Baby food
Baby milk and solids are easily obtainable abroad and are similar to those in the UK, however it is advisable to take the brands of food and powdered milk your baby is used to. If you plan to make up the packets of baby food on the journey, keep a thermos of warm water handy. If your baby is drinking fresh milk, make sure it is pasteurised. In a hot climate you will find that babies need to drink more as they dehydrate very quickly in the heat.

Changing baby
Disposable nappies are easily obtainable in all European countries. There are changing facilities for babies on most cross-channel ferries and most motorway service areas have nursing or changing rooms.

Sun Protection
All babies have very delicate skin and should be kept out of direct sunlight. Keep baby in the semi-shade and when travelling in the car it is worth using a sunshade which attaches to the window. Use a sun block or high factor sun protection cream on all exposed areas of the body and remember to re-apply regularly.

Baby transport
It is worth taking a baby buggy or a back carry pack if you enjoy walking.

Car journeys
For small children in carseats, tie a few favourite toys onto the seat to save you having to retrieve them from the floor.

An old bedspread on the backseat will protect the upholstery and it's easier to wash than the seat itself.

Pack plenty of baby-wipes and tissues for cleaning up.

Dress the children in layers so that they can adapt to changes in temperature as you travel south.

Don't forget a travel potty - it can come in very handy in an emergency.

If your child is prone to car-sickness, avoid fatty foods and fizzy drinks. Reading or colouring can also bring on nausea, so stick to verbal games like I-Spy.