Bed and breakfasts: top tips for a perfect break

Book ahead
Tempers can become frayed when you're driving around in the dark on a Friday evening trying to find a bed and breakfast with vacancies, so be sure to book one in advance. The quality of bed and breakfasts ranges from cheap-and-cheerful pub accommodation to pricier romantic seafront rooms.

Check your dates
Be aware of local events when planning your bed and breakfast break: for instance, you may not want your quiet romantic break to coincide with the annual village drumming festival. A local flower show or scooter rally may be just what you're after, though it may make accommodation harder to come by and possibly dearer.

Book your entertainment
If there's a particular restaurant, theatre or other attraction you want to visit during your bed and breakfast break, don't leave things to chance. Make sure it's open and reserve ahead.

Pack for the occasion
You don't need to pack your finery when you're staying at a bed and breakfast, but be sure you have the clothes you need. You'll want to bring very different wardrobes for a weekend paint-balling session or a romantic break with someone special!

Bring all the extras to your bed and breakfast
Don't forget to bring anything you don't like to be without to your bed and breakfast. Things to remember may include your music player, books and magazines, favourite teabags, maybe even a laptop and some DVDs.

Bed and breakfast surprise
If you're planning a romantic bed and breakfast break, why not arrange to surprise your partner with champagne, chocolates or flowers in your room before you arrive?

Don't miss out
Call your bed and breakfast before you go to find out what facilities are on offer nearby. You'll need to know whether to pack your tennis gear or scuba gear...

Keep in charge
If you're bringing a digital camera or you want to be sure you stay in mobile phone contact while staying at your bed and breakfast, then don't forget to bring your chargers.

Remember the breakfast part
Bed and breakfasts are famous for their cooked English breakfasts, which set you up for the whole day. Be sure to find out how late breakfast is served. You won't want to miss out!

Negotiate a lie-in
Some bed and breakfasts will happily extend your checking out time for a small charge. This can be a real plus, especially if you're going to be out late the night before you leave.