Planning a holiday often begins by selecting the right accommodation at the best price. Deciding on where you`ll stay at your chosen destination is down to individual budget and preference, but it can help to survey the main options ahead of time.

For many people, it doesn`t feel like a holiday without a hotel stay. The amenities are all covered, usually one or two meals are included and you can relax knowing that you will have a comfortable place to retire at the end of a long day`s sight-seeing. Obviously there are several different levels within hotel accommodation; from budget three-star complexes to luxurious five-star boutiques. Factors you may want to consider are the quality of breakfast that is served – cold continental or cooked for example – or whether rooms come with en-suite facilities as standard. When staying in the UK, smaller bed and breakfast establishments often make a good compromise as they tend to offer lower rates but some of the personal touches that can make your break more enjoyable.

Self-catering can offer a practical, value-for-money holiday that more and more people are opting for these days. Stay in anything from a low-cost camping barn in the Peak District to a chic poolside apartment on the Mediterranean isles. A good range of choice means you have more control over your budget and can save money by cooking meals and preparing picnics for days out. This option also offers more privacy as you will not be staying alongside other visitors in a potentially crowded peak-season hotel. Depending on how much you want to spend, you could have access to your own garden, swimming pool or even beach in some cases. Groups of friends or larger family gatherings might find this the best way to organise a get-together as costs can more easily be shared and you can guarantee close proximity in adjacent cottages or even renovated castles.

At the cheaper end of the scale, hostels are the ideal choice for the wandering backpacker. However, they can also be a fun way of meeting other travellers, hopping from city to city, enjoying seasonal festivals or simply reserving your money for the sights. Hostels also make a good alternative to camping, for those requiring access to a few standard facilities such as hot showers, cooking equipment and proper beds.

Even if your essential holiday items are usually a tent and a camping stove, it can make a pleasant change to indulge in some comfort every now and again. Online deals have made hotels more affordable than ever in recent years and last minute discounts can get you luxury holiday accommodation for a fraction of the value price. Whatever your ideal accommodation, whether it`s a private villa or a farmhouse B & B, it`s always worth checking out what`s available.