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

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Ready to pack for Chicagoland, Illinois, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Chicagoland, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Chicagoland, Illinois, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Chicagoland, Illinois, United States of America, the best time to go is June. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Chicagoland, Illinois, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Chicagoland, Illinois, United States of America by month

January

January in Chicagoland is freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 10s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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 Chicagoland. 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 pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • 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 surcharges with this

February

February is freezing. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day.

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 Chicagoland. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

March

If you visit Chicagoland during March, you are likely to find that it can be very chilly. 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
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, 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 Chicagoland. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of 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 is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you vacation in Chicagoland during April, you may see that it is crisp. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chicagoland. 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

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

May

If you are traveling to Chicagoland in May, you will notice that it is balmy. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).

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.

  • 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 Chicagoland. 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 recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • 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 find the right type. 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 be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

June

Traveling to Chicagoland in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

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 airports always 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 Chicagoland. 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 support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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 get the right type. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

July

If you visit Chicagoland during July, you are likely to see that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chicagoland. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

August

If you vacation in Chicagoland during August, you will probably find that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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. Be sure to find the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

September

Traveling to Chicagoland in September, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chicagoland. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy 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 should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

October in Chicagoland is crisp. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, 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 Chicagoland. 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the correct kind. Many adapters currently 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 works in 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

November

If you visit Chicagoland during November, you might see that it is cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chicagoland. 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties 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 support pillow

    What we like is this one

December

December in Chicagoland is freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chicagoland. 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. Be sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Chicagoland, Illinois, United States of America

Chicagoland is a region in northeastern Illinois, United States of America, that includes the city of Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. The area is home to some of the best tourist attractions in the country, ranging from famous landmarks to cultural institutions, natural wonders, and outdoor recreational areas. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here are some top tourist attractions to check out in Chicagoland.

1. Navy Pier

Located on the shore of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier that features shops, restaurants, theatres, and entertainment venues. A symbol of Chicago’s maritime heritage, the pier attracts millions of visitors each year with its breathtaking views of the skyline, ferris wheel, and fireworks displays.

2. Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower)

Standing at 110 stories tall, Willis Tower, formerly known as Sears Tower, is one of the most iconic buildings in Chicago. Visitors can ascend to the top of the tower, where an observation deck offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.

3. Art Institute of Chicago

One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, the Art Institute of Chicago houses over 300,000 pieces of art from around the world. The museum’s collection includes famous works by Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, and Picasso.

4. Millennium Park

A 24.5-acre park located in the heart of Chicago, Millennium Park is home to several iconic sculptures and attractions, including the “Bean” (a mirror-like sculpture), the Crown Fountain (a sculpture that spouts water from its mouth), and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion (an outdoor concert venue).

5. Lincoln Park Zoo

Founded in 1868, the Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest and most beloved zoos in the United States. The zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, and hippos.

6. Brookfield Zoo

The Brookfield Zoo, located in the suburb of Brookfield, is a 216-acre zoo that features over 2,000 animals from around the world. The zoo is known for its extensive collection of primates, big cats, and aquatic animals.

7. Shedd Aquarium

One of the largest indoor aquariums in the world, the Shedd Aquarium is home to over 32,000 animals from 1,500 different species. From sharks to sea turtles to penguins, visitors can get up close and personal with some of the most fascinating creatures in the world.

8. Grant Park

The largest park in Chicago, Grant Park is a 319-acre green space that features several iconic landmarks, including the Buckingham Fountain, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum Campus (home to the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium).

9. Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

Located in the suburb of Oak Park, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. The museum offers guided tours of the famed architect’s home and studio, where he designed some of his most famous works.

10. Chicago Botanic Garden

Located in the suburb of Glencoe, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a 385-acre oasis that features over 2.5 million plants and 27 display gardens. The garden is a wonderful place to take a peaceful stroll and admire the stunning floral displays.

In conclusion, Chicagoland is a region full of diverse and exciting tourist attractions that are sure to please visitors of all ages and interests. From world-renowned museums to beautiful parks and outdoor recreational areas, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this vibrant and dynamic region of Illinois.

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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