Will I need a jacket in Phoenix in December?

Yes — average lows hit about 44°F, so plan on a warm jacket and a sweater layer.

Will it rain in Phoenix in December?

Only about 3 rainy days on average — a packable rain shell is usually enough without a full umbrella.

How should I layer for Phoenix in December?

With a daily range of about 44°F–66°F, plan on layers you can add or shed: a base layer, a mid-weight top, and an outer layer for the cool ends of the day.

December Packing List for Phoenix – What to Wear & Bring

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Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

Lightweight JacketEssential
With December lows hitting 44°F near Camelback Mountain, a versatile jacket is necessary for when the sun goes down.
T-shirtsEssential
The daytime high of 66°F is perfect for light shirts while exploring the Phoenix Convention Center area.
Walking SneakersEssential
Sturdy sneakers are essential for navigating the desert terrain of Camelback Mountain, even if it's only 66°F.
Closed-toe ShoesEssential
Always opt for closed-toe shoes if hiking desert trails, even during the milder 66°F December days in Phoenix.
SunglassesEssential
The desert UV is intense in Phoenix, so sunglasses are a must even when it's only 66°F outside.
SunscreenEssential
Even with only 3 precipitation days, the high-altitude sun in Phoenix requires SPF protection during the 66°F afternoons.

Clothing

Lightweight JacketEssential
With December lows hitting 44°F near Camelback Mountain, a versatile jacket is necessary for when the sun goes down.
Long PantsRecommended
Since highs reach 66°F in Old Town Scottsdale, long pants provide comfort during temperature shifts.
T-shirtsEssential
The daytime high of 66°F is perfect for light shirts while exploring the Phoenix Convention Center area.
Light SweaterRecommended
A sweater helps manage the chill in Phoenix during those 3 days of potential precipitation.

Footwear

Walking SneakersEssential
Sturdy sneakers are essential for navigating the desert terrain of Camelback Mountain, even if it's only 66°F.
Comfortable BootsRecommended
Stylish boots are great for walking around Downtown Phoenix when temperatures dip to 44°F at night.
Closed-toe ShoesEssential
Always opt for closed-toe shoes if hiking desert trails, even during the milder 66°F December days in Phoenix.
Casual LoafersOptional
Casual loafers are perfect for a relaxed dinner in Old Town Scottsdale when it's a pleasant 66°F.

Accessories

SunglassesEssential
The desert UV is intense in Phoenix, so sunglasses are a must even when it's only 66°F outside.
SunscreenEssential
Even with only 3 precipitation days, the high-altitude sun in Phoenix requires SPF protection during the 66°F afternoons.
Light ScarfRecommended
A light scarf is perfect for shielding against breezes when temperatures drop to 44°F near Old Town Scottsdale.
Compact UmbrellaOptional
An umbrella is useful in Phoenix if you encounter any of the 3 precipitation days expected this month.

Local tips for Phoenix in December

Even in December, the sun is strong; always pack SPF for your trips around Camelback Mountain.

Prepare for rapid temperature shifts between sunny 66°F afternoons and chilly 44°F evenings.

While rain is infrequent with only 3 precipitation days, a light layer is useful if a desert storm rolls through.

FAQ — Phoenix in December

Yes — average lows hit about 44°F, so plan on a warm jacket and a sweater layer.
Only about 3 rainy days on average — a packable rain shell is usually enough without a full umbrella.
With a daily range of about 44°F–66°F, plan on layers you can add or shed: a base layer, a mid-weight top, and an outer layer for the cool ends of the day.

More tools for Phoenix in December

What to wear

Outfit ideas for Phoenix in December →

Layering looks and style guidance matched to the month's weather.

Best shoes

Shoe picks for December →

Waterproof, breathable, insulated — matched to the month.

Pack or skip

Umbrella? Winter coat? Sunscreen? →

Item-by-item verdict for December.

Comfort check

Will I be cold or hot? →

Day and night temp bands for December.

Packing tools

Decide jackets, outfits, shoes, and bag fees for Phoenix in December

Free calculators — city and month pre-filled when we know them. No account required. Start with how many outfits, sudoku packing, or bag fees.

Trip

Planning a trip to one city?

One city → typical weather for your month, packing counts that fit your bags, and email your plan.

Outfits

How many outfits for this trip?

Trip length, bag size, and climate → exact tops, bottoms, layers, and outfit combinations.

Jacket

Not sure about a jacket?

City + month → base / mid / shell stack and pack-or-skip verdicts for rain jacket, coat, and thermals.

Shoes

Shoes for this climate?

Climate, activities, and bag size → pair count, primary/backup types, and climate-matched picks.

Bags

Will this trip cost bag fees?

Airline + fare bucket + bags you plan to bring → fit verdicts and typical carry-on / checked fee ranges.

Capsule

Try sudoku packing for this climate?

City + month → climate-ready 3 tops / 3 bottoms / 3 layers you can edit — up to 27 mix-and-match outfits.

All packing tools

December Packing List for Phoenix — What to Wear & Bring

Hotels in Phoenix