Have you ever come across a trick so clever that it feels like it should be forbidden? Surprisingly, there are plenty of totally legal hacks that’ll make your life easier & more enjoyable, no matter how wrong they might seem. Here are ten life hacks that feel like they’re against the rules but they’re all perfectly legit. They’re worth it for the savings you’ll make—both financially & in terms of convenience.
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Picking Fruit Overhanging Public Sidewalks
Despite what you’ve heard, any fruit you see hanging over a public sidewalk might be available for you to pick. There’s no law saying you can’t—as long as the fruit is accessible without stepping onto private property. Go ahead and enjoy a fresh snack during your walk for absolutely no cost at all. Keep in mind, though, that laws are different in each place so you’ll need to check local regulations.
Using Public Restrooms in Fancy Hotels
If you’re out & need a clean restroom, you can walk into upscale hotels to use their lobby facilities. The laws in many states argue that these areas must be open to the public. Just act confidently and be respectful—the staff usually won’t mind. Don’t forget to thank the staff as you leave as well because it’s just polite.
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Picking Locks on Your Own Property
While it may seem suspicious, owning & using lockpicking tools on your own locks is legal. If you’re locked out of your house, use these tools to get back in because picking your own locks is a lot cheaper than hiring someone to do it for you. In fact, some hobbyists also enjoy lockpicking as a mental challenge so there are plenty of benefits to it. Just make sure it’s only your lock!
Sleeping in Your Car Where Permitted
It’s entirely legal to take a nap or sleep overnight in your car in many places. You’re well within your rights to rest in your vehicle, depending on local laws. As such, it can be rather helpful during road trips since you don’t need to stay at a hotel—just pull over and sleep. There are slightly different laws if you’ve consumed alcohol or have some in your car so make sure you check the rules out.
Haggling Prices at Retail Stores
You might think prices are set in stone at big retail stores but that’s not always true. If you politely ask for a discount, you might get some unexpected savings—especially on expensive items or products with a tiny flaw. Usually, store managers will lower prices to keep customers happy because they just want to make a sale! Sure, it does feel weird to negotiate at the checkout. But put those feelings aside because it’s completely legal.
Using Competitor Coupons for Discounts
Some stores accept coupons from their competitors to earn your business. Of course, it’s not a guarantee but if you bring in a coupon from another retailer, the competing store may honor it. Even if they don’t offer you exactly the same discount, they might give you the product at a reduced price. Really, it’s quite a smart way to save some cash without breaking any rules.
Using Multiple Email Addresses for Discounts
You can use different email addresses to sign up for newsletters or promotions to get multiple introductory discounts. There’s no law against owning several email accounts and companies usually limit one offer per email address—not per person. You’re just using their rules to your benefit! One of the easiest ways to do this is by simply adding a plus sign (+) after your username and then any combination of letters or numbers.
Using Store Amenities Without Buying Anything
Places like IKEA or big bookstores have so many useful amenities like comfortable seating places & discounted food. While hanging out there without buying anything might feel like loitering, these spaces are open to everyone. You’re free to relax & read without any obligation to make a purchase. And if you have kids, you can use them as a free place for your little ones to play!
Booking Shorter Layovers to Save Money
Sometimes, booking a flight with a layover that’s actually your destination is cheaper than a direct flight there. You just get off at the layover city & skip the final leg of the journey. Unfortunately, airlines don’t like this & they may ban you—but it’s not illegal. Just make sure you only have carry-on luggage because checked bags will go to the final destination without you.
Picking Up Items from the Curb
When people leave unwanted items on the curb, they’re usually free for the taking. Known as “curb shopping,” you’ll find furniture or household goods without spending a dime. There are some rules about it, though. For example, you’ll need to check that the items are clearly discarded & not on private property. Feel free to take them if that’s true because you might find some great items for absolutely nothing at all!
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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