Even though the economy seems to be improving, finances will remain difficult for many people.

No one wants to spend too much money frivolously, and many even find some of the things they need for free. Would you like to be one of them?

There are a number of online sites that exist only for a list of free stuff. Others have parts of their sites dedicated to those who wish to give things away. You can find air mattresses, clothes, plants and furniture. I have even seen the elegant, quite expensive devices that appear on these sites from time to time. You never know what you will find until you search.

Here are 5 places to start.

Craigslist
This site virtually invented online classifieds. Even today, its sales section is very popular. But did you know that it also has an area dedicated to free products?

You just have to go to the Sales section and click on the free link. Some interesting things that I discovered in our area just this week included: an entertainment center, the gardening rocks, a 32-inch flat-screen TV, “almost new” baby clothes and a section. That’s several hundred dollars in things right there, even at garage sale prices. All you have to do is go find what you want!

One caveat: Craigslist users have been plagued by some bad incidents in recent years. Be sure to be careful before allowing a foreigner to come to your house or before going to your place. People who use Craigslist often choose to meet in a public place, such as parking in a Starbucks, where they will be in view of others. And it’s always a good idea not to go alone.

Freecycle
A lot of what you just throw in a landfill, even when it’s still perfectly usable. Many people are using the local Freecycle sites to find a good home for their useful pariahs.

The Freecycle concept is to keep things out of landfills unnecessarily. It works on a member basis, and usually apply to join a local site in your area.

Once you are a member, you can post articles that you would like to give away. As a member, you will also see what others are offering for free. Nothing is for sale. Many of these groups do not work on a first come, first served basis, so be sure to read the group rules. Also, if you only take and never give (especially if you put too many “wanted” requests), you could find your membership restricted.

However, items gifted through Freecycle are often superior in more classified anonymous sites. I have found children’s clothes, a pool table, several printers, books, a leather recliner and much more.

eBay Ads
 eBay is best known as an auction site, but it also includes a robust ad site. That includes a section of free articles. Just look at the category of free things.

I took a quick look and found a crib, a new full living room series (um, purple), gardening bricks and quality wallpaper. You will also find a lot of pets that need a good home.

Freenapkin
This site is similar to the other classified sites with a big difference. Everything on this site is free.

I saw a set a children’s game, car rims and chairs. It is better to stick to your local listings. Most people are trying to get rid of something quickly, so they do not want to deal with the shipment.

BarterQuest
Consider negotiating for what you want or need instead of paying. This is one of the fastest growing, almost underground forms of commerce today.

You probably have something that I would not mind giving as a gift. However, it could be exactly what someone else needs.

You can trade electronic products, antiques, furniture and instruments. There is even a section for work vehicles and real estate.

You can also operate the services. For example, if you are a graphic designer or a message therapist, you may be able to change your legal advice services or any other type of experience. Other arrangements to change homes for a low-cost vacation. The system is very flexible system. Just take reasonable care, as always, when making the arrangements.