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

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

Contents

When to go to Helena, Montana, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Helena, Montana, United States of America, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Helena, Montana, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Helena, Montana, United States of America by month

January

January in Helena is frigid. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good 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

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of St. Helena, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Gates of the Mountains, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Helena is frosty. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero 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 Helena. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of St. Helena, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Gates of the Mountains, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Helena can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Helena. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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 versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of St. Helena, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Gates of the Mountains, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

Traveling to Helena in April, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain or snow 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
  • 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 Helena. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • 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 penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of St. Helena, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Gates of the Mountains, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May in Helena is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, 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 Helena. 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. Ensure that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of St. Helena, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Gates of the Mountains, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June for Helena is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, 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 Helena. 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 pillow

    What we like 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 get the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold 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.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of St. Helena, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Gates of the Mountains, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July for Helena is extremely warm. 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:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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 Helena. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct kind. Most 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 fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of St. Helena, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Gates of the Mountains, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you vacation in Helena during August, 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 low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Helena. 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of St. Helena, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Gates of the Mountains, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

Traveling to Helena in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Helena. 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 stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of St. Helena, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Gates of the Mountains, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Helena can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of St. Helena, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Gates of the Mountains, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in this region can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Helena. 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of St. Helena, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Gates of the Mountains, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Helena is frosty. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Helena. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • 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 pillow

    What we like is this one

If you are going to go to the must-see Cathedral of St. Helena, it's useful to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Gates of the Mountains, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Helena, Montana, United States of America

Helena, Montana is the state capital of Montana, located in the western part of the state. The charming city is surrounded by endless mountains and beautiful landscapes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Helena is rich in history and culture, with a collection of buildings and monuments that provides insights into Montana’s deep-rooted past. In this article, we will take a look at the top tourist attractions in Helena, Montana.

1. Helena Walking Mall

The Helena Walking Mall is a beautiful pedestrian zone located in the heart of downtown Helena. This urban oasis is lined with trees, flowers, and benches, perfect for a leisurely walk, shopping or dining. It features unique boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries, offering fantastic shopping and entertainment experiences. In the summer, the mall is a vibrant hub of street performances, festivals, and concerts.

2. Montana State Capitol

The Montana State Capitol is one of the significant landmarks in Helena, Montana. The building is an architectural masterpiece that was completed in 1902. Visitors can explore the capitol building by taking a guided tour of the interior and learn about the state's history and politics. The building features a rotunda, grand staircase, and four wings, each dedicated to specific functions, including the legislative chambers.

3. Last Chance Gulch

Last Chance Gulch is a historic landmark situated in downtown Helena, where gold was discovered in 1864, making it one of the richest goldfields in the world. The gold rush transformed the city from a small settlement to a bustling city. Today, visitors can explore Last Chance Gulch by strolling down the pedestrian mall, and taking in the old buildings and exquisite sculptures that dot the area.

4. Cathedral of St. Helena

The Cathedral of Saint Helena is a beautiful Romanesque structure built in 1914. It is the seat of the Bishop of the Diocese of Helena and the centerpiece of the city's skyline. The cathedral features stained-glass windows and intricate murals that are a true testament to the beauty of religious art.

5. Gates of the Mountains

The Gates of the Mountains is a breathtaking natural wonder located a few miles north of Helena. The area gets its name from the towering limestone cliffs that rise to over 1,200 feet, resembling gateways that lead to the mountains. Visitors can explore the area by taking a boat tour that offers a guided tour of the area while providing stunning views of the mountain skyline.

6. Montana Historical Society Museum

The Montana Historical Society Museum is a must-visit destination in Helena, Montana. It is situated in a beautiful building that focuses on Montana's rich history, from prehistoric times to the modern-day. The museum features a range of exhibits, including Native American artifacts, contemporary art, and postcards depicting Montana's scenic beauty.

Helena, Montana, is a top tourist destination in Montana, known for its excellent recreational activities, outdoor adventures, and exquisite landmarks. The list above showcases the top attractions visitors can't miss while exploring Helena. Whether you are an art lover, history enthusiast, or a nature lover, there is something for everyone in Helena, Montana.

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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