Dubuque, Iowa, 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 Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Dubuque, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Dubuque
- Important essentials for Dubuque
- Activities for Dubuque
- Dubuque in January: weather and what to pack
- Dubuque in February: weather and what to pack
- Dubuque in March: weather and what to pack
- Dubuque in April: weather and what to pack
- Dubuque in May: weather and what to pack
- Dubuque in June: weather and what to pack
- Dubuque in July: weather and what to pack
- Dubuque in August: weather and what to pack
- Dubuque in September: weather and what to pack
- Dubuque in October: weather and what to pack
- Dubuque in November: weather and what to pack
- Dubuque 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 Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Dubuque, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
Important essentials for Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Dubuque, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
Travel insurance that includes COVID-19 coverage
Cases are climbing again, and areas are returning to lockdown. If you or a companion get COVID-19, you may be stuck with no way home -- but travel insurance can protect you. Learn more about COVID-19 and travel insurance
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks aren't sold for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards often wear away. An unreadable card may result in severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
-
Touchless thermometer
A touchless thermometer is important to have.
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
(U.S. Residents) Telehealth COVID-19 test for entry to U.S.
U.S. residents still need a certified COVID-19 test to return home, but it can now be via Zoom. Learn more
-
N95 masks
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID protection available.
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
For families with young children
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one is sufficent for most countries, but check with your hotel.
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Dubuque. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
What to wear/what to pack for Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
If you go to Dubuque in January, you will notice that it can be dangerously cold and snowy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
The best is: this
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Thermal undergarments
We love:
-
Pajamas
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Dubuque, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is vital here. This one is a great option.
-
Ski accessories
Dubuque has some famous ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would 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
February
February in Dubuque is frosty and snowy. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time and snows 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Pajamas
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
-
Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Lip balm
The best choice: this
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Dubuque, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a perfect option.
-
Ski accessories
Dubuque has some good ski areas 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
March
March in Dubuque is cold, snowy and somewhat rainy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) to 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:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Gloves
-
Sweaters
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Dubuque, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is an excellent option.
-
Ski accessories
Dubuque has some excellent ski areas 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
April
In April, Dubuque is relatively cool 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). During your visit, you can expect a couple of inches of snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Dubuque, with several of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 60%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Extra socks
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
May
May is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Standard footwear
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Dresses
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
June
In June, Dubuque is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Dubuque, with several of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 60%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Extra socks
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
July
July for Dubuque is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
Extra socks
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light skirts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
August
If you are traveling to Dubuque in August, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Sandals
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Extra socks
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
September
September in Dubuque is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Light skirts
-
Extra socks
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sandals
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
October
October in Dubuque is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C) to low 60s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Dresses
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Extra socks
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
November
If you go to Dubuque in November, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Lip balm
Our choice: here
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Gloves
-
Sweaters
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Dubuque, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is important here. This one is an excellent choice.
-
Ski accessories
Dubuque has some great 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
December
If you are traveling to Dubuque in December, you will notice that it is frosty, snowy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
The best pick: this
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Pajamas
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Dubuque, 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 a great choice.
-
Ski accessories
Dubuque has some excellent ski areas 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
Activities for Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Dubuque.
If you go to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, you're likely to 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
If you see the Dubuque Museum of Art, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
Check out our guides for these other locations: Lviv, Ukraine, Transylvania, Romania, Dumyat, Egypt, Xidang, China, Papi Hills, India, York, South Carolina, United States of America, Epano Vatheia, Greece, Erick, Oklahoma, United States of America, Sleaford, England, United Kingdom, Waldron Island, Washington, United States of America, and Valdez, Alaska, United States of America.