Are you looking to bring down your food spending and get free food? Not only will we discuss free breakfast, dinner, and snacks, but we’ll also go into legit and yummy options on how to get free food.
In today’s world, where the cost of living continues to rise, finding ways to stretch your budget can be valuable. Food is one area where you can save a significant amount of money. While it may seem challenging, various strategies and resources can help you get free food and provide nourishment without breaking the bank.
So, let’s begin your culinary adventure to freebie land. How to get free food?
Ways To Get Free Food – Online
1. Survey Sites
Online survey sites allow you to get free food indirectly when taking surveys. Create an account and start answering questionnaires related to product testing, advertising reviews, brand awareness, etc.
After this, you will receive rewards such as gift cards or vouchers which you can use at popular restaurants, grocery stores, and even more.
Pro tip: Sign up for several survey sites for more free food gift cards. Only choose the highest-paying surveys to earn more money and save time. These three sites even offer $5 sign-up bonuses:
- InboxDollars. Sign up with InboxDollars for free, and you’ll get a $5 sign-up bonus when you sign up today. Read the full InboxDollars review for more details.
- Swagbucks. A $5 bonus awaits you when you sign up today. Learn more about Swagbucks cheats to maximize your earnings. Check out the complete Swagbucks review here.
- Survey Junkie. By joining one of the most popular, reliable, and easy-to-use survey websites, you will receive a $5 bonus and earn points to exchange for gift cards or cash. Learn more about Survey Junkie hacks and make more money. Learn more in this full Survey Junkie review.
2. Free Food Apps
If you’re like most of us, how to get free food is always a hot topic. Fortunately, thanks to modern technology, plenty of free food apps such as Mcdonald’s, Burger King, and Chick-fil-A One can help you save big time.
3. Coupons
It is easy to find coupons online or through apps, but how do you get free food with them? Search for deals that offer free food when you purchase other products. These promotions could be BOGO (buy one, get one free), coupon codes for percentage discounts off certain items, or even “get X after buying Y” deals.
Here are some platforms that you can use:
- Rakuten. Using the platform is free, and you can earn up to 20% cashback. You’ll always get the best deals with Rakuten, as they automatically apply coupons to your order. Get a $30 welcome bonus after your first purchase. Read the full Rakuten review for more details.
- Ibotta. You can save money and earn cash back on your purchases with Ibotta. Rebate offers are similar to coupons but are redeemed after you purchase. Sign up now and get a $10 bonus when you spend $30 on purchases. Check the complete Ibotta review here.
4. Mystery Shopper
To get free food as a mystery shopper, sign up with reputable companies like Secret Shopper, Marketforce, and BestMark. Complete their online application and browse restaurant assignments. Evaluate customer service, food quality, cleanliness, and overall experience.
Be discreet during visits, take notes, and follow specific instructions. Submit detailed reports afterward. Depending on the assignment, you may get reimbursed or receive payment. Keep track of completed assignments and payment details.
5. Amazon Deals
If you haven’t already taken advantage of Amazon deals, now is the time to start. A little-known secret is how to get free food through Amazon deals. Sign up for an Amazon Prime membership and look for “Prime Pantry” offers, where the more you shop, the more discounts you get.
6. Birthday Freebies
Download a birthday freebies app, choose your favorite local vendors, and voila! You’re on your way to receiving amazing treats such as free meals, drinks, and discounts.
The apps allow you to easily search for participating vendors in your area who offer the best free and cheap food options on your special day.
Ways To Get Free Food – At Work
7. Delivery
Looking for how to get free food delivered right to your door? DoorDash is the way to go! With their registration bonus, you can get some amount off your first order. This offer comes and goes, but they always guarantee a minimum of free delivery on your initial order. So don’t wait—sign up today.
8. Restaurant
Eating out at a restaurant can be expensive, but working in a restaurant is a foolproof solution. There are countless job opportunities available in the restaurant industry, and the best part is that you get to enjoy free meals while on the job. Whether working as a cook, hostess, server, or dishwasher, getting free food is simple—do the job.
9. Food Taster
You can be a food taster to get paid to sample food and provide feedback to restaurants or manufacturers. You must have experience in the restaurant industry or a palate that is accustomed to different flavors. While many consider this an odd job, getting free food regularly is an amazing hack.
10. Mystery Diner
Mystery dining is an exciting way to get a free meal. It involves visiting a restaurant as a “mystery diner” and paying close attention to the quality of customer service and food you receive. After your meal, you will provide feedback on your experience so restaurants can improve and provide excellent service.
Ways To Get Free Food – Company Events
11. Promotion Party
Everyone loves a promotion party! They’re a great way to celebrate a job well done and can be organized anywhere: at home, in your office, or in town. Also, don’t forget the free food you’ll eat at the party.
12. Annual Dinner
Wondering how to get free food for your annual dinner? Volunteer your services for tasks like setup, serving, or cleaning, as organizers often provide a complimentary meal as a token of appreciation. If you’re invited as a guest, meals are typically included, so RSVP.
Participate in contests or raffles that offer the chance to win free meals or dining vouchers. Check if sponsors or partners provide discounts or free meals, and inquire about promotional offers.
Ways To Get Free Food – Rewards And Loyalty Programs
13. Restaurants
Eating out at your favorite restaurant just got even better. Many restaurants offer rewards and loyalty programs that you can use to get free food. You must sign up online and look for special offers or discounts available to program members.
14. Food Stores
Signing up for rewards and loyalty programs at your favorite food stores is one of the best ways to get free food. You only need a smartphone or laptop and an account with the company. Once you sign up, you can start racking points every time you purchase.
15. Food Samples
Watch for in-store sampling events at grocery stores, supermarkets, or specialty food stores. These events often offer free samples of food and beverages for customers to try. Check with local stores or their websites for information on upcoming sampling events.
16. Government and Nonprofits
Fortunately, government or nonprofit organizations provide access to meals and other resources at no or low cost. You can receive immediate assistance by researching and contacting local service providers in your area or state.
You may qualify for free groceries, hot meals, pantry staples, and nutritionally balanced food boxes, depending on your needs. Register with Feeding America, Food for Free, and other organizations.
17. Local Churches
Churches often organize community meals or soup kitchens, providing free meals to anyone in the community. These meals are typically open to all, regardless of income or background. Check with local churches to find out if they host regular community meals and the schedule for those events.
Ways To Get Free Food – Be Creative
18. Grow Your Food
Yes, you can get free food by growing your own. Why go hungry when growing your food is surprisingly simple: all it takes is dedication and the right supplies.
From herbs and tomatoes to radishes and squash, you can have whatever delicious produce you dream of in your backyard or even on a balcony.
19. Dumpster Diving For Nearly-Expired Food
Dumpster diving for nearly-expired food is a fantastic way of getting free food with no money. You will find a wide variety of goodies, from food products such as bread, dairy, fruits, and vegetables to clothes, furniture, and books. Wear gloves for sanitary reasons and watch out for things like broken glass or hazardous material.
20. Community Gardens
Community gardens are an ideal way to get free, healthy, and fresh food. Begin by clearing out some space in your backyard, or even ask your city if there’s a nearby community garden where you can rent a plot. Once you’ve got your garden plot, keep checking them regularly.
21. Ask for Food
Asking people for food may seem daunting, but you can quickly get a free meal by taking the initiative and contacting familiar sources.
Start by asking your family and friends: many of us have had too much of something at some point, and they’re often more than happy to give it away so that it doesn’t go to waste.
22. Ask Farmers
If you want free food for yourself or your family, why not ask a local farmer? Local farms often have surplus food, which would otherwise go to waste, so it’s a win-win situation. You just need to find some farmers near you and tell them what you would like.
23. Trading Labor for Food
Trading labor for food is an excellent way to get fresh produce and other items without spending money. To do it, search online for farms or gardeners in your area, searching for volunteers willing to exchange their labor for food items.
24. Go Into The Wild
Although it’s getting tougher to find wild edibles due to over-foraging practices, plenty is still out there if you know how to look. Knowing how to safely identify edible plants and mushrooms is essential, so take the time to educate yourself before embarking on your foraging journey.
Ways To Get Free Food – Events and Launches
25. Exchange Items for Food
Look for local food swaps or trade programs in your community. These programs allow individuals to exchange items they have for food. Check online community forums, social media groups, or local community centers for information on such initiatives.
26. Get Invitations For Social Events
A frequently overlooked way to get free food is to get invited to social events. Make yourself visible in your community. Get involved in activities that could lead to more social invitations. Connect with people online who have similar interests and attend outings they organize.
27. Restaurant Opening
Grab the opportunity to get free food from a restaurant opening. A great chance to try something new or get a free meal; all you need to do is show up and enjoy yourself. The restaurant has a variety of items on the menu that are sure to please everyone’s taste buds, so get there early.
28. Participate In Competitions
If your appetite exceeds your budget, consider entering food competitions for free food. There are so many exciting and creative competitions that you can enter. Find a commercial or homegrown competition that interests you, read the rules and regulations carefully, and put your skills to the test.
29. Get Free Food At the Pub
If you’re 18 or 19 years old and looking for free food, watch for special events or promotions at the pub. Sometimes, pubs may offer complimentary food samples, happy hour deals, or discounted appetizers during specific days or times. Check their website, social media pages, or inquire with the pub staff about any ongoing promotions.
30. Free Tasting at Supermarkets
Going to the grocery store can feel like a chore, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Many supermarkets offer free food tastings throughout the day, where customers can sample delicious items. It’s a great way to spice up the mundane task of grocery shopping.
31. Food-Waste Supermarket
Food-waste supermarkets are a great way to reduce the amount of food waste in our communities. It’s also a fantastic way for frugal shoppers to get their hands on free food! These supermarkets accept food donations past their “best by” date or wouldn’t sell in regular stores. It is safe to eat and can be used like any other grocery item.
32. Restaurant Leftovers
Most restaurants are willing to give away food at the end of their night, allowing customers a unique opportunity to save money and try new culinary creations. All you need to do is ask politely.
Many places will package up the last servings for patrons who want to take the rest home. You’ll get a delicious meal without having to pay the total price.
Tips on Finding Free Food
According to the latest consumer price index, grocery prices increased by 11.8% in 2022 and will continue to rise. And with the U.S. Census reporting a 23% rise in the number of Americans saying they don’t have enough to eat—19.2 million in April-May 2023 from 15.8-M pre-pandemic, food for free or little cost will indeed be very welcome.
Finding free food doesn’t have to be a scavenger hunt! A great way to locate free food sources is to research online. Also, take advantage of local initiatives and charities that offer simple meals or resources for individuals and families in need.
You can also search online databases such as Freefood.org, which quickly pinpoint Food Pantries and other locations with food programs, emergency food assistance, or specific meals donated or served for free.
Lastly, if you’re open to possibilities, never underestimate the power of networking—if you know someone who works at a local restaurant or grocer, politely inquire whether they know about any specials or giveaways happening in the area!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – How To Get Free Food
What Apps Can I Get Free Food From?
Check out different restaurants’ websites for more details. Mcdonald’s, Burger King, and Chick-fil-A One are just some places with free food apps. Remember that the availability and specific offers may vary depending on your location and the current promotions run by these apps.
What Do You Do When You Have No Money or Food?
You can go to the relevant government agency for welfare assistance without money. For free food, churches or nonprofit organizations, such as Feeding America, Food for Free, and Meals on Wheels, will help you out.
How Can I Eat Cheap When Broke?
When you’re broke, you can eat cheap by signing up for loyalty programs that offer discounts and unique rewards, checking out grocery store promotions, joining couponing clubs, and looking for deals online.
Can a Dasher Get Free Food?
All dashers have access to special discounts and promo codes that they can use to get free, discounted, or reduced-price food items. They can also occasionally snag a free meal while delivering food.
Conclusion – How To Get Free Food
Everyone loves free food, and there’s no shame in wanting it.
The key to getting free food is knowing where to look. Whether you’re a penny-pinching coupon clipper, a broke foodie, or simply on the lookout for great deals, there are loads of free food sites and hacks for you.
Related Reads:
- Free Pallets Near Me: 15 Best Places To Get Pallets
- 24-Hour Stores Near Me: 60 Best Convenience Stores & Restaurants Open All Day
Marjolein is a financial consultant who has built over €4,000 monthly passive income and saves over 70% of her income. Read Radicals’ inspiring story, from stuck in the 9-to-5 to loving life. Feel free to send Radical a message at the bottom of this page