Will you be doing a 'staycation' caravan holiday this year?

The recession introduced the whole idea of the 'staycation': families enjoying a UK break for their annual holiday instead of escaping abroad. With the advent of failing holiday companies and ash clouds, UK breaks have certainly held a more significant appeal over the past year than at any point in the last decade. Even the new PM and his family opted for a 'staycation' in the UK last summer, rather than jetting off to a more usual exotic foreign destination.

You probably wouldn't find Mr Cameron in a tent, but certain types of UK breaks have enjoyed a real boom following the fall-out from the banking crises - camping and caravan holidays being two of them. There are now a multitude of holiday park companies like Park Resorts, Haven and Hoburne, who have profited from families looking for a cheaper holiday near home.

A caravan holiday feels a lot more 'solid' than the traditional canvas tent and you'll be amazed at the luxury offered. Many UK holiday parks offer units with double glazing, central heating, full size baths and showers, and up to as many as three good-sized bedrooms. Sun terraces add the opportunity for some al fresco dining, and for the truly decadent you can also find some featuring outdoor hot tubs.

However, don't just think of a caravan holiday as a summer holiday, it is just as good for a spring or an autumn break, when evenings demand some extra heating and eating tends to be done indoors. With many holiday parks located on the coast, a family can enjoy a beach summer holiday or an autumn's day stroll along the seafront. In fact, with breaks starting from only £69, it is possible to do both.

In a period of tight budgeting, camping and caravan holidays appeals to families who are looking for good value for money. Tents have become very affordable and nightly pitch rates are cheap. For those that appreciate home comforts of a toilet, shower and a bed off the ground then holiday parks also offer static caravans as a more modern and luxurious alternative.

So, is a 'staycation' on your agenda for your next family holiday? If you are looking for good value for money, then a UK break makes a lot of sense. I urge you to begin your research on caravan holidays, as there are more options than the traditional holiday cottage le