What is Self-Catering Accommodation?

Self-catering accommodation refers to a type of lodging where guests are provided with facilities to prepare and cook their own meals, instead of relying on hotel or restaurant services.

Self-catering accommodations are usually fully furnished apartments, villas, cottages, or houses that are rented out to guests for short-term stays, ranging from a few days to several weeks. These accommodations typically come with a kitchen or kitchenette that includes appliances such as a stove, oven, refrigerator, and cooking utensils.

Guests are responsible for buying their own groceries and preparing their meals, giving them more control over their food choices and potentially reducing their overall travel expenses. This allows travelers to save money on expensive restaurant bills.

Self-catering accommodations may also provide other amenities such as free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and parking. You might even be able to create a fancier holiday home with a hot tub and beach access to take stand out in more popular destinations. Plus, iGMS can help you manage it all.

Is Self-Catering Accommodation Cheaper?

Self-catering can be cheaper than hotel stays, especially for longer durations and for groups. The savings mainly come from the cooking facilities, which reduces the need to eat out frequently—often a significant expense in travel.

Additionally, self-catering properties often have lower daily rates and can accommodate more guests, spreading the cost more effectively. However, the cost-effectiveness also depends on local dining costs, length of stay, and the rental rate of the accommodation itself.

What is the Difference Between Self-Catered and Non-Catered Accommodation?

The primary difference between self-catered and non-catered accommodations lies in the availability of kitchen facilities and the necessity to prepare meals.

Self-catered accommodations provide guests with the facilities to cook, offering flexibility and potentially reducing costs.

Non-catered accommodations, such as hotels or bed and breakfasts, typically do not offer full kitchen facilities and often include meals or have restaurants on-site, adding convenience but potentially increasing the cost of the stay.

What is Catering Accommodation?

Catering accommodation generally refers to lodgings that provide meals as part of the stay. These can range from bed and breakfasts, where breakfast is included, to full-board hotels that provide all meals.

The level of catering can vary widely—some accommodations might offer only breakfast, while others might include options for lunch, dinner, and even snacks. This type of accommodation is ideal for travelers who prefer not to deal with the logistics of meal planning and cooking during their vacation.

FAQs on Self-catering Accommodation

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about self-catering properties, including cottages, town houses, and farm stays:

What is included in self-catering accommodation?

A self-catering accommodation typically includes a fully-equipped kitchen, a dining area, a living space, and bedrooms with bedding and linens.

Choosing self-catering accommodations can be a cost-effective alternative to all-inclusive resorts, as it allows you to save money by cooking instead of dining out.

The kitchens in self-catered properties typically come with:

• a fridge
• an oven
• utensils
• cookware

Some may offer additional amenities like laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, parking, a balcony or terrace, and sometimes even a pool or garden.

Need help figuring out what to stock your self-catering kitchen with? Grab our free Airbnb Kitchen Essentials Checklist to make sure your guests are fully equipped for their stay.

Who cleans the self-catering accommodation?

Guests are usually responsible for cleaning the accommodation before they leave unless housekeeping services are included in the rental price. However, some accommodations may charge an additional fee for cleaning.

Do guests have to bring their own meals and groceries?

Yes, guests are responsible for purchasing their own food and groceries. However, some accommodations may provide a welcome pack of basic food items such as bread, milk, and eggs to get guests started. During a week’s self-catering stay, guests will need to prepare their own meals.

Can guests request additional amenities or services?

Yes, guests can usually request additional amenities or services such as housekeeping, laundry, or catering for an extra fee.

It’s best to check with the accommodation provider in advance to see what options are available.

Is self-catering accommodation suitable for families with children?

Yes, self-catering accommodation can be a great option for families with children as it provides more space and flexibility than a hotel room. However, it’s important to check with the accommodation provider in advance to ensure that the accommodation is child-friendly and suitable for your family’s needs.