Barter to save money

Bartering for goods and services is coming back into fashion as people try to hold on to as much money as possible. While it's not for everyone, it's a terrific way to get what you want or need for free, in exchange for a little bit of time. Shows like "Barter Kings" are popularizing the practice that was commonplace not that long ago in our history. Here are a few ways you can barter for what you want while keeping the money you need.

Swap

Don't run out to buy new clothes when you get tired of your old ones. Ask your friends and family over to have a clothes swap instead. Each person brings their unwanted clothes and shoes to trade with others for a similar item (though it doesn't have to be similar). It's a great way to socialize while you "shop." You may also want to swap for toys, which children often tire of quickly, and books, many of which you'll never read after the first time or two.

Trade up

While trading up is similar to a swap, it's a bit different in that you're not necessarily trading for a similar item. Most people try to trade up for items of higher value or those that are hard to find. Classifieds, Craigslist and local bargain books (ours is called the Bargain Finder) provide ways to trade items, and it's usually free to post a listing. Freecycle doesn't even require you to trade something; you can get items for free, often in excellent shape.

Offer your skills

If you have skills that are sought after, consider exchanging those for something you need. If you're a whiz at taxes, offer to do them for someone in exchange for pet sitting while you're out of town for a day or two. If writing is your forte, score some graphics from an artistic friend in exchange for writing his web copy. A blogger I follow trades administrative services for yoga classes at a studio where she wouldn't be to afford classes otherwise.

Do you barter for goods or services? Share your stories in the comments.

Photo courtesy somaya, via Flickr.