Countries / United States / Packing guides / Midwest
Packing for the Midwest
Chicago, Minnesota, Ohio and nearby. Some of the coldest winters in the lower 48 states, especially in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and the Dakotas, where it can stay well below freezing for weeks and the wind makes it feel colder still. Summers are warm to hot and often humid, and spring and early summer bring strong thunderstorms and tornadoes.
- States
- Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota and North Dakota
General information only. Weather varies a lot within each region and from year to year. Check your city’s forecast on weather.gov before you pack.
Your packing checklist
Tick items as you pack, then share, copy or print the list, or add reminders to your calendar.
Winter
- Heavy insulated coat with a hood (buy it locally)
- Insulated, waterproof boots
- Warm hat that covers your ears
- Insulated gloves and a scarf
- Thermal underwear
- Lip balm and moisturiser
Summer
- Light clothes for heat and humidity
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
Storms
- Weather alerts turned on for your city
Winter (November to March)
- A heavy, insulated coat with a hood. Buy it locally: shops stock coats made for these winters.
- Insulated, waterproof boots with a good grip.
- A warm hat that covers your ears, insulated gloves, a scarf and thermal underwear.
- Lip balm and moisturiser: winter air is very dry indoors and out.
Summer (June to August)
- Light clothes for heat and humidity, plus sunscreen, and insect repellent near the lakes.
Spring storms and tornadoes
- Tornadoes are most common in spring and early summer, especially in the Plains states.
- Learn what the warning sirens and phone alerts mean, and where to shelter at home, school or work.
Documents, medicines, electronics, food and cash rules are the same everywhere: see the newcomer basics. For a tick-off list for a trip, try the packing list maker.
Other regions
Official sources
Last checked October 2026.