Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Indiana, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Indiana, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
- Important essentials for Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
- Activities for Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in January: weather and what to pack
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in February: weather and what to pack
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in March: weather and what to pack
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in April: weather and what to pack
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in May: weather and what to pack
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in June: weather and what to pack
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in July: weather and what to pack
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in August: weather and what to pack
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in September: weather and what to pack
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in October: weather and what to pack
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in November: weather and what to pack
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 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 Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Indiana, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
Important essentials for Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Indiana, United States of America
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, 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
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Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
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(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
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Touchless thermometer
A touchless thermometer is important to have.
-
N95 masks
These N95 masks provide the best level of protection you can have.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
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A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards can get worn. An unreadable card can have severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
Airplane or car necessities
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Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
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Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one is sufficent for most locations, but you may want to check with your hotel.
-
For families with young children
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
What to wear/what to pack for Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Indiana, United States of America by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore can be extremely cold. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It snows 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Lip balm
The best is: this
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Pajamas
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
-
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is an excellent option.
-
Ski accessories
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore has some famous ski areas 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
February
February in Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is frosty. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 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:
-
Lip balm
Our pick: here
-
Gloves
-
Heavy jacket
-
Sweaters
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is a great option.
-
Ski accessories
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore has some excellent 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
March
If you go to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in March, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to snow occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
Our choice: here
-
Gloves
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Heavy jacket
-
Sweaters
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a great option.
-
Ski accessories
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore has some famous skiing 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
If you are traveling to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in April, you will notice that it can be chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
May
May in Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Pants or jeans
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Dresses
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
June
If you visit Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore during June, you will probably find that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sandals
-
Extra socks
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
July
In July, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) and 5-10 days this month jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Extra socks
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light skirts
-
Sandals
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
August
If you are traveling to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in August, you will notice that it is warm. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sandals
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Extra socks
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light skirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
September
September for Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Extra socks
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
October
October in Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Standard footwear
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Dresses
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
November
If you go to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in November, you will notice that it is brisk. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: here
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is vital here. This one is a perfect option.
-
Ski accessories
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 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
December
December for Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore can be extremely cold. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It snows 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Gloves
-
Lip balm
Our choice: this one
-
Sweaters
-
Heavy jacket
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a perfect choice.
-
Ski accessories
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 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
Check out our guides for these other locations: Northern Mindanao, Philippines, Worms, Germany, Gordon's Bay, South Africa, Monastir, Tunisia, Padang Besar, Malaysia, Dunmore East, Ireland, Teotihuacan, Mexico, Mexico, Tuchan, France, Central West, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Danao Beach, Philippines, and Kohukohu, New Zealand.