Last-Minute Getaways to Catch the Sun Before Winter Hits

With this year’s great British summertime well behind us and Autumn in full swing, it only makes sense to squeeze in a short-haul getaway for some last-minute sunshine before the cold completely settles in. Here’s a roundup of the best affordable escapes where you can travel light with just cabin luggage—perfect for catching those final rays before Winter hits.

Malta

Malta enjoys a sort of ‘second spring’ in Autumn following the country’s hot summer months. The island is steeped in history and at just over 120 square miles, it’s easy to get around and see the sights. Malta is a great mix of relaxation and culture, and the smaller islands of Comino and Gozo also offer pristine waters and world-renowned diving spots! If you manage to exhaust the Maltese excursions on your trip, Sicily is just an hour away by ferry, leaving from Valletta and arriving at either Catania or Pozzallo. You can find direct return flights from Ryanair or EasyJet from £89-£114.

 Photo credit cristianbalate

Saint-Tropez

For those seeking a taste of luxury, slip away to Saint-Tropez—the sparkling jewel of the Côte d'Azur where it is surprisingly affordable in the off-season. You can escape the British weather for a week in mid-October for just £40 return flights to Nice with Ryanair. Visit during the Grande Braderie de Saint Tropez, a four-day street sale where high-end boutiques offer big discounts. October is the perfect time to enjoy the glamour without the crowds or high prices.

Cape Verde

If you're craving somewhere exotic but still within easy reach, head to Cape Verde. Although located off the northwest coast of Africa, the journey to this cluster of islands is actually only a little over five hours, just two hours beyond the well-trodden beaches of the Canaries – and you can fly there for under £250 return this Autumn with TUI. The islands offer stunning beaches, a vibrant mix of African, Brazilian, and Portuguese culture, and steady temperatures around 27°C—a perfect remedy for Autumn blues.

Photo credit Blog Poplidays

Sardinia

Sardinia in Autumn is ideal for those seeking a quieter getaway. With empty beaches, warm breezes, and return flights between £60-£90 with Ryanair, it’s a dream destination. And if you want to do more than relax on the sand, head inland to Barbagia where at this time of year, the streets turn to markets hosting workshops by local craft-makers and residents open their homes up to visitors to dine. Or, you can meander through the hills on a guide-led walk in this lush mountainous area.

Morocco

Temperatures in Morocco are still pushing comfortably into the mid-20s in October and November, making it a perfect Autumn escape. Fly into Marrakech in November with Ryanair for £80 return flights, and enjoy both pleasant weather and lower crowds. Visit the Djemaa el-Fna market in full swing where you can try your hand at haggling for spices, slippers, silverware, rugs, tagines and other trinkets. You might want to opt for a hard-shell case to protect your hard-bartered bargains on the return journey. 

Photo credit Balate Dorin

Browse cabin cases, underseat bags and holdalls on Go Places and check out our packing tips blog post to make the most out of your short-haul luggage space!

All prices correct at time of publishing and are subject to change.