Dont shop, swap!

The concept is simple -- trade something you don't want for something you'll actually use. Not only will you be getting rid of excess clutter, you'll be helping the environment by reducing consumption. But best of all: you'll get new things without your budget taking a hit.

It's no surprise then that 'swaps' in all their many forms are becoming popular again thanks to the economic slump. According to recent articles in the Toronto Star and San Francisco Chronicle an increasing number of people are on the lookout for free items to help them get through these tough times, and they're willing to part with some of their old stuff in exchange.

It isn't just clothes and accessories that are being traded. Movies, books, household items, furniture, toys, decorating items, plants, services and even vacation rentals and vehicles are up for grabs. What used to be private, in-home parties have turned into community events, and websites such as Cambridge, Ontario based U-exchange.com are seeing a dramatic increase in users.

It's a win-win situation -- more people looking to trade means there are more goods and services to be traded. Businesses as well as individuals are taking advantage of this new economy of bartering.

Want in on the action? Here's how:

Host a party

Why you'll love it: It's an inexpensive way to host a gathering, and it has many of the social aspects of shopping -- like trying on clothes (or trying out items), sharing stories and offering opinions. What's missing? The guilt of spending money or worrying about your budget.

How to do it: Swap parties got their start with women exchanging clothes and accessories they no longer wore, but they've expanded to reach new items and audiences, like kids' clothing, furniture, household items and collectibles. (Parties can even be co-ed). Here are some tips to get you started:

- Pick a theme. Do you want to trade clothes and accessories? Books and movies? Games? You can organize a party to trade just about anything -- but keep the choices limited to avoid chaos and clutter.

- Keep it simple. Set the mood with your favourite tunes and keep the fare simple: no messy, sticky, drippy or crumbly foods that could stain or damage items (or your home). Try easy options you can prepare well ahead of time like fruit and vegetable platters so you won't be stuck in the kitchen the whole night. Let a decadent dessert or signature drink bring the "wow" factor.

- Make expectations clear. Make sure everyone knows that items should be "gently used" -- that is, they're clean and in good condition. You might also want to set a time limit, such as "no clothing over three years old" if you want current fashions.

And above all else: inform your guests know that there's no room for second thoughts. Make it a rule that items can't go home with their original owners.

- Have the right equipment available. What items do you need -- or need people to bring -- to facilitate the party? Items like a full-length mirror and areas to use as change rooms are necessary if you're trading clothes. You may also need to think about how to best display the items you're trading with book shelves, card tables, clothing racks and hangers.

- Keep it fair while making it fun. It won't be much of a party if one or two people get all of the good stuff. Set up a system for displaying and exchanging items -- like drawing names from a hat and taking turns -- to make sure the event doesn't turn into a literal free-for-all.