Do you want the affordability and privacy of a self-catering getaway along with luxurious amenities? If so, we’ve covered 14 fantastic ways to turn your rustic self-catering stay into a luxurious one! The following items won’t take up too much space in your bags and will make a world of difference.
SUSTENANCE
Cheese Platter: You’re going to love tucking into crispy thin crackers topped with brie and fig jam all weekend long, and you’ll find it far more filling and enjoyable than just another packet of chips. **Bonus points if you add biltong and wine into the mix!
Champagne: No drink screams luxury more than bubbly does. Bring a bottle or two and chill them in the fridge as soon as you arrive. This way, they’ll be nice and crisp by the time you want to pop them. For extra decadence pair the bubbly with your cheese platter.
Coffee press and ground coffee: Many self-catering places will provide you with teabags and instant coffee. But it’s far better to bring a percolator and small bag of high-quality coffee grounds with so you can awaken to the rich, scent of your favourite coffee during your vacation. Done right, your little percolated coffee can taste just as good as the fancy ones served at 5-star Michelin restaurants.
Herbal tea: As with the coffee above, tea lovers shouldn’t skip out on bringing their favourite tea with, to help conjure up that cosy, homey feeling. A little routine, even on holiday, never hurts.
UNWIND
Bubble Bath: Provided your accommodation has a bath, pack some bubble bath or bath salts to soak away whatever stress you may have brought with you. Alternatively, if there’s just a shower, bring along a heavenly scented body wash and loofah.
Fluffy Towels: Many self-catering places expect you to bring your own towels, so instead of bringing the usual threadbare one you keep for camping, that’s literally been to the ends of the earth with you, pack a soft and fluffy one that you’ll get a few good years of use from.
Sheets: There’s nothing inherently wrong with the standard sheets supplied at budget self-catering places, but if you bring your own cosy one with you, you can transform an alright bed into a magical opulent dream palace.
Candles: Soft lighting and a scent can do wonders to transform a room. Pick a citronella fragrance if you’re heading to an insect-prone area.
Massage Oil: There’s nothing quite like a foot massage to end off a rough week, and it’s double appreciated if you’ve been on your feet all day!
Fresh Flowers: Pretty up the apartment with a bunch of fresh flowers. They’ll add a scent to the air and brighten up an otherwise plain environment. If you’re staying with a partner, consider scattering rose petals around your bed to up the romance level. **Please avoid doing this if the rose petals aren’t dried as fresh petals will stain white sheets.
Eye Mask and Ear Plugs: While thoughtful owners cater to the vampires among us with thick blinds and heavy drapes, there are a few that believe natural light is the best thing to wake up to. A sleep mask will ensure you get your beauty sleep without any undue disturbances, and ear plugs can help block any unwanted noises from cars, wildlife, or snoring partners.
LUXURIOUS AND COSY
Thick blanket: In summer you can use it as a picnic blanket, while in winter you can use it to cuddle on the couch or curl up directly in front of the fireplace.
Luxury PJ’s: Forget your tracksuit pants and oversized t-shirt, and bring along some luxurious pyjamas. Don’t own a pretty cotton nightie? Then bring a kimono robe instead. Guys who are too macho to pull of the Hugh Heffner waffle robe look can bring sheepskin slippers. After all, there’s a reason these items are staples at 5-star properties.
TECHNOLOGY
3G Dongle: It’s super easy to connect to the internet if you have a mini 3G dongle with you. This is great if you’ve picked accommodation without internet facilities and need to Skype with family and friends while on the go. **To save on data costs, ensure that you don’t leave your 3G running the entire day – rather set aside an hour of time to turn it on and do your social catch ups.
What do you take with you on your self-catering stays to make them more luxurious?
