Possibly the most contentious issue in early motherhood and certainly one of the most guilt inducing. Most first time (and many second time) mothers will be too preoccupied with how the hell they’re going to expel the little alien from their body to give it much thought prior to the actual birth and in many ways we would congratulate this attitude - however once you’ve got past that minor hurdle there’ll be a huge gaping hole to fill with milk and boy will it make a noise if you don’t….. Here are a few thoughts on the matter.

If you hate mess and noise and need your own space then sharing a tent with two wet children and a dog in the pouring rain on some deserted beach somewhere may not be much of a holiday for you.

Similarly, if you care what people think then staying in a fancy hotel full of lovers having quiet romantic breakfasts while your kids jump on the table pouring cereal into each others hair might be a bit stressful.