Self Catering Holidays

Self Catering Tour Operators

There are a number of recommended tour operators offering both room only and self catered options. You also could go directly to a privately owned rented home, booking your flights separately, however, be careful with regards to your financial protection when you do this.

TUI Holidays

One of the UK's best and most well-known tour operators, amongst its offering of far flung holidays and family friendly escapes are the budget friendly options with everyone in mind, whether you've scrimped and saved all year for that one special family break, or you're away with a group of girlfriends to celebrate a special occasion.

Jet2holidays

Like TUI, Jet2holidays are ABTA and ATOL protected so when you book a package with them, you are financially protected should things not quite go to plan. What's more, when you book a package getaway, you'll often find check-in luggage is included, plus you can pay with a low deposit, allowing you to pay off the rest of the cost over a period of several months.

easyJet Holidays

Another affordable tour operator is easyJet Holidays, particularly as they offer so many flights from UK regional airports like Manchester, Newcastle and Glasgow to destinations including the Costa del Sol, Cyprus and Turkey.

Other Options

If you prefer to book your flight and accommodation separately, this is also possible, although not always advised. Ryanair can offer low cost flights, and with a self catering apartment, you can really cut your costs. Alternatively, you might want to check out the latest places to stay on Booking.com or Airbnb, or even speak to family and friends who may know of somewhere to stay.

Popular Self Catering Accommodation Types

There are a variety of accommodation types to choose from if you're planning a self catering holiday abroad or in the UK. Along with independent cottages, here are some of the main ones to thing about:

Apartments

Often the cheapest option, especially if it's just you on your own or as a couple, apartments can provide all the comforts you need while often been in the heart of the action, like Benidorm or Palma in Majorca, or even Skegness if staying in the UK. With the growth of travel websites like Airbnb and Booking.com, you've got so much at your fingertips.

Villas

Villas can often be a more luxurious way of enjoying a self catered stay. Villas with private pools are regularly on a holidaymakers hit list but they aren't always in the heart of the resort. This is where hiring a car can be an added bonus, although also means an extra cost. Check out companies like Jet2Villas who are likely to include car hire in the cost of your vacation.

Caravans

If you're staying in the UK, holiday parks and caravan parks can be an excellent option, especially if you've got a number of people in your group. Popular locations like Devon, Cornwall and Norfolk have lots of options to choose from but they can get booked up quite quickly. Check out the likes of Haven Holidays and Park Holidays in the UK or Eurocamp if you're travelling abroad.

Self Catering Holiday Types

For Large Groups

Villas and caravans can be a good option for large groups looking for self catering holiday accommodation. You may also find that multiple apartments in the same block can be a good choice too. Just make sure to read the fine print when booking as some places won't allow certain group sizes, or male only or female only groups.

For Disabled Holidaymakers

There are plenty of options for disabled holidaymakers including specially adapted villas and caravans, taking out the stress of booking somewhere with facilities that accommodate. Try Haven Holidays in the UK or James Villa Holidays in Europe and abroad for disabled friendly stays.

With Dogs

A dog isn't just a pet, it's part of the family, which is why taking them on holiday is so important. In the UK, there are so many pet-friendly holidays available, ranging from caravans to dog friendly holiday cottages. Always check the details when you book as you may be asked to pay an extra fee per pet. Pet friendly places will often have a list of pet friendly restaurants and pubs nearby.

With Hot Tubs

Hot tubs make a staycation that extra bit special. Forest Holidays are a good option here, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors from the warmth and relaxation of your own hot tub.

With Pools

Now this is luxury. Accommodation with a private swimming pool. And there are plenty of places to stay for this. The Balearic Islands of Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza have loads of villas with pools, as do the greek Islands and Turkey. Depending on when you're planning on visiting, check whether the pool is heated or not, as it may get a bit chilly in the winter months.