Packing for a trip can be tricky sometimes. If you’ve never visited the area, not being familiar with the climate, or activities, can make it even more difficult. When we’re prepping for a trip, I always like to begin thinking about what I am going to bring at least a week ahead of time, and then I try to put together outfits to streamline the packing process.

Having just returned from a wonderful weekend getaway at the Fairmont Princess Scottsdale I thought it would be helpful to share a general packing list, based on the activities of the hotel + area, in case you’re planning a trip to the Scottsdale area in the next few weeks! My full recap of our trip is available here! And for a full list of amazing activities to do in, and around, Scottsdale, see here. Happy travels friends!

DAYTIME WEAR

The weather during the winter months is in the 60’s + low 70’s, so depending on where you’re from that is seasonally brisk or an outright heat wave. For purposes of this post, I’m going to consider it cool. I would recommend packing jeans, or faux leather leggings, an oversized sweater, lightweight long sleeve tee, some comfortable flats, and a duster cardigan which can easily layer over the tee or oversized sweater. Layers are key in the Southwest region, as they allow you to dress for the chilly mornings and slightly warmer afternoons. You could visit the zoo with kiddos, go to a local farmer’s market, or shop around Kierland Commons for some excellent shopping.

FITNESS

I think packing activewear is essential when visiting Scottsdale. The Fairmont has a wonderful fitness center, especially at the spa, where you can sneak in a quick workout before you start your day (stair masters, treadmills, rowing machine, spin bike, etc….). There are also some beautiful trails that you can hike, like McDowell Sonoran Preserve Getaway Trail, Tom’s Thumb Trailhead, Sunrise Trailhead, + Camelback Mountain (Phoenix area)… so packing a light layer, leggings, and some appropriate shoes would be perfect for a morning hike.

POOL ACTIVITIES

Since there are so many pools at the resort, all heated for your enjoyment, I highly recommend that you bring pool attire…. bathing suit, coverup, sunscreen, head protection…. but it will be cool when you get out so be sure to bring the robes from the room to keep you warm and warm clothes for the kiddos.

EVENING ACTIVITIES

So many great options for dinner restaurants. It gets pretty cool in the desert during the evening (high 40’s, low 50’s) so that oversized sweater you packed, along with a heavier jacket would keep you nice and warm. I also think a lightweight sweater with a leather jacket would be an excellent option as well. I recommend boots or booties to pair with jeans or a pair of heels to toss on with some faux leather joggers. You can easily dress up your daytime pieces with some of your favorite jewelry pieces + swapping out your shoes.
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Thank you to the Fairmont Princess for hosting our family.