Expert Gary Pope advised holidaymakers on the best way of preparing themselves and their family before a car holiday.

“Three absolute musts to have with you on a car holiday are the children's favourite toys or cuddly toy, colouring books and a secret supply of mini surprises. The surprises can be used to portion out toys, books and games periodically, if and when the journey gets tedious or when arguments start in the back seat,” he explained.

Mr Pope-who gave the advice in association with ferry company, Stena Line-is managing director of the company Kids Industries, which advises companies like Nickelodeon, Unilever and Disney how to design their products and services so they appeal to children.

He is also an adviser on child studies to Oxford University.

Other tips for a better car holiday with the children include: Try and keep the children awake a little later the day before the longer stages of the journey so they'll be calmer in the car; Record yourself reading the children's favourite stories on CD and listen to them together in the car and keep their blood sugar levels even by not giving them sweets and soft drinks. Instead pack fruit, rice cakes, carrots and other practical, healthy foods and you'll avoid hyperactive or exhausted children.

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