What to Pack For a Trip to Sedona, According to an Arizona Native

Kitsch Spiral Hair Ties ($6, originally $9)

The temperatures in Sedona are always fluctuating — you could be sweating one minute and chilly the next. To ensure you're prepared for whatever weather you may encounter, I recommend having a couple hair ties handy. The city's vibe is very casual, so there's no shame in wearing your hair in a ponytail or bun most days.

OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent Aerosol Bug Spray ($10, originally $11)

As with most regions of northern Arizona, bugs are abundant — especially during the warmer months and in more humid areas around Sedona's Oak Creek Canyon. I recommend keeping a bug spray handy at all times to fend off pesky mosquitoes and flies, especially if you plan to do any hikes.

Nivea Soft Body Cream ($13)

If you plan to visit Arizona during the summer, expect to see the city at its hottest. Temperatures are known to get up to 100 degrees in July, and since Arizona is touted as having dry heat, the air won't contain the same moisture you might experience in California or throughout numerous states on the East Coast. To combat dry skin, I love having a Nivea lotion tucked into my purse or personal carry-on bag.

"The Nature of Arizona: An Introduction to Familiar Plants, Animals & Outstanding Natural Attractions" Book ($17)

Arizona is home to a unique assortment of wild animals and plant species, many of which are native to the desert and less familiar to visiting travelers. From bobcats and scorpions to bears and coyotes, there's no telling what animals and insects you might encounter on a hike, especially throughout the northern Arizona regions. To familiarize yourself with the wildlife (and improve your awareness while hiking through the woods), consider investing in a guide book like this top-rated option from Amazon.

Telena Belt Bag ($22)

Sedona is the perfect place to embrace a sportier vibe and don accessories like this functional belt bag. I love this style because it's compact enough to wear on a hike or on a walk to get brunch, but it still boasts enough interior space to hold all of my essentials — like a wallet, chapstick, portable charger, and hand lotion.

Polaroid Sport Action Camera ($27, originally $40)

Whether you're meditating on top of a red rock, cooling off in Oak Creek Canyon, or window shopping in Tlaquepaque Village, you'll want to document every last memory from your Sedona trip. This sports camera is a great failsafe option for doing it. The device is compact, waterproof, and designed for all types of adventures.

Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle ($28)

For days spent hiking under the Arizona sun or lounging by your resort's pool, make sure to keep a durable water bottle handy. Hydration is key for enjoying any sort of trip to Sedona, especially if you plan to do more high-movement activities.

Teva Original Universal Sandal ($30, originally $55)

More important than having a protective pair of hiking boots? Packing a durable pair of hiking sandals. Sedona hotspots like Slide Rock State Park and Oak Creek Canyon are great destinations for swimming, plus they also offer gorgeous hiking trails and views of the surrounding red rock. With these hiking sandals, you'll be able to safely trek through water and rocky terrain without fear of slipping.

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen ($41, originally $43)

I'd argue that sunscreen is a must-have essential for any destination, but for Sedona, it's even more important. The city is so uniquely beautiful, you'll want to spend all of your time outdoors — swimming, hiking, lounging, and shopping through the town's many boutiques. To prevent sunburns from ruining your trip, make sure to apply this solution daily.

Asos Design Curve Linen High Neck Midi Dress ($70)

Many Sedona establishments — namely five-star restaurants and top-rated resorts — have formal dress codes. If you'd like to have a dressier night or two while on your Sedona vacation and treat yourself to a high-end dinner, I recommend packing a dress that you can comfortably wear for any environment. Pro tip: khaki photographs beautifully against red rock.

Columbia Facet 75 Mid OutDry Shoe ($105, originally $140)

Hiking shoes feel synonymous with Sedona — and for good reason. No trip to Red Rock Country is complete without at least one hiking adventure, whether you're walking to one of the city's many famous vortexes or scaling actual red rock. These hiking shoes are my favorite because they boast the same durability as a hiking boot, but within a sneaker-like design that's much more lightweight.

Sea Dive Deep V-Neck One-Piece Swimsuit ($148)

The secret to maximizing on any Sedona trip is finding ways to stay cool — whether you're looking for an escape from the summer temperatures or want to take a dip in the pool post-hike. I love wearing this bathing suit underneath my normal hiking gear, that way if I stumble upon a creek or venture out to Slide Rock, I'm prepared to take a swim at any point.

Alo Yoga Sherpa Edge Shacket ($218)

Even during the summer months, Sedona can cool off quite a bit in the evenings, and temperatures often drop into the low 70s — meaning you'll want to pack at least one heavier layer or two. I love this cozy sherpa jacket from Alo because it goes with any outfit and is easy to layer on top of activewear pieces — like a workout bodysuit or sports bra.

Kyley Warren is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on PS Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.