
  8. My Momma Taught Me – This blog teaches parents how to get free stuff using online coupons and shopping deals. You don’t have to pay a fee, just follow this momma for good advice.

Companies with baby registries, such as Amazon, Target, Walmart, Kohl’s and others also give out free baby samples to new members. Check out what each of them has in store:

  1. Amazon Family – There are a lot of perks for creating a baby registry here, including 10% discount on items that have not been “purchased” yet, 20% off on diapers, free parenting eBooks, and more.
  2. Babylist – Looking for baby stuff not found in ordinary online stores? You may find it here. And if you’re eligible to receive the free, Hello Baby Box, just pay $4.95 shipping fee and wait for the package to arrive.
  3. Target – You can get Target’s free baby samples worth $100 absolutely free if you decide to sign-up for your baby registry here. The only catch is you’d have to pick up your gift at the nearest Target.
  4. Kohl’s – You won’t find any ads about free baby samples anymore on the website, but you can get up to 20% discount from your in-store purchases or 15% off for the remaining items on your list.
  5. Buy Buy Baby – Register and receive “The Goody Box,” which contains coupons and free baby samples.
  6. Walmart Baby – Receive a free welcome box when you create a baby registry on Walmart. Plus for having price-match guarantee, which means you’ll always be getting the cheapest price of the baby stuff you want.

The Bottom Line

The websites above don’t even make up ALL the ways you can get free baby samples. We’re sure there’s a whole lot more you can find in the depths of the internet and social media. Even Facebook and Reddit have exclusive groups dedicated to landing free baby stuff.

Also look out for photo contests and companies who give away free baby stuff by mail in exchange for a review of the item/s you’ll receive.

When you’re trying to land offers of free baby samples by mail, but find it harder than collecting coupons, you can always earn some other way for extra cash. For example, this long list ways to save money for a vacation can be customized to accommodate your personal “baby shopping cash fund.”

Money you earn from mom-at-home side gigs and remote jobs can also be saved for when the baby comes. Or you can even use up the birthday freebies you’ve collected to shop for the arrival of your baby.

There really is no wrong or right way to get free baby samples. As long as you don’t pay a dubiously large amount of money upfront, there’s no reason not to join all the websites above.

20 Ways of Saving for Vacation Without the Stress

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Whether you’ve promised your kids a trip to Disney, have a personal travel checklist to tick with a month-long stay in Japan, or you’re halfway through your Europe trip fund, it’s no secret that saving for vacation can be super stressful not only financially, but also mentally and emotionally.

But with plenty of side hustle, part-time jobs, and passive income-generating opportunities available these days both online and offline, why stress out?

With proper planning and time management, you can save money for vacation even while you sleep…

Here are 20 tried-and-tested ways you can make and save money.

5 Ways to Earn passive Income

Passive income is defined as earnings you get on a regular basis resulting from a task that require no or little effort to maintain. This means you work hard initially, then reap the benefits of your labor for years to come.

Having a rental property fits the bill quite perfectly, since you won’t have to spend a lot of money anymore after investing in the purchase or construction of your rented property.

When it comes to earning passive income online, these 5 are the most common routes to take:

1. Blog

It may sound so simple, like a girl’s diary of her day-to-day life, but blogging has so much potential no matter the niche you decide to take.

When you share a family’s secret recipe, for example, you can add a photo, video and text instructions in one post. You can incorporate AdSense ads all over your post, and use YouTube for your recipe tutorials.

Within this same post, you can recommend which pans and pots to use and direct your readers where to buy the supplies and equipment you just used. If they buy anything from that store, you get a commission. In short, use affiliate marketing wisely.

Earnings from your blogging will depend largely on how much posting you do, how relatable your topic is, and how much marketing you’re willing to invest in the blog, since let’s face it, you have to spread the word about your blog to attract new people in.

2. Publish an e-book

If you have flair for words and a topic you’re passionate about (magic, physics, making money online, or anything under the sun), publishing an e-book is easier than you think.

And if done right, this business is a set-and-forget kind, so once you’ve written a book, published it as an e-book, and performed some marketing, the potential for passive income is higher. Want to learn how? Check out stories of people who did the ebook business right here.

What’s cool about ebook publishing is that you can even extend you success in online publishing by turning your ebook into audiobook and adding another income stream overnight.

As an example of the money you can pull in with an ebook and audiobook combo, ” if you’re bringing in $1,500 a month in ebook sales, you could expect to make an extra $150 to $300 in audiobook sales.” How awesome is this income possibility for just a couple of days or weeks of work?

3. Create something and get paid for it over and over

Aside from an ebook and audiobook that you technically “create” and get paid over and over for it, you can also do this for other things like:

  • Mobile apps – the demand for these see no decline, but creating mobile apps require high technical skills. Learn how to become a mobile app developer here.
  • Photographs – Take any kind of photographs (even with just your phone), then sell royalties for them. If you’re not a pro, you can check out these 4 apps that pay for your photos.
  • Sewing or craft patterns – Are you a master seamstress? tailor? or just a self-taught patternmaker? You can create one for pet clothes, home decor, clothing, and other items, then sell it on Etsy, on your blog, or even on social media.
  • Graphic design products – Go wild with creativity creating calendars, maps, journal templates, stamps, brushes, background paper and other graphic design products.
  • Greeting cards and comics – Whether you’re good with words, or crazy-good with cartoons, you can get a never-ending paycheck for creating greeting cards.

This is just the beginning.

I’m sure there are plenty of other examples that fall under this category.

4. Master automation

When it comes to earning passive income online, one can truly feel that you’re “earning while you sleep” if you have finally mastered automation.

Here are 4 simple examples of utilizing automation on websites:

  • Set-and-forget a Dropshipping Store – With a dropshipping ecommerce store, you don’t maintain an inventory of products. Instead, you seek suppliers who are willing to ship out orders to your customers once an order comes in from your store. You either pay the supplier a cut for the sale, or earn a referral commission instead. Either way, setting up such a shop can grow quickly if done right.
  • Build a niche website – An educational website packed with information about a specific niche can survive for a long time after the initial set-up. While the first 10 or so pages require hard work, if you provide helpful content, that would be enough to earn followers, ad revenues, memberships, and other income streams of your choice. You still need to update the site eventually though (to keep up with the all mighty Google updates), but it wouldn’t be a daily thing.
  • Comparison site – Another set-and-forget website that could work automated is a comparison site. This can focus on a wide range of things from hosting or domain packages to cameras, mobile phones, any kind of gadgets, home equipment, construction tools, and other things that would benefit from a comparison chart.
  • Directory site – It is one of the oldest types of websites around, but it continues to be a good money earner if you know how to automate the searches, advertising and overall site operations.

5. Become a Print-on-Demand Artist

Print-on-Demand (PoD) allows any person to create designs and showcase them on PoD sites. Once a customer decides to buy your design and have it printed on a t-shirt, canvas, notebook, poster, or any other material, you just sit back and let the PoD site handle everything for you (from printing to after-sales customer support, shipping, and even marketing).

The downside though is that sites like Design by Humans, Threadless and other PoD sites will get a big cut of the sale.

6 Money-Saving Habits You Should Get Used to

You don’t have to actively look for side hustle to save money for your vacation.You just have to do things differently than you’re used to.

You won’t strike rich doing the following things, but you’d be surprised that it could save you money you never even think you were losing before.

1. Walk and earn

Some of these gigs offer monetary rewards, while others give you credits to pay for necessities like medical prescriptions.

2. Get paid to watch TV or movies

Nielsen, the company that rates TV shows and movies, seek the help of regular folk like you and me to give them access to what we’re watching.

This data will earn you $50 a year plus a chance to win prizes as well.

3. Earn money by listening to music

If you love exploring new music and artists, check out ways how you can earn credits from your regular music-listening.

4. Use Ibotta and ShopTracker for Shopping

Available in Google Play and iTunes, this cashback rewards app not only gives you $10 just for creating an account, but also saves you plenty of cash by giving you access to discounts and coupons before checking out from a store.

ShopTracker, meanwhile, pays you to give them access to your Amazon purchase history.

5. Use Bing with Your Online Search

Skip Google and use Bing for your online searching instead. Use this on your mobile as well, and invite friends to switch to earn credits. You can exchange these credits for airline miles, hotel discounts, and gift cards on Amazon, Sephora, Shutterfly and more, along with several fast-food favorites like IHOP, Applebee’s and Starbucks.

If I were you and you’re still plotting how to save money for a trip, join Swagbucks.com to check what day-to-day tasks you can incorporate into your “money saving/ money making” plan.

6. Invest Your Change with Acorns

Install Acorns on your phone today and get a quick $5 just for signing up.

That’s not even the coolest part yet!

Acorns saves your “change” from all the purchases you make for the day and invests it on your behalf. For a $3.5 coffee, the app rounds up the amount to the nearest dollar and sets the 50 cents aside for you.

What’s cool about money-saving opportunities like these is that they don’t have to be exclusively for your “how to save for a vacation” plan. It can be for other long-term savings, such as purchase for a car, your dream espresso machine, and so on.

6 Quick Ways of Making Extra Cash

Saving for vacation funds are hard, but if you’re almost about to reach your target, but need some extra push before your due date, here are 6 ways you can make money online fast:

1. Perform Micro gigs

Easy tasks like creating a logo, writing a Facebook ad, and so on are paid as low as $5, but are everywhere on micro job websites like Fiverr, Roundshelf, Zeerk, Fiverup, SEOClerks, GigBucks and Amazon Mechanical Turk, and more.

Don’t expect fair wages with these websites, but if you’re in need of quick gigs without being put through interviews and exams, micro gigs are the way to go.

2. Install apps

Just install these apps and forget they’re on your phone.

Apps from ShopTracker, ebates, and Nielsen Mobile Panel (among others) will pay you $10 to join install their apps.

3. Sign up to websites and get a “joining bonus”

Here’s another way how to save money for vacation without stressing it out.

Collect a list of websites that will pay you from $5 to $20 just for joining. Samples of these websites include Inbox Dollars, eBates, Swagbucks, ibotta, TopCashback, MyPoints, and etc.

4. Test websites

You don’t have to be a programmer to participate in website-testing. You just have to know what constitutes a good-looking, speedy, and well-functional website…and you can be in.

It’s a quick job too! Each testing only lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and gets you $10 a pop.

Websites like Userfeel and other 15 companies on this list are looking for website testers, so better check them out.

5. Answer Surveys

You’d probably been warned enough about the numerous survey firm scams that have plagued the world wide web for decades. What you probably don’t know is that answering surveys is still one of the quickest ways to make money in a day.

Google Opinion Rewards is a good example of a legitimate survey you can try. There’s also the survey offers from Swagbucks, Inbox Dollars, and reputable survey sites like InstaGC, Earnhoney, and Prizehoney.

6. Write reviews

If you love reading books and leaving reviews online, you can turn this hobby into a money-making side hustle.

Pay for book reviews vary completely on the length of book, literature, or other text available for review, but requirements are lax and the jobs are open for anyone.

These quick-cash tasks can’t be used alone for saving for vacation, especially since many of these gigs only pay you once (or take longer times for the next gigs to appear), but they definitely help if you’re left with only a couple of hundred dollars until your target date.

3 Old-school Methods of Raising Funds

As long as you’re not doing anything illegal, you can always include traditional fundraising methods in planning how to save money for vacation.

1. Sell online

You can sell clothes, old toys, books you no longer have space for, or anything else you wish to dispose but other people may still find useful. There are even apps made specifically for online selling.

Don’t know which marketplace to move your stuff? Here’s a quick online selling guide.

2. Help others

You’d be surprised that you can save money for vacation simply by finding ways to help other people. For example, check with your neighbors who are planning to go on a vacation themselves and volunteer to be a house sitter (this is a legit career for most people, so I’m sure your neighbors will be more than happy to pay you to keep their home safe).

Other ways of helping people while earning extra cash include:

3. Get an online job

If you just finalized a destination for your next vacation, targeted a date, or began planning for ways to save money and earn extra income, taking on an online job could be a huge game changer.

You don’t even have to get a full-time, online job to replace your office-based job. Even a part-time gig that you do after work, or during weekends, could add a dent to your travel fund.

This list of 75 legit online jobs could give you a head-start. You can choose which job/s best fit your skills, time availability, and amount of cash you need for your vacation.

The Bottom Line

It’s up to you which method to choose – pick one from each category, do it all, whichever you feel could help you reach your target.

Once you’ve experienced saving for vacation fund and successfully reaching your goal amount, I’m sure you’d use this fundraising plan continuously.

As always, I recommend choosing one passive income-generating opportunity with any side hustle. Having this kind of income stream goes beyond saving for vacation – it’s saving for your future as well.

How to Get Free Stuff on Your Birthday: 200+ Things to Claim

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Did you know that you can get a ton of free stuff on your birthday?

Yup, that’s right! Companies will reward you just for being born.

Okay, most of these are meal ideas and odds are, you aren’t going to visit 100 some different restaurants.

But with all these possibilities, there’s a good chance your favorite spot is in this list below.

All you have to do is join a company’s e-mail newsletter or its membership club. Most of these birthday freebies require no fees (they’re absolutely free), but you do have to fill-in some personal info like birthday, e-mail address, phone number, and so on.

Don’t let your birthday blues get you down. Spend as little cash as possible on your big day.

Check out this huge list of free birthday meals, pampering birthday freebies, and other experiences made free by companies that want to make you feel special on your birthday.

Free Stuff on Your Birthday: The Breakdown

This list is rather massive, so here are so links to help you jump around:

1. Free Birthday Meals
2. Free Birthday Sweets, Treats and Drinks
3. Free Birthday Drinks
4. Birthday Discounts
5. For the Kids & Pets
6. Beauty and Birthday Makeup Freebies
7. Free Movies & Games

Free Birthday Meals

free birthday meal

1. Abuelo’s

Freebie: Offers vary

How to Claim: Join the Rewards club

2. Au Bon Pain

Freebie: Free birthday lunch

How to Claim: Join Au Bon Pain’s eClub

 3. Aveda

Freebie: A birthday gift worth $23

How to Claim: Join Aveda’s Pure Privilege for $10

4. Backyard Burger

Freebie: Free burger and special discount

How to Claim: Become an e-club member

5. BD’s Mongolian Grill

Freebie: Free entrée

How to Claim: Be a part of Club Mongo

6. Benihana’s

Freebie: $30 birthday certificate

How to Claim: Register for the Chef’s Table

7. Bennigan’s

Freebie: Free entrée or dessert

How to Claim: Sign up for the eClub

8. Bonefish Grill

Freebie: Get a special birthday gift

How to Claim: Become a Bone Fish Grill Insider

9. Buca di Beppo

Freebie: $20 birthday gift

How to Claim: join the Eclub

10. Buffalo Wild Wings

Free birthday wings

Freebie: FREE snack-sized order of wings

How to Claim: Join Buffalo Wild Wings Blazin’ Rewards and claim 7 days before or 7 days after your birthday

11. Burger King

Freebie: free birthday meal

How to Claim: Parents of kids (under 13) should sign them up for BK Crown Club

12. Black Angus Steakhouse

Freebie: Free birthday meal on the house

How to Claim: Become a Prime Club member

13. Bob Evans

Freebie: Free meals for kids

How to Claim: Dine in exactly on the birthday

14. California Pizza Kitchen

Freebie: free CPK kid’s meal if you celebrate there

How to Claim: Book a  birthday party with CPKids

15. Captain D’s

Freebie: Receive a special birthday treat

How to Claim: Join D’s Club

16. Carrabba’s Italian Grill

Freebie: Get a free appetizer

How to Claim: Join Carrabba’s Amici Club

17. Cattlemen

Freebie: Free birthday treat on your birthday

How to Claim: join the Cattlemens E-Club

18. Champps

Freebie: Special birthday gifts (either dessert or cheeseburger)

How to Claim: Join the MVP League

19. Charlie Brown’s Steakhouse

Freebie: Receive a birthday surprise when you visit

How to Claim: Obtain a Handshake Club Card

20. Cheeburger Cheeburger

Freebie: Get birthday freebies via e-mail

How to Claim: Become a member of the Fan Mail club

21. Cheeseburger in Paradise

Freebie: Get a birthday surprise

How to Claim: sign up for the Board Member Club

22. Chili’s

Freebie: Get free chips and guacamole, plus special birthday coupons

How to Claim: Join My Chili’s Rewards Club

23. Chevy’s Fresh Mex

Freebie: Get a birthday freebie

How to Claim: Join the e-Club

24. Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-a Birthday Freebies

Freebie: get a special birthday offer

How to Claim: Register as an Email Insider. Make sure the branch you go to honors this promo since birthday freebies are the discretion of the franchise owner.

25. Chuck E. Cheese’s

Freebie: Receive free tokens to help celebrate your child’s birthday

How to Claim: Join the Chuck E-Club

26. Denny’s

Freebie: Get a free Grand Slam on your birthday

How to Claim: Bring your ID to the nearest location

27. Don Pablo’s

Freebie: Get a $10 gift card on your birthday

How to Claim: Become a member of the Habaneros Club

28. Duke’s Seafood and Chowder

Freebie: Get a birthday entree

How to Claim: join the Duke’s VIP Club

29. El Torito

Freebie: Free entrée on your birthday

How to Claim: join El Torito’s Bull Ring email club

30. Elephant Bar

Freebie: Get a birthday surprise

How to Claim: Become a Rewards Club member

31. Famous Dave’s

Freebie: Free birthday meal (either a burger or sandwich)

How to Claim: While this varies between locations, you can get your birthday treat after joining the Famous Nation club. Make sure to get your birthday treat a week before or after your birthday.

32. Fazoli’s

Freebie: Receive a birthday surprise

How to Claim: Become a member of the eFamily

33. First Watch

Freebie: Get a healthy birthday treat

How to Claim: Sign up as a member of the Sun eClub

34. Firehouse Subs

Freebie: Claim a FREE medium celebratory sub on your birthday

How to Claim: Sign up for Firehouse Rewards before your birthday. You can get the treat 6 days before or after your birthday.

35. Fire Mountain

Freebie: Get a free entrée

How to Claim: Register at the Fire Mountain site days before your actual birthday.

36. Furr’s Fresh Buffet

Freebie: free lunch or dinner on birthday

How to Claim: Become an e-club member

37. Godfather’s Pizza

Freebie: Get a free mini pizza if you dine here on your birthday

How to Claim: Make sure you’re a member of the eClub

38. Good Times Burgers

Freebie: Receive a free deluxe burger or a special birthday treat

How to Claim: You have to be a Good Times e-club member first

39. Genghis Grill

Freebie: Receive a Free Birthday Bowl, appetizer or dessert (depending on how often you’ve visited Genghis Grill in the last 12 months.

How to Claim: Join Khan’s Rewards

40. Green Mill

Freebie: FREE small one-topping Deep Dish Pizza for your birthday

How to Claim: Join the Green Mills Rewards Club

41. Habit Burger Grill

Freebie: Get a special birthday treat

How to Claim: Join the Charclub online.

42. Hard Rock

Freebie: Get annual birthday offers at the Hard Rock café and rock shops

How to Claim: Join Hard Rock Rewards

43. Havana Central

Freebie: Free birthday meal

How to Claim: Sign-up for Havana Central’s VIP List

44. Hot’s Hut

Freebie: Get treated with a birthday gift

How to Claim: Become a Preferred Guest weeks or months before your birthday

45. Houlihan’s

Freebie: Get a birthday entrée free of charge

How to Claim: Adults (21 years old and older) must sign-up for the email club before claiming the bday treat.

46. HuHot

Freebie: Free birthday treat and appetizer

How to Claim: You have to join the loyalty program and sign-up for HuHot Rewards

47. Iguana Mia

Freebie: Free birthday meal and fried ice cream (plus a picture with a grande sombrero)

How to Claim: Dine on your actual birth date (preferably around 2 to  6pm) and provide proof with an ID or birth certificate

48. IHOP

Freebie: Get a free stack of Rooty Tooty Fresh and Fruit Pancakes on your birthday

How to Claim: You must join the Pancake Revolution

49. Islands Fine Burgers and Drinks

Freebie: You’ll be given a surprise birthday treat

How to Claim: Sign up for Tiki Link (must be 13 or older)

50. Ivar’s

Freebie: You’re entitled for the Birthday BOGO (buy one, get one) free entrée, so the treat is definitely your choice.

How to Claim: Ivar’s will send you a birthday postcard weeks before your birthday. You have to bring it with you to Ivar’s, along with an ID and your Carte Clam Club card.

51. Jack in the Box

Freebie: If you can choose just 5 out of all the free stuff on your birthday, add this one to your list for a free chocolate overload cake, New York cheesecake or 5-piece mini churros.

How to Claim: You don’t need to sign up, but you do have to print their coupon and prove it’s your birthday with an ID.

52. Jersey Mike’s Subs

Freebie: Get a free drink and sub on your birthday

How to Claim: Join the email club

53. Joe’s Crab Shack

Freebie: Get an appetizer (up to $11) with a choice of clams, shrimp, mussels, fish or lobster

How to Claim: Join Joe’s Catch, print out the birthday coupon they’ll send you and use it alongside a paid adult meal.

54. Johnny Rockets

Freebie: Claim your free birthday burger

How to Claim: You need to sign-up for the Rocket e-Club first.

55. Jreck Subs

Freebie: 6-inch sub freebie

How to Claim: You’d have to sign up for their newsletter

56. Kona Grill

Freebie: The birthday surprise varies each year

How to Claim: Join the Konavore Rewards program by downloading the app or signing up

57. Lander’s Select Club

Freebie: $25 birthday reward will be added to your Rewards card at the start of your birthday month.

How to Claim: It’s the mother of free stuff on your birthday since it home to over 70 other brands of diners and restaurants. You have to get the Rewards Card to claim your birthday treat and other rewards.

58. Lonestar Steakhouse

Freebie: Get a free appetizer

How to Claim: Become an e-club member for a special birthday gift.

59. Longhorn Steakhouse

Freebie: Birthday treat varies by season

How to Claim: You must create a My Longhorn account first.

60. Maggie Moo’s

Freebie: Either get a pizza or ice cream as your birthday surprise

How to Claim: Join the Slab Happy fan club

61. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

Freebie: Free admission

How to Claim: Join the “Birthday fellowship” and reserve one full-priced adult any day throughout your birthday month to claim your free pass.

62. Mimi’s Cafe

Freebie: Get $10 discount for every $20 purchase (or more) on your birthday

How to Claim: Become a member of Mimi’s e-club

63. Moe’s Southwest Grill

Freebie: Claim a free birthday burrito

How to Claim: Join Moe’s eWorld first

64. Noodles & Company

Freebie: Solve your noodle craving with a birthday bowl from Noodles & Company

How to Claim: Download the app or sign-up for Noodles Rewards.

65. Not Your Average Joe’s Kitchen & Bar

Freebie: Birthday surprise

How to Claim: You have to be a Joe’s Insider to get freebies and coupons.

66. On the Border

Freebie: Free bowl of the house signature Queso

How to Claim: Sign up for Club Cantina

67. Papa Murphy’s

Freebie: Claim a free cookie dough

How to Claim: Become a member of the e-club

68. Pepe’s Mexican Restaurants

Freebie: Adult birthday dinner

How to Claim: Join the club for the birthday coupon

69. Red Lobster

Freebie: Varies from branch to branch

How to Claim: 7 days before your actual birthday, you have to sign up for the newsletter and receive Fresh Catch News, or download the app to join Red Lobster Rewards

70. Red Robin

Freebie: Choose 1 from 24 gourmet burgers in the menu

How to Claim: You can claim this birthday burger once during your birthmonth, as long as you’re a member of Red Robin Royalty Program

71. Rita’s Italian Ice

Freebie: Birthday treat

How to Claim: 13 year-olds and up must join the club to get free stuff on your birthday. If your birthday falls during winter months (when Rita’s closes shop), you’d still receive a surprise on your inbox.

72. Romano’s Macaroni Grill

Freebie: Surprise birthday treat

How to Claim: You have to sign up for the newsletter, where you’ll be receiving details of your birthday freebie.

73. Ruby Tuesday

Freebie: Free birthday burger or Garden Bar entree

How to Claim: Redeem this freebie up to 5 days before and 9 days after your birthday, as long as you’re a member of Ruby Tuesday’s So Connected. 

74. Sbarro

Freebie: If you’re a pizza lover, you’d love this free stuff on your birthday brought to you by Sbarro. Get a pizza of your choice.

How to Claim: Make sure to join the Sbarro Slice Society first.

75. Sonic

Freebie: Get a free classic CreamSlush shake as your birthday treat

How to Claim: Become a member of the Sonic Cruisers 

76. Sonny’s BBQ

Freebie: Get a free Big Deal Meal to add to the free stuff on your birthday

How to Claim: Join the ‘Q Crew

77. Souper Salad

Freebie: Claim a free meal anytime during your birthday week

How to Claim: You have to register for Souper Perks

78. The Spaghetti Warehouse

Freebie: Get a free special birthday meal on your birthday

How to Claim: Become a Warehouse eClub member

79. Steak ‘n Shake

free hamburger

Freebie: FREE Double Steak Burger WITH Cheese n’ Fries

How to Claim: You can claim these free stuff on your birthday exactly or 45 days following your birth date. Just make sure to register for the Steak ‘n Shake eClub.

80. Spicy Pickle

Freebie: Get a coupon for a free entrée

How to Claim: Join the Pickle Club

81. Souplantation & Sweet Tomatoes

Freebie: Free veggie buffet

How to Claim: Become a member of the Club Veg and enjoy this soulful meal on the house.

82. Subway

Freebie: If you’re listing down fast food as priority for the free stuff on your birthday, don’t forget Subway’s 20-point freebie that can get you two cookies (at 10 points each) or a bag of chips (15 points.) Or if you already have points being accumulated, then enjoy a subway with these free 20 points.

How to Claim: You should already be signed up to the Subway Rewards Program

83. Texas Roadhouse

Freebie: Free birthday gift

How to Claim: Join the email club

84. Tony Roma’s

Freebie: Get a free entrée on your birthday

How to Claim: Become a member of Tony Roma’s email and text club

85. Uno Pizzeria & Grill

Freebie: Another free entrée for your birthday

How to Claim: Join Uno Insider’s Club

86. Whataburger

Freebie: free Justaburger on your birthdays

How to Claim: Reserved only for Texans and those who visit the state, sign up here to get details about your birthday freebie

87. Wingstop

Freebie: Free order of seasoned fries

How to Claim: Sign up for The Club

88. Wienerschnitzel

Freebie: Claim a free birthday coupon each year

How to Claim: Join the Wiener Lovers’ Club

89. Zaxby’s

Freebie: Free Nibbler on your birthday

How to Claim: Sign up for the Zax Mail

90. Zio’s Italian Kitchen

Freebie: free Bruschetta appetizer and another birthday surprise

How to Claim: Become a member of Zio’s club

Free Birthday Sweets, Treats and Drinks

Free birthday dessert

If you want to add more free stuff on your birthday, but focus on sweets and treats, the following birthday freebies would definitely make any sweet tooth’s birthday complete.

91. A&W All American Food

Join the Mug Club to get a free root beer float

92. Applebees

Sign-up to the Applebees newsletter and get a free dessert on your birthday

93. Arby’s

Register with Arby’s for your free milkshake

94. Atlanta Bread

Become part of the Loyalty Program and get a free cookie

95. Auntie Anne’s

Sign-up for Pretzel Perks, or download the app to get your free birthday pretzel

96. BJ’s Brewhouse

Join BJ’s Premier Rewards and receive a free pizookie on your birthday. A pizookie is a mouth-watering ice-cream-topped deepdish cookie. Claim it 7 days  before or 7 days after your birthday.

97. Baker’s Square

Become an eclub member and enjoy a free birthday pie for you on your birthday!

98 Baskin Robbins

Join the Baskin Robbins Birthday Club to receive a voucher for a free scoop of ice cream on your birthday.

99. Big Boy

Sign up for its Big Boy Email Club and get a birthday freebie dessert.

100. Buffalo Wild Wings

Get a free birthday dessert when you join the Buffalo Circle.

101. Cinnabon

Subscribe to Club Cinnabon, and claim a cinnamon-filled goody for your birthday.

102. Carrows

Join the e-club for a free birthday dessert.

103. Cattlemen’s

New members are entitled to free desserts on their birthdays.

104. Cheesecake Factory

Get a Mini Hot Fudge Sundae on your birthday when you tell your server

105. Cold Stone Creamery

Get a BOGO (buy one, get one) coupon for your birthday once you join the My Cold Stone Club.

106. Cracker Barrel

Get a free dessert (and a lively birthday song too!) when you tell the crew it’s your birthday.

107. Culver’s

Become a member of the Culver’s eClub and get a free birthday treat

108. Dairy Queen

Score a buy-one-get-one Blizzard coupon on your birthday if you’re a member of the Blizzard Fan Club.

109. Del Taco

Enjoy a free premium shake when you print out the birthday coupon given out to Raving Fan e-club birthday celebrants.

110. Driscoll’s

Get a sweet birthday surprise from the suppliers of the finest berries. But you have to join the berry-loving community first.

111 Dunkin’ Donuts

Pass by your local Dunkin Donuts if you’re part of the DD Perks Rewards Program and receive a free beverage as birthday gift.

112. Einstein Bros. Bagels

As a member of Shmear Society, you can claim a free egg sandwich when you purchase something else on your birthday.

113. Friendly’s

Don’t forget to claim your free sundae on your birthday, if you’re a BFF Club member.

114. Fuddruckers

Join the Fuddruckers e-Club and receive your birthday treat offer via e-mail.

115. Great American Cookies

If you’re part of the Cookie Club, you’ll be given a fun, birthday surprise.

116. Gigi’s Cupcakes

If you’re a cupcake lover, be sure to join Gigi’s Rewards Program so you can have a cupcake freebie on your birthday.

117. Hard Rock Café

Get your annual birthday dessert freebie through your Hard Rock Rewards.

118. Jack In The Box

Unlock various coupons when you sign-up for the newsletter. Receive birthday treats too!

119. Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme Birthday

Get your melt-in-your-mouth Krispy Kreme donut freebie on your birthday if you’re a member of the eClub.

120. Lofthouse Cookies

As a member of the Lofthouse Cookies Club, you’ll have access to the birthday coupons that you can claim to receive a free package of cookies via mail.

121. Marble Slab Creamery

Download the Slab Happy App, or sign-up for the newsletter so you’ll be up-to-date once they send in your free birthday ice cream coupon.

122. The Melting Pot

Get crazy with free chocolate fondue on your birthday and you can bring a friend too! Just make sure to join the Club Fondue first. If you buy some of the special items on the menu, you might even get to bring home a box of chocolate-covered strawberries on the house.

123. Ninety-Nine Restaurants

You can claim your free birthday dessert once you join the e-club.

124. Nothing Bundt Cakes

How about some bundlet to add to all your free stuff on your birthday? Sign-up for the eclub and print out your coupon once your birthday month kicks in.

125. Olive Garden

eClub members are given a complimentary dessert on their birthdays every year.

126. On The Border

As a member of Club Cantina, you receive a coupon for Brownie Sundae or Dip Trio for your next celebration.

127. Panera

Join MyPanera club and be able to claim free pastry at their bakery starting 5 days before your birthday until 60 days after.

128. Perkins

Pie lovers unite! Sign-up for MyPerkins and get a voucher for your free slice of pie on your birthday.

129. P.F. Chang

For a free dessert during your birthday month, make sure to join P.F. Chang’s newsletter.

130. Pinkberry

Here’s more sweet, free stuff on your birthday to enjoy! Pinkberry  gives away a free frozen yogurt with the topping of your choice. Just make sure to get a Pinkcard, or download the Pinkberry app, so you can claim it on your exact birthday or 30 days after.

131. Sprinkles Cupcakes

Claim your free birthday cupcake each year, as long as you’ve signed up for Sprinkles Perks.

132. Ted’s Montana Grill

Enjoy your free complimentary dessert if you dine on your birthday. Don’t forget to print the voucher you receive from Ted’s email.

133. TGIFriday’s

Free Friday's Chocolate Obsession

Receive a lively birthday song and free dessert, if you’re part of the Friday’s Rewards program.

134. Tommy Bahamas Restaurant

Claim your free dessert here, too!

135. Village Inn

Get a free slice of pie or other birthday treats if you register for the Village Inn.

136. Waffle House

Join the Waffle House Regulars Club and receive a free waffle on your birthday.

137. Yogurt Mountain

Sign up for the YOMO Club to get a free yogurt on your birthday.

How about some drinks to go with all that yummy free stuff on your birthday?

Free birthday drinks

138. Dead Poet

If you share a birthday with any of the dead poets on this list, you get free beers and a chance to listen to good music too!

139. Orange Julius

If you pass by Orange Julius on your birthday, you can buy one and get one drink free as long as you’re a member of the club.

140. Planet Smoothie

Get a free smoothie on your birthday if you’re a member of the birthday club.

141. Scooter’s Coffee & Yogurt

Register at e-club anytime and check for coupons for your free birthday drink.

142. Starbucks

Starbucks birthday

Get a free birthday drink with your Starbucks Rewards.

143. Tropical Smoothie Cafe

Join Club Tropical and receive your special birthday treat each year.

 

Need to burn some of those calories you just ate? Check out these apps that could give you some cool side cash just by walking around.

Shopping Discounts

Free Birthday Discounts

Not in the mood for food on your birthday?

How about some retail therapy, instead? Aside from restaurant, bars, and other food places, you can also get a ton of free stuff on your birthday by going shopping online, or IRL.

Here are some of the ones you shouldn’t miss out:

144. Ace Hardware

Get $5 off from your total when you use your ACE Rewards to shop on your birthday.

145. Columbia Sportswear

Create an online account and get 20% off on  your birthday.

146. Designer Shoe Warehouse

Sign up as a Rewards Member and receive $5 birthday gift certificate, which you can use throughout your birthday month.

146. Hallmark

Become a Crown Rewards member and receive a free card  on your birthday.

147. Helzberg Diamonds

The registration part is a bit different, since you’ll have to request for a catalog and fill-in your details, but once you do, you’ll receive a birthday surprise.

148. Kmart

Join Kmart’s Birthday Club for a chance to win prizes and receive member-only perks.

149. Kohl’s

Receive your $5 Kohl’s cash birthday gift for Kohl Rewards members, and $10 off from your total if you use a Kohl’s Credit Card for purchase on your birthday month.

150. Landry’s

Join Landry’s Select Club (it does need a one-off $25 fee), but you’ll get priority seating, $25 birthday reward, and $25 off with every $250 you spend at Landry’s.

151. Old Navy

Sign up for Old Navy’s newsletter and receive a special birthday treat.

152. World Market

World Market Rewards Program members receive a $10 off coupon for their birthdays.

For the Kids and Pets

Free birthday gifts for pets

You’re not the only one who could get free stuff on your birthday. Even your kids and pets have coupons, discounts and treats specially offered to them on their birthdays.

153. Barnes and Noble

Sign your kids up for the B&N Kids’ Club, so your child can get a free cupcake on his/her birthday.

154. Dave & Buster’s

Become a Rewards member and receive a $5 free game play on your birthday.

155. Little Tikes

Members of the Birthday Bonus Program receive special promos, discounts and gifts starting 30 days before their actual birthdays.

156. Radio Flyer

Birthday Club members receive a $10 gift card every year on his/her birthday.

157. Toys R Us

If you sign them up for Geoffrey’s Birthday Club (only kids 10 years and under), your kid can receive a free card every year until  his/her 10th birthday, a $3 gift, and a free, in-store celebration (with a balloon, crown, and special announcement). Geoffrey even calls Birthday Club members at home for birthday greetings.

158. Petco

Got furbabies instead? You can also sign them up for Petco’s Birthday Club and receive big discounts on their birthdays.

Beauty and Birthday Makeup Freebies

Free birthday makeup

Your birthday is the time to stock up on all your beauty products and favorite  makeup since you can receive a ton of free stuff on your birthday. Some of them include:

159. Aveda

Sign-up for the Aveda Rewards program and receive a beauty freebie on your birthday.

160. bareMinerals

Join the Friends and Benefits Program for a free matte lipstick on  your birthday. You can claim it in-store, or have it shipped online.

161. Benefit Cosmetics

How about a free brow arch any day during your birthday week? Create an account with Benefit and be on your way. Not all branches offer this though, so better check before you go.

162. Bliss

Register for the Bliss newsletter and receive a birthday surprise.

163. Caudalie

All you need to do is fill-in your details to join myCAUDALIE and receive a surprise birthday gift, which usually includes a kit of beauty products.

164. Clarins

Become a member of the Clarins Family and receive a birthday surprise.

165. Cle De Peau

Receive a birthday gift if you have an active account with Cle De Peau.

166. CVS

Join the ExtraCare Beauty Club, and get $3 ExtraCare bucks on your birthday (it’s valid throughout your birthmonth, too!)

167. Dr. Dennis Gross

Join the VIPeel Loyalty Club and redeem one birthday gift per year.

168. Elemis

Sign up for e-mail updates to receive a surprise on your birthday.

169. Elf

Become a member of the Beauty Squad and get a free gift every birthday.

170. Estee Lauder

Get a birthday gift if you sign up sign up for the Loyalty Program.

171. Fresh

Sign up for the Fresh Family Rewards and receive a free birthday gift on top of other skincare goodies.

172. Gilchrist & Soames

You can get a beauty kit birthday treat from Gilchrist & Soames, just make sure you sign up for the newsletter first.

173. Jane Iredale

Love mineral cosmetics? Sign up for the Beauty Rewards to get your stash on your birthday.

174. Kiehl’s

Join Kiehl’s Rewards program for a free, skincare birthday gift

175. La Roche-Posay

As a La Roche-Posay Member, you receive professional derma skincare products for your birthday.

176. La Mer

At La Mer, you get complimentary skincare items with every order, but if you sign-up for email updates, you’ll also be entitled for a free birthday kit.

177. Lancome

There are tons of free stuff  being given away to Elite Rewards members, but the annual birthday gift is probably the one you should be excited about. Registration is free, so check it out.

178. L’Occitane

Receive a birthday gift if you keep up-to-date with everything L’Occitane-related.

179.MAC

Be one of the millions of makeup-obsessed members of M∙A∙C Select and get a birthday gift every year.

180. Nars

A favorite out of all the stuff you can get for free on your birthday, Nars sends out a birthday gift on the house if you’re registered to the NARS newsletter.

181. NYX

Join the NYX Birthday Crew and claim a free birthday surprise.

182. Ole Henriksen

Get  more skincare freebies  when you sign up for an account at Ole Henriksen.

183. Paula’s Choice

Get an account at Paula’s Choice Skincare and bring home a birthday gift every year.

184. Sabon NYC

Join the Royal Passport to receive a birthday gift.

185. Sephora

Out of the many free stuff on your birthday, Sephora”s giveaways are probably the most popular when it comes to  beauty finds.

186. Shiseido

Shop with exciting rewards, get awesome beauty birthday makeup when you create an account here.

187. Smashbox

Join the rewards program, which entitles you to free makeup during your birthday month annually.

188. SK-II

Sign up for the newsletter and receive a complimentary deluxe sample of their bestselling facial treatment, plus a surprise birthday gift.

189. Skinceuticals

Get access to advanced skincare products on your birthday. Make sure to join the newsletter and print out your voucher.

190. Space NK

Sign up for e-mail updates and get a free beauty kit on your birthday.

191. Sally Beauty

Sign-up for the eNewsletter and get an annual cash-amount birthday gift that you can use to purchase awesome Sally Beauty items.

192. Shu Uemura Art of Hair

Receive up to $17 worth of birthday gifts if you become a My Shu Style member.

193. Tarte

Get an exclusive birthday gift from Tarte Cosmetics once you join the Rewards program.

194. The Body Shop

Become a member of “Being a Love Your Body Club” and receive professional, customized skin care advice and $10 each year to spend on your favorite Body Shop products.

195. Too Faced

Create an account on Too Faced and receive a birthday gift annually.

196. Ulta

Join Ultamate Rewards to receive your free birthday set, which includes a lip mask and lip oil. You can claim this gift any day throughout your birthday month.

197. Urban Decay

Become one of the UD Beauty Junkies and claim your birthday surprise every year.

198. Vichy

Take advantage of complimentary samples, free shipping and a birthday surprise containing anti-aging skincare products if you join the Vichy USA newsletter.

199. Victoria’s Secret

Obtain an Angel Card and receive $10 discount on your birthday.

200. Winky Lux

Visit the Winky Lux website, enter your birthday details at the bottom of the page, fill-in some personal details, and be prepared to get a birthday surprise.

201. YSL

Get a free full-sized birthday gift when you sign up to be a YSL Member

Here are More Free Stuff on Your Birthday to Make Your Day Extra Memorable

Free birthday games

If you’re interested in bowling and other activities, take advantage of more free stuff on your birthday, including:

202. AMF Bowling

Claim a free game on your birthday if you join AMF’s Pinsiders Club.

203. Disney Movie

Get 100 free points for your birthday when you sign up for Disney Movie Rewards.

204. Olan Mills Portrait Studio

Want to preserve your memories of the day? You can sign up for the Birthday Club and your kids (ages 3 and below) can claim a free package on their birthdays.

205. Redbox

Receive a free birthday movie rental at your nearest Redbox kiosk. Just make sure to sign up for the Redbox Play Pass first.

Get as Much Free Stuff on Your Birthday as You Can

Whether today’s your birthday or you have one fast approaching, I do hope you have a great day!

Hopefully this list helps make it extra special.

Note that restaurants and other businesses end or change their promotions often, so consider this list of free stuff on your birthday as a guide. I’ll try to update this often, but if you see a birthday freebie changes, please let me know.

Have fun with these birthday freebies! Let me know which ones you claim!

Use One of These 5 Selling Apps to Get the Most Money for Your Stuff

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Have you looked into selling apps to try and get rid of some of the stuff you’ve hoarded over the years?

There are a lot of options that can leave you completely overwhelmed.

The goal here is to find the best app to sell stuff quickly, cheaply, and to get the most money for your unwanted items.

These apps are mainly designed to sell stuff you have laying around the house locally.

If you are more looking to run a selling business, or you have a lot of inventory you need to move, you may want to look into becoming an Amazon seller and letting Amazon deal with the selling, shipping, and customer service.

Problems Using Apps to Sell Stuff

There are a few drawbacks to using apps to sell your stuff.

Don’t expect to list an item and get full asking price immediately.

These are just some realistic experiences you will face so it’s best to be prepared for the types of interactions that come along with app selling.

Most of these problems will just waste your time, but if you aren’t careful, you can lose your items (or even worse, your cash) to scam artists.

1. Prepare to Haggle

With zero face-to-face communication, everyone becomes an expert at haggling.

Prepare yourself to receive some ridiculous low-ball offers, even if you list your items with a “firm” price.

Free Arm Chair Haggling

Interactions like this are not uncommon.

2. Prepare to be Stood Up

Even if you find a buyer, there is still the chance that they simply won’t show up to pick up the item.

You can try and reach out to them, but I stick with the one chance approach.

Your time is valuable and if they don’t respect that, it’s not worth the trouble.

You could always offer to deliver the item, but make sure you tack on an extra cost.

Gas ain’t free yo.

3. Prepare for Selling Apps Scam Artists

This is the big one.

Scammers are taking to these apps to either steal the items from you via shipping scams, or even worse, using fake checks to steal money from you on top of it.

Never ever ever EVER agree to receive a check and then either ship the item somewhere or return a portion of the check back to the sender.

Scammers will often send out fake checks that will bounce after a few weeks, leaving you high and dry.

They are incredibly easy to catch though. The scammer will often approach you with a price that’s ABOVE what you’ve listed the item. Yes, they offer to send you more money than you’re asking.

Basically, use your common sense:

  1. Never agree to receive anything other than cash.
  2. Stick with local buyers.
  3. And agree to meetup in a safe location or with a friend of family member present.

Follow those three simple rules and you will run into no issues selling your stuff.

What’s the best app to sell stuff?

Well, that depends entirely on what your selling.

Each app below will have its pros and cons depending on the item you’re trying to list.

Personally, I like to deal locally and in-cash. I’m an instant gratification kind of guy. There’s nothing quite like going through stuff I was planning to simply throw out and receiving cash in hand for it.

The biggest drawback to using an app to sell your stuff is that you can also buy things. You could possibly end up with MORE stuff than when you started.

Keep a cool head, remind yourself that you don’t need that Bud Ice Penguin Neon Sign from their super effective 90’s ad campaign and you’ll be fine.

Bud Ice Penguin

On second hand, maybe you should buy it.

5 Best Selling Apps to Help You Get Money for Your Stuff

I’ve found that there are 5 main reasons you would use an app to sell things.

You can sell locally, nationally, instantly, clothes, and books.

One of these 5 apps will cover basically anything you can sell online and help you get the best possible price.

1. Letgo: Best App For Selling Locally

Letgo Selling App Logo

Letgo is going to be your best chance to sell your stuff using an app.

They have quickly become a household name with an estimated 45 million app downloads and 20 million active monthly users.

Aside from craigslist, Letgo will get your items in front of more faces than any other app.

However, Letgo is more of just a show-room, meaning they do not let you actually sell your items directly through the app.

Instead, they will connect you with local buyers and you will need to agree on a price and a time to meet in order to facilitate the sale.

Letgo listing

It’s incredibly easy to get started. You find what you want to sell, take a picture of it (Letgo can even determine WHAT you are selling just by the picture and categorize it accordingly), set a price, and wait for the offers to roll in.

As always, be smart, use common sense, and agree to meet in a safe location. Letgo doesn’t handle your money so you will not lose a percentage of the sale.

2. Offerup: Best App For Selling Nationally

Offerup Logo

Offerup could once be considered Letgo’s little brother.

However, as of May 2018, they have made huge advancements in the selling apps game and now offer buyers to ship their products to sellers across the US.

This opens up your products to basically the entire country and will let people from coast to coast see what you’re selling.

You can still deal with local sellers only and stick to cash, but if you are comfortable shipping your stuff, OfferUp is the way to go.

Offerup Listing

The process is roughly the same as Letgo. Download the app, take a picture, set a price, converse with buyers, and make the sale.

3. Decluttr: Best App For Selling Stuff Instantly

decluttr logo

Not interested in dealing with local creeps and lowballers?

Decluttr is the solution you need.

Decluttr allows you to sell your old CDs, DVDs, books, text books, cell phones, tech products, Legos, and a lot more instantly.

You download the app and scan the items you want to sell. Decluttr will tell you price they are willing to pay for them and will send you a free shipping label to send your stuff directly to them.

Decluttr process

Once your box arrives, Decluttr will send you your payment instantly.

Decluttr allows you to dump your old stuff in a box, drop it in the mail, and get a nice payment for it.

It’s as easy as it gets.

4. Poshmark: Best App For Selling Clothes

Poshmark Logo

If you’ve got a pile of clothes that don’t fit anymore (because you’ve crushed your New Year’s Resolution to drop 25 pounds obviously) and are taking up too much room in your closet, Poshmark is for you.

Poshmark mainly deals in women’s clothes and accessories, but you will find all kinds of categories including: men’s, children’s, handbags, shoes, makeup, and jewelry.

Poshmark listing

The app works the same as all the others.

Take a picture, list it in the marketplace, and wait for a buyer.

Poshmark does have a national audience. This means you will be shipping your products to a customer once you have a buyer.

You will not have to worry about shipping costs though. Poshmark will send you a pre-paid label for expedited shipping.

You will also have purchase protections and the added bonus of not having to find a time a place to meet someone in person.

There are fees unfortunately. Poshmark will take $2.95 on sales under $15 and 20% of the sale price for anything over $15.

You can also opt to keep your money on Poshmark and make more purchases there, essentially trading your clothes for other clothes or accessories. You have all this extra room now, why not splurge?

5. Bookscouter: Best App For Selling Books

Bookscoutr Logo

With Bookscoutr, you give them the ISBN of the book you want to sell, and they instantly search 42 different vendors to find you the best possible price for your old books.

You don’t have to worry about finding the best price yourself, Bookscoutr handles all of that.

Bookscoutr search

Most college bookstores will offer to buy back your textbooks for pennies on the dollar.

It’s insane how much they charge you to buy them and for how little they’ll give you in return.

Check with Bookscoutr first to get the best possible prices for all of your old books and textbooks.

You can also search for new ones to buy. The search works both ways and will search the same vendors and give you the lowest possible prices.

The Bottom Line

Finding the right app to sell your old junk shouldn’t be difficult.

No matter which app you choose, you’ll be receiving money for things that would have otherwise sat there and collected dust.

You’ll have more room and more money.

Just don’t use this as an opportunity to buy more stuff.

How to Get Paid to Design and Sell T-shirts Online

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If you’ve got an eye for style and want to design and sell t-shirts as an online business, you’d be surprised how easy and beginner-friendly this niche has become.

In fact, there are several ways you can launch a shirt business online.

These methods vary based on the effort you’re willing to put into it, the amount of capital you have, and the business model you prefer.

There are two parts to every t-shirt business:

  1. The designing part (which involves your creativity)
  2. The business side (which includes marketing and selling the shirts)

These days, you only need to possess one of the skills to start making money selling t-shirts.

Teespring Marketing

For example, if you know your way around Illustrator, Corel Draw, Adobe Photoshop, and other traditional design software, you can go a long way with various t-shirt design styles.

You don’t even have to be good at selling, since some websites host your designs for a fee and market your designs for you.

On the other hand, if you have a bigger capital fund with strong business skills, you can hire an impressive shirt designer and handle the online selling afterward.

Step 1: Design a Custom T-Shirt

Those who are banking on their creativity to launch an online t-shirt business will most likely use Illustrator, Corel Draw, Adobe Photoshop, any vector-based designing program, or a combination of two or more traditional design software.

If you prefer using built-in shirt design platforms that come with sites like TeeSpring, then you have to master their particular designing platform instead.

If you wish to hire a t-shirt designer either part-time, full-time or on a per-design basis, you could find endless talents on design communities like Deviantart, Dribble, or Behance, among others.

Some of these artists may not be for hire though, so if you want to be sure, you may scout from freelance sites like Fiverr or Upwork. 

You can even find people who are already selling t-shirt designs for a living.

Aside from the image editing or graphic design software, you also have to consider three important things:

a. Determine Your T-Shirt Niche

Ask anyone in the t-shirt printing business and he/she will say that the industry is saturated.

However, this statement changes when you land into a niche worth exploring. The niche could be anything from pop song lyrics with a cat’s meow twist or band logos featuring a unique customization…as long as it appeals a specific market.

Your chosen niche can even be as common as “funny statement shirts,” but with a unique category such as “funny shirts for architects.”

This may seem hard to brainstorm, but once you’ve hit gold on an idea, you’ll know it instantly.

b. Develop Your T-Shirt Brand

You don’t have to compete with global brands like Guess or Givenchy, but your shirts do need to have its own personality to grab your customers’ attention.

Big companies create mission and vision statement before their launch because these serve as guidelines about what your company believes and wants to share to the world.

As a t-shirt printing business, branding is vital to create recognition, build customer trust, guide your advertising and marketing efforts, build financial value to your products, and generate future business.

Branding gives your shirts a distinct personality that customers won’t find anywhere else.

c. Decide on Your T-Shirt Printing

Before you tackle the design and sell t-shirts online, you’ll be faced with operational decisions like this one.

The type of printing to use is a big decision, especially if you are planning to manufacture the shirts on your own (below, we’ll discuss the other option where you don’t have to do anything beyond designing your shirts).

There are several printing methods used in the t-shirt business, but these three are the most popular:

  • Screen printing – You can start small with just basic screens and paint, or go big with massive screen-printing setups. This method is the most labor-intensive, but it is also the most cost effective (especially if you’re working on bulk projects and with minimal colors). As more and more colors are required for a specific shirt design, screen printing becomes an expensive production method. `
  • Heat transfer – This method requires a heat press machine, which means you have to shell out for equipment upfront. The advantage of this method is that you can “print” a full-colored design on a single shirt or dozens of shirts with the same costs so this means you can print on demand. The problem, however, is that heat transfer-produced shirts are known to chip quicker than prints from screen printing.
  • Direct-to-garment – Ideal for designs with intricate details or numerous colors, this method is similar to your inkjet printer at home. A DTG prints the design directly onto the shirt, so expect a higher accuracy and unlimited color options. Unfortunately, the problem with this method is that it isn’t cost effective for bulk printing.

You can use 100% cotton for shirts, or go with the industry-standard cotton/polyester blend.

Note that if you’re going with the heat press route, you need to add pressing time if you’re planning to use 100% cotton shirts.  Finding a good shirt supplier is another task you’d have to check.

Step 2: Sell Your Custom Shirts Online

Now that you have chosen your niche and decided on branding, you have to figure out how to sell your shirts. Here are 3 options for selling your t-shirts online:

a. Create a website, sell your shirts there

It’s super easy to create an online store these days. With ecommerce platforms like Shopify that allow even beginners to build a website with just several clicks, anyone can start selling in just an hour of set-up. 

If you’re familiar with WordPress, HTML or a way to create websites from scratch, then you can do-it-yourself as well and customize the store to your heart’s content.

Cost-wise, you might need to spend anywhere from zero to $20/month in operating an online store. This is on top of the t-shirt printing equipment and supplies.

This route is best for t-shirt companies with its own following, or a startup with a huge upfront capital. It works for entrepreneurs with experience in this field and overall business knowledge.

The advantage of having your own website is that you are totally in control of prices, shipping procedures, promotions, and marketing.

Your brand is also safe from possible closure in the future (some sites do shut down and any hosted stores may be included).

b. Create your design and sell them at t-shirt marketplaces

You still design the shirts and handle production, which means you’d still require capital for equipment, labor, and supplies.

However, instead of working to spread word about your website and sell your t-shirts to the right audience (as with the first route), you join marketplaces like Etsy and sell your products there.

With sites like TeeSpring and SunFrog, you create an account, upload your t-shirt designs and let the company handle everything else (from printing, processing, shipping and post-sale customer support) whenever a customer buys your design.

These sites get a cut from every sale though.

Sunfrog-Tshirt-Commissions

Good thing you have total control about prices, but since there is a lot of competition within the site, reducing prices to compete may be your only choice.

The advantage of this route is that you can jump right into the marketplace even if you’re just new to the industry.

The customers are already there. 

However, the problem with these sites is that they require a minimum amount order per design, which means they only print out your design if 10 or more people order within a given timeframe.

c. Drop-ship your shirt designs via a PoD vendor

In this method, you create t-shirt designs, then upload your portfolio at a print-on-demand vendor like Zazzle, DeviantArt, Threadless, Cafepress, and more. (Read about the pros and cons of each print-on-demand t-shirt vendor here).

Unlike t-shirt marketplaces that has a minimum order, print-on-demand vendors “print” your designs even with just a single order.

PoD vendors also get commissions with each sale, so choose which vendor works best for you. The great thing about these vendors is that you can expand your products from just t-shirts to practically anything (mugs, caps, hoodies, pillows, etc.).

As long as the PoD vendor offers it, your design can be adapted to any product available.

What’s the best well to sell t-shirts online?

When it comes to selling your product, you’ll have options no matter the amount of capital you have.

After you’ve given time with product research and branding, we recommend trying out t-shirt marketplaces and print-on-demand services first. While you build a name for your product, create a website on the side and begin to offer new t-shirt designs there as well.

It’s important that you have 100% control of your businesses, especially when your business is based completely online.

It’s just as important not to have all your eggs in one basket, so selling your products in multiple platforms is the way to go.

Note that some third-party sites may require exclusivity, so be wary before upload your t-shirt designs and figuratively “signing the dotted line.”

Wrap Up: How to Design and Sell T-shirts Online Like a Boss

There are multiple ways you can launch a shirt business online. The main difference of this business to traditional ones is that you can design and sell t-shirts completely online. There will be some legwork and research involved at the start, but not so much after launch.

For those who are serious, these three major decisions will help you shape your online t-shirt business:

  1. Design the shirt on your own vs. hire a designer to turn your ideas into reality
  2. Manufacture or print your own shirts vs. leaving the production process to the hands of a third-party company
  3. Sell shirts on your own site vs. selling them on a third-party site

Of course, every route you take has its pros and cons. Some people are making a killing on sites like TeeSpring, but others find success on their own sites but with major advertising involved.

The only surefire way of succeeding in this business is by treating it like any other business – work at it day in, day out, and continue to learn every aspect of the business from sourcing supplies to accounting, marketing, and so on.

Sell Your Font: How to Make Money Designing Fonts

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How fancy is your handwriting? Fancy enough to create and sell your own font?

Designers can sell fonts online and earn passive income.

But it’s not as easy as it sounds. Just as the complicated history of fonts, wherein web designers used images as text on websites, earning money from font design can be complicated if you don’t know where to start or where to market your work.

Fonts have been a huge part of web design, ever since designers and programmers decided to make sites “look nice.” From then on, gone are the black backgrounds with neon green font, and then came a plethora of cool-looking fonts for everyone to use.

Today, the font family used in a website is considered as heavily as the site’s color palette, voice of content, and logo – it’s a part of branding.

If you have the eye for good design and the skills to match, you could sell fonts online and actually make a killing.

However, you do need to decide on several considerations, such as how much to price the fonts, where to sell your work, and how to market fonts continuously.

How much can you make selling fonts?

When it comes to licensing commissions, 50% rate is the average among font retailers like MyFonts, but there are rare 70% commissions from foundries like Fontspring. In most cases, you are the one who will set the price for your font, and receive the agreed-upon commission whenever the site makes a sale.

Earnings Table for Selling Your Font

Finding the best royalty rate should be your priority, but your considerations shouldn’t stop there. You should also consider where you’d want to sell your fonts.

If you’re new to this industry, the first thing you’d want to know is how much to price each font. Unfortunately, the question doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. Several things would dictate the amount of money you can earn from selling fonts online, such as:

  • Whether you sell it via a font foundry (vendor/publisher) or a font reseller (retailer/distributor).
  • Whether you’ve agreed to a one-off payment, or continuous commissions
  • Whether you’ve created only one or multiple fonts
  • Whether you plan to market the fonts (and how good you are at marketing)
  • Whether the font retailer markets designers’ fonts
  • And so on…

How do you sell your font?

There are 3 methods to sell fonts online, but each method has its own pros and cons.

Unfortunately, every designer’s needs and skills are unique, so the best method of selling fonts on the web depends largely on these factors. Compare and analyze which one is best for you:

1. Join a Font Foundry

Known as a font publisher or vendor, the foundry (like FontSpring, FontShop, Linotype, Monotype and P22) is where fonts are “manufactured.”

As a designer, once you join a foundry, you’ll be selling your work within that site and whichever resellers that site has within its network.

This is an exclusive set-up, so you can’t sell your fonts anywhere else.

Your chosen foundry has the right to sell your font within the bounds of the contract you (and other designers) signed.

The main issue with foundry that you should know is that every foundry has a well-written pricing agreement. Royalty designers get from foundries range from 20 to 50 percent, but you have to read the fine print. Most foundries only pay the percentage of wholesale font price, which means designers will be paid smaller amounts if the font has gone through two or more channels.

In a few foundries, designers earn percentage of the suggested retail price, even if the font was sold directly off the foundry or through a reseller’s channel.

Font Foundry Pros:

  • Fonts under foundries are sold through multiple channels, which means your font would have better exposure beyond the foundry’s main site or store
  • Foundries protect their designers and the designers’ fonts against piracy
  • You don’t need to market your own font
  • Foundries will handle customer support for you
  • Font resellers prefer foundries
  • No administration or business knowledge needed
  • Get design assistance (not all foundries)

Font Foundry Cons:

  • Smaller income if fonts are sold by resellers
  • No control how or where your work is sold
  • Stuck in a contract

Go with a foundry if you think its library can accommodate your font style and that your fonts wouldn’t get buried under millions of fonts. Learn how much assistance a foundry can provide you when it comes to marketing and communicating with resellers.

And before you sign the dotted line, make sure you know (and agree to) the length of your contract with a foundry.

2. Work with a Reseller

You’ll know if a site is a reseller if the fonts come from multiple foundries (mostly, when it re-directs you to another website when you’re interested in a particular font). Good examples of resellers are Fonts.com and MyFonts.  

Fonts for sale

Every reseller has a specific customer base, a font style preferred, and even promotional methods used.

Resellers go to a font foundry and make a deal to sell the fonts within the foundry’s library.

In this method, foundries get about 40 to 65% of the retail price of the font. Designers do have control on pricing their fonts, but there’s only so much you can do when you’re trying to compete with a huge font market.

More often than not, resellers can sign contracts with multiple foundries using the same fonts. However, some resellers like Veer use “exclusivity” as a marketing technique. You should know the resellers’ techniques in marketing the fonts of designers, and if you’d be okay with the strategies they use.

Font Reseller Pros:

  • Fonts are sold in various channels
  • Fonts reach wider audience
  • Designer keep pricing control
  • Sign with multiple resellers

Font Reseller Cons:

  • Smaller percentage per sale
  • Resellers have thousands of fonts (your work may get buried by other fonts)

Go with a reseller if you’re confident that your fonts would shine amidst thousands of other fonts.

You have to consider the target market of each reseller and discover how a reseller markets fonts, deal with customers, and handle complaints. Check if you need to place your fonts exclusively to a particular reseller  (or if you can sign with multiple resellers) before signing any contract.

3. Sell Fonts Online via Your Own Website

This method is probably the riskiest and hardest among all 3 methods, but if you succeed, it will all be worth it.

You’d have to know how to build a foundry, market your exclusively-designed  fonts, find customers, and handle post-sale customer service all on your own.

If you’re planning to open your world to resellers, you also need to learn how to negotiate and maintain these relationships for the long run.

The most obvious advantage of going at it on your own is that you receive 100% of the font sales every time. Check out Jeremy Tankard and Lineto if you’re looking for inspirations of designers successfully creating and selling fonts online.

The major downside to starting a font empire from scratch is that you’ll have to be willing to give a lot of time, effort and hard work to bring paying customers to your store.

You have to make a name for yourself to bring in people organically, so you should also develop a long-term marketing plan (that involves social media and paid ads).

Selling On Your Own Pros:

  • Get 100% of font sales every time
  • You have total control over every aspect of your business, from store design to website elements, marketing strategies, pricing, and a whole lot more
  • You have direct access to all your customers, so you can build long-term relationships if you want to
  • Designers have full control over their brand

Selling On Your Own Cons:

  • Creating a storefront, handling sales, and providing customer support may require extra funds (or additional effort from your part if you don’t plan to outsource these tasks)
  • Marketing may be costly
  • Juggle font designing and performing business tasks at the same time

Go with this route if you are absolutely sure you can commit to designing fonts and marketing them on your own.

Building your own foundry from scratch isn’t easy, but the fruits of all your hard work will be worth it if you do it right.

The cool thing about these three methods of selling fonts is you can succeed and earn passive income online whichever path you decide to take.

However, the amount you’d likely take home will depend on factors, such as number of fonts for sale, percentage of revenue, overhead costs, and more.

Tips on Marketing Your Fonts

Whether you decided to sell fonts exclusively to a foundry, sign with multiple resellers, or sell fonts online on your own storefront, website, Facebook page, Deviantart page, and so on, promoting your work is the best way to find more customers who would buy your work and improve your income dramatically.

1. Decide on a Niche

Let’s face it.

The typeface or font industry is a fierce one. Ask anyone who has tried to make a living off designing fonts and you’ll be discouraged completely. But if you’re smart with how you find your market, you’ll be able to craft fonts based on a very specific niche.

With every font that you create, add special characters (numerals, small capitals, ligatures, etc.), and provide versions with different widths, weights and styles (italic, condensed, etc.) to be as exclusive to all markets as possible. If you’re willing to extend this courtesy, you can think about global usage and how you can convert a Latin font into a non-Latin font.

Find a twist that you can explore, so that all fonts you create are authentic and irresistible to font buyers.

2. Invest in Yourself

You have to get the best software if you’re serious about font design.

The industry standard is FontLab Studio, which is available for both Mac and Windows, but it wouldn’t hurt for you to learn new software like Robofont or Glyphs.

Just like in any skills-based profession, you have to continue learning and being up-to-date with font design trends. You have attend workshops, read up on other font designers, and improve your skills with new gadgets.

3. Break the Rules

Follow this advice from Alex Haigh, founder and creative director of HypeForType:

He says: “Typefaces such as [Alex Trochut’s] Neo Deco are incredibly unique. It would be really refreshing to see artists and designers take a more experimental route. We’ve got thousands of sans-serif fonts, so why not create something no one has ever seen before?”

If you have to break the rules and redefine font design to make people notice, then do it.

4. Skip the ABCs when making photos and Videos

The traditional way of showing off fonts is to display the ABCs using the featured font. While this continues to be an effective method, you can always try out different presentation ideas, such as:

  • Instead of ABCs, use connective words (“with,” “my,” “and,” etc.) and common words (“love”) when displaying the font
  • Create videos showing ways the customer can use the font (as flyers, website template, and so on)

5. Offer Freebies

If you went with a foundry or reseller, check if you can include freebies with the fonts you’re putting for sale. For those selling fonts on their own channel, take advantage of giving away freebies to your customers. People love free stuff, even if it’s just a set of holiday fonts that they won’t be able to use for months.

The Bottom Line

You have to understand that you can’t replace the revenues you get from selling fonts with your full-time job. It is possible, but it won’t happen overnight. You’d have to build your reputation or create numerous fonts for sale before you can make a killing with font design. Add the business decisions and marketing techniques you have to learn, and you’ll understand how hard it is to make it big in this industry.

However, if you do make it, every hard work, contract negotiations, marketing efforts, and investment placed into this business will be all worth it since you’re getting paid to do something you love.