Going to Tucson, Arizona This Winter? Here’s What to Wear

Got a winter trip planned to Tucson, AZ? Tucson can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 67°F (that's 19°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Tucson, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. And if you plan on doing any sightseeing, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing like a nasty blister to ruin a good vacation, right?

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Tucson in winter—whether you're hiking at Sabino Canyon, visiting the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, going on a hot air balloon ride, or stargazing at Kitt Peak National Observatory.

🔗 What should women wear in Tucson, Arizona in winter?

Tucson in winter is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: stylish hat, cardigans, sneakers or loafers, light jacket, and pashmina. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Tucson has to offer.

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Tucson trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Tucson, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

These would be perfect:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Tucson in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

🔗 Sneakers or loafers

Sneakers or loafers are essential for visiting Tucson. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to pack. And, when you're on your feet all day, they can help prevent aches and pains. But how do you know which sneakers or loafers to pack? If you'll be doing a lot of walking, opt for a sneaker with good arch support and cushioning. And don't forget style! Sneakers and loafers come in countless colors and designs, so pick something that goes with the rest of your outfits.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Tucson, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Pashmina

A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to Tucson. They can be used as a scarf, sarong, blanket, or even a headscarf. They are light and easy to pack, yet they provide warmth and color to any outfit. Pashminas come in a variety of colors and patterns, so it's easy to find one that compliments your personal style. When choosing a pashmina, look for one that is made from natural fibers such as wool or cashmere. These fibers are not only more durable, but they will also breathe better and keep you covered without making you sweat.

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 What should men wear in Tucson, Arizona in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: loafers or dress shoes, jeans, collared shirts, sweaters, and light jacket. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Tucson in comfort and style.

🔗 Loafers or dress shoes

While most people focus on packing their casual clothes and shoes for travel, it's important to remember to pack a pair or two of dressier shoes as well. Loafers and dress shoes can come in handy for a number of different occasions, from wedding receptions to nights out on the town. And while you might not want to spend a lot of money on shoes that you'll only be wearing occasionally, it's still worth investing in a good quality pair that will be comfortable and last for years to come.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Tucson, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Collared shirts

A lot of people think that collared shirts are only for work, but they can actually be really handy when traveling too. For one thing, they can help you dress up if you need to go someplace nice for dinner or a show. But how can you tell which collared shirts are worth packing? You can never go wrong with ones that are made from light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Tucson. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Tucson, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

These are some of my favorites:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Tucson, Arizona will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Tucson has to offer!