November trip and what to pack!

Question

We last visited Phoenix in March a few years ago and coming from the cold Northern UK to us it was lovely and warm and shorts and t-shirts weather! The bus driver commented that he could tell we weren't local!

We are coming for two weeks Mid November leaving on Thanksgiving weekend. The long range forecast we can see and historical averages suggest that Phoenix will be low to mid 20 degrees and cooler in Madera Canyon and Tuscon.

As it gets closer I'm starting to panic about what to pack. Will a few hoodies and cardigans be suffice with dresses/shorts/light trousers and tshirts? Will it be cold enough on an evening to want a coat?

Our prime reason for the visit is birdwatching although we are going to an afternoon NFL game and will do general sightseeing. I know the pools in our accommodation probably won't be heated but I had hoped to get a swim in too!

Answer

Visiting Arizona in mid-November offers a pleasant contrast to a Northern UK winter, but the weather can be quite variable depending on location and time of day. Phoenix and the lower desert areas are generally warm during the day, while evenings and higher elevations like Madera Canyon and Tucson’s surrounding mountains can be significantly cooler.

For your trip, packing versatile layers will be key, especially if you plan to do birdwatching in the early morning or spend evenings outdoors.

Daytime Clothing: T-shirts, light long-sleeve shirts, and shorts or light trousers are perfect for daytime temperatures in the low to mid-20°C (70s°F).
Layering: Hoodies, cardigans, or light fleeces will be useful for cooler mornings, late afternoons, or breezy locations.
Evening Wear: A light to medium jacket or coat is recommended for evenings, especially if you are in areas outside Phoenix or at higher elevation where temperatures can drop into the low teens °C (50s°F) or cooler.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for general sightseeing and birdwatching, plus possibly lightweight hiking shoes for trails in Madera Canyon or surrounding natural areas.

Other considerations:

Sun protection: Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are important even in November.
Swimwear: Pools in mid-November are often unheated, but if you don’t mind cooler water, bring swimwear. Consider a quick-dry towel and cover-up.
Birdwatching gear: Binoculars, field guides, and possibly a lightweight backpack for day trips.

Overall, your plan of dresses, shorts, light trousers, t-shirts, and a few hoodies/cardigans should work well. Adding a light jacket or coat for evening outings and higher elevation trips will ensure comfort throughout your stay.

November trip and what to pack!

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