We are always looking for ways to save a few bucks, but somehow, it seems to get harder and harder to do nowadays. Rising health care costs, over the top gas prices and the grocery bill can put a dent in anyone’s pocket book, but there are ways you can save a little nest egg each year.

Everyone should have a “just in case” account with at least $1,000– if you don’t, here are ten creative ways to make it happen:

Direct Deposit

Direct deposit makes our lives easier – no more running to the bank when your paycheck arrives. And, you don’t have to put all of your check in just one account. Create a savings account and direct deposit $84 a month into it. You won’t physically see the money leave your check since it is done beforehand, and at the end of the year you will have a little over $1,000 sitting in the account.

Don’t give it away, E-Bay.

Have some outfits that you paid a pretty penny for, but never wore. What about those fancy purses that you may have used once or twice but they just don’t fit with your style? Instead of allowing them to collect dust or be thrown away, put them on E-Bay. You can sell just about anything on the site, and you will be amazed at what people will pay for your used items. E-Bay does charge a small fee – but it’s just that – very small. If you sell 10 items at $105 dollars each, 20 items at $52 dollars or if you have a bunch of stuff to sell – 40 items at $28 – you’ll have enough money to cover the E-Bay costs and $1,000 in your savings account.

Take your lunch instead.

When lunch time rolls around at work, are you always eating out? That surely adds up. $20 a week for 52 weeks is $1,040 – so skip the restaurant and brown bag it. Your savings account will thank you for it.

Make your own mocha.

Many of us will zip through those conveniently located drive through coffee shops to perk up our morning. Guess what – it’s costing you big bucks. Again, if you spend $20 a week for your mocha or latte, it adds up to $1,040 a year. Instead, sock $20 a week in your savings account, buy some chocolate sauce and whipped cream and make your own mocha before strolling into work.