Wallpaper is much better--more attractive. Contact paper will show all the imperfections on the wall, such as texture and nail holes. I've done both and liked the look of the wallpaper much better. As they say, you get what you pay for. Best of luck.

Call the owner before doing this.

I'm going to decorate a room in a rental house and the landlord doesn't mind painting but I want to add a decorative pattern on top of the paint.

Target sells vinyl wallpaper that covers 24 sq feet for $30 but I've been reading about using contact/shelf liner paper and that's 18 inches by 8 feet for $10.

Which one would you choose?