News from Budock Vean
How to Pack: Essentials for a Self-Catering Lodge or Cottage Stay
So, you’ve booked a stay in one of our self-catering lodges – congratulations! Now for the fun part: packing! Packing for a self-catering holiday is all about finding that sweet spot between practicality and indulgence. At Budock Vean, our 5* Gold Award lodges provide a beautifully equipped home-from-home – but a few thoughtful additions can elevate your stay from memorable to truly effortless.
Whether you’re escaping for a long weekend or settling in for a full week, here’s our guide to what (and what not) to pack for a self-catering break in Cornwall.
The Essentials: What We’ve Already Thought Of
First, the good news – our lodges come fully equipped with:
- A luxury kitchen with dishwasher, wine cooler, washer/dryer, microwave and John Lewis crockery
- All bedding, bathroom towels, bathrobes, and swimming towels
- Hairdryer, iron, ironing board, and telephone
- A welcome pack with tea, coffee, milk, cereal, butter, jam, and freshly baked bread
- Cleaning basics including dishwashing tablets, tea towels, washing-up liquid, and sponges
So there’s no need to overpack. We’ve already taken care of the everyday comforts so you can focus on unwinding.
What to Bring: Our Recommended Packing List
- Favourite Food & Drink Treats
You’ll have everything you need to cook, but bringing along your favourite coffee beans, a bottle of wine, or local cheeses for a sunset platter adds a personal touch. Want to skip the shopping altogether? Try one of our holiday food boxes filled with local Cornish delights – delivered directly to your lodge. - Layered Clothing
Cornwall’s weather can be delightfully unpredictable. We recommend layers: think light knits, waterproof jackets, walking shoes for woodland and coastal paths, and something a little dressier if you’re planning dinner in the hotel restaurant. - Swimwear & Spa Must-Haves
Don’t forget your swimwear for relaxing in our indoor heated pool or visiting the Natural Health Spa. While we provide robes and towels, you might want to bring flip-flops or a spa bag for extra ease. - Outdoor Adventure Extras
Bring binoculars or a good camera if you enjoy birdwatching or nature photography – our grounds and nearby riverbank are teeming with wildlife. A small rucksack for day walks is also a good idea, especially if you’re planning to explore the South West Coast Path or head to nearby Helford Village. - Books, Games & Offline Moments
There’s WiFi throughout the lodges, but if you’re craving a slower pace, pack a few books, a journal, or your favourite board game. Perfect for cosy evenings by the log burner. - Extras for Families
If you’re travelling with children, you might want to pack a few of their favourite toys, bedtime books, or DVDs. We provide cots and highchairs on request – just let us know in advance. - Four-Legged Friend Essentials
Staying in a dog-friendly lodge? Don’t forget leads, towels, food bowls, and their favourite toys. With woodland walks right on your doorstep, your dog will love their holiday as much as you do.
Arrive, Unwind, Enjoy
One of the joys of a Budock Vean lodge stay is how quickly you feel at home. With so much already provided – and nature’s peace all around – you only need to bring what helps you slow down, settle in, and savour the moment.
So, what are you waiting for? With everything thoughtfully prepared – from soft robes and welcome treats to peaceful views and hotel luxuries – all that’s left to do is pack your favourites and look forward to slowing down. Whether it’s walking boots, a good book, or simply your sense of adventure, bring what you love and let Budock Vean take care of the rest.
View Our Self-Catering Lodges & Plan Your Stay