If you can, set up a regular transfer from your checking account to your savings account each month (or when a paycheck is deposited). If money is tight, but you eat lunch out every day, try brown bagging at least one day a week and put away the money saved. $10 a day on a weekday lunch adds up to $2,600 a year. If you can't forgo eating out, skip the soda or iced tea with lunch and opt for water. It could save you around $300 a year.
If you get a cash back bonus with your credit card, rather than splurging with the money, put it in your savings account.
Have a plan, it's easier to save when you are working toward a goal.
