If you are on a budget, you can’t beat free. There are many services, places, and products to be had for free or almost 
free if you know where to look. Here are five free or almost free ways to cut your expenses, save money and yet still enjoy life.
Free Books
The public library may be the obvious choice for all things free, but in the current economy library use is up due to all the free goodies they provide. There are over 16,000 public libraries in America and according to a 2008 Harris Interactive Survey Poll, 2/3 of Americans have a library card. The library is a great free source for more than just books. Patrons can check out DVDS, CDs, and computer software. There is usually a story hour for kids and free internet access for students and adults. Some libraries have movies nights and guest lecturers or classes for the community.
Free Phone Calls
Save big on all of your phone calls through the website Talkster, an ad-supported phone company offering free local and international phone calls to more than 30 countries and territories. Sign up for an account for yourself and up to five friends and all of your calls are free.
Free Yoga
Who doesn’t need some rest and relaxation from all the economic news? Yoga is a wonderful practice to release tension and stress. Many yoga studios are willing to offer free classes in exchange for work around the studio. Contact your local studio and see if you can work out a deal.
Almost Free Movies
With the average cost of a movie ticket running $7.18, you’re better off spending $1 on a movie rental from Redbox. How it works: choose a movie from RedBox, reserve a copy from one of 17,000 locations, pick up the DVD from the location you choose, return DVD when finished. Redbox charges $1 per day, per movie until the DVD is returned to any Redbox location.
Free Accommodations
Vacations are a big part of American life, but with the high cost of flying, hotels and gas many Americans are looking for ways to cut back yet still enjoy some time off. According to a Harris Interactive Poll, the average American spends about $1,700 on a weeklong vacation. 52 % of those polled said they would be looking to cut back on accommodations. CouchSurfing.com is a non-profit, on-line network that connects travelers with locals in over 239 countries and territories around the world. Participating hosts open up their homes to allow travelers to stay for free and see the how people in different countries live.
The Free Trend
Getting stuff for free is a growing trend. According trendwatching.com, more and more companies are vying for consumers’ attention by offering free products and services. This is good news for consumers who are looking to squeeze the most out of their dollars.
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