Like Tiffin, I save quite a bit (and learned a valuable lesson after playing both Gothics. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> )
In addition to saving often I save at every level up point and do not delete those. That way I can go back to an earlier part of the game (if I wish) to take the characters in a different direction.
However, I delete my saved games when they build up over time. And if I am trading in the BF, I usually copy over a save called "trading". I do the same after "resting". It's just easier for me and cuts down on making a lot of new save slots.
Faralas <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mage.gif" alt="" />