Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Santa Fe, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Santa Fe
- Important essentials for Santa Fe
- Activities for Santa Fe
- Santa Fe in January: weather and what to pack
- Santa Fe in February: weather and what to pack
- Santa Fe in March: weather and what to pack
- Santa Fe in April: weather and what to pack
- Santa Fe in May: weather and what to pack
- Santa Fe in June: weather and what to pack
- Santa Fe in July: weather and what to pack
- Santa Fe in August: weather and what to pack
- Santa Fe in September: weather and what to pack
- Santa Fe in October: weather and what to pack
- Santa Fe in November: weather and what to pack
- Santa Fe in December: weather and what to pack

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 Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Santa Fe, the best time to go is June. See below for details.
Important essentials for Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States of America
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Santa Fe, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
Travel insurance that includes COVID-19 coverage
Cases are climbing again, and areas are returning to lockdown. If you or a companion get COVID-19, you may be stuck with no way home -- but travel insurance can protect you. Learn more about COVID-19 and travel insurance
-
(U.S. Residents) Telehealth COVID-19 test for entry to U.S.
U.S. residents still need a certified COVID-19 test to return home, but it can now be via Zoom. Learn more
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards often wear away. An unreadable vaccination card may result in severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
-
N95 masks
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID-19 protection possible.
-
Touchless thermometer
A touchless thermometer is important to have.
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one is sufficent for most locations, but check with your hotel.
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Fe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
For families with young children
-
Airplane or car necessities
What to wear/what to pack for Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States of America by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Santa Fe is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Lip balm
The best option: this
-
Pajamas
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Santa Fe (New Mexico), we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a great choice.
-
Ski accessories
Santa Fe (New Mexico) has some great ski slopes If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
February
Traveling to Santa Fe in February, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain or snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Gloves
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Sweaters
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Lip balm
Our choice: this
-
Heavy jacket
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Santa Fe (New Mexico), a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is an excellent choice.
-
Ski accessories
Santa Fe (New Mexico) has some great ski areas If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
March
March in Santa Fe can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
-
Gloves
-
Heavy jacket
-
Lip balm
Our pick is: here
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Sweaters
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Santa Fe (New Mexico), a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is vital here. This one is a perfect option.
-
Ski accessories
Santa Fe (New Mexico) has some great ski areas If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
April
April for Santa Fe is crisp. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains or snows occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Jacket or coat
-
Fleece
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this
-
Extra socks
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Santa Fe (New Mexico), a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a great option.
-
Ski accessories
Santa Fe (New Mexico) has some good ski areas If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
May
If you go to Santa Fe in May, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Dresses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
June
If you vacation in Santa Fe during June, you may find that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Extra socks
-
Bug repellent
-
Light skirts
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Sandals
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
July
If you go to Santa Fe in July, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Bug repellent
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sandals
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Extra socks
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
August
August is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Bug repellent
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light skirts
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Extra socks
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
September
If you visit Santa Fe during September, you may see that it is warm. 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). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Extra socks
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light skirts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Bug repellent
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
October
Traveling to Santa Fe in October, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Fleece
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
-
Extra socks
-
Jacket or coat
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We suggest:
November
November in Santa Fe is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Gloves
-
Sweaters
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
-
Lip balm
Our pick is: here
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Santa Fe (New Mexico), a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a great choice.
-
Ski accessories
Santa Fe (New Mexico) has some famous ski areas If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
December
December in Santa Fe is brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
Our choice: here
-
Sweaters
-
Gloves
-
Heavy jacket
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Santa Fe (New Mexico), a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a great option.
-
Ski accessories
Santa Fe (New Mexico) has some great ski areas If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Activities for Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States of America
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Santa Fe.
If you want to visit the must-see St. Francis Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to El Rancho de las Golondrinas, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
If you see a temple, such as Scottish Rite Temple, wear:
If you see the New Mexico Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Castle hopping? For Palace of the Governors / New Mexico History Museum, take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you can carry your stuff.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Nai Han, Thailand, Qarshi, Uzbekistan, Quảng Ngãi, Vietnam, Southeast Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia, Lakeview, Oregon, United States of America, Uri, India, Taynuilt, Scotland, United Kingdom, Tulare, California, United States of America, Chicama, Peru, Tarim, China, and Eagan, Minnesota, United States of America.