Amherst, Massachusetts, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Amherst, Massachusetts, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Amherst, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Amherst
- Important essentials for Amherst
- Activities for Amherst
- Amherst in January: weather and what to pack
- Amherst in February: weather and what to pack
- Amherst in March: weather and what to pack
- Amherst in April: weather and what to pack
- Amherst in May: weather and what to pack
- Amherst in June: weather and what to pack
- Amherst in July: weather and what to pack
- Amherst in August: weather and what to pack
- Amherst in September: weather and what to pack
- Amherst in October: weather and what to pack
- Amherst in November: weather and what to pack
- Amherst in December: weather and what to pack
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.
When to go to Amherst, Massachusetts, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Amherst, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
Important essentials for Amherst, Massachusetts, United States of America
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Amherst, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks don't exist for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards often wear out. An unreadable card may result in severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps avoid that.
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of protection available.
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
For families with young children
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one should be sufficient for most locations, but you should check with your hotel.
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Amherst. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
What to wear/what to pack for Amherst, Massachusetts, United States of America by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Amherst is freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). It snows occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Pajamas
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Lip balm
The best choice: here
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Amherst (Massachusetts), we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a perfect choice.
If you go to the Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead & Evergreens, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
February
February in Amherst is frosty. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). It snows once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Lip balm
The best pick: this
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
-
Pajamas
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Thermal undergarments
We like:
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Amherst (Massachusetts), we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is an excellent choice.
If you go to the Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead & Evergreens, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
March
March in this region can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
Our favorite option: here
-
Heavy jacket
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Sweaters
-
Gloves
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Amherst (Massachusetts), a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a perfect option.
If you go to the Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead & Evergreens, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
April
If you go to Amherst in April, you will notice that it is chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
-
Jacket or coat
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Fleece
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Amherst (Massachusetts), we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a great option.
If you go to the Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead & Evergreens, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
May
In May, Amherst is mild. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (low 20s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Amherst, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Standard footwear
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Dresses
-
Pants or jeans
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
If you go to the Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead & Evergreens, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
June
If you vacation in Amherst during June, you may see that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light skirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sandals
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
If you go to the Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead & Evergreens, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
July
If you go to Amherst in July, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes contaminants:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Skirts
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
-
Sunglasses
-
Bug repellent
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
If you go to the Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead & Evergreens, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
August
If you go to Amherst in August, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Extra socks
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Sandals
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
If you go to the Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead & Evergreens, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
September
September is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light skirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
If you go to the Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead & Evergreens, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
October
October in Amherst is crisp. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Fleece
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
-
Jacket or coat
-
Extra socks
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
If you go to the Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead & Evergreens, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
November
November for Amherst can be brisk. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Jacket or coat
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Fleece
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Amherst (Massachusetts), a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is essential here. This one is an excellent option.
If you go to the Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead & Evergreens, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
December
December for Amherst can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It snows occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
-
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Lip balm
The best pick: here
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Pajamas
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Amherst (Massachusetts), a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is important here. This one is a perfect option.
If you go to the Emily Dickinson Museum: Homestead & Evergreens, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
Activities for Amherst, Massachusetts, United States of America
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Amherst.
Six Flags New England
Old Sturbridge Village
New Hampshire State House
Willard Brook State Forest
Check out our guides for these other locations: Nyon, Switzerland, Jackson Township, New Jersey, United States of America, Boyacá, Colombia, Lexington, Illinois, United States of America, Catemaco, Veracruz, Mexico, Central Finland, Finland, Jinghong, China, Amasya, Turkey, Window Rock, Arizona, United States of America, Rutland Water, England, United Kingdom, and Groningen, Netherlands.