I'm traveling for work this week (and my most excellent boyfriend is watching the dog and house), so I thought I'd just post a few short hints to help you manage your finances.

Automatic savings are one of my best tools. I set my plan up online, but many banks can arrange this through an in-person interaction if you prefer.

I simply created a scheduled transfer to take place on my payday. Shortly after my salary is deposited — and before I even have time to use it — the bank automatically moves a specific amount from my checking account to my savings account. I started with a small number that I knew would be pretty easy and then I started bumping it up a bit each quarter. Now, I've found a level that's ambitious, but doable, so I'm holding there. I can change or stop the transfer at any time if my circumstances change.

I've found that it's a great way to save consistently. I feel like I have less liquid cash so I'm less likely to overspend. Apart from previously planned expenses that I'm actually saving for (like my new roof or a vacation), I try not to move money from savings to checking unless it's absolutely necessary. So far, it's worked well for me.

Any savings tips you'd like to share?