A couple months ago I wrote a well received diary about free stuff you can find on the internet, but there is a whole world of free things out there in meat space as well. There is a lot of stuff out there that some people are giving away for free that others may really want to have. The key is to match up those who are trying to get rid of the stuff and those who want to take it and that's what the web site Freecycle tries to do. Check below for more resources for free stuff.
Books, Newspapers, Magazines, Videos, Music, ...
All these and more can be found in one place: your local library. You can even reduce your utility bills by hanging out there during the day and using their lights and heat (or AC). Many libraries check out all sorts of things in addition to books and DVDs. Some have tools, toys or electronic devices they can check out to patrons at no cost. Ask at your local library to find out what they offer.
HD TV
Despite what many people think, you don't need cable or satellite service to access sharp high definition TV signals. All you need is a TV with a digital tuner, or a digital converter box, and an antenna. Even a set of rabbit ears that you put on top of the box may work if you live in an urban environment.
Food Samples
Lots of stores, such as Costco or Whole Foods, offer free tasting samples to their customers. Wander through the store on a weekend and you can almost find an entire meal of smorgasbord offerings.
Produce
In many areas, fruits, vegetables and nuts that grow on public lands are free for the taking. Before you harvest anything, you want to make certain that it is actually freely available and you also want to find out what sorts of pesticides may have been used in the area, but once you have assured yourself that those berries are both safe and up for grabs, grab away.
Hiking and Nature Walks
One way to find all this available produce is to take walks on public lands in your area. Many public parks have free guided walks you can follow that can be both entertaining and educational. If you already own a GPS device, and you enjoy a little mental challenge to go with your physical exercise, check out Geocaching, a free outdoor game the whole family can enjoy.
Exercise
You don't need a gym membership to get plenty of exercise. Walking is one of the best exercises you can do for your body. If you live in an area where the outdoor weather makes this difficult or impossible for some seasons, look for large indoor spaces you can access for free, such as enclosed shopping malls. Just make sure that the only shopping you do while you are there window shopping. Speaking of which ...
Window Shopping
If you are one of those people who loves buying new clothes or accessories, but your budget can't support your shopping urges anymore, try leaving your cash and plastic at home, and go shopping anyhow. For some people, a lot of the thrill of ownership comes in the first 10 minutes or so. Pick out the item you want, try it on, maybe even wear it or carry it around the store for a bit and then put it back. You may get most of the fun of shopping, without any of the long term financial consequences.
Closet Shopping
Another source for free clothes may be your own and your friends' closets. Most of us have things we bought and, for one reason or another, have stopped wearing, or maybe have never worn. Try getting together with your friends and have a clothes trading party. You'll not only get rid of things you don't wear anymore, but you may go home with some great pieces that are new to you.
Volunteer Work
To satisfy your less materialistic urges, try volunteering your time for a cause you believe in. You will get the camaraderie of working with like-minded folks and the satisfaction of knowing you are helping to make the world a better place, all without depleting your limited financial resources. In addition, you may make new friends and/or professional contacts from your efforts that will benefit you in years to come.
Crafts and Hobbies
Crafts such as cooking, knitting, sewing, and the like, may not be exactly free, since there is the startup cost of supplies, but if you have an already established hobby, you probably have quite a backlog of materials that you can use to make many more projects with no additional cost. With the holiday season coming up, your crafts may make very valued gifts for your friends and family. One of my most treasured gifts I've received was a pair of hand knit socks. They warm my feet and my heart every time I wear them.
Bartar
If you need others to help you with a specialized skill or talent, you may be able to trade some of your talents for theirs. Tutoring, home repairs, cooking, child care, and gardening are just a few of the many skills you could offer or receive.