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Hi all, whilst not strictly a newbie, I will be to overseas camping. Having had a lousy year camping in the UK this year, we are looking to go over to France/Italy next year.

We live only one and a half hours drive from Portsmouth and two hours drive from Dover. We have a trailer, a 580 litre rooftop box and a big tunnel tent.  We are a family of four. Kids currently 9 and 3.

Broadly speaking, the ferry crossing is an arm and a leg, particularly with a trailer. Assuming we decide on the Dordoigne/Loire Valley region, would it make sense to take the euro tunnel, (much quicker to land on french soil and much cheaper),  and drive across France, but use approx' eight hours more fuel? 

I know it might seem like penny pinching, but in the height of the season, those Brittany Ferries prices seem like the cost of a cruise!!

Many thanks for that. You confirmed my thoughts and fears regarding the ferry crossings! Good idea regarding the Tesco vouchers as well.

Right off to Tescos in the morning to sign up for a Club Card, I assume that's how you gat the vouchers?

Thanks Liz, a useful tip regarding LD Lines. I used to be a lorry driver for years  and made a lot of trips into and around France, Italy, Holland and Germany, (every week), so any news that will save driving hours & fuel are most welcome. Unfortunately, the amount of gear/kit we take requires the trailer, the roof top box & our Ford Galaxy! We might get away with a Mondeo estate for the French/Italian trip as we will not be meeting up with in-laws for this one so, will not be needing the 7 seats.

The £250 you paid, was that return? It sounds excellent value if it was, as like you we are too old & grumpy to sleep on the floor and by next summer our jids will be 10 & 4 so not "even on the radar screen" I'm afraid!