Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Bloomington, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Bloomington, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America by month

January

In January, Bloomington is pretty cool, snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 30s F (single digits C) and about 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). During your visit, you can expect several inches of snow. This is also a rainy time for Bloomington, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • 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 Bloomington. 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 luggage these days, 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

If you see a temple, such as Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, wear:

If you go to Hoosier National Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Bloomington is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • 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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bloomington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see a temple, such as Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, wear:

If you go to Hoosier National Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

If you go to Bloomington in March, you will notice that it can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bloomington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you see a temple, such as Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, wear:

If you go to Hoosier National Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you visit Bloomington during April, you might see that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
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 things recently, an AirTag can help you 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 Bloomington. 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. Make sure to choose the right type. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice 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. Avoid penalties with this

If you see a temple, such as Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, wear:

If you go to Hoosier National Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May in Bloomington is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) to 70s F (mid 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bloomington. 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 find the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • 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

If you see a temple, such as Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, wear:

If you go to Hoosier National Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you are traveling to Bloomington in June, you will notice that it is hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, 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 Bloomington. 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you see a temple, such as Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, wear:

If you go to Hoosier National Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July in Bloomington can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bloomington. 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 airports always losing things 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now 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 should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave 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. Avoid penalties with this

If you see a temple, such as Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, wear:

If you go to Hoosier National Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Bloomington can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bloomington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the correct type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see a temple, such as Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, wear:

If you go to Hoosier National Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you visit Bloomington during September, you may find that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 Bloomington. 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you see a temple, such as Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, wear:

If you go to Hoosier National Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Bloomington is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bloomington. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you see a temple, such as Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, wear:

If you go to Hoosier National Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

Traveling to Bloomington in November, you will notice that it can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 Bloomington. 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is 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. Take care to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online 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 be appropriate for most locations.

If you see a temple, such as Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, wear:

If you go to Hoosier National Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Bloomington is brisk and somewhat rainy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) to low 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Bloomington. 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 always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the right type. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see a temple, such as Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, wear:

If you go to Hoosier National Forest, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America

Bloomington, Indiana is a city in southern Indiana that is well-known for its unparalleled beauty and charm. The city is home to bustling streets, lively cultural events, and breathtaking natural sights. With plenty to see and do, Bloomington is undoubtedly one of the top tourist destinations in the United States. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you cannot afford to miss when you visit Bloomington:

1. Indiana University Bloomington:

Indiana University Bloomington is one of the most prestigious universities in the United States. The campus is home to stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to explore the campus, learn about the history of the university, and visit landmarks such as the Sample Gates and the Indiana Memorial Union.

2. Monroe Lake:

Monroe Lake is a picturesque body of water that spans over 10,000 acres. The lake is an ideal spot for boating, fishing, camping, and hiking. It offers stunning views of the surrounding forests, hills, and wildlife. Visitors can rent boats, kayaks, and canoes, or simply relax on the sandy beaches while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

3. Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center:

The Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center is a unique attraction that provides visitors with a glimpse into the ancient traditions and cultures of the Tibetan and Mongolian people. The center features a stunning temple with intricate paintings and carvings, a museum that showcases various artifacts, and meditation sessions that allow visitors to relax and connect with their inner selves.

4. Bloomington Farmers Market:

The Bloomington Farmers Market is a bustling market that sells fresh produce, artisanal foods, and unique handicrafts. The market takes place every Saturday from April to November and offers visitors a chance to interact with the friendly locals and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food trucks, and free samples.

5. WonderLab Museum of Science:

The WonderLab Museum of Science is an interactive museum that is perfect for visitors of all ages. The museum offers hands-on exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations that showcase the wonders of science in a fun and exciting way. Visitors can learn about physics, chemistry, biology, and astronomy, or participate in creative activities such as painting, crafting, and building.

6. Wylie House Museum:

Wylie House is a historic home that was built in 1835 and is now a museum. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the house and the Wylie family, who were early settlers in the area. The house features antique furniture, artwork, and other artifacts that provide a glimpse into the daily lives of the Wylies.

Bloomington, Indiana is a city that has something to offer everyone. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and lively culture, it is no wonder that it has become one of the top tourist destinations in the United States. Make sure to check out these top tourist attractions when you visit Bloomington, Indiana.

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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