Saving money when you are young is SO important. I know you've all heard it before. If you can put anything in your 401K, do so. At least getting to your employers match is most important. What that money will make for you over the years is amazing when compared to someone who just starts saving in their 30's.
I was in the Air Force until I was 25, but for the past 7 years I've been maxing out my 401K every year, along with some other investments on the side. My house is mortgaged for 20 years and I pay on it every two weeks. I'll have it paid off sometime in my 40's. Sooner if my company sells within the next few years.
I'm not gloating or giving anyone crap about living paycheck to paycheck. Sometimes, you have to do certain things to make ends meet. I did for sure until I got out of the Air Force. But if you can start saving in some way, do so. 401K is still the best route to go, as it's tax free up to a certain point. Personally, I could afford a much bigger, nicer house, and better, more expensive cars. But I don't. I live under my means so that when I retire, I won't ever have to worry about working a part time job, or lessening my current standard of living.
So do what you can to save, as soon as you can. Because when you're 65 or whatever, you'll be so glad you did... :nod: