School is arguably the most important period in a child's life, but, let's face it, although we don't want to take our kids away from this learning process paying for a trip abroad during the school holidays is something we like even less. Many schools are introducing fines to deter parents from taking their kids away during term time but, with fines of only £50 to £100, the benefits of doing so outweigh the costs.

However, seeing as we all need to set a good example to our kids and we don't want to jeopardise their eduction, here are some tips on how to have an affordable 'school holiday' holiday.

Firstly, look for destinations that don't have such a definite 'peak season'. Africa and the Middle East are perfect, in fact, due to high temperatures, July and August are often low season, so a May half-term break would wor k perfectly. If you do want to get away in August, look for regions by the coast such as Sharm-el-Sheikh in Egypt. The temperature at this time of year is around 30 degrees centigrade, but bear in mind you will spend most of your time in the water, either the sea or the resort's swimming pool.

Travel to destinations outside the Eurozone. The Pound to Euro exchange rate is quite shocking right now so the price of a cup or coffee, let alone a family hotel room, is rising. In the past few months bookings to Turkey and Egypt have risen by 21% as holidaymakers seek out better value for money at short haul distances.

Choose a holiday that includes activities. We all know that kids get bored just lying on a beach, but that is all you want to do after hard months spent slaving away in the office. Many resorts offer kids clubs and some even allow free rental of kayaks, windsurfers and dinghys.

Finally, if you are really budget conscious and looking for value for money, book an all-inclusive holiday and set your holiday price in the UK. Have you ever been on holiday and gotten frustrated at constantly putting your hand in your pocket? Well with all-inc holidays you won't have to.

If the kids get hungry at 3pm they can get a snack and if you fancy an afternoon cocktail make sure you book an all-inclusive package that includes drinks. Many include un-branded 'local' spirits for free. According to Abta, all-inclusive family holidays now represent 32% of the market for family bookings as they are the best way to avoid over spending. Thomas Cook offer a range of all inclusive holidays to various destinations, including Egypt and the Red Sea.