Don't shop, swap!

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.