Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
This article contains affiliate links to Amazon and other vendors. We may earn commission from purchases made through these links.
Traveling to Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Ann Arbor, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Ann Arbor
- Important essentials for Ann Arbor
- Activities for Ann Arbor
- Ann Arbor in January: weather and what to pack
- Ann Arbor in February: weather and what to pack
- Ann Arbor in March: weather and what to pack
- Ann Arbor in April: weather and what to pack
- Ann Arbor in May: weather and what to pack
- Ann Arbor in June: weather and what to pack
- Ann Arbor in July: weather and what to pack
- Ann Arbor in August: weather and what to pack
- Ann Arbor in September: weather and what to pack
- Ann Arbor in October: weather and what to pack
- Ann Arbor in November: weather and what to pack
- Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Ann Arbor, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
Important essentials for Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ann Arbor, 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 are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards frequently get worn. An unreadable vaccine card can have severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID protection available.
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one should be appropriate for most areas, but you should check with your hotel.
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
For families with young children
-
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ann Arbor. 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.
-
Airplane or car necessities
What to wear/what to pack for Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Ann Arbor is very cold and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
-
Lip balm
The best pick: here
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Pajamas
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Ann Arbor, we suggest 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 great choice.
-
Ski accessories
Ann Arbor has some famous 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
If you go to Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
February
If you are traveling to Ann Arbor in February, you will notice that it is frosty and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Lip balm
The best choice: this one
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
-
Pajamas
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Ann Arbor, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is important here. This one is a perfect option.
-
Ski accessories
Ann Arbor has some good ski slopes If you plan to ski, we also 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
If you go to Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
March
March in this region can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Lip balm
Our pick is: this
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Heavy jacket
-
Gloves
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Sweaters
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Ann Arbor, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is essential here. This one is an excellent option.
-
Ski accessories
Ann Arbor has some good ski slopes If you plan to ski, we also 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
If you go to Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
April
In April, Ann Arbor is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Ann Arbor, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: here
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Extra socks
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
If you go to Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
May
In May, Ann Arbor is balmy and somewhat rainy. 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 high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Ann Arbor, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Dresses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Pants or jeans
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Standard footwear
-
Extra socks
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
If you go to Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
June
June in Ann Arbor is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light skirts
-
Extra socks
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
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 bags remain dry. We suggest:
If you go to Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
July
July in Ann Arbor is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Skirts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunglasses
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes contaminants:
-
Bug repellent
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
If you go to Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
August
August in Ann Arbor is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light skirts
-
Extra socks
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Bug repellent
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sandals
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
If you go to Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
September
September in Ann Arbor is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (low 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Extra socks
-
Bug repellent
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
If you go to Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
October
October in Ann Arbor is chilly and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Standard footwear
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Extra socks
-
Pants or jeans
-
Dresses
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
If you go to Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
November
If you visit Ann Arbor during November, you are likely to notice that it is cold and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Fleece
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: here
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Jacket or coat
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Ann Arbor, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is a perfect option.
-
Ski accessories
Ann Arbor has some great skiing 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
If you go to Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
December
In December, Ann Arbor is frosty 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 low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Ann Arbor, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
-
Lip balm
Our choice: this one
-
Gloves
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Sweaters
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Ann Arbor, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is an excellent choice.
-
Ski accessories
Ann Arbor has some excellent ski slopes 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
If you go to Matthaei Botanical Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
Activities for Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Ann Arbor.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Garopaba, Santa Catarina, Brazil, Westport, Massachusetts, United States of America, Sagar Island, India, Haraz Mountains, Yemen, Stanton, North Dakota, United States of America, Bozel, France, Kargopol, Russia, Tana Toraja, Indonesia, Tonk, India, Doraville, Georgia, United States of America, and West Point Island, Falkland Islands.