We all know that going away with children can be hard work unless you're well prepared. Here are some handy hints to help keep everyone happy - and avoid
Mum and Dad needing a holiday when they get back!

1. Research children's clubs before you go. Some age groups may well be free but not necessarily all. This may have quite an effect on your budget.
2. If flights leave very early or arrive late check out accommodation near the hotel. Some deals include parking which makes it financially viable, and much more convenient, to stay overnight.
3. Be realistic when it comes to packing clothes. Remember shorts and T-shirts can be washed and dried overnight. Always take a tube of travel wash and a few pegs and a piece of string to rig up your own washing line.
4. When travelling with little ones it's a good idea to take instant snacks with you. We never travel anywhere without a jar of Marmite! Instant soups, crackers etc. take up very little space but can be a real godsend if you get stranded anywhere.
5. Take a familiar toy to give younger children a sense of security - but try not to take anything really special. If it gets lost they'll be inconsolable.
6. If long journeys are involved take plenty of things to keep children amused - paper and coloured pencils, cards etc. This is particularly useful when trying to fill that interminable time between checking in and your flight being called.
7. If travelling anywhere hot take an extra bottle of high protection suntan lotion with you. It's amazing how much children use - particularly when they apply it themselves. Also make sure children drink plenty when the weather is hot. It's easy for them to get dehydrated. Make sure there's somewhere cool and shady for them to sit when it's the hottest part of the day.
8. When eating out try to find places that are family friendly. Its normally much more relaxed if you can eat al fresco on a terrace where children can move around and make a bit more noise.
9. Try not to be too much of a soft touch when it comes to buying toys for the little ones when you're on holiday. Someone will have to carry them home and it'll probably be you.
10. Obviously normal routines fall by the wayside when on holiday, but if children are having a lot of late nights try and fit in the occasional afternoon nap- you'll all feel a lot better for it.