Getting a bargain is good, but getting something you want for free is even better. The hot deal sleuths at Kiplinger’s Magazine have found a host of cool things anyone can get for free. Here are a few worth checking out:

Free college. You don’t need to qualify for a four-year scholarship to get a free college education. Berea College in Berea, Ky., provides every student with a four-year tuition scholarship valued at nearly $100,000. College of the Ozarks in Missouri offers a work-study program that allows students to attend tuition-free if they participate. City College of San Francisco offers free tuition for city residents, and New York is the first state to offer tuition-free college for residents with annual incomes under $125,000.

Free checking. For the best free checking accounts, look to online banks such as Ally Bank or Bank of Internet USA. They give you free ATM access and free online bill pay, plus you earn interest (free money!) on your deposits.

Free food at restaurants. Mark your calendar to take advantage of these freebies:

- Free pancakes at IHOP on National Pancake Day in March
- A free sandwich at Schlotzky’s Deli on Tax Day, April 15—and a free cookie from Great American Cookie
- A free doughnut from Dunkin’ Donuts or Krispy Kreme on National Doughnut Day in June
- A free Slurpee from 7-Eleven on July 11
- A free meal for veterans at Applebee’s, Chili’s or Golden Corral on Veterans Day

Free tour guides. Traveling? The Global Greeter Network organizes volunteers in several cities worldwide to show you around, give you the inside scoop and answer your questions. Tours can last a couple of hours, and there’s a strict no-tipping policy.

Free auto services. Pep Boys auto supply stores offer free battery tests, code retrieval, windshield wiper replacement, brake inspections and alignment checks. No purchase is necessary to take advantage of any of the services. You can get free brake inspections, too, if you are a Pep Boys Rewards member.

• 
• 
• 
•