When the Internet first began everything was free. In fact, that was the basic philosophy of the Internet: the creation of a worldwide community that would share freely all sorts of facts, figures, programs, help, advice, and everything in between. But ever since big business hit the Internet things have changed. Now, it is difficult to find anything for free. But don't despair. There are websites dedicated to the philosophy of frugal living. These sites can direct you to hundreds and thousands of free or discounted things on the Internet.

How to find free stuff online

It's so simple. You can find all sorts of free and discounted stuff or coupons that will secure great savings. Here are a selection of some of the best sites for frugal and free stuff. For more, simply run a simple search for frugal and free stuff on your favorite Internet browser.

Coolsavings.com is a great site and can link you to grocery coupons, pet coupons, free samples, diet offers, travel coupons, and more.

Thefrugalshopper.com lists hundreds of freebies, hundreds of free eBooks, and coupons. It also tells you which online stores offer free shipping; a great way to save money on your purchases.

If you sign up with Eversave.com you'll be able to get free coupons, samples, and exclusive offers from top name American brands.

Peerflix.com gets you connected with movie lovers where you can swap and share DVD movies.

Frugalsimplicity.com boasts that it is "your guide to living better, on less". And it's true! You can download free software for yourself and your kids. Stock your computer with software to help your kids at school and to help you create a more professional business image. Pick up free tips on gardening and home schooling, and even advice on how to set up a business from home.

And if you are working from home, improve your professional image and order a set of free business cards from Vistaprint.com.

Dylan Miles, journalist, and website builder, lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://www.livingfrugal.info on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.

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