Packing for a desert destination in the spring can be tricky; you might catch the last of the cold weather or arrive as it’s seriously heating up. And generally, nights get much colder than daytime temperatures.
When it comes to packing for Phoenix in March, April, and May, layers will be your best friend, and sunscreen is a must. The earlier you visit in spring, the cooler it will likely be, but if you’re visiting at the tail end of spring in May, prepare for near-summer temperatures.
Here’s what to pack for Phoenix in spring, from clothing to travel essentials to hiking necessities.
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Spring Weather in Phoenix
March: avg. 77° / 52° | avg. 3 days of rain
April: avg. 86° / 59° | avg. 1 day of rain
May: avg. 94° / 67° | avg. 0 days of rain
Clothing for Spring in Phoenix
Here are the clothing essentials for a springtime Phoenix packing list. From tops to shoes, and all things in between. Remember to layer your clothes so you can easily adjust from chilly desert mornings to toasty afternoons.
Tops
- Tank top x 2
- Short sleeves x 2
- One blouse
- Jacket
Layering is best for the springtime in Phoenix. Mornings and evenings tend to be much cooler than midday here, so start with a tank top or short-sleeve shirt and a jacket or light sweater you can take on and off when needed. I also recommend packing one nicer shirt or a blouse for dinners, etc.
Bottoms
- Casual shorts x 2
- Nicer pants
- Jeans
- Joggers/leggings
When it comes to pants for March in Phoenix, I recommend a mix of shorts and long pants. Pack a pair or two of casual shorts, especially if you are visiting in late spring. These come in handy for hiking, too. Make sure you bring a pair of long pants like
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Accessories
- Swimsuit
- Dress
- Cardigan
- Socks
- Underwear
- Regular bra
- Sports bra
- Belt
- Hat
Don’t forget to pack these other accessories. If your accommodation has a pool, a swimsuit will be essential near the end of spring. A dress can be useful if you’re planning a nice dinner. And a cardigan can be a great outer layer on those slightly chilly spring days.
Shoes
- Tennis shoes
- Sneakers – not white
- Hiking boots
- Optional sandals
The best shoes for March through May in Phoenix are tennis shoes, a pair of hiking boots, and comfortable sneakers for everyday. Sandals can be useful, but if you like to explore all day, I recommend avoiding sandals for long-term wear. Don’t bring white sneakers as the desert is very dusty and can easily dirty white shoes.
Other Phoenix Packing List Essentials
Don’t forget to pack these other essentials to help your Phoenix trip go as smoothly as possible. From day bag essentials to toiletries, etc.
Day Bag
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hiking snacks
- Portable charger
- Sling bag or backpack
To enjoy exploring more, pack a day bag with a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, portable charger, and hiking snacks if applicable. A small backpack or a sling bag works best.
Electronics
- Camera
- Kindle
- Headphones
- Tripod
- Chargers
Remember to pack any electronics you’ll need, like a camera, Kindle, headphones, a tripod, and any chargers you’ll need.
Toiletries
- Facewash
- Moisturizer
- SPF moisturizer
- Lipbalm
- Toothbrush/paste
- Hairbrush
- Hairties
- Headband or bandana
- OTC meds like ibuprofen
- Lotion – the desert is very dry
- Nail clippers
- Tweezers
- Hand sanitizer
- Eye cream
- Razor
You don’t want to forget these! Remember to pack any toiletries you use on a daily basis. Above are my top recommendations, but you know what you need. You shouldn’t need any shampoo and conditioner, unless you are very particular about what brand you use.
Helpful Arizona Guides
Now you know what to pack for a spring trip to Phoenix! Save this Phoenix packing list for your desert getaway and stay comfortable your entire trip. Remember, layers will be your best friend in this desert destination.
