So you've decided on your place to stay, you know the basics you
need to pack but the difference is this time you have the car (not
just one suitcase) and you're going self catered. No changing of
currency or frantic finger crossing to be within weight; but this
time you have to think about food. Self catered is a phrase - for
those more used to 'all inclusive' - that can strike fear into the
heart of even the most avid traveller! But honestly there's no need
to worry; here we take you through our guide to making the most of
a self catered break. With a bit of pre-planning, a cool box and a
crate of essentials, a self-catering break can be carefree!
So a few things to consider before you start planning:
How many days are you away?
How many people are going with you?
How much do you want to cook vs. going out?
How much can you take with you? (think Mini vs. Range Rover)
What meals will you want to cover - breakfast, lunch, dinner -
during your stay?
The best advice we think is to get everyone together before you
go and discuss potential menu ideas. Planning meals ahead of time
can be a real lifesaver; because after a day at the beach, walking
the mountains or the miles of coastal path the last thing you want
is to have no idea what you're going to cook up. We're sure you'll
come across places you'll want to eat out during your stay, even if
it's just fish 'n' chips enjoyed on the beachfront, so planning for
everyday may not be necessary. Don't forget there will be food
shops for local ingredients or any forgotten bits and bobs.
Bed linen and bath towels (not beach towels) are provided by
each cottage along with an initial supply of the essentials. But we
think there are certain things to bring that can be bought
beforehand and packed up so you are perfectly prepared. If you're
stuck for space whilst travelling, you can easily top up once you
arrive and buy fresh local produce to supplement your
essentials.
All cottages come stocked with enough kitchen equipment to cook
up a hearty feast. Below we list a few suggestions of things that
can be crated up and should mean your first stop doesn't have to be
the shops!
Tea / Coffee
Sugar / Sweetener
Cereal
Pasta / Rice / Potatoes
Sauces
Snacks / Chocolate / treats
Your favourite wine / beer
Soft drinks of choice
Bread
Washing up liquid / dishwasher tablets (if the cottage has one
it's noted in facility details)
Toiletries
Toilet roll
If you own a cool box and have the space, some people prefer to
stock up on fridge items before heading off on holiday. So you can
make sure you have your your favourites: milk, butter, cheese,
yoghurts, things to make up sandwiches, meats or fish for meals on
your menu. Essentially anything you want to keep cold and fill up
the cottage fridge on arrival!
This way the majority of the budgeting for food has
occured before you even travel, leaving you knowing what you'd like
to spend on meals out. Whether it be a hearty breakfast before a
walk, a lunch at a coastal cafe or a special holiday evening meal.
You also have an idea about the meals you can conjure up, taking
the stress out of self-catered. Anything you don't end up using can
be taken home with you - so nothing will be wasted; or
alternatively you'll have plenty of space to stock up on those
local butcher's sausages or tasty homemade bara brith!
Other than that we suggest making sure you make the most of
being out and about, remember simple filling things will always go
down a treat with hungry family and friends after a full day
exploring North Wales.
Want to find a cottage that's right for you, ready for your
own self catered break? Take a look on our website or phone our friendly team on
01248 430258 and they will happy to help!