Camping can be a great holiday, particularly as a family holiday.  There is no need to not camp in style though, and if you have small children with you the extra luxuries will be much appreciated!

Below are some of my top items to take with you to ensure you camp in style and comfort:

• Blow up mattress – much comfier than a camping mat, always better to sleep well I think and enjoy your holiday to the full
• Gas cooker – don’t rely on disposable BBQs or eating cold food, this is a great tip if you have a family with you and you have a few mouths to feed
• Camping toilet – this provides a much easier way to visit the toilet when camping, particularly useful for night-time trips to the toilet
• Stereo – not the first thing you’ll think of when going camping but I love having a stereo with me, enjoying some classical music while cooking bacon on a bright summer morning – perfect!
• Camping or Caravan Generator – once you start taking lots of extra items with you (if they are electrical items) the issue of power supply raises its head! A small and portable generator can be the solution for you, and modern generators are much quieter than they once were!
• Camping Chair – but not just any chair… a luxury camping chair! Recliner – check. Doubles up as a sleeping pad with integrated fleece pillow – check. Hardwood arms – check.  All important drink holder – check.  Ice cold gin and tonic – check, check, check!

So get back to nature with a camping trip, but do it in style and camp in luxury… you won’t regret it!

Whether you are a visitor to this vast country, or you are a proud Canadian who wants to see more of your great country, here are some of the top travel destinations.

• Canadian Rockies: This beautiful expanse of mountain runs from the northern end of British Columbia to the U.S. border in New Mexico. They are differentiated from the American Rockies by their sharply pointed peaks and valleys. This is truly a breathtaking site and should definitely be on your itinerary.
• Niagara Falls: Located in Ontario, on the Niagara Falls/Buffalo border. One of the natural wonders of the world, this is an extremely popular attraction for both tourists and honeymooners. The largest ‘horseshoe’ falls is on the Canadian side; there is a smaller, non-descript waterfalls in the U.S. but it is the Canadian Falls that people flock to. This is truly an amazing sight and the thunder of the Falls will stay with you for a long time after you’ve left.
• Cabot Trail: This Nova Scotia jewel is not really a trail, it’s a drive. The 300 kilometre trail will take you through a beautiful scenic mountain route that rises above the St. Lawrence waters. This offers breathtaking views of rugged coastline; you may even spot a pod of whales or a bald eagle. You can also bike or sea kayak through the trail.
• Old Quebec City: The direct translation is “Where the river narrows,” in native Algounquin. Located on the St. Lawrence river, this city has old-world charm and friendly people. The city was declared a World Heritage Site in 1985, by UNESCO.
• Baffin Island: This is Canada’s largest island and the fifth largest in the world. It belongs to the territory of Nunavut, Canada’s newest territory. This is one of the few places in the world that is still mainly untouched. There is an abundance of wildlife, as well as breathtaking views of polar nights and the midnight sun. This is definitely a once in a lifetime destination.

Canada offers many breathtaking views, and amazing attractions. Talk to a travel agent to book your trip today. Dress for the weather; contrary to popular belief, Canada does have four seasons: don’t expect to snowshoe in July or walk around in shorts in December. Be sure to purchase travel insurance Canada when you book your trip. You should also check your term life policy before you go to make sure it is up to date. If you do not have any life insurance, get some before you go. There are dozens of life insurance companies out there and you are sure to find one that fits your needs.

Travel rules have changed in the past few years, so if you are coming in from a different country, check the customs rules and confirm what you are allowed to bring into the country. Your travel agent should be able to help you with that as well. Once you experience the vastness and beauty of Canada, you are going to want to come back again and again.