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How to Get Free Stuff in the UK (Legitimately)

  • Writer: National Debt Helpline
    National Debt Helpline
  • Jun 5
  • 2 min read


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Free stuff isn’t just for the lucky few. There are countless ways to get quality items, food, and services in the UK without spending a penny—legally and safely. Here’s how to score free goodies using the best platforms and strategies.


🎁 1. Join Freebie Sites

Websites that specialise in listing free product samples and giveaways:

Typical freebies include beauty products, pet food, snacks, vitamins, and baby items.

Tip: Set up a separate email to avoid inbox overload.


🍏 2. Use Olio for Free Food & Household Items

Olio is a community sharing app where people list surplus food or unwanted household items for free:

  • Available in most UK cities

  • Food from neighbours, stores, and local businesses

  • Also includes toys, books, toiletries, etc.

Perfect for reducing food waste and scoring useful items.


🛍️ 3. Try Too Good To Go for Cheap or Nearly-Free Meals

Not entirely free, but Too Good To Go offers restaurant and café surplus food at 50–80% off. You pay £2–£5 for a "magic bag" that often contains £10+ worth of food.

Great for spontaneous, affordable meals.


🧾 4. Claim Cashback Offers on Groceries

Apps like:

  • Shopmium

  • CheckoutSmart

  • GreenJinn

Offer full cashback on selected grocery items—effectively making them free after purchase. Keep receipts and claim through the app.


🗳️ 5. Become a Product Tester

Big brands want your feedback—and they’ll give you free stuff in return. Sign up to:

  • Home Tester Club

  • BzzAgent

  • TryIt Sampling

You may receive food, cosmetics, cleaning products, or tech.


🎉 6. Get Birthday Freebies

Many chains offer birthday perks if you join their loyalty or mailing list:

  • Greggs: Free treat

  • Krispy Kreme: Free doughnut

  • The Body Shop: Birthday gift for members

  • Hotel Chocolat: Free chocolate

Sign up at least a few weeks before your birthday.


🔄 7. Explore Freecycle and Freegle

Freecycle and Freegle are online communities where people give away unwanted items:

  • Furniture

  • Appliances

  • Baby gear

  • Bikes and more

It’s environmentally friendly and ideal for setting up a new home on a budget.


📚 8. Use Your Local Library

Libraries still offer tremendous value:

  • Free book, eBook, and audiobook loans

  • Free Wi-Fi and computer access

  • Free local events, workshops, and courses

Some even lend DVDs, board games, or tools.


Final Tip: Give to Get


Giving away items yourself on these platforms often builds goodwill—and you may find people are more generous in return. Keep it ethical, stay safe, and enjoy the thrill of getting something for nothing!

Free stuff is everywhere—you just need to know where to look.

 
 
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