Are you planning a trip to The Valley of the Sun? You’re in for a treat. Phoenix is Arizona’s capital city and one of the most captivating travel destinations across the American Southwest.
The Sonoran Desert, stunning mountains, desert wildlife, and the magnificent saguaro (giant cactus) evoke the feeling of being in a live-action Western film. However, the city’s uniqueness means you can’t prepare for a trip to Phoenix like you do for other travel destinations.
This post looks at a few key considerations as you plan your next Phoenix vacation or work trip.
Five Questions To Make Planning Your Trip to Phoenix Simpler
#1 Are You Traveling at the Right Time?
The weather in Phoenix can swing to extremes, especially in the summer. If you don’t want to spend most of the time hiding away from the sun, it’s better to visit the area between October and April. Arizona’s temperatures are more tolerable within this period, making it the high season for visitors to the region.
Specifically, the high season is the best time to visit Phoenix if you’ve got hiking on your itinerary. However, if you’re traveling on a budget and have a more leisurely schedule available, you might consider June to September instead.
#2 Have You Packed the Right Gear?
The weather in Phoenix swings from sweltering by day to chilly at night. Avoid making the mistake of only packing your summer wear. The essentials include SPF30 sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and some warm clothing, even in the summer.
For footwear, be sure to include hiking boots, sandals, comfortable gym shoes, and a few thick pairs of socks. The hiking boot and thick socks will protect you from the hostile desert environment when you head outside in Phoenix.
#3 Have You Planned Your Transportation?
Cars are the major means of transportation in Phoenix. It’s possible to get around the city without a car, but you’ll need to set aside a significant budget for taxis. Ride-hailing services also become expensive, and they are limited to the Greater Phoenix area.
You can rely on public transport if you’re only going to traverse the downtown area during your trip. However, the most cost-effective choice overall would be to look for a black car service in Phoenix and book an appointment.
#4 Do You Have the Right Activities Lined Up?
Most people visiting Phoenix for the first time typically include hiking in their itinerary. However, hiking the Salt River Valley in the peak of summer exposes you to the risk of severe dehydration and heat stroke. Most hike trails have temperature warnings for this reason.
So, if your trip to Phoenix is during the summer, it’s safer to include more relaxing activities. For example, the downtown area has lots of attractions, such as the Japanese Friendship Garden, the Phoenix Art Museum, and the Orpheum Theater. If your vacation package is for the peak season, you can also include a visit to Camelback Mountain, Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon.
Note that the Grand Canyon is nearly four hours away from Phoenix. But will you have another chance to see it in the future?
#5 Do You Know All Phoenix’s Dos and Don’ts?
When you’re in the Sonoran Desert, you must be aware of your surroundings. Dangerous wildlife, like rattlesnakes, coyotes, and scorpions, thrive here. Keep your eyes peeled and give these creatures a good distance in the event of an encounter.
Also, the giant saguaro around the desert look magnificent in pictures but you’re not supposed to touch them! Slicing, hitting, or carving a cactus in Phoenix is a felony. If you cut one down, you risk a hefty fine and up to 25 years of jail time.
Similarly, it’s illegal to deface any of the Native American sites across the city. The petroglyphs you’ll find on soapstone boulders date back centuries. It’s important to avoid vandalizing them to preserve history.
Finally, you should be ready to drink lots of water while out and about in Phoenix. Some experts recommend drinking at least one liter of water for every hour you’re outside!
Choose Vitesse Phoenix for Your Transportation in Phoenix
Are you looking for a car service you can depend on during your trip to Phoenix? Vitesse Phoenix has a fleet of sedans, SUVs, and minivans that could serve your purposes.
Call us today at (203) 327-9447 to receive a free estimate, and find out why we are the top luxury car service in Phoenix, Arizona!
