I typically have the maximum amount of ram possible on any of my laptops even going so far as to install a bios update if that helps. All my stuff is installed on multiple 20 GB partitions on a 465 GB SSHD, including three MATE operating systems, a 350 GB data partition, and 4GB swap partition just in case. **
Edit**: Please see - Install Ubuntu-MATE Using A Data Partition
for more on my typical data partitions.
My text files don't take up much space. The real source of what tends to fill up my data partition is DVD rips. No more DVD discs in this house.
Another desktop has been given to me with enough storage space to keep one of my desktops going for at least this year.
Most of my under powered machines (2 GB RAM, skimpy CPU) stored some their data files on a local server in another part of the house. However, every machine (with few exceptions) can act as a server if desirable. Back-ups happen as often as needed and my local network is reasonably efficient. I tend to fill up whatever storage is available.
Nice question Mr. Squash.