Camping for Softies

If you like the idea of experiencing life under canvas but without some of the traditional hassles associated with camping, there is another option. You can stay in an already-erected tent with electric light, sprung beds, its own kitchenette and enough room for all the family to stand up in. This kind of holiday option is offered by a number of companies including Eurocamp, Keycamp and Canvas Holidays. Holiday destinations include France, Spain, Italy, Croatia, Holland, Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

Tents are situated on campsites that tend to have all the facilities you’d want, typically swimming pools, a bar, shop and takeaway. Some have restaurants, bike hire and other sports facilities, and many organise children’s activities.

Each tent is sited on its own lawned pitch, usually with parking space for a car and room for sun loungers. Often a barbecue is provided and a table and chairs which can be used either in the main living area of the tent or outside. The tent’s kitchenette will be equipped with a fridge or cool box, crockery, cutlery and basic cooking facilities such as a grill and gas hob. The tent will be dividable into living and sleeping areas with two or three bedrooms. All have electric light. Washing and toilet facilities are communal and will be situated close by. Most campsites will have washing machines and irons available.

Hiring a tent for your holiday isn’t expensive and can be a real bargain if you can travel outside of the main school holidays – ideal for couples or families with pre-schoolers. Prices for the whole family start from around £300 for a week in May and £400 for a week in June.

Here’s our top tips for making the most of your tent holiday:

• take the car and travel by sea or fly with low-cost airlines to keep your holiday cost down
• usually linen hire is extra; take duvets and sheets in the car if you have room
• bring your own teabags, coffee, matches, washing up liquid, toilet roll and a carton of UHT milk – to save on the cost of buying abroad and just in case the campsite shop is closed when you first arrive
• visit local markets and buy local and seasonal produce to cook or put on the barbecue
• check campsite rules and availability of facilities before you travel. Some facilities may not be available outside of the high season or may have limited opening hours.
• pack some laundry tablets and a tube of travel wash – useful for accidents or washing smalls
• take a raincoat or mac just in case the weather’s inclement and a torch for each member of the family