Do you do freebies?
by Tara
(Massachusetts)
Years ago, when I first started couponing, I would see the offers for sample size freebies and think, "What good is that?" I mean it's one serving..one washload..only one of whatever it was the manufacturer was offering. Over the years my perspective has changed. Although I still wonder at times what good it is, I am much more apt to take advantage of the offer. Let me tell you why.
Traveling. Checking bags at the airport is not what it use to be. I want to alleviate the fees, and the nightmare, of checking bags. I also refuse to pay the ridiculous prices they charge for a snack on most of the flights now. Have you seen them? I believe insanity has set in to the airline industry! I can use my sample sizes for snacks on the airline..pack the make-up samples into a small bag..and although I can no longer take small shampoos etc on airplanes, I CAN take them on over night trips when I am driving etc. I take the small laundry detergents just in case..I take shampoo, soap, cream rinse and sometimes pet food!
Holidays. When you think about it we give gifts on many holidays throughout the year. Christmas obviously is the biggest. Although you probably wouldn't give just a sample of a product as a gift by itself, they do make great stocking stuffers. They also make great additions to gift baskets! Ditto for Easter Baskets! I believe I have said in a few earlier posts that I truly believe in cutting down on the amount of junk consumed on Easter. Although I absolutely LOVE chocolate and Jelly Beans, it can definitely be over done once you fill a basket. So, I add small gifts as filler. Usually I have a theme, but that's for another post! Halloween is another holiday where junk can be substituted..Valentine's Day, etc. You can make some great gifts once you put your mind to it! Oh, and don't forget small baskets for teachers, your mailman, your doctor and anyone you want to thank.
Camping. I have always loved camping. I have to admit that I have not done this in years. My kids are not as enthusiastic as I am. The fact remains however that free samples are great for taking camping. You don't want to bring big bottles of anything, just a few necessities. The tent/camper/cabin and your car are only so big!
One last thing I use the samples for...care packages. My daughter is away at school and the samples are great for a care package sent to her at her dorm!
That said, I don't think ALL free samples are applicable to my life. Some are just things that I would not add to a basket as I don't know anyone that would appreciate them. Everyone is different though. You should ask yourself if it is something you truly think would be enjoyed by either yourself or someone you know before filling out the forms etc. Unless you have set up a separate email addy for just this kind of thing, you will be reminded of the freebie for a long time to come!
From www.thecouponzone.blogspot.com
