Budgeting is boring. And for a student traveler there's no getting round it. But when your bank statement is in the minus then something's got to be done. Traveling should be about frivolous, carefree fun, not worrying over where the next dollar's coming from.

Yet, believe it or not, student travel on a budget can be easy and surprisingly fun. Here are just a few of the best ways to have the vacation of a lifetime, without punishing your bank account.

Sleeping for Cheap

It might seem obvious, but youth hostels are an absolute must on a budget. While the major hotel chains offer seemingly cheap, double rooms, as a single traveler you'll pay extra for less! Hostels, on the other hand, offer beds in dorm rooms, and increasingly double and triple rooms.

They're cheap, friendly and fun. They often have kitchens and chill-out rooms attached, and more or less every night is party night. They're also a great way to meet fellow travelers, many of whom will be in a similar financial situation.

Eating for Cheap

Other than your accommodation, eating is probably the biggest expense a traveler will have. One of the best tips for saving money is to take small sachets of salt from fast food restaurants to use in your cooking. The little packets weigh nothing, and don't take up any space, unlike a bag of salt.

Eating locally is another tried and tested budget traveler tip. The food will be cheaper and more traditional, and depending on where you are, you might get a chance to eat local delicacies which you wouldn't get the chance to try.

Supermarkets, markets and local shops such as bakeries are great for collecting items for picnics, and cooking in the hostel kitchen. If a few people put their cash together, buying big bags of bulk items, such as pasta and rice can save a fortune.

Transport for Cheap

Buy plane and rail tickets for off-peak days and times, and take a note of all public holidays for the country you're visiting. Peak and weekend travel is usually much more expensive. In some countries buses are cheaper then trains, but take longer, and for some countries it's the reverse.

If you have the time take the longer, cheaper option - it could save you a lot of money. Night trains are a good way of moving between A to B and saving on the price of another night's accommodation.

Taxis can be expensive in many countries. If you're not familiar with the area, ask a local or the receptionist where you're staying what the price should be and agree on it with the driver before you take the journey.

Other Money Savers

Tourist cards often offer discounts for museums and also for some places to eat and stay, so take advantage of these. Make sure you have your student card and an ISIC card, as most countries accept this as student identity and offer cheaper rates on things such as accommodation, activities, shops and sightseeing.