Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Important essentials for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Activities for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in January: weather and what to pack
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in February: weather and what to pack
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in March: weather and what to pack
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in April: weather and what to pack
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in May: weather and what to pack
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in June: weather and what to pack
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in July: weather and what to pack
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in August: weather and what to pack
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in September: weather and what to pack
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in October: weather and what to pack
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in November: weather and what to pack
- Sleeping Bear 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 Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
Important essentials for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan, United States of America
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards frequently wear out. An unreadable vaccine card can have severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps avoid that.
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID protection you can have.
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
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).
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
For families with young children
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one should be appropriate for most places, but check with your hotel.
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
What to wear/what to pack for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan, United States of America by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
In January, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is very cold, somewhat snowy and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) range. At night, lows are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C). During your visit, you can expect heavy snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Thermal undergarments
We like:
-
Pajamas
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Lip balm
The best option: this one
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a great option is 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.
If you see the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station and Maritime Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
February
If you are traveling to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in February, you will notice that it can be extremely cold, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time and snow regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Pajamas
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Lip balm
The best pick: this one
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is important here. This one is an excellent choice.
If you see the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station and Maritime Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
March
In March, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is pretty cool, snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) and once in a while jump into the low 50s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). During your visit, you can expect heavy snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Gloves
-
Sweaters
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Lip balm
Our pick is: this one
-
Heavy jacket
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, 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 option.
If you see the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station and Maritime Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
April
April in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore can be very chilly, snowy and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
-
Jacket or coat
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Extra socks
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is an excellent choice.
If you see the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station and Maritime Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
May
May is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Extra socks
-
Dresses
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Standard footwear
-
Pants or jeans
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
If you see the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station and Maritime Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
June
June in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is warm. 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
-
Bug repellent
-
Sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Extra socks
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
If you see the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station and Maritime Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
July
July in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is extremely warm. 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 50s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Extra socks
-
Light skirts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
If you see the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station and Maritime Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
August
August in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Extra socks
-
Light skirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Sandals
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
If you see the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station and Maritime Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
September
If you go to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in September, you will notice that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Extra socks
-
Light skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Breathable footwear or 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
These will be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
If you see the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station and Maritime Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
October
In October, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Standard footwear
-
Pants or jeans
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Extra socks
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Dresses
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are vital in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
If you see the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station and Maritime Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
November
November in this region is pretty cool, snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about half of the time and snows once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Jacket or coat
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Fleece
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a perfect option.
If you see the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station and Maritime Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
December
December in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore can be extremely cold, somewhat snowy and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about half of the time and snows about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sweaters
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Heavy jacket
-
Lip balm
Our favorite option: here
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Gloves
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is important here. This one is a perfect choice.
If you see the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station and Maritime Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Comfy walking shoes
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