Traverse City, Michigan, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.
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
- Important essentials for Traverse City
- Activities for Traverse City
- Traverse City in January: weather and what to pack
- Traverse City in February: weather and what to pack
- Traverse City in March: weather and what to pack
- Traverse City in April: weather and what to pack
- Traverse City in May: weather and what to pack
- Traverse City in June: weather and what to pack
- Traverse City in July: weather and what to pack
- Traverse City in August: weather and what to pack
- Traverse City in September: weather and what to pack
- Traverse City in October: weather and what to pack
- Traverse City in November: weather and what to pack
- Traverse City in December: weather and what to pack
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
Fleece for under jacket
Lip balm
The best pick: this
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Pajamas
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteSweaters
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Traverse City, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.Ski accessories
Traverse City has some great skiing 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
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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:
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.
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
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Fleece for under jacket
Thermal undergarments
We love:
Sweaters
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteLip balm
The best is: this
Pajamas
Extreme cold weather gloves
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Traverse City, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.Ski accessories
Traverse City has some famous skiing 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
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
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:
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.
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
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
thisLip balm
Our choice: here
Warm pants or jeans
Heavy jacket
Gloves
Sweaters
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Heavy socks
Such as:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Traverse City, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.Ski accessories
Traverse 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 good choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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:
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.
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
Fleece
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Traverse City, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.Ski accessories
Traverse City has some famous skiing 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.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
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:
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.
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
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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:
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.
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
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
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 jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-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 great option.
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:
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.
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
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
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 a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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:
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.
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
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
Extra socks
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
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 jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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:
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.
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
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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:
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.
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
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
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:
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.
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
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Traverse City, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Traverse City has some excellent ski areas 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
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
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.
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:
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.
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
Gloves
Lip balm
Our favorite option: here
Sweaters
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Heavy socks
Such as:
Warm pants or jeans
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
thisHeavy jacket
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Traverse City, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Traverse City has some excellent 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 disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
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:
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.
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.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Sporades Islands, Greece, North Yorkshire, England, United Kingdom, Gunjur, Gambia, La Entrada, Honduras, White River, Ontario, Canada, Isola Comacina, Italy, São Cristóvão, Sergipe, Brazil, West Rand, South Africa, Tomsk Oblast, Russia, Sumbawa Besar, Indonesia, and Tokara Islands, Japan.