Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]
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Ready to pack for Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Iowa City, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Iowa City
- Important essentials for Iowa City
- Activities for Iowa City
- Iowa City in January: weather and what to pack
- Iowa City in February: weather and what to pack
- Iowa City in March: weather and what to pack
- Iowa City in April: weather and what to pack
- Iowa City in May: weather and what to pack
- Iowa City in June: weather and what to pack
- Iowa City in July: weather and what to pack
- Iowa City in August: weather and what to pack
- Iowa City in September: weather and what to pack
- Iowa City in October: weather and what to pack
- Iowa City in November: weather and what to pack
- Iowa City in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America, the best time to go is September. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Iowa City, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America by month
January
If you are traveling to Iowa City in January, you will notice that it is frosty. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Pajamas
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Fleece inner layer
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Lip balm
The best pick: this
Extreme cold weather gloves
Heavy sweaters
Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteWaterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Iowa City, 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
Iowa City 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
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iowa City. 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 airports frequently losing luggage these days, 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.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
If you visit the Old Capitol Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
February
February here can be extremely cold. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month and snows occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Pajamas
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Thermal undergarments
We like:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Fleece inner layer
Heavy sweaters
Lip balm
The best is: this one
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteExtreme cold weather gloves
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Iowa City, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A umbrella
This is important here. This one is an excellent choice.
Ski accessories
Iowa City has some famous 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
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: 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 Iowa City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
If you visit the Old Capitol Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
March
March in Iowa City is brisk. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) to high 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:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Sweaters
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisGloves
Heavy socks
Such as:
Lip balm
Our choice: this one
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Heavy jacket
Cold weather footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Iowa City, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A windproof umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a great option.
Ski accessories
Iowa City has some great 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
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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 Iowa City. 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
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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
If you visit the Old Capitol Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
April
In April, Iowa City can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Iowa City, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
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 Iowa City. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
If you visit the Old Capitol Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
May
May in Iowa City is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 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:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iowa City. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the Old Capitol Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
June
June in Iowa City is hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iowa City. 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the right type. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.
If you visit the Old Capitol Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
July
July for Iowa City is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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 airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iowa City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices 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
If you visit the Old Capitol Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
August
August here is hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iowa City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
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. Be careful to choose the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Travel neck support 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the Old Capitol Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
September
If you are traveling to Iowa City in September, you will notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
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 Iowa City. 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 help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics 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 penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you visit the Old Capitol Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
October
October in Iowa City is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iowa City. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices 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 visit the Old Capitol Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
November
November in this region is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Heavy jacket
Warm pants or jeans
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Heavy socks
Such as:
Lip balm
Our choice: this one
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
thisGloves
Cold weather footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Iowa City, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A windproof umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a perfect option.
Ski accessories
Iowa City has some famous skiing 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
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iowa City. 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 recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you visit the Old Capitol Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
December
Traveling to Iowa City in December, you will notice that it is freezing. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extreme cold weather gloves
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Heavy sweaters
Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Lip balm
The best option: here
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteInsulated ice boots
We use:
Pajamas
Fleece inner layer
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Iowa City, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A wind resistant umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is an excellent choice.
Ski accessories
Iowa City has some good skiing 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
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
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 these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Iowa City. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold 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 countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you visit the Old Capitol Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
What to do in Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
Iowa City is a charming city located in Iowa, United States, and is one of the most visited places in the state. With its plethora of museums, art galleries, parks, and historical sites, Iowa City is a great place for visitors to experience. Here are some of the top attractions that you can explore while in Iowa City:
1. University of Iowa - A public research university founded in 1847, the University of Iowa is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Iowa. With its beautiful campus and well-curated museums, the university is one of the must-visit attractions in Iowa City. The University of Iowa Museum of Art and the Old Capitol Museum are worth visiting.
2. Iowa City Farmers Market - If you are a foodie, you cannot miss the Iowa City Farmers Market. The market, which is held every Saturday, offers a wide range of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, along with handmade crafts.
3. The Englert Theatre - Originally built in 1912, The Englert Theatre is an iconic venue in the heart of Iowa City. Known for hosting live performances, concerts, and films, The Englert is a great place to catch a show.
4. Coralville Lake - Located just north of Iowa City, Coralville Lake is a beautiful and serene place for nature lovers. The lake offers several recreational activities such as boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and swimming.
5. Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum - If you are interested in history, consider visiting the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. The museum showcases Hoover's life and career, as well as his contributions to American society.
6. Iowa Old Capitol Building - The Iowa Old Capitol Building was the first capitol of the state of Iowa, and it served as the main building of the University of Iowa. Today, it is a museum that showcases the history of the state's early political and educational system.
7. American Gothic House - Located in Eldon, Iowa, the American Gothic House is the inspiration behind Grant Wood's famous painting, "American Gothic". The house is now a museum and is open for visitors to explore.
In conclusion, Iowa City is a fantastic destination in Iowa, with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or the arts, there is something for everyone in Iowa City. With so many top tourist attractions to explore, Iowa City is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Iowa.

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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