Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Illinois Driftless Area, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Illinois Driftless Area
- Important essentials for Illinois Driftless Area
- Activities for Illinois Driftless Area
- Illinois Driftless Area in January: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in February: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in March: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in April: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in May: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in June: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in July: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in August: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in September: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in October: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in November: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Illinois Driftless Area, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America by month
January
January in Illinois Driftless Area is freezing and snowy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) to low 30s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
Fleece for under jacket
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Sweaters
Pajamas
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Lip balm
The best choice: this one
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteExtreme cold weather gloves
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Illinois Driftless Area, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.Ski accessories
Illinois Driftless Area has some famous skiing If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
February
February for Illinois Driftless Area is frigid and snowy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time and snows occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece for under jacket
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteTravel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Extreme cold weather gloves
Lip balm
The best is: this one
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Sweaters
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Thermal undergarments
We love:
Pajamas
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Illinois Driftless Area, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential here.
Umbrella
This one is a great option.Ski accessories
Illinois Driftless Area has some good ski areas If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
March
In March, Illinois Driftless Area is brisk, snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 50s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C). During your visit, you can expect several inches of snow. This is also a rainy time for Illinois Driftless Area, with several of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 60%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heavy socks
Such as:
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisHeavy jacket
Sweaters
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Lip balm
Our favorite option: here
Warm pants or jeans
Gloves
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Illinois Driftless Area, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Illinois Driftless Area has some good ski areas If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
April
If you vacation in Illinois Driftless Area during April, you might see that it is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
May
May for Illinois Driftless Area is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Sandals
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
June
In June, Illinois Driftless Area is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) and occasionally jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Illinois Driftless Area, with several of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 60%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.
July
In July, Illinois Driftless Area is extremely hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Illinois Driftless Area, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 60%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
August
August in Illinois Driftless Area is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes harmful contaminants:
thisA rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
September
September in this region is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
October
October in Illinois Driftless Area is crisp. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
November
November in Illinois Driftless Area is brisk. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Gloves
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
thisSweaters
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Warm pants or jeans
Heavy socks
Such as:
Lip balm
Our favorite option: this one
Heavy jacket
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Illinois Driftless Area, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.Ski accessories
Illinois Driftless Area has some excellent skiing If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
December
In December, Illinois Driftless Area is freezing, snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). During your visit, you can expect several inches of snow. This is also a rainy time for Illinois Driftless Area, with several of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Thermal undergarments
We chose:
Fleece for under jacket
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteExtreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Lip balm
The best is: this
Sweaters
Pajamas
Extreme cold weather gloves
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Illinois Driftless Area, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is important here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Illinois Driftless Area has some excellent ski slopes If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
What to do in Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America
The Illinois Driftless Area is a unique and captivating region that draws countless tourists every year. Nestled in the northwestern corner of the state, the area boasts stunning natural beauty, rich history, and a wide range of recreational activities. From exploring quaint small towns to hiking through rugged wilderness, here are the top tourist attractions in the Illinois Driftless Area.
1. Starved Rock State Park
Located in LaSalle County, Starved Rock State Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. The park features towering sandstone bluffs, cascading waterfalls, and meandering canyons that offer breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can hike the park's 13 miles of trails, fish in the Illinois River, or take a scenic boat tour.
2. Galena
This charming town has earned its reputation as one of the best-preserved 19th-century mining towns in the US. The town boasts a variety of architectural styles, including Victorian, Greek Revival, and Italianate. Visitors can wander through the town, browsing boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries, or take a historic trolley tour.
3. Mississippi Palisades State Park
Situated along the mighty Mississippi River, this state park offers amazing views of towering limestone bluffs, pristine forests, and sparkling waterfalls. Hiking trails allow visitors to explore the park's stunning natural beauty, while boating, fishing, and camping offer opportunities for outdoor adventure.
4. Matthiessen State Park
With its rolling hills, wooded canyons, and picturesque streams, Matthiessen State Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers. The park's trails wind through rocky gorges, beneath towering waterfalls, and past tranquil ponds, offering endless opportunities for hiking and exploration.
5. Apple River Canyon State Park
This hidden gem is tucked away in the northwest corner of the state and offers a secluded escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The park's trails wind through forested canyons, past sparkling streams, and offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
In conclusion, the Illinois Driftless Area is a hidden gem in the Midwest that offers a wide range of attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you're interested in exploring historic towns, hiking through rugged wilderness, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area, there's something for everyone in this unique and captivating region. So why not plan your visit today and discover all that the Illinois Driftless Area has to offer?
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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