July Packing List for Tucson — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Linen tops and shirtsEssential

  With Tucson highs reaching 99°F, linen is essential for staying cool while exploring the city.

• Lightweight long pantsEssential

  To protect against intense UV rays in Saguaro National Park where shade is non-existent during 99°F afternoons.

• Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential

  Essential for navigating the rocky terrain of Saguaro National Park during the intense 99°F July heat.

• Wide-brimmed hatEssential

  Crucial for shade in Saguaro National Park where the sun hits hard during 99°F afternoons.

• Polarized sunglassesEssential

  Protects your eyes from the intense desert glare common during Tucson's 99°F July days.

• Insulated water bottleEssential

  Staying hydrated is vital when facing the extreme heat of a semi-arid desert at 99°F peaks.

• High-SPF sunscreenEssential

  The high UV index in the semi-arid desert makes sun protection mandatory even when it hits 99°F.

Clothing

• Linen tops and shirtsEssential

  With Tucson highs reaching 99°F, linen is essential for staying cool while exploring the city.

• Lightweight long pantsEssential

  To protect against intense UV rays in Saguaro National Park where shade is non-existent during 99°F afternoons.

• Moisture-wicking layersRecommended

  The monsoon humidity can make July's 74°F evenings feel muggy, so breathable fabrics are key.

• Lightweight rain shellRecommended

  A light layer is necessary for Tucson's 9 rainy days during the monsoon season.

• Breathable sundressesOptional

  Perfect for casual outdoor dining on Fourth Avenue when temperatures drop to a pleasant 74°F in the evening.

Footwear

• Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential

  Essential for navigating the rocky terrain of Saguaro National Park during the intense 99°F July heat.

• Walking sandalsRecommended

  Comfortable for strolls around Fourth Avenue when temperatures are a mild 74°F in the evening.

• Lightweight sneakersRecommended

  Ideal for walking Tucson's flat neighborhoods during the extreme 99°F July heat.

• Water-resistant sandalsOptional

  Great for navigating puddles during Tucson's 9 monsoon rain days.

Accessories

• Wide-brimmed hatEssential

  Crucial for shade in Saguaro National Park where the sun hits hard during 99°F afternoons.

• Polarized sunglassesEssential

  Protects your eyes from the intense desert glare common during Tucson's 99°F July days.

• Insulated water bottleEssential

  Staying hydrated is vital when facing the extreme heat of a semi-arid desert at 99°F peaks.

• UV-blocking buffRecommended

  Helps protect your neck from the intense sun while hiking Saguaro National Park in July's heat.

Gear

• Compact umbrella or ponchoRecommended

  Necessary for sudden monsoon thunderstorms that occur during Tucson's 9 rainy days in July.

• High-SPF sunscreenEssential

  The high UV index in the semi-arid desert makes sun protection mandatory even when it hits 99°F.

• Lightweight daypackRecommended

  Useful for carrying water and extra layers while hiking Saguaro National Park in the 99°F heat.

• Small first aid kitOptional

  Essential for treating minor scrapes on desert trails under the hot July sun.