Planning a European holiday park break

Bob Atkinson
( Travel Expert)

Canvas Holidays - Luxury mobile home and camping holidays across 10 European countries.  Fantastic on-site facilities.  Ideal for families and couples alike.

See more of our recommended companies

Here are some pointers to help you plan the ideal holiday:

• How much? - It is very easy for you to under budget on holiday planning.  You will need to factor in not only the actual cost of the accommodation you choose, but also to add in your petrol to get you from home to the location on the continent, European breakdown cover, additional motor insurance, ferry or Eurotunnel costs as well as tolls for motorways and your food and accommodation costs for the journey to and from your destination.  And don't forget your food and entertainment costs when you get there!
• Getting there - When travelling to Europe, many companies will quote you a price that includes your channel crossing - check if it will be overnight.  Alternatively you can always book accommodation only and arrange your own transport by ferry or flight.  However this will not necessarily be cheaper and can be time consuming.  You will still need to arrange a hire car as many sites are not easily accessible by public transport. If you're driving, you may want to take a break during the journey so plan where this might be and if you need to stay somewhere overnight.  Don't forget your breakdown cover!
• Where should you go? - This will really depend on the type of holiday you are looking for.  The South of France is one of the best locations in Europe for outdoor camping style holidays and a great way to take advantage of the excellent summer weather.  Perhaps you may prefer Northern European countries with their theme parks and large cities to explore away from the summer heat. Our destination guides will give you a flavour of what each area has to offer in terms of sightseeing.
• What sort of holiday do you want? - Check out what each location has to offer on the company websites and what attractions and activities are close by. Most camping style holidays will be geared around outdoor living with a range of suitable activities and entertainment per location.  Do bear in mind that these types of holidays really do appeal to families so be prepared for lots of children enjoying themselves in the sun! If you are not a great fan of the outdoors a tent based holiday may not be ideal, consider one in a permanent caravan which will have more home comforts to enjoy.  Alternatively look at the Holiday Parks in northern Europe which are geared to year round holidaying with many facilities under cover.
• How long? - many locations have set days to check in and out on, usually at the weekends, so check that this will fit into your own holiday plans.  Once you are into the summer months most campsites work around 7 and 14 night durations.  Weekend breaks are not really viable due to the travelling in most French and certainly the Spanish and Italian destinations.  You are best to consider the locations in Northern Europe where travelling time is cut down once you reach the continent.  Do remember to factor in the travelling time when you plan you break.
• When should I go? - School holidays are peak season.  Remember that it is not just the UK that has school holidays in the summer months.  In France it seems the entire country goes on holiday in August. Therefore many locations can become fully booked very early in the booking calendar, so we strongly advise to book those dates early.  This time of year is always the most expensive. The main summer season is also the hottest time of the year. If you have small children or are susceptible to the heat then consider this as you are unlikely to have air conditioning available. Outside of the main holidays, many sites will not operate at capacity so they can seem a little quieter, however this ensures that you can relax and enjoy everything that the locations and area have to offer without the crowds.  You can also ensure you bag your holiday at a bargain price!

Who do we recommend?

With so many companies to choose from, we have researched the market to find those with a wide range of options as well as some that are more specialist.  Browse our list below to find the right company for you, then click through to their web site for more information and how to book.  It couldn't be easier!

Further guides on holiday parks