It's a good idea to always book your first night accommodation before you leave. When you arrive at your destination, you might be jet lagged, tired, and feeling a bit culture shocked. Knowing you've got a place to go and get yourself together can make all the difference between a great start and wanting to head back on the first return flight.
Camping
One of the cheapest way to keep your holiday within budget. Campsite now usually have great showers, toilets, and shops so you aren't slumming it. Tourists boards in the UK can give you guides to campsites so you can plan ahead.
Youth Hostels
Youth hostels are a great way to ensure you have a dry place to stay and you can often meet lots of like-minded travellers or holiday makers. There are lots of youth hostels in Scotland and around the world. Find out more on the Scottish Youth Hostel Association website.
A night's stay in a youth hostel is normally very affordable and depends on your age, grade of hostel, and time of year. In a hostel you might be sharing a room with other people in a dorm so if you like your own space make sure you check out the room sizes before you book. Many hostels provide bed linen, have kitchens you can use, and often a shop or cafe if you don't want to fend for yourself. Also it's worth knowing that with your Young Scot card you get free annual membership to the Scottish Youth Hostel Association.
B&Bs
A bed and breakfast is usually just that: a place that gives you a bed, and breakfast the next morning. You will get your own room but not all rooms are necessarily en suite. Breakfast ranges from a full, hot breakfast to a continental style of toast or pastries and coffee or tea. Sometimes they will offer a vegetarian option - it's best to ask in advance.
Breakfast is usually served in a common room and it's often served earlier than the weary traveller might like - again, check before you turn your alarm off for a proper lie in!
Hotels
Hotels tend to be the most expensive, as they can offer a huge range of extra facilities from pools and spas to room service and restaurants. With hotels, you usually have to book ahead although you might have some luck just showing up, depending on where you are and what time of year it is.
What you pay will vary dramatically depending on the hotel, city, and season so check before you book. It's worth checking out last minute deals on website as you might find a price lower than the one quoted on the hotel website.
As with anything else, ask about or read reviews on sites such as TripAdvisor before you book. Finally, if you're going abroad, be aware that some cities charge a hotel room tax on top of the standard rate.