5 Ways to Get Free and Discounted Tea Samples From Adagio

As far as hobbies go, tea drinking is one of the more affordable options. Still, sometimes you want to save a little extra, especially if you're ordering a blend that you've never tried before. Adagio Teas offers exclusive ways to get free or reduced-price samples--and, sometimes, all you have to do is check the website.

Before we start, I want to clarify that this is NOT a paid Adagio promotion. Additionally, these deals and offers may change over time. Check the website for up-to-date information.

1. Trading Cards

Adagio's trading cards are a little unconventional, but once you've figured them out, you could get a new sample every week. You'll start with three cards, each one representing a tea or spice sample. If the flavor looks appealing, you can add it to your cart for free. Otherwise, you'll hang on to the card and attempt to trade with other users.

Adagio chooses the cards randomly, but you can use the slider at the top to select your tea preferences and reduce the chances of getting a sample you don't like. You could also exchange two unused cards for a new one. If you want to attempt a trade instead, click on one of the users at the top, then view their deck and submit your offer.

You'll still have to pay for shipping unless you add other purchases to your cart, but Adagio's shipping fees are fairly cheap. Still, I prefer to let a few samples accumulate in my cart before placing an order. If you cash in your cards every week, those shipping fees will add up.

2. 75-cent Samples

They don't heavily advertise it on the site, but Adagio offers 75-cent samples and free shipping for new customers. From what I can tell, you can still order these samples if you're an existing customer, but you'll have to pay for shipping. Still, it's a good deal for tea drinkers who want to try something new.

This section offers a wide variety of herbal, chai, black, green, oolong and flavored teas. Simply choose the teas that interest you, then hit the "Checkout" button at the bottom. You'll go right to your cart and get ready to place an order. If you're not done shopping, make sure you add your other purchases first.

3. Adagio Rewards

The Adagio Rewards program gives you points every time you make a purchase. Once you've racked up enough points, you can exchange them for free tea, samples and gifts. If you're not a big shopper, these are some other ways to earn:

• Writing reviews
• Uploading a video review
• Adding a friend to your profile
• Creating and tagging a Signature Blend
• Linking (or "shipping") two Signature Blends
• Sending friends a $5 certificate
• Adding a gift card to your order
• Uploading a profile picture
• Building a wishlist
• Reordering a product
• Joining a Fandom group

The ways to earn are a little scattered. I found these methods by checking out the FAQ page, visiting the rewards page and hitting the "Earn Points" tab in the header, but you might find even more as you browse the site.

4. Recommended Teas

For existing members, the Adagio front page features a "Recommendations" section with a list of teas that you might enjoy based on your history. Click on a product page, and you'll find that samples are 50% off. If you signed up recently, this section might take some time to appear, so be patient!

5. Free Gifts

The front page is also the place to find existing deals. Throughout the year, Adagio offers seasonal gifts and tea samples when you meet the purchase threshold. Typically, the site automatically adds the gifts to your cart and unlocks them once you've met the minimum amount.

On another note, Adagio occasionally adds a free Share Box to your order when you spend $29 or more. This box contains four bestselling samples that you can enjoy yourself or share with your friends.

Finally, if you've made an account, keep checking your email inbox for deals and free gifts. Periodically, Adagio sends exclusive coupons that help you save money on your next order. If you don't have a profile, this is the time to sign up.

Have you tried any of these tips? How do you save money when shopping for tea? Let me (and your fellow tea lovers) know in the comments.