Like communism, activity holidays are good in theory. If you choose the right provider and have relatively strong instincts of self-preservation, then they can be the vacation of a lifetime. They range from fun for all the family to death defying feats of endurance and it is crucial not to get the two confused. You can pick from a range of activity holidays from canoeing, rafting and climbing, to tennis, horse riding or golf.

As previously stated, the key to getting it right is picking the right break from the list of activity holidays. Therefore, the first tip on what not to do is surprise your wife and children with a holiday that could mean serious musculoskeletal injuries. Surprise is best stayed clear of so consult anyone going on the holiday what they would like to do and make an informed decision.

The next tip is not to buy from a shady agent. Choose a company with a referenceable track record and this means listening to genuine testimonials. Look at the company website and take note of how long they have been operating. This should avoid you being stuck in northern Cypress chasing a donkey on a rope around a wooden stick for two weeks.

Possibly the most important thing not to do is forget or neglect insurance. If you have found a reputable provider then seek their advice on insurance. If a company specialises in activity holidays then there is a strong chance that the policies that they recommend cover the activities you are partaking in. Many standard policies will not cover any activities whatsoever short of covering yourself in bubble wrap and staying in a guarded hotel room.

Another strong recommendation is not to bite off more than you can chew. Activity holidays are great fun but ensure that you have not over packed your schedule with activities that involve copious amounts of physical exertion. If you have medical or physical conditions then consult your general practitioner before you book the holiday. Remember that activity holidays are also supposed to be relaxing.

It is advisable not to try and arrange all your own activities. Decent providers will offer all inclusive package activity holidays that cover everything from board, food to skiing, biking or rafting. This also covers you for the activities as the provider would have tried and tested the resort, meaning that all the activities are safe and above board.

Finally, although it is in the genetics of most men, do not under any circumstances decide to go off on a Ray Mears style route march. Many of the best locations are mountainous and it is not a great idea to drag your family into the wilderness to become one with nature. There are generally pre-planned routes and group hikes so please stick to these, as whatever health insurance you purchase it probably will not cover a multi-helicopter rescue mission.