Southwest Iowa, Iowa, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Southwest Iowa, Iowa, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Southwest Iowa, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Southwest Iowa, Iowa, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Southwest Iowa, Iowa, United States of America, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Southwest Iowa, Iowa, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Southwest Iowa, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Southwest Iowa, Iowa, United States of America by month

January

January can be bitter cold. Temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains or snows sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest Iowa. 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 repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

February in Southwest Iowa is freezing. Temperatures average in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains or snows sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
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 nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest Iowa. 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

March

March in this region is cold. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest Iowa. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs 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 countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

April

April for Southwest Iowa is cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains or snows 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest Iowa. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

May

If you go to Southwest Iowa in May, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest Iowa. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June here is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • 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 Southwest Iowa. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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

July

July in Southwest Iowa is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • 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 Southwest Iowa. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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

August

August in Southwest Iowa is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest Iowa. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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. Be sure to pick the right type. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

September

September in Southwest Iowa is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest Iowa. 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • 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. Take care to get the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

If you are traveling to Southwest Iowa in October, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
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 airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest Iowa. 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • 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 choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

November

November in Southwest Iowa can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • 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 Southwest Iowa. 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 bags these days, 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.

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. It's important that you find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

December in Southwest Iowa can be dangerously cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest Iowa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

What to do in Southwest Iowa, Iowa, United States of America

Southwest Iowa offers a wide range of tourist attractions for those looking to explore the state of Iowa. From natural wonders to cultural experiences, the region has something for everyone. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Southwest Iowa:

Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium – Located in Omaha, Nebraska, just across the Missouri River from Council Bluffs, this world-renowned zoo is a must-see attraction in the area. The zoo boasts the world's largest indoor desert, the world's largest indoor rainforest, and the largest cat complex in North America, among other exhibits.

Loess Hills Scenic Byway – This 220-mile scenic byway winds through the rugged and beautiful Loess Hills, offering stunning views and access to hiking, biking, and camping areas. The Loess Hills are a unique formation of windblown soil that stretches across western Iowa, offering a glimpse into the area's geological history.

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge – Located near Missouri Valley, this refuge offers visitors the opportunity to explore wetlands, woodlands, and prairies of the Missouri River Valley. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including waterfowl, deer, and eagles, while hiking, biking, or on a guided wildlife tour.

Pottawattamie County Squirrel Cage Jail Museum – This unique museum is housed in a historic jail in Council Bluffs, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's past. The jail was built in 1885 and features a rotating jail cell design that was supposed to make it impossible for prisoners to escape.

Villisca Axe Murder House – This historic house in Villisca is infamous for the unsolved axe murders of eight people that occurred there in 1912. The house has been preserved as a museum and offers guided tours exploring the tragic events that took place.

These are just a few of the top tourist attractions in Southwest Iowa. Other notable destinations include Hitchcock Nature Center, the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument, and the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a fun family outing, Southwest Iowa has plenty to offer.

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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