Your Essential Guide: What to pack for a self-catering holiday in the UK

So you’ve booked your self-catering accommodation, taken the time off work and are patiently counting down the days until your holiday begins…but have considered everything you’ll need to get the most out of your break?

Luxury self catering holidays are a brilliant blend of independence and relaxation. Unlike traditional hotel accommodation, where you rely on room service and restaurants, Self-Catering Holidays empower you to create your own experience in the comfort of your own ‘home from home’’. 

And it seems the popularity of ‘staycations’ looks set to continue. According to the Holiday Letting Outlook Report 2023, a review of the UK’s short-term accommodation letting industry compiled by Sykes Holiday Cottages, bookings for its holiday lets rose by 48 per cent from 2019 to 2022, with a 50 per cent increase in demand for UK holidays since the pandemic.

So whether you are escaping for a three-night weekend break or a seven-night staycation, we’ve put together your ultimate guide to what to pack for a self-catering holiday in the UK.

Weather Ready: Be prepared

Regardless of the time of year, the UK’s weather is rarely reliable. One minute you can be basking in brilliant sunshine and the next dodging a torrential downpour. The best advice is to be prepared for whatever the weather may throw at you – and always check the forecast. If it’s summer, don’t leave home without packing your raincoat, sunglasses, umbrella and sun protection cream. Just in case. 

Many of our guests at Netherby Hall use their self-catering apartment or cottage as a base for exploring Hadrian’s Wall Country, the iconic fells and lakes of the Lake District National Park, and the rolling hills and stunning beaches of Dumfries and Galloway. If you’re planning on heading into the countryside, then plan your route in advance and make sure you’ve wearing suitable clothing and have the right equipment. The Lake District National Park Authority has some great advice on What to pack to stay safe when heading into the great outdoors.

If you’ve done your research in advance, don’t forget any maps, apps or travel guides which will be useful during your stay. We’ve put together a blog with 10 must-visit destinations during a visit to Netherby Hall.

Food for Thought: Eating and Drinking

One of the advantages of staying in self-catering accommodation is the opportunity to cook and eat exactly what you want, when you want it. At Netherby Hall, all our apartments and cottages come with fully equipped kitchens including utensils, an induction hob, oven, and fridge freezer. Always check in advance to see what is provided and make sure you pack anything extra you might need from kitchen towel to dishwasher tablets, and bin bags to washing up liquid.

It’s worth picking up some basic groceries, such as milk, bread and butter, as well as coffee, tea and maybe a packet of your favourite biscuits. Again, check in advance to find out what is provided by your accommodation – and whether food packs can be ordered prior to your arrival.

If you don’t want to stock up before leaving home, then staff at your accommodation will be able to direct you to the nearest shop or supermarket.

Don’t Forget your Toothbrush

As with any holiday, you’ll need to pack all the essentials such as medicines and toiletries, along with a first aid kit because you just never know when that blister plaster or a couple of painkillers may be needed.

You’ll also want to pack anything which will help you get the most out of your stay, from a favourite card game to a swimming costume and towel if you’re planning a dip in the local pool or even a lake.

Bed linen and towels are usually provided but again it’s worth checking before you travel.

Dog Essentials: Packing for your Four-legged Friend

If your dog is joining you on your holiday, then make sure you pack their favourite toys and bedding so they feel at home. You will also need to bring their preferred food, any medicines, and dog waste bags. All nine of the self-catering cottages and apartments at Netherby Hall are dog friendly, with doggie treats, plenty of space for lovely walks on our private estate, and a very warm welcome from our team for you and your four-legged best friends guaranteed. Read more about dog friendly holidays on our blog.

Power up: Phone Chargers and Battery Packs

Last but certainly not least, don’t forget to pack chargers to ensure that your devices stay fully powered for the duration of your stay. Battery storage packs are a good investment for when you’re out and about and your phone needs charging.

Packing for a self-catering holiday in the UK does require a little planning but it’s well worth the effort. Remember, the key to a successful self-catering holiday is finding the right balance between self-sufficiency and relaxation, so you can truly make the most of your time away from home.

Staying at Netherby Hall

Just 15 minutes from the M6 at Carlisle, Netherby Hall is the ultimate getaway-from-it-all destination within easy reach of some of the UK’s most awe-inspiring scenery. 

Set within 36-cares of private gardens and grounds in rural North Cumbria, you’ll find the perfect luxury self-catering accommodation combined with the peace of tranquility of a country estate – and plenty to explore in the local area.Book your stay now at Netherby Hall and find out for yourself.