Save $300 a Month

Below are links to previous SmartMoney.com columns chock-full of advice on how to save, without painful sacrifices. Follow these tips and you could save at least $300 a month — $3,600 a year. Now all you need to worry about is how to handle your windfall.

Dining Out for Cheap
Potential Savings: $60 per month

Slash Your Banking Fees
Potential Savings: $20 per month

Have you looked at how much you're paying these days just for basic checking and savings accounts? Many banks charge $8 a month — and an extra $10 or more if you want to sync your bank account with personal-finance software. Fortunately, you can easily eliminate these costs altogether just by picking the right bank.

Cheap Phone Calls
Potential Savings: $40 per month

Let's face it: Americans love to gab on the phone. If you aren't careful, it can lead to a staggering phone bill. But we've got ways to save both on your landline and cellphone bill.

Smart Online Shopping
Potential Savings: $70 per month

Shopping online isn't only convenient. It's also a great way to save:

Find Cheaper Gas
Potential Savings: $40 per month

Average prices are topping $2.92 a gallon, according to AAA. But you can easily shave $5 or $10 off each fill-up with some easy moves.

Slim Down Gym Costs
Potential Savings: $20 per month

Price-Shop Pet Supplies
Potential Savings: $70 per month

Americans spend an average $1,481 per year on their dogs, for expenses ranging from vet bills and food to grooming and toys, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association. For cats, owners spend an average $919. Here's how to cut that by as much as 35%.