Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Illinois Driftless Area, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Illinois Driftless Area
- Important essentials for Illinois Driftless Area
- Activities for Illinois Driftless Area
- Illinois Driftless Area in January: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in February: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in March: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in April: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in May: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in June: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in July: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in August: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in September: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in October: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area in November: weather and what to pack
- Illinois Driftless Area 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 Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Illinois Driftless Area, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
Important essentials for Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Illinois Driftless Area, 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
-
Touchless thermometer
A touchless thermometer is important to have.
-
N95 masks
These N95 masks provide the best level of protection you can have.
-
(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
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards frequently wear away. An unreadable vaccine card can have severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps avoid that.
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Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks don't exist for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Illinois Driftless Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
-
For families with young children
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one should be appropriate for most locations, but check with your hotel.
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
Airplane or car necessities
What to wear/what to pack for Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Illinois Driftless Area can be extremely cold and snowy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) to low 30s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Lip balm
The best is: this
-
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
-
Pajamas
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Illinois Driftless Area, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is important here. This one is an excellent choice.
-
Ski accessories
Illinois Driftless Area has some excellent ski slopes 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
February
February in Illinois Driftless Area can be extremely cold and snowy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C) to 30s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Pajamas
-
Lip balm
The best pick: this one
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Illinois Driftless Area, 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 option.
-
Ski accessories
Illinois Driftless Area has some excellent ski slopes 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
March
March in this region can be brisk, snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time and snows once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Lip balm
Our choice: here
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Gloves
-
Sweaters
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Illinois Driftless Area, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is an excellent option.
-
Ski accessories
Illinois Driftless Area has some excellent 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
April
If you go to Illinois Driftless Area in April, you will notice that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Jacket or coat
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Fleece
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: here
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
May
May in Illinois Driftless Area is balmy and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 50% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Sandals
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light skirts
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
June
June in Illinois Driftless Area is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Extra socks
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
July
In July, Illinois Driftless Area is really hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Illinois Driftless Area, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 60%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Bug repellent
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from skin damage:
-
Skirts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Sunglasses
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We suggest:
August
If you go to Illinois Driftless Area in August, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against skin damage:
-
Bug repellent
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Sunglasses
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
September
September here is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light skirts
-
Sandals
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Extra socks
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We suggest:
October
If you are traveling to Illinois Driftless Area in October, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
Dresses
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
November
If you are traveling to Illinois Driftless Area in November, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Sweaters
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
-
Gloves
-
Heavy jacket
-
Lip balm
Our choice: this
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Illinois Driftless Area, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a perfect option.
-
Ski accessories
Illinois Driftless Area has some famous 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
December for Illinois Driftless Area can be extremely cold, snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month and snows 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
-
Lip balm
The best is: this
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Pajamas
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Illinois Driftless Area, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a great choice.
-
Ski accessories
Illinois Driftless Area has some excellent ski areas 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
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