Will I need a jacket in Phoenix in January?

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

Will it rain in Phoenix in January?

Only about 4 rainy days on average — a packable rain shell is usually enough without a full umbrella.

How should I layer for Phoenix in January?

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.

January Packing List for Phoenix – What to Wear & Bring

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Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

Mid-weight sweaterEssential
In Phoenix, morning temperatures can drop to 44°F, making a cozy layer essential for early starts.
Denim jeansEssential
In Phoenix, sturdy denim is perfect for exploring Old Town Scottsdale when temperatures dip toward the 44°F low.
Lightweight T-shirtEssential
A breathable cotton tee is ideal for sunny afternoons when Phoenix reaches a pleasant 66°F.
Hiking bootsEssential
The rocky terrain of Camelback Mountain requires sturdy support during the cool 66°F hiking hours in Phoenix.
Walking shoesEssential
In Phoenix, comfortable walking shoes are ideal for strolling through Old Town Scottsdale when highs reach 66°F.
UV-rated sunglassesEssential
Protect your eyes from intense desert glare even when Phoenix highs are a mild 66°F.
SunscreenEssential
Apply SPF daily because the high desert sun in Phoenix remains strong despite the 4 precipitation days expected this month.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated while exploring the desert terrain even when temperatures are only 66°F in Phoenix.

Clothing

Mid-weight sweaterEssential
In Phoenix, morning temperatures can drop to 44°F, making a cozy layer essential for early starts.
Long-sleeve linen shirtRecommended
Even with highs of 66°F, the intense desert sun in Phoenix requires light coverage to prevent UV exposure.
Denim jeansEssential
In Phoenix, sturdy denim is perfect for exploring Old Town Scottsdale when temperatures dip toward the 44°F low.
Lightweight T-shirtEssential
A breathable cotton tee is ideal for sunny afternoons when Phoenix reaches a pleasant 66°F.

Footwear

Hiking bootsEssential
The rocky terrain of Camelback Mountain requires sturdy support during the cool 66°F hiking hours in Phoenix.
Walking shoesEssential
In Phoenix, comfortable walking shoes are ideal for strolling through Old Town Scottsdale when highs reach 66°F.
Closed-toe sneakersRecommended
Closed-toe sneakers provide protection on desert trails even when temperatures hover around 66°F in Phoenix.
Stylish loafersOptional
Dressy loafers are perfect for dining in Old Town Scottsdale during the mild 66°F evenings in Phoenix.

Accessories

UV-rated sunglassesEssential
Protect your eyes from intense desert glare even when Phoenix highs are a mild 66°F.
SunscreenEssential
Apply SPF daily because the high desert sun in Phoenix remains strong despite the 4 precipitation days expected this month.
Lightweight scarfRecommended
A light scarf is perfect for shielding against chilly breezes during Phoenix's 44°F evenings.
Wide-brimmed hatRecommended
A wide-brimmed hat offers essential shade from the intense desert sun even on a 66°F day in Phoenix.

Gear

Compact umbrellaRecommended
With an average of 4 precipitation days in January, a small umbrella is useful for sudden showers in Phoenix.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated while exploring the desert terrain even when temperatures are only 66°F in Phoenix.
Lightweight rain jacketRecommended
A light layer is helpful if you encounter any of the 4 precipitation days expected in Phoenix this month.

Local tips for Phoenix in January

Layering is essential in Phoenix because temperatures swing significantly between sunny afternoons and cool desert nights.

Always carry sunscreen when visiting Phoenix, as the intense desert UV can burn skin even on a mild 66°F day.

If hiking Camelback Mountain in Phoenix, start your trek early to take advantage of the cooler morning temperatures.

FAQ — Phoenix in January

Yes — average lows hit about 44°F, so plan on a warm jacket and a sweater layer.
Only about 4 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 January

What to wear

Outfit ideas for Phoenix in January →

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

Best shoes

Shoe picks for January →

Waterproof, breathable, insulated — matched to the month.

Pack or skip

Umbrella? Winter coat? Sunscreen? →

Item-by-item verdict for January.

Comfort check

Will I be cold or hot? →

Day and night temp bands for January.

Packing tools

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

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

January Packing List for Phoenix — What to Wear & Bring

Hotels in Phoenix