Bear Lake, Michigan, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Bear Lake, Michigan, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Bear Lake, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Bear Lake
- Important essentials for Bear Lake
- Activities for Bear Lake
- Bear Lake in January: weather and what to pack
- Bear Lake in February: weather and what to pack
- Bear Lake in March: weather and what to pack
- Bear Lake in April: weather and what to pack
- Bear Lake in May: weather and what to pack
- Bear Lake in June: weather and what to pack
- Bear Lake in July: weather and what to pack
- Bear Lake in August: weather and what to pack
- Bear Lake in September: weather and what to pack
- Bear Lake in October: weather and what to pack
- Bear Lake in November: weather and what to pack
- Bear Lake in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Bear Lake, Michigan, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Bear Lake, Michigan, United States of America, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Bear Lake, Michigan, United States of America
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Bear Lake, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Bear Lake, Michigan, United States of America by month
January
January in Bear Lake is frosty. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
The best option: this one
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Fleece for under jacket
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.
Scarf/neck warmer
our favorite
Pajamas
Sweaters
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bear Lake. 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
February
February in Bear Lake is freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteSweaters
Extreme cold weather gloves
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Lip balm
The best pick: here
Thermal undergarments
We love:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Fleece for under jacket
Pajamas
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bear Lake. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
If you go to Bear Lake in March, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heavy jacket
Gloves
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
this
Warm pants or jeans
Heavy socks
Such as:
Sweaters
Lip balm
Our favorite option: this
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bear Lake. 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
April
April in Bear Lake can be brisk. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: here
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
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
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: 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 Bear Lake. 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 things.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
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 favorite is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
May
May in Bear Lake is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bear Lake. 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.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
June
If you vacation in Bear Lake during June, you might find that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Bug repellent
Sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
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
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bear Lake. 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.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
July
July is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bear Lake. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.
August
If you vacation in Bear Lake during August, you will probably notice that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bear Lake. 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.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
September
September here is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Sandals
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently 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 Bear Lake. 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 things.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
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
October
Traveling to Bear Lake in October, you will notice that it is chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bear Lake. 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 constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.
November
If you vacation in Bear Lake during November, you will probably notice that it is pretty cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great 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 Bear Lake. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
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 correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.
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
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
December
December in Bear Lake is frigid. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Gloves
Lip balm
Our favorite option: this
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisHeavy jacket
Heavy socks
Such as:
Sweaters
-
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bear Lake. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
What to do in Bear Lake, Michigan, United States of America
Bear Lake, Michigan is a small, picturesque town located in Manistee County, nestled between the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan and the peaceful Bear Lake. The area is a popular summer getaway for locals and visitors alike, attracting outdoor enthusiasts with its abundant natural beauty and charming attractions. From water sports and hiking to quaint shopping and dining, Bear Lake has something for everyone. Here are some top tourist attractions to see when visiting Bear Lake, Michigan.
1. Bear Lake Beach: One of the main draws to Bear Lake is its stunning beach, a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The sandy beach stretches for miles along Lake Michigan's shoreline, offering plenty of space for beachgoers to spread out and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. There are also several picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms available for visitors.
2. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Just a short drive from Bear Lake, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. The park features miles of hiking trails, stunning views of Lake Michigan, and towering sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see. Visitors can take a scenic drive along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, kayak along the crystal-clear waters of Good Harbor Bay, or embark on a guided nature hike.
3. Kaleva Historical Museum: For history buffs, the Kaleva Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the town's past. The museum is housed in a renovated train depot and features exhibits and artifacts showcasing Kaleva's Finnish heritage and agricultural history. Visitors can also view historical photographs, tools, and equipment from the logging and farming industries.
4. Bear Lake Marina: Located on the shores of Bear Lake, this marina offers boat rentals, fishing charters, and waterfront dining. Visitors can rent a pontoon boat and spend the day exploring the lake's calm waters, or book a guided fishing tour to try their luck at catching perch, bass, and trout.
5. Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course: Golf enthusiasts won't want to miss the opportunity to play at the world-renowned Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course, located just a short drive from Bear Lake. The course offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and challenging holes designed to test your skills. After a round of golf, visitors can enjoy a meal at the onsite restaurant or sip a cocktail while taking in the stunning sunset views.
6. Portage Lake: Another popular spot for water sports, Portage Lake offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy boating, fishing, and kayaking in a peaceful, serene setting. The lake is also home to several unique dining and shopping establishments, including a market selling fresh produce and handmade goods.
7. Manistee River Trail: For adventure seekers, the Manistee River Trail offers miles of hiking and biking trails through rugged wilderness and scenic overlooks. The trail is a popular spot for backpacking and camping, allowing visitors to disconnect from civilization and immerse themselves in nature.
Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach vacation or an outdoor adventure, Bear Lake, Michigan has something to offer everyone. With its natural beauty, charming attractions, and friendly locals, it's no wonder why so many people return to this destination year after year.
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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