Some families are big anyway – and an increasing number of families get big suddenly when stepchildren arrive. Then there are friendly families who like getting together for massed holidays. Either way, they need holidays to please a daunting spectrum of expectations.

Britain

Cash is a decider for any holiday, particularly the big family version. Camping is a good option for anyone feeling the pinch. Seaside destinations like Croyde in Devon can make great family destinations particularly given the low-stress travel involved in getting there. Croyde is mainly aimed at surfers (fantastic for teens so long as they are supervised) but it has a holiday complex, open to all, with an indoor pool – plus beautiful countryside, rock pools and beaches. Secret Spot camping is open only 28 days a year but it is well priced and well placed for amenities.

For a Swallows and Amazons experience the isolated Scottish island Eilean Shona can be rented complete with and eight (large) bedroomed house and a top floor for nannies and extras. This is the place where J.M. Barrie wrote the screenplay for Peter Pan. The one-and-a-half mile long island includes the white sand Shoe Bay and rises to 265m with views of the Hebridean islands, Ardnamurchan and Arisaig. Wildlife includes deer, seals, otters, birds of prey, red squirrels and the rare pine marten. The place is catered – lavishly – and children can have supper at 6 if they want. One week, sleeping 12 adults and 6 or more children costs from £7,000 for one week including staff and all meals.

Continent

Keycamp specialises in family camping on the continent with all facilities laid on. Kids go free and activity lists range from the obvious - like playing in the pool and going to theme parks - to less obvious like wine tasting, golf and exploring lesser-known parts of Eastern Europe. Some of these activities are extras to the all inclusive, budget holiday but, all in all, Keycamp provides a brilliant, budget, big-family solution. A family of six at Lake Garda in July could pay from as little as £686 including a midweek P&O crossing. Food and all other travel costs are extra. The site has two pools, a teen club, a kids club and a chance to visit local vineyards.

Families wanting built-in action might want to think about a walking, cycling or riding holiday with Inntravel which has a selection of dedicated family holidays. A riding holiday in Tarn with mounts ranging from Shetlands to smart, fast rides and tuition from beginners to improvers may not be suitable for babies but it will suit all other ages. Price is inclusive and, every evening, everyone eats together in the farmhouse. One week's riding in the summer school holidays £432 per adult with reducing prices for children.

Further afield

Wild About Africa does not offer deluxe accommodation although its Botswana safaris are exclusive. Guests sleep in tents and wash in canvas basins and showers. However, children under 12 are allowed on safari (this is exceptional) and the package offers some unusual experiences thanks to Grant Truthe, a knowledgeable Botswanian guide with over 20 years experience, who leads families with young children (including his own) on the safaris. A seven-day private guided safari, led by Grant costs from £2,435 per adult and £2,023 per child (2-11yrs).

Anyone with the money and spirit to try a long haul holiday will be well served by Explore. Each holiday is each focused on particular family types – from young to teen families. The Volcanoes and Elephants in Bali package aims to please both small children and teens as well as their parents. Departing Aug 9, it costs £1,404 (£1,264 children aged 5-11).

Journey Latin America has a series of packages for families - its Andean Adventures tour of Ecuador starts in Quito, and moves onto the “Chiva train” for a ride around the Avenue of Volcanoes. Next comes the Arashá Rainforest Resort, where families can explore the forest. The resort is well equipped and, if the parents can get some R&R in the spa, their younger children can go and make chocolate in the kids club. Many families extend the trip with a week in the Galápagos.

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