We are off on a holiday next month: first time with the baby - who is only on formula feeds at the moment. Not sure what all to carry besides formula, bottles....should I rely on microwaving the bottles in hot water at our holiday apartment or carry a portable steriliser?

If portable steriliser is not an option for you, you can try to use traditional boiling method in the hotel. Just add the steriliser tablet into the boiling water and put bottles in for about 15minutes. Alternatively, you can use Playtex disposable drop-ins to contain the milk and dispose after each use. It is very convenient and do not have to worry about the hygiene issues as it is pre-sterilised.