Packing List
January Packing List for El Paso — What to Wear & Bring
For El Paso in January, pack for extreme diurnal temperature shifts. With lows at 32°F and sunny highs of 57°F, you need a heavy coat for mornings and breathable layers for the relentless high-altitude sun.
Averages 32–57°F, ~3 days of rain
El Paso's January nights drop to freezing at 32°F, necessitating a heavy outer layer for after-dark activities.
The 3,762 ft elevation makes winter air feel sharper; thermals help manage the chill during early morning walks downtown.
Midday highs reach 57°F under intense sun, making breathable cotton ideal for El Paso's bright winter afternoons.
A versatile mid-layer is perfect for hiking the Franklin Mountains where wind can quickly lower the perceived temperature.
Sturdy leather provides warmth and protection against the dry desert wind that often sweeps through El Paso in winter.
Moisture-wicking wool is essential to keep toes warm when January lows hit 32°F.
Comfortable shoes are needed for exploring walkable areas like San Jacinto Plaza on mild 57°F afternoons.
While El Paso only sees 3 precip days in January, morning frost can make pavements slick near the Rio Grande.
El Paso averages 297 sunny days per year; the winter sun reflects harshly off the Franklin Mountains' limestone.
Retaining head heat is vital when navigating El Paso's 32°F nights during the coldest month of the year.
The dry Chihuahuan Desert air and high UV exposure quickly dehydrate skin and lips at El Paso's 3,762 ft elevation.
Lightweight gloves are helpful for early morning commutes before the desert sun warms the city to its 57°F high.
Local tips for El Paso in January
- 1.San Jacinto Plaza is a January highlight, but the open layout means you'll feel every bit of the 32°F evening chill.
- 2.If hiking the Franklin Mountains in January, start late morning to allow the 57°F sun to warm the trails.
- 3.El Paso's air is exceptionally dry in winter; keep a bottle of lotion in your bag to combat desert skin dehydration.