Believe it or not, travelling with a baby or toddler doesn't to be all hard work and no play. Yes, you'll need to take more luggage than usual and plan well in advance, but travelling with young children can be an enjoyable adventure for all.

At Canvas Holidays we have many mothers who've been there, done it and got the 'I survived a toddler holiday' t-shirt. So we thought we'd share with you our ˜top tips' for survival and how to make it the best holiday ever for everyone.

First Things First.. Choose Camping, Choose Canvas!

OK, it's rather obvious that our first tip would be to 'go camping'. But that's because we, and many of our customers, truly believe that camping is the best holiday for families with babies and toddlers. This type of self-catering break offers freedom, flexibility and a relaxed way of life. There are no set mealtimes and you can set your own routine - you can do what you like, when you like (or when your child dictates!)

A camping holiday allows the space and freedom to explore, to meet new friends, to do something different and to be together. Everyday's an adventure.

It's All in The Planning

What you want

Start your planning by defining what would make the ideal holiday for you all. Once you've agreed

on the essential elements, it is much easier to narrow your choices.

If good weather is particularly important to you then think about when and how far you are willing to travel. If you prefer not to travel for too long then think about a short sea crossing, consider flying or make use of overnight stops en-route. Decide on what type of holiday you want - relaxing or active, by the beach or in the countryside.

When to go

This will be the last time for many years that your family will not be constrained by school holidays - so take advantage and travel slightly off peak - in May, June, early July or September. During these months prices are lower, travel to resorts is quieter and much less stressful and resorts themselves are more peaceful. The weather is still pleasant without being too hot for toddlers and babies, which we all know is not a good mix!

Where to go

Many of our past customers with toddlers and babies have chosen to stay in northern Europe where the climate is kinder for little ones. At Canvas Holidays we offer many campsites near to the Channel ports or close to airports, meaning you will find a site to that fits with your travel options.

If you are new to camping, perhaps you could try one of the top three favourite resorts amongst our families with toddlers and babies. They are Berny RiviÃ¨re near Paris, Wassenaar in Holland and Dol-de-Bretagne in Brittany.

Which accommodation

You could go for the ultimate outdoor holiday experience and stay in the Canvas Maxi Tent. These are unlike any tent you have seen - super luxurious they feature a separate kitchen with safety gate, electric lighting, fridge, cooker and proper beds! A stay in the Maxi Tent always proves to be a great adventure for the children.

If you don't fancy a tent, you can opt for a little more luxury in a mobile home - complete with toilet and showering facilities, a microwave and optional decking and air-conditioning.

You and your little travel companions may also enjoy a stay in one of our alternative accommodation types - like the Fairytale Cottages at Dol-de-Bretagne.

Travelling to your campsite

When planning your self-drive journey, make sure you add time for stops to let the little ones stretch their legs and avoid tantrums.

Try to coincide driving with nap times and pack plenty of snacks and drinks to keep hunger from setting in. Another good tip is to have a stash of new toys for them to play with en-route - a great diversion for bored tots! If you want to break-up your drive on the other side of the Channel, book an overnight stop at a campsite or hotel to break up the journey.

If you choose to fly to resort be sure to book well in advance for the best prices. Plus, check if your chosen airports have lounges - it could be an idea to pay a bit extra to access them and enjoy some chill-out time in a quiet area away from the hustle and bustle of the departure gate.

What to pack and what not to pack

Designed with you in mind, all Canvas mobile homes are equipped with a cot facility. If you are staying in one of our Maxi Tents, we have travel cots (which also double as a play pen) available for hire. If required, we can also provide a highchair. You can also take advantage of bed linen and towel hire - saving you valuable packing space for your toddlers' favourite toys and snacks.

When You're There

When you're on site be sure to remember that the Canvas Holidays couriers are on hand to help you with any questions you may have - they can help you find the nearest supermarket, give you advice on best restaurants or help if you need a doctor.

You'll find that most campsites have good facilities and amenities to make your holiday both comfortable and enjoyable. Most campsites have restaurants with children's menus, toddler friendly facilities, laundry facilities etc.