To buy or to hire is a near perennial problem for anyone looking at an overseas holiday, unless maybe you’re a high diver then it’s a spare pair of Speedos or not! Where the budget airlines led the way, some of the majors are now following: strict baggage allowances with heavy penalties.

Many tour operators offer have links with resort hire shops, which means that you can get away without taking your own equipment (if you have it). The natural progression of this is to offer multi-sport passes as part of their activity holidays. Not only can you enjoy your main sport, say mountain biking, but you can try Canyoning, White Water Rafting, Climbing, Via Ferrata and many other activities. Alpine Elements Activity Holidays often come with free Active Packs and Activity Passes, look out for the deals.

If you’re a seasoned mountain biker and are concerned that the standard bikes offered in the Activity Holidays packages are not up to your level – worry ye not. A small upgrade brings you full suspension and more than enough clearance to shake a stick at. Also, initial natural wear and tear items (tyres, brake pads) are repaired/replaced and tuned by experienced bike techs while you’re in the Jacuzzi or Bar!