Autumn is one of our favourite times for a cottage break in Scotland. 🍂 Crisp countryside walks, cosy evenings by the fire and beautiful autumn colours make it the perfect time to escape to the countryside. Packing a few useful extras can make an autumn cottage holiday even more comfortable, so here are some of the things we recommend taking with you.
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1. A good waterproof jacket

Scottish autumn weather can be unpredictable, so a good waterproof jacket is always worth packing. It means you can still get out and enjoy the countryside even if there’s a little rain, without having to cut your day short.

2. Comfortable walking shoes or boots

Autumn is a lovely time for walking in Galloway, but paths can be wet and muddy at this time of year. Comfortable waterproof walking shoes or boots will keep your feet warm and dry and make countryside walks much more enjoyable.

3. A cosy scarf, hat and gloves

Even on sunny autumn days, mornings and evenings can feel chilly in the Scottish countryside. A warm scarf, hat and pair of gloves are easy to pack and make a big difference when you’re out exploring.

4. A reusable flask or travel mug

There’s something lovely about stopping for a hot drink during an autumn walk. A reusable flask or travel mug is handy for taking tea, coffee or hot chocolate with you while exploring the countryside.

5. A small backpack for days out

A small comfortable backpack is really useful for autumn days out. It gives you somewhere to keep your water, flask, snacks and an extra layer while leaving your hands free for walking and exploring.

6. An extra warm layer

Layering is really useful for an autumn break in Scotland. A cosy fleece or lightweight jumper is easy to take with you and gives you an extra layer when the temperature drops later in the day.

7. A torch for darker evenings

Autumn evenings draw in quickly, especially in the countryside. A small torch is useful to keep in your bag or car for evening walks and getting around after dark.

8. A picnic blanket

A picnic blanket is handy to keep in the car for those lovely crisp, dry autumn days. It’s perfect for an impromptu picnic, sitting beside a loch or simply stopping somewhere beautiful to enjoy the view.

9. A portable phone charger

Days out exploring can quickly drain your phone battery, especially if you’re using maps, taking photos or looking up places to visit. A small portable charger is useful to keep in your bag so you don’t get caught with a flat battery.

10. Slippers or cosy socks

After a day exploring the countryside, it’s lovely to come back to the cottage, put your feet up and settle in for a cosy evening. A pair of warm slippers or cosy socks takes up very little room in your bag and is perfect for relaxing by the fire.

Enjoy a cosy autumn break in Galloway

Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Galloway, with colourful countryside, peaceful walks and cosy evenings by the fire. We hope this packing list helps you make the most of your autumn cottage break, whatever the Scottish weather brings.

Quick autumn cottage packing checklist

☐ Waterproof jacket
☐ Waterproof walking shoes or boots
☐ Hat, scarf and gloves
☐ Flask or travel mug
☐ Small backpack
☐ Warm fleece or jumper
☐ Torch
☐ Picnic blanket
☐ Portable phone charger
☐ Slippers or cosy socks