Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Iowa City, this article contains 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
January is freezing. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains regularly and snows occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Fleece for under jacket
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Pajamas
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Lip balm
The best is: this
Extreme cold weather gloves
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteWaterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Iowa City, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is something you need here.
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Iowa City has some good 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 first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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 these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow 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. Check that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you see 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 in Iowa City 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). It tends to rain about a third of the time. It also snows once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extreme cold weather gloves
Pajamas
Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
Fleece for under jacket
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Sweaters
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteLip balm
The best pick: here
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Iowa City, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is important here.
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.Ski accessories
Iowa City 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
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
If you see 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
If you are traveling to Iowa City in March, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
Our favorite option: here
Warm pants or jeans
Sweaters
Heavy jacket
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
thisGloves
Heavy socks
Such as:
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Iowa City, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.Ski accessories
Iowa City has some good 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 great value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
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 things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
What we like 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. Save money with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.
If you see 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
April in this region can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Comfort + Essentials
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
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
If you see 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
Traveling to Iowa City in May, you will notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts 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
If you see 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 here is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. 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
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
If you see 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 in Iowa City can be very hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things nowadays, 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little 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.
Comfort + Essentials
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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
If you see 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 in Iowa City is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 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
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters harmful contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
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 frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
If you see 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
September is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Comfort + Essentials
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 surcharges with this
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you see 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
If you visit Iowa City during October, you will probably find that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little 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
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
If you see 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 here is brisk. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisSweaters
Heavy socks
Such as:
Warm pants or jeans
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Heavy jacket
Gloves
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Iowa City, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.Ski accessories
Iowa City 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
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, 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.
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 things.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option 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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you see 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
If you are traveling to Iowa City in December, you will notice that it can be extremely cold. Expect it to rain regularly and snow sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Pajamas
Fleece for under jacket
Extreme cold weather gloves
Lip balm
The best pick: this one
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Sweaters
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteCoveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Iowa City, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Iowa City has some great 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
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
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 constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right type. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you see 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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