Packing guide for the Midwest: Chicago, Minnesota, Ohio and nearby
The Midwest has some of the coldest winters in the continental U.S., especially in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and the Dakotas, where temperatures can stay well below freezing for weeks and the wind makes it feel colder. Summers are warm to hot and often humid. Spring and early summer bring strong thunderstorms and tornadoes.
States in this guide: Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota and North Dakota.
General information only. Weather varies a lot inside each region and from year to year. Check the forecast for your city on weather.gov before you pack, and follow the official travel rules linked below.
Your packing checklist
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Winter
- Heavy insulated coat with a hood (buy locally)
- Insulated, waterproof boots
- Warm hat that covers your ears
- Insulated gloves and a scarf
- Thermal underwear
- Lip balm and moisturizer
Summer
- Light clothes for heat and humidity
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
Storm safety
- Weather alerts turned on for your city
Winter (November to March)
- A heavy, insulated winter coat with a hood. Buy it locally: stores carry coats made for these winters.
- Insulated, waterproof boots with good grip.
- A warm hat that covers your ears, insulated gloves, a scarf, and thermal underwear.
- Lip balm and moisturizer: winter air is very dry indoors and out.
Summer (June to August)
Light clothes for heat and humidity, plus sunscreen and insect repellent near lakes.
Spring storms and tornadoes
- Tornadoes happen most often in spring and early summer, especially in the Plains states.
- Learn what the warning sirens and phone alerts mean, and where to shelter in your home, school or workplace.
For documents, medicines, electronics, food and money, see our general packing guide for newcomers. It applies to every region.