Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]

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Traveling to Phoenix, Arizona? For the outdoorsy type, there are hiking and biking trails galore--and of course, the Grand Canyon is within driving distance. The city also boasts several professional sports teams, so catching a game is always an option.

The nightlife is vibrant, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. And, of course, no visit to Phoenix would be complete without spending some time in the desert.

If you're planning to go to Phoenix, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

When to go to Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Phoenix, the best time to go is April. See below for details.

Important essentials for Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Phoenix, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

IMPORTANT COVID-19 ESSENTIALS

Other health necessities


  • Travel first aid kit

    This one is a good option.


  • Emergency rapid COVID-19 test

    U.S. residents can get them free here. Otherwise, you can buy them here.


  • Emergency motion sickness relief

Don't forget these

 

Activities for Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America

Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Phoenix.

If you go the Grand Canyon -- or even Camelback Mountain -- these are a must:


  • Good hiking shoes

    These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet


  • Small portable cooler

    Have access to water and other drinks with this portable cooler.


  • Ultralight day pack

    Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.


  • Binoculars

    Like these

We also recommend these top tours in and around Phoenix.


  • Grand Canyon day tour

    If you haven't seen the Grand Canyon, you must do so. An easy and fun way to do the trip is with a small group tour. You'll have a guide who will educate you on the history and formation of the canyon, and you won't have to set up your own transportation, which can be difficult.

    Check out the tour


  • Grand Canyon helicopter tour

    This one is expensive, but if you can splurge one one thing, this would be it: a helicopter tour of Grand Canyon. You can find some companies locally who offer these, or combine it with a tour of the Canyon with this tour.

    Check out the tour


  • Hot air balloon ride over Phoenix

    For something a bit less expensive, consider a hot air balloon ride over Phoenix. Experience the beautiful sunrise over the city.

    Check out the tour


  • ATV desert tour

    An exciting and adventurous way to see the desert is by ATV. You will join a small group and the whole family can experience the fun.

    Check out the tour


  • Sedona Red Rock and Native American Ruins tour

    For some culture, consider visiting the Native American ruins with a knowledgeable guide.

    Check out the tour

 

 

What to wear/what to pack for Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America by month

Already know when you're traveling?

January

If you are traveling to Phoenix in January, you will notice that it is mild and very dry. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

February

If you visit Phoenix during February, you are likely to find that it is balmy and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

March

March in Phoenix is warm and very dry. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

April

If you visit Phoenix during April, you will probably notice that it can be sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 10 and 20% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

May

If you go to Phoenix in May, you will notice that it is scorchingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

June

June for Phoenix can be excruciatingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 100s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

July

Traveling to Phoenix in July, you will notice that it is sizzling and very dry. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 100s F (low 40s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

August

If you visit Phoenix during August, you might find that it is blindingly hot and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the 100s F (low 40s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 80s F (high 20s C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

September

If you are traveling to Phoenix in September, you will notice that it can be blisteringly hot and very dry. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (high 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

October

If you are traveling to Phoenix in October, you will notice that it can be very hot and very dry. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

November

If you are traveling to Phoenix in November, you will notice that it is warm and very dry. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

December

If you visit Phoenix during December, you will probably find that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

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