France has the reputation of being an expensive destination but it needn't be, especially if you self-cater.

First of all do your homework on ferry crossings. Routes with the most competition such as Dover to Calais tend to be the cheapest. It pays to book as far ahead as possible, especially if you are travelling in high season. If you are flexible with your dates, have a look at the ferry websites which give you comparisons of different dates and times, in a similar way to airlines. Discount-brokers such as Ferrycheap are worth a look. Depending on where you are headed, do some calculations to see whether a longer more expensive crossing could work out cheaper in the long run if it saves in terms of petrol, toll charges and overnight accommodation.

Think carefully about your choice of destination too. There are some lovely spots within easy driving distance of the Channel ports meaning that you save motoring costs and overnight hotel costs. If you do feel that an overnight stop is necessary, the budget hotel chains offer good value if all you need is somewhere to sleep.

The regional guides on the Rentals France website offer evaluations of which areas offer good value for money. Even within each department there can be variation, with properties near the sea generally costing more. Properties with swimming pools usually cost more too and if you are near the sea or a swimming lake you may not feel the need for a pool. Rental prices out of high season are obviously cheaper and if you are not tied to school holidays, June and September are lovely months in France, with good weather and none of the crowds. If you are able to take off at the last minute there are some good late availability offers on Rentals France.

A rental property gives you the perfect chance to save money when it comes to eating and drinking. There is no need to eat out every evening if you are on a budget. With the lovely fresh produce available in the local markets and shops you can barbecue or cook a delicious meal very reasonably. If you are not a keen cook, try the local 'traiteur' for a selection of delicious ready-cooked dishes which you just need to heat up. Alternatively why not buy a selection of pates, cheese and cold meats and serve them with a salad and French bread? There is plenty of very reasonable wine in the supermarkets but if you want a real bargain then buy direct from the producer. You may have to take your own containers but you can buy several litres for a few Euros.

When you are eating out, the lunch-time menu is usually excellent value. Ask for the "menu a prix fixe". Sometimes this will include a jug of wine (vin compris). French tap water is absolutely fine to drink so ask for "une carafe d'eau" rather than buying bottled water to have with your meal. Having your own kitchen means that you can take a picnic and your own drinks if you go out for the day. Soft drinks at bars and cafés often cost more than wine so having your own can cut down on costs especially if you are a large family. Sitting at a table on the pavement is more expensive than standing at the bar and if it is on the sea-front, expect to pay a premium. Many towns have drinking fountains where you can top up your own water bottle. If there is a sign saying "eau non potable", steer clear as this means that the water is not for drinking.

If you are doing a lot of sight-seeing, entrance fees can add up quickly. Check the Internet or a good guide book to find out when you can get in free. For instance the Louvre offers free admission on the first Sunday of the month as well as being free for under 26s after 6pm on a Fri. If you are in Paris the Paris Museum Pass (which used to be called the Carte Musees-Monuments) can be a good buy, depending on how many places you intend visiting. If you are a senior, student or under 18 make sure you have the required evidence as most places offer a discount. Teachers and professional artists also get free admission to some museums provided they can provide evidence of their profession.