LG

What, if anything, can one reasonably do to extend battery life for the 8300? Reviews said it had an OK life, but it looks like a day or two is about it, and that's without heavy use and no music.
Will turning off backlighting make a noticeable difference? Could part of the short life be due to my putting in a number of new contacts?
Makes me long for my ancient Motorola 60i.