Not everything labelled ‘free’ actually earns the title, which is why we stick to clear, no-nonsense criteria for what truly counts. Our community and editors have spotted all sorts over the years, but these are the most common types you’ll find on hotukdeals.

Free product samples

Always a fan favourite. From beauty bits and tasty treats to household essentials, plenty of brands offer free samples so you can try before you buy. Most arrive by post within two to four weeks. We love testing free makeup and skincare products before committing to whole bottles that might not suit us in the long run.

Free digital content

Think eBooks, magazines, software, and mobile apps, all instant wins delivered straight to your inbox or via a download link. Ideal for those who love a bit of immediate gratification.

Free subscription trials

From streaming platforms to software tools and membership programmes, these trials let you enjoy premium perks with no upfront cost. We always make it clear if payment details are required and confirm that cancellation is quick and easy.

Free event access

Tickets to exhibitions, webinars, online workshops, and even in-person events appear regularly but they’re often limited, so grab them while you can.

While there’s no shortage of genuine freebies, there are also offers that don’t quite make the cut. We don’t consider the following true freebies:

• Contests or competitions that require entry fees or purchases

• Cashback, rebates, or voucher deals that make you spend first

• Offers with hidden delivery costs

• Promotions that sneak in subscription fees or tricky cancellation terms

Our fastidious community helps keep the above freebies page fair, fun, and trustworthy. Members post and verify offers themselves, and if something suspicious slips through, it’s quickly flagged and corrected by our moderators, so you can claim your free finds with confidence.