Planning a self catering holiday is exciting, but if it’s your first time, you might not be sure what to expect. Don’t worry, with a little preparation, your trip will go smoothly.
What to Expect from a Self Catering Holiday
A self catering holiday gives you a home of your own, but without the services of a hotel. Here are a few things to expect:
- No hotel services (total independence): There’s no front desk or daily housekeeping. You’ll check in independently (often via a lockbox) and have complete privacy. It also means you’ll do light chores yourself, washing dishes, taking out the rubbish, keeping things tidy. (Don’t worry, the host handles the deep cleaning after checkout.) Amenities might differ from a hotel as well: all the essentials will be provided (furniture, kitchen equipment, linens, etc.), but extras like toiletries or toilet paper usually come in a starter pack rather than an endless supply.
- You handle your own meals: Self catering means no meals are provided, so plan to cook or arrange food. Your rental will have a kitchen with everything you need, and St Andrews has plenty of shops and takeaways. Many hosts leave a few basics (perhaps tea, coffee, or milk to get you started), but you’ll be doing the grocery shopping for your stay. The good news is you can eat what you want, when you want, cook with local ingredients or dine out on your own schedule. We cover what self catering means in more detail here.
Questions to ask before booking
It’s wise to clarify a few details before you reserve a place. Consider asking:
- Location: Where exactly is the property, and will you need a car or is it walkable to key spots? If you’re driving, check if parking is included.
- Accessibility: If anyone in your group has limited mobility, ask about stairs, lifts (elevators), or other accessibility concerns in the property.
- What’s included: Confirm that essentials like bed linens and towels are provided, at Short Stay St Andrews we use hotel quality bed linen and towels . You can also ask about basic kitchen staples (e.g. salt, oil) or cleaning supplies, so you know what to buy and what is provided for you.
- Pets/children: If you’re bringing a dog, ensure the rental is pet-friendly (and ask about any fees or rules). For infants or toddlers, see if the host can provide a cot or high chair, or if there are any child-safety concerns. Find our pet friendly stays here.
- Check-in/out: Know the check-in and check-out times and how you’ll get the keys (lockbox, key pickup, etc.). If you need flexibility, ask in advance, many hosts try to accommodate when they can.
A good host will be happy to answer these questions. Having clarity on these points means you can arrive with confidence and no surprises. Discover our wide range of accommodation in St Andrews.
Packing Tips for Your Trip
You don’t need to pack the kitchen sink, your accommodation will have most of the basics, but here are some items to consider bringing:
- Travel info and contacts: Keep your booking confirmation, directions, and the host’s contact handy (printed or saved on your phone).
- Plug adapters: If you’re coming from abroad, bring UK power adapters (Type G plugs) for your electronics. Also remember the UK voltage is 230V, so check if your devices are dual-voltage.
- Appropriate clothing: St Andrews weather can change quickly. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket or umbrella, even in summer. If your rental has a washing machine, you can pack fewer clothes and do laundry during your stay.
- Personal toiletries & meds: Rentals often provide a little soap and maybe one toilet roll per bathroom, but you’ll want your own shampoo, toothpaste, etc. Bring any prescription medications and perhaps a few basic first-aid items (plasters, pain reliever) just in case.
- Food or specialty items: You don’t need to bring groceries (you can buy everything locally), but if you have a favourite tea, coffee, or snack you can’t live without, pack a bit to tide you over until you shop. Similarly, if you require certain spices or gluten-free products, you might bring a small supply just in case.
- Special equipment: Generally, kitchens are well equipped. But if you’re particular about something – say, a specific coffee-making gadget or a set of measuring cups – you could bring it along. For most travellers, this isn’t necessary; standard equipment will be provided.
Stocking Up Locally in St Andrews
One fun part of a self catering holiday is shopping for groceries and local goodies. St Andrews may be a small town, but it has plenty of options:
- Supermarkets: You’ll find several supermarkets for a big shop. There’s a large Morrisons on the edge of town, as well as an Aldi, a Tesco Express, and a Sainsbury’s Local in town for everyday essentials. Most are open late, so even if you arrive in the evening you can grab supplies.
- Local produce: Don’t miss the chance to try Scottish products. A highlight is Balgove Larder, a farm shop just outside town, which has a fantastic butcher, fresh vegetables, and local artisanal foods. In town, you can visit bakeries, butchers, or the weekly farmers’ market (when it’s on) to pick up fresh bread, meat, and produce. Exploring these shops is a great way to enjoy local culture.
- What to buy: It’s smart to grab breakfast items and snacks for your first day or two. Stock up on basics like milk, eggs, bread, and any ingredients you plan to cook with. Check what’s already in the rental (often hosts leave salt, pepper, or oil). Don’t forget tea or coffee if you need your morning cup. Basically, buy what you know you’ll use, you can always do a mid-week top-up if needed.
Shopping in St Andrews is easy and can actually be fun, you’ll quickly feel like a local as you pick up your groceries in town.
FAQs About Planning Your Stay
What should I bring for a self catering holiday?
Bring the essentials you would for any trip, clothing suitable for the weather, personal toiletries, and important items like chargers and travel documents. You don’t need to bring household items like dishes or bedding (those are provided). If you’re coming from overseas, don’t forget a UK plug adapter for your electronics.
Do I need to bring my own food or cleaning supplies?
You’ll want to buy groceries for your stay, since no meals are provided. Plan to shop once you arrive (or even arrange a supermarket delivery). Most rentals supply a few cleaning basics (dish soap, sponge, bin bags, etc.), but if you run out during a long stay, you can easily get more locally. Essentially, bring or buy the food you’ll want, but you don’t need to pack things like pots, pans, or cleaning sprays, the home will have those.
Is self catering suitable for families or solo travellers?
Absolutely. Families love self catering because it offers space and flexibility, separate bedrooms, a kitchen for family meals, and no worrying about noisy kids in a hotel hallway. Solo travellers enjoy the peace and independence of having a whole place to themselves. If you value having your own space and setting your own schedule, self catering is a great option whether you’re a family or on your own.
By planning ahead and knowing what to expect, you’re setting yourself up for a fantastic self catering stay in St Andrews. If you’re still looking for the perfect place to stay, be sure to check out our range of Short Stay St Andrews self catering properties, we’re here to help you find a home that suits your needs. Here’s to a memorable and stress-free holiday where you can truly live like a local!
