If you are planning a trip to Ireland and love saving money, consider booking your room at one of the thousands of self-catering accommodations scattered across the countryside and nestled in quaint villages. When you stay in self-catering lodges, you can drastically cut down on your travel expenses because the rooms include fully equipped kitchens where you can prepare meals for your family instead of eating out the whole trip.

Another reason to stay in self-catering accommodations is you can find many which are 'kid friendly' and some even allow you to bring your dog(s). There is also the added bonus of being able to ask for advice from your host about how to find some off-the-beaten path attractions that are only known to the locals. Most include laundry facilities for their guests, too.

If your tastes lean toward luxury, there are elegant self-catering resorts in tranquil settings that feature exclusive suites with all the amenities. Some of these are located in historical buildings that are like a trip to the past, and others offer more modern settings with access to golf courses and exclusive beaches. Many of these luxury accommodations include private pools and beautifully manicured grounds for your enjoyment.

For the budget traveler, there are plenty of modest self-catering establishments that are in real homes where you will feel like part of the family in no time. Many of these homes have photos of their accommodations on-line with descriptions of their amenities so you can decide which one best suits your taste. If you have questions or concerns you can find contact information on their websites.

Many popular destinations such as Kerry, Galway and County Clare offer package trips for travelers choosing to stay in self-catering establishments that can really help your travel planning and budget. These packages include airplane or rail tickets, rental cars, tickets to attractions and self-touring guides of the region that can save you not only money, but time spent making reservations and planning itineraries. Some travel agencies also offer "Go As You Please" vouchers that provide you with coupons and passes to popular dining and recreational attractions in the area you are visiting.

Selecting self-catering accommodations for holiday travel is especially popular because it allows you to have a 'home away from home' where you can cook your favorite contribution to a holiday festivities. Many also include common rooms where you can host small gatherings for your family and friends. So next time you plan a holiday to Ireland, consider the benefits of staying in a self-catering establishment and discover why they are rapidly becoming the popular choice for savvy travelers who know how to get the most out of their vacation budget.