Traverse City, Michigan, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Traverse City, Michigan, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Traverse City, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Traverse City, Michigan, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Traverse City, Michigan, United States of America, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Traverse City, Michigan, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Traverse City, Michigan, United States of America by month

January

January in Traverse City is biting cold and very snowy. Temperatures average in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains sometimes and snows about 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 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 Traverse 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 things.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you see the Dennos Museum Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Traverse City has great beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

February

If you are traveling to Traverse City in February, you will notice that it is freezing and somewhat snowy. Expect it to rain once in a while and snow a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • 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 see the Dennos Museum Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Traverse City has great beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

March

March in Traverse City can be brisk and snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain sometimes. It also snows a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you see the Dennos Museum Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Traverse City has great beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

April

Traveling to Traverse City in April, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s 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 Traverse 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 things nowadays, 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

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the right type. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you see the Dennos Museum Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Traverse City has great beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

May

If you vacation in Traverse City during May, you will probably see 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 occasionally.

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 frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the Dennos Museum Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Traverse City has great beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

June

If you are traveling to Traverse City in June, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

If you see the Dennos Museum Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Traverse City has great beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

July

If you visit Traverse City during July, you are likely to see that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

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 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 Traverse 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.

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the right type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you see the Dennos Museum Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Traverse City has great beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

August

August is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

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 constantly losing things these days, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Traverse 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

If you see the Dennos Museum Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Traverse City has great beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

September

September in Traverse City is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can 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 Traverse 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 surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • 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

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you see the Dennos Museum Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Traverse City has great beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

October

If you are traveling to Traverse City in October, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you see the Dennos Museum Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Traverse City has great beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

November

November in Traverse City is cold and snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain once in a while. It also snows once in a while.

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 Traverse 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 nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

If you see the Dennos Museum Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Traverse City has great beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

December

In December, Traverse City is frosty and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 30s F (single digits C) and occasionally jump into the low 40s 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 extremely heavy snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Traverse City, with a few of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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. Be sure to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online 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 sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the Dennos Museum Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Traverse City has great beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

What to do in Traverse City, Michigan, United States of America

Traverse City in Michigan, United States of America, is a tourist destination for all seasons. Situated on the shore of Lake Michigan, this charming city is a hub of natural and urban beauty. With plenty to offer, Traverse City is a great place to visit and explore. Here are the top tourist attractions in Traverse City that should not be missed.

1. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: One of the most popular places in Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a place of unmatched natural beauty. This 35-mile-long stretch of sand dunes offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding forests. The park has several trails for hiking, camping sites for spending the night, and a great beach for swimming.

2. Old Mission Peninsula: A scenic drive that takes you to Old Mission Peninsula reveals rolling hillsides dotted with vineyards, stunning views of Lake Michigan, and picturesque lighthouses. The area showcases excellent wineries, orchards, and farms that offer visitors the chance to indulge in what the region is best known for. It is an ideal spot for a fun-filled day trip or a weekend getaway.

3. Traverse City Beaches: Traverse City is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and sunsets at the beaches are truly mesmerizing. Some of the favorite spots for beachgoers include West Bay Beach, Clinch Park Beach, Bryant Park, and East Bay Park Beach. These beaches offer swimming, sunbathing, and water sports in summer and ice-skating in winter.

4. Grand Traverse Bay: The Grand Traverse Bay is a picturesque location where the beauty of Lake Michigan meets Traverse City's natural beauty. The bay comprises two arms, East Bay and West Bay, offering endless possibilities for water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, boating and fishing.

5. The Village at Grand Traverse Commons: The historic buildings at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons offer a unique setting for shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences. The former mental hospital has been transformed into an urban destination where visitors can discover artisanal food, boutiques, galleries, and wineries. The architecture is stunning, and the ambiance is delightful.

6. The Dennos Museum Center: The Dennos Museum Center is a cultural and educational institution that promotes the work of regional, national, and international artists. The museum also displays a superb collection of Inuit art, world-class sculptures, contemporary oil paintings, and fine art photography.

7. Traverse City Cherry Festival: It’s not surprising that Traverse City is referred to as the "Cherry Capital of the World". The annual Traverse City Cherry Festival, held every July, celebrates the abundance of cherries grown in Northern Michigan. The festival features a parade, live music, carnival rides, cherry-inspired food, and games.

Traverse City is a treasure trove of attractions and experiences that will suit everyone. The city's natural beauty, coupled with friendly people, a vibrant downtown district, and a relaxed atmosphere, ensures visitors a memorable stay. Whether you’re looking to explore history, enjoy the outdoors, indulge in culinary delights or simply relax, Traverse City has something for everyone to enjoy.

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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