We all know what it’s like to be cruising along on financial autopilot when BAM! Out of “nowhere” a major “unexpected” hit comes and knocks us into a scrambling tailspin. Whether it’s medical expenses, taxes, that credit card bill we lost track of, car repairs or anything outside the norm, those extraordinary “hits” can set our vacations plans back years.

But let’s face it. Those types of hits aren’t all that unexpected, are they? We know we’re going to have to pay taxes and the credit card bill and more often than not for a trip or two to the doctor. And on top of those expenses, studies show that at least $600 goes toward “discretionary expenses” which include restaurants and entertainment, clothes and etc., services, and home appliances. That’s a pretty hefty chunk of unbudgeted change to find in between your couch cushions.

So what’s the best way to go about saving when you’re already at maximum output in your bare bones budget