frugal life

7/24/2026 Friday Freebies and Deals!

Abby H.Leave a comment

Comic Con is this weekend, and while the littler and I aren’t going, the big guy is going with his dad on Sunday.

The rest of the week is full of gym visits, swimming at night, and playing video games during the day to avoid the heat. I’m so tired of it being hot and humid.

The love affair with shaved ice continues… If you are looking for a good electric shaved ice machine, this is the one. 

My Birthday Freebie list can be found here. The list mostly offers what you can find in Southern California.

If you live outside Southern California, check out this list: Free Birthday Stuff: Get The Best 100+ Freebies on Your Birthday!

Looking for some summer fun for you and the kids? Here is my list of frugal fun activities in San Diego County.

For free food resources, please refer to my comprehensive list, available here.  It is focused on San Diego County, but additional resources are available outside my area.

Freebies:

Here Are 6 Ways To Get Free Baby Formula Samples
FREE GREENIES Dental Chew Treats
FREE Week of Smoothies at Tropical Smoothie Cafe
FREE Internet for 5 Years and a FREE Hotspot for Students
4 FREE Frozen Drinks at Casey’s Every Friday
FREE Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream, Night Cream and Neck & Face Roller
FREE Handcrafted Drink Every Monday at Capital One Cafe
FREE Coffee Mate Situation-Sip Mixed Fruit Flavored Creamer on July 27th
FREE Lunchables Snackables Chatterbuy Kit
FREE Febreze Fabric Refresher After Walmart Cash
We Rounded Up The Best Free Stuff for Senior Citizens: 20+ Freebies
Get Free Seeds for Your Garden
FREE Sample of Halo Holistic Dog Food
Free Charburger at The Habit Burger Grill for Your Birthday
FREE Whopper at Burger King with the Whopper Guarantee
FREE e.l.f. Hair Collection Event at Target
Sign up for a Free Healthy Snack Box
FREE Reward Every Week with Panda Express Wok Wednesday
FREE Wireless Zone & TCC Backpack & School Supplies Giveaway
Kids Eat Free: Big List Of Verified Restaurants Where Kids Can Eat For Free
3 FREE Boxes of Kraft Mac & Cheese Restaurant Edition
FREE Sample Pack of Saba Pads or Liners
FREE Moonpig Greeting Card + FREE Shipping
FREE Sample of Thayers Hydrating Milky Cleanser
Get Free Travel Guides: No Credit Card Needed
FREE Rubbermaid TakeAlongs Food Storage Set at Walmart
FREE Tree Hut x Lisa Frank Sugar Scrub at Target After Cash Back
FREE Maison Aurélle Designer-Inspired Fragrance Sample
FREE Pure Leaf Mental Focus Iced Tea
FREE 8×10 Photo Print at Walgreens

Deals:

Subway BOGO Deal: New Subway Coupons for July and August
Up to 30% Off Sandals at Target
P&G brandSAVER Coupons: Get Digital & Printable Coupons From Your Favorite P&G Brands
Kate Spade Gemini Mini Bag ONLY $69 (Reg $189)
Get The Latest Upside Promo Codes: Instant Discounts & Cashback
Craftsman 5-Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum ONLY $39.88 (Reg $70)
Bogg Bag Accessories on SALE – Score Phone Holders, Dividers & More | Prices Start at $5.99
Moving? Sign up for these RARE Coupons
Reebok Back to School Sale: Up to 40% Off + Extra 50% Off Sale Styles
Huge Walmart Furniture Clearance – Prices From $19.60
Elmer’s Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks 30-Pack ONLY $7 on Amazon
Victoria’s Secret Sale – New Coupons, Freebies & Deals on Panties, Bras, & More as low as $2.99
Eureka Max Swivel Deluxe Upright Vacuum ONLY $49.86 (Reg $90)
Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Air Fryer 3-Qt ONLY $31.97 (Reg $50)
Save on 12-Pack Coca-Cola & Pepsi with These New Soda Deals For as Low as $0.33/Can
Disney Store: 20% Off Back to School & Sleepwear Orders of $60+
Ninja 10-in-1 Everyday PossibleCooker Multi-Cooker ONLY $66 at Walmart + Free Shipping!
Blink Wired Floodlight Camera ONLY $29.99 (Reg $100)
Lenox Butterfly Meadow Melamine 4-Piece Bowl Set ONLY $9.35 (Reg $21)
Spider Man Toy Organizer ONLY $14 (Reg $35)
Home Expressions Bath Towels From $3.24 at JCPenney (Reg $12)
3-Piece Comforter Sets as Low as $19.99 (Reg $80)

6 Weeks of FREE School Supplies at Staples

Abby H.Leave a comment

It says 7 weeks, but the first week has already passed.

Enjoy 6 weeks of FREEBIES with Staples! From now through September 12th, Staples is offering a series of weekly freebies with a qualifying purchase, both in-store and online.

Plus, find classroom essentials as low as 25¢ all season long!  Available in-store and online.

Here’s the freebies:

  • July 12-18th: Free Astrobright Solar Spark colored paper (100 sheets)
  • July 19-25th: Free Sharpie S-Gel pens (2-pack)
  • July 26-August 1st: Free Post-it Pop-up Notes Dispenser
  • August 2-8th: Free Eccolo Password Journal
  • August 9-15th: Free Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens (2-pack)
  • August 23rd (Sunday Only): Free NeeDoh Groovy Glob
  • September 6-12th: Free Staples Tote Bag

About Staples Rewards: Staples Rewards is a free loyalty program that lets members earn points and cash back on purchases made in-store, online or through the Staples app. Members earn 1 point per $1 spent, with opportunities to double or triple points by selecting bonus categories tailored to their shopping habits. Points can be redeemed at checkout, and active members enjoy perks like exclusive deals, free delivery, and rewards for recycling ink cartridges

Kevin’s Natural Foods for Breakfast – New TryaBox

Abby H.Leave a comment

Kevin’s Natural Foods is back and ready for breakfast in this Tryazon Featured TryaBox opportunity, from Kevin’s Natural Foods! Try two of the following incredible freezer scramble starters: Denver-Style Ham & White Cheddar and Spinach & Bacon Florentine. Just add eggs for a clean, delicious & filling start to your day!

Tryazon has 275 sampling spots open for this opportunity! Those selected get to receive a TryaBox with two coupons for FREE Scramble Starters from Kevin’s Natural Foods to be picked up at Target, Kroger, Harris Teeter, Giant Banners, or Hannaford from the freezer aisle to sample and review at home – no party needed!

Learn more and apply here.

 

7/17/2026 Friday Freebies and Deals

Abby H.Leave a comment

This is the point in the summer when the kids are bored, I’m bored, and there isn’t a ton of money left in the budget.  We’re looking for a bunch of fun free events, and I may have found some!

The love affair with shaved ice continues… If you are looking for a good electric shaved ice machine, this is the one. 

My Birthday Freebie list can be found here. The list mostly offers what you can find in Southern California.

If you live outside Southern California, check out this list: Free Birthday Stuff: Get The Best 100+ Freebies on Your Birthday!

Looking for some summer fun for you and the kids? Here is my list of frugal fun activities in San Diego County.

For free food resources, please refer to my comprehensive list, available here.  It is focused on San Diego County, but additional resources are available outside my area.

Freebies:

FREE Sample of Puppy’s First Shampoo
FREE Handcrafted Drink Every Monday at Capital One Cafe
4 FREE Frozen Drinks at Casey’s Every Friday
FREE Sample of Miles of Moisture Cocoa Body Butter
2 FREE Movie Tickets to Young Washington
FREE Toys R Us Play Day Event on July 18th
FREE Full-Size Snoot to Toot Digestive Chews for Dogs
FREE Starbar EZ Trap Fly Trap
FREE Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie Workshop Event for Kids at Lowe’s
Free Perfume Samples You Can Get Right Now
Text for $10 Off at Lane Bryant = FREE Item
Easy Ways To Get Free Men’s Cologne Samples
FREE Sample of Moroccanoil Lumiere du Jour Eau de Parfum
FREE simplyFUEL Fueling Families Party Pack
FREE Vacation Classic SPF 50 Lotion at CVS After Cash Back
FREE Full-Size STUCK SOAP Dog Shampoo
FREE Red Barn Creamery Premium Butter Chatterbuy or House Party Kit
FREE Blue Buffalo Nudges & True Chews Minis Chatterbox Kit
Take a Sip! Discover How You Can Get Free Drinks
FREE Carando Meatballs
FREE Jose Cuervo Margarita + Win $1,500
How to Score Free Feminine Hygiene Products and Save on Essentials
7 Weeks of FREE School Supplies at Staples
FREE Reward Every Week with Panda Express Wok Wednesday
FREE Hot Dog at QuikTrip
Free Full-Size Products from Home Tester Club
FREE Box of Jelly Drops
FREE Sample of CeraVe Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo
FREE $20 Purchase at Ulta After Cash Back
How to Score Free P&G Samples Like a Pro
National Ice Cream Day Freebies and Deals on July 19th
Unlock Your Wellness Journey with Free Nutrition Samples: Try Before You Buy
$1 Million in FREE Chipotle on July 19th
FREE Sample of IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Wet Pouch Dog Food
FREE Sample of TEMPTATIONS Cat Treats
FREE Week of Smoothies at Tropical Smoothie Cafe
FREE Coffee Mate Situation-Sip Mixed Fruit Flavored Creamer on July 20th & 27th

Deals:

Up to 70% Off Men’s Suits, Blazers and More at Macy’s
Birkenstock Coupons & Promo Codes: Up To 20% Off HOT Birkenstock Sandals
Mechanical Pencil Set with Case ONLY $5.39 (Reg $9)
Step Into and Step Out In These Golden Goose Dupes
Disney The Big One Minnie Mouse Buddy & Throw ONLY $12.59 (Reg $35)
Radio Flyer 3-in-1 All-Terrain EZ Fold Wagon w/ Canopy ONLY $90 (Reg $168)
Dream On Me Flora Baby Bassinet ONLY $63 (Reg $175)
PowerXL Vortex Pro Air Fryer ONLY $49.99 (Reg $120)
Women’s Boots as low as $6.71 at Walmart
Amazon Haul Sale: Tech & Gadgets From $3 on Amazon
Travelhouse 4-Piece Luggage Set ONLY $89.98 (Reg $200)
CVS Photo Coupons & Promo Codes – 65% Off Drinkware, 65% Off Posters & More
Armani 2-Pc. Acqua di Giò Eau de Toilette Gift Set ONLY $25 (Reg $50)
Get Red Seal Coupons and Save on Smokeless Tobacco
Wayfair 72-Hour Clear-Out Sale Is Live: The Best Cheap Finds for Your Home
Dad Gang Co. Discount Codes – 20% Off, $10 Credit & More
How to Stack Coupons on SHEIN + Coupon Hacks (Save Up to 80%)
How to Coupon: An In-Depth Beginner’s Guide to Couponing
Up to 70% Off Women’s Dresses at Old Navy – Prices Starting at $5.99
COLOR WOW Dream Coat Supernatural Spray ONLY $5.00 on Amazon (Reg $14)
Home Expressions Microfiber Sheet Set as low as $9 (Reg $35)

7/17/2026 All-Inclusive Day of Play & Resource Fair!

Abby H.Leave a comment

It’s back! If you have special needs kids in your life, you need to check out this FREE community event with interactive booths, games, resources, crafts, prizes, and shopping for families of all ages and abilities!

 

What: All Inclusive Day of Play & Resource Fair

When: Friday, July 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Miramar Hourglass Recreation Center, 10440 Black Mountain Road, San Diego, 92126.

This free community event is an amazing day for families to have fun, connect, and explore helpful resources together, brought to you by the Special Needs Resource Foundation.

What’s planned for the day:

  • Family resources for every stage, from infancy through adulthood
  • Activity stations
  • Prizes
  • Crafts
  • Character meet and greets
  • Networking
  • Shopping
  • Games
  • Free parking
  • And More!

Activity stations include favorites: Mini Golf Course, Padres Pitching Challenge, Super Hero City Speedway, Elmo’s Sensory Station, a Wicked Photo Op, Minecraft Fort, and more!

Character meet and greets: Say hello to Princess Elsa, Buddy the Elf, and other beloved characters at this fun-filled event.

Family resources and networking: Resource and service providers will be on-site to answer questions and share helpful information with all parents and caregivers. Visit our new Transition to Adulthood area to connect with organizations that support teens, young adults, adults, and their families. Be sure to pick up a copy of Flourishing Families at the Special Needs Resource Foundation booth.

ShopAble Bazaar: Stop by to browse and buy amazing products and valuable services from business owners with disabilities, which is located in the Transition to Adulthood area.

Sensory Time: From 11 to 11:30 a.m., families who need a quieter environment can enjoy the event with just one opening announcement and no music to create a calm atmosphere.

JCPenney- $12 Haircuts for Students and Teachers!!

Abby H.Leave a comment

This is a great deal! Now through 9/19/2026, students and teachers (with a valid K-college student or teacher ID) can get a $12 haircut at their local JCP Salon!

And to sweeten the deal for educators, score an extra 10% off your purchase with a valid school ID.

If you know of a teacher/educator who could use a little pick-me-up in the form of a haircut, please share this deal!

Freebies and Deals- 7/20 is National Ice Cream Day!

Abby H.Leave a comment

National Ice Cream Day is next week!! I recommend that you download any apps required for these deals at least 1 day prior to ensure that you have the app and are all signed up for any clubs or offers. Not all of these offers are available in my specific area, but I included them because I have readers outside of San Diego.

From July 13-19, DQ Rewards members can score the classic treat with any $1 purchase made through the DQ App. https://news.dairyqueen.com/announcements/details/2026/DQ-Celebrates-National-Ice-Cream-Day-All-Week-Long-with-Free-Dilly-Bars/default.aspx

Dipping’ Dots: Dippin’ Dots is giving away FREE mini cups of Dippin’ Dots (any flavor!) during a two-hour window at their franchise locations. Find your closest location here.

Baskin-Robbins: Baskin-Robbins Rewards members can get 31% off scoops on July 31, 2026, at participating shops. Waffle cones, toppings, sundaes, and delivery orders are excluded.

Marble Slab Creamery: Download their app because on July 20, loyalty members will receive a free small Ice Cream offer, valid for seven days. Find your closest location here.

Del Taco: From July 17 – 19, Del Yeah! Rewards members can get BOGO free regular shakes at Del Taco for National Ice Cream Day.

And while there are no deals right now, check the following apps in the days before the 20th for possible freebies and deals: McDonald’s, Jack in the Box, Wendy’s, and Yogurtland.

And if you want to make your own ice cream at home, you can find my recipe here. It’s very easy, and you can make it your own with a few tweaks!

7/20/2026 National Lollipop Day- Celebrate with See’s!

Abby H.Leave a comment

Visit any See’s Candy location for National Lollipop Day on July 20, and you’ll receive a free lollipop — no purchase necessary.

Flavor availability may vary by location, but here are the flavors you may have to choose from:

Chocolate
Vanilla
Butterscotch
Sugar Free Butterscotch
Café Latté
Cinnamon

7/15/2026 is National Give Something Away Day

Abby H.Leave a comment

This upcoming Wednesday, July 15, is National Give Something Away Day. This is a great opportunity to share things that you no longer need from your home. Here are several ways that I will be celebrating this day.

I will be posting items to my buy, nothing group. I am not in an official by nothing group, but there are several offshoots of the official group in my area, and I participate in them regularly.

Speaking of Facebook, there are several local Facebook groups. I’m in for specific hobbies and causes that I care about. And I will definitely be posting some items to give away in those groups as well.

Is there a local nonprofit that you support? This would be a great time to reach out to them and see if there’s anything you have that you’re looking to get rid of that they might need.

Even though school is out, if you have a teacher in your life, and you have some excess office/school supplies, definitely hit them up. When school starts back up at the end of August or beginning of September, teachers will be needing school supplies, such as number two pencils, markers, Crayons, and lined notebook paper.

June 2026 Monthly Side Quest Totals!

Abby H.Leave a comment

Quests require compasses and treasure chests, right?Why am I referring to them as “quests” and not “hustle“?

Hustling indicates moving quickly to earn money. This year, I’m doing a little bit every day, approximately 20 minutes on small surveys and small tasks. I may earn less daily, but overall, I can use small tasks to earn more through compounding.

June was a busy month for me to work on Side Quests. I sat down and really buckled down, as my regular day job was ending for the next two-ish months, and I wanted to ensure I had the funds for adventures with the kids.

  • MyPoints:  $30 Amazon Gift Cards
  • PaidViewPoint:  $34.20 Venmo
  • G2:  $10 Amazon Gift Cards
  • Fetch:  $10 Target Gift Cards
  • Rebates (WeStock, Peekage, Social Nature, and Aisle ):  $23.50 in Aisle Rebates
  • BrandClub:  $10.50 Venmo
  • TPT (I make worksheets/flashcards in my spare time for special ed classrooms). This side quest is definitely a slow trickle of money. I spent a lot of time over the summer making/uploading educational materials to my TPT account. $23.70
  • Verasight: $20 via Venmo

I spend about 20-30 minutes a day completing surveys, scanning receipts, and other tasks. It doesn’t take long, and it helps take a small load off our summer budget.

As always, the links above may be affiliate links, and I might earn money or points if you join any of the above apps or activities. This helps support my blog and family.

If you are interested in my full list of money-saving/money earning activites, I encourage you to check out: