Choosing a winter-sun break, and what to pack

"Somewhere warm" covers very different trips. Before comparing destinations, decide which of these you want most:

• Lying by the sea with a book, where reliable sunshine matters more than anything else.
• Walking and being outdoors, where mild temperatures and good trails matter more than heat.
• A city with better weather than home, where food, markets and sights are the point and sunshine is a bonus.

Winter sun on a short flight tends to mean mild and bright rather than hot, so matching your expectations to the place avoids disappointment. The places below are short-haul options from much of Europe; if you are starting somewhere else, there are pointers for other regions further down.

Lanzarote is known for its volcanic landscapes, black and white sand beaches and the architecture and art of César Manrique. Our travel catalogue lists October to March among its best months, and it scores highly for nature and adventure as well as relaxation.

Gran Canaria mixes beaches and dunes with green ravines and volcanic peaks inland, so it suits groups where some people want the beach and others want to walk. It also lists October to March among its best months in our catalogue.

Weather on the islands can vary a good deal between the coast and the higher ground, and between the north and south of each island. Check where your accommodation sits before you book.

Marrakech suits people who want the sun alongside markets, food and history: its medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site. In our catalogue it scores highest for culture and food, with spring and autumn listed as its best months.

In the heart of winter, days can be pleasant but evenings are cool, so treat it as a city break with good light rather than a beach holiday. Dress with local customs in mind, particularly when visiting religious sites.

Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Marrakech are short-haul options from much of Europe. If you are starting elsewhere, the same three questions apply to a different shortlist:

• From North America, the Caribbean, Mexico and Florida are common winter-sun choices, with options for beach days, walking and city breaks.
• In the southern hemisphere, the seasons are reversed, so winter falls around June to August. Warmer escapes at that time of year usually mean heading towards the tropics, such as northern Australia or parts of Southeast Asia.

Wherever you start, check typical temperatures and rainfall for your dates. Some warm regions have a wet season or a hurricane season, and it does not always line up neatly with your winter.

• Layers. Warm days often turn into cool evenings. A light knit and a packable jacket cover most situations.
• Sun protection. Sun cream, sunglasses and a hat. Low winter sun near water can still be strong.
• Proper shoes. Volcanic paths are rough and loose. If you plan to walk, bring trainers or light walking shoes with grip, not just sandals.
• Swim kit and a quick-dry towel for beach days and pools.
• A small daypack for water, layers and snacks on longer outings.
• Modest cover-ups for city and religious sites where they are expected.

Check your government's official travel advice for your destination, the passport and entry requirements, and whether your travel insurance covers the activities you have in mind, such as hiking or water sports.

Then compare. Flairmingo's Travel page ranks destinations by your travel taste and shows the best months for each, so you can see which winter options suit the way you like to travel.