Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Rochester, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Rochester
- Important essentials for Rochester
- Activities for Rochester
- Rochester in January: weather and what to pack
- Rochester in February: weather and what to pack
- Rochester in March: weather and what to pack
- Rochester in April: weather and what to pack
- Rochester in May: weather and what to pack
- Rochester in June: weather and what to pack
- Rochester in July: weather and what to pack
- Rochester in August: weather and what to pack
- Rochester in September: weather and what to pack
- Rochester in October: weather and what to pack
- Rochester in November: weather and what to pack
- Rochester 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 Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Rochester, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
Important essentials for Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Rochester, 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
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards can get worn. An unreadable card can cause severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps avoid that.
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
(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
-
Touchless thermometer
A touchless thermometer is important to have.
-
N95 masks
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID protection you can have.
-
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).
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
For families with young children
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Rochester. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
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 work in most areas, but you should check with your hotel.
What to wear/what to pack for Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Rochester can be dangerously cold and snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month. It also snows about a third of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Thermal undergarments
We like:
-
Heated gloves
-
Fleece for under jacket
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
-
Goggles for eye protection
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Lip balm
Our pick: this
-
Night cap
It's a good idea to wear a head protector at night here like this
-
Coveralls
We pick:
-
Neck warmer/cold weather face mask
-
Thick pajamas
-
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the best
-
Extreme cold weather gear
-
Insulated boots
The best value
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Rochester (Minnesota), a great option is 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
Rochester (Minnesota) 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
February
If you are traveling to Rochester in February, you will notice that it is frigid and snowy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month and snow 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Pajamas
-
Lip balm
The best is: this one
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Rochester (Minnesota), we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a great choice.
-
Ski accessories
Rochester (Minnesota) has some good 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
March
March in Rochester is brisk, snowy and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time. It also snows once in a while. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sweaters
-
Lip balm
Our favorite option: here
-
Gloves
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Rochester (Minnesota), a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a great choice.
-
Ski accessories
Rochester (Minnesota) has some great 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
April in Rochester is cool and somewhat rainy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
May
May in Rochester is balmy and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Dresses
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
June
In June, Rochester is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Rochester, with several of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 60%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light skirts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Bug repellent
-
Extra socks
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sandals
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
July
If you visit Rochester during July, you will probably notice that it is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Light skirts
-
Extra socks
-
Sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
August
August in Rochester is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Light skirts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Extra socks
-
Sandals
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
September
If you visit Rochester during September, you may see that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Extra socks
-
Light skirts
-
Sandals
-
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
Rain pants are essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
October
October in Rochester can be chilly. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Fleece
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
-
Jacket or coat
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
November
If you are traveling to Rochester in November, you will notice that it is brisk and snowy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month and snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Sweaters
-
Gloves
-
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Lip balm
Our choice: this one
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Rochester (Minnesota), 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 choice.
-
Ski accessories
Rochester (Minnesota) has some great 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
December
In December, Rochester can be dangerously cold, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) and occasionally jump into the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C). During your visit, you can expect extremely heavy snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Rochester, with several of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
The best option: here
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Pajamas
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
-
Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Rochester (Minnesota), we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is important here. This one is a perfect option.
-
Ski accessories
Rochester (Minnesota) has some excellent 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
Activities for Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Rochester.
If you go to the Minnesota Children's Museum Rochester, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
Castle hopping? For Historic Chateau Theatre, take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you can carry your stuff.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Stadecken-Elsheim, Germany, Leven, Scotland, United Kingdom, St.
Louis, Michigan, United States of America, Ketron Island, Washington, United States of America, Burntisland, Scotland, United Kingdom, Oradea, Romania, Okanagan, British Columbia, Canada, El Bolsón, Argentina, Bay Point, California, United States of America, Kirov Oblast, Russia, and Kochkor, Kyrgyzstan.