The good eater's guide to mooching (pancakes, cookies, candy, and more!)

There's no such things as a free lunch, but there is such a thing as a free sample! While we at BHG.com would never advocate abusing the privilege of seasonal promotions, special offers, and free goodies, if the opportunity arises to benefit from corporate goodwill, why not enjoy it? Here are some of the delicious ways you can enjoy munchie-based marketing:

(In the mood to share the freebies? Whip up one of these blissful chocolate or vanilla desserts -- your family and friends will be begging for seconds.)

Free Pancakes
Today is National Pancake Day! In honor of this momentous occasion, on Tuesday, February 23, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., IHOP serves up free short stacks of buttermilk pancakes with an equally sweet disclaimer: "All we ask is that you consider making a donation to support local children's hospitals through Children's Miracle Network, or other local charities." Altruism and free pancakes -- they just go together.

Free Cookies
According to a recent New York Times article, both Midwest Airlines and Doubletree Hotels have lured cost-conscious travelers with the prospect of free chocolate chip cookies. Doubletree guests are given a cookie upon arrival (no matter how late they check in), while passengers on Midwest are treated to free baked-on-board cookies -- the in-flight aroma itself is priceless.

Free Candy
At See's Candie's retail locations nationwide, free candy samples are the norm. Look for an open box on the counter. But if you don't see one, don't be afraid to ask! Sampling etiquette requires that you only get one per person and you must stick with what's on offer that day -- this is the subtle but important difference between requesting a sample and demanding a free piece of candy.

Free Beer
Visit the Anheuser-Busch Breweries in St. Louis, MO, Fairfield, CA, Fort Collins, CO, Jacksonville, FL, or Merrimack, NH for a tour through Bud's rich history, including a trip through the brewery's Clydesdale stables, beer cellars, as well as a visit to the "hospitality room", where guests (21 years and over) may sample freshly brewed beer -- including rare, experimental, and seasonal varieties.

Free Ice Cream
If you join the Baskin-Robbins Birthday Club, you receive get a free 2.5 oz scoop of ice cream on your birthday. There's no cost to entry -- all you do is fill out a simple online form. Yes, you might receive the occasional ice-cream-based correspondence. But isn't it worth it for a free scoop?

Do you have any sampling secrets? Share with us!