January Packing List for Knoxville — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Heavy Insulated CoatEssential

  Knoxville's January lows hit 29°F, so a heavy insulated coat is vital for walking around Market Square.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  Since temperatures can drop to 29°F in Knoxville, layering with thermals is necessary for staying warm during outdoor activities.

• Sweaters and Mid-layersEssential

  To manage the temperature swing between 29°F and 48°F, bring versatile sweaters for layering in Knoxville.

• Waterproof BootsEssential

  With 11 days of precipitation expected, waterproof boots will keep your feet dry on the damp streets of Market Square.

• Insulated Hiking BootsEssential

  If you head toward the Smoky Mountains, temperatures can be much lower than Knoxville's 29°F low, requiring heavy insulation.

• Wool SocksEssential

  Thick wool socks are essential when Knoxville's lows hit 29°F to prevent cold feet while walking.

• Warm ScarfEssential

  Protect your neck from the biting winds that accompany January's 29°F lows in Tennessee.

• Thermal GlovesEssential

  Essential for keeping hands warm when Knoxville temperatures drop toward the 29°F mark.

• Winter BeanieEssential

  A good hat is necessary to retain heat when Knoxville's temperature drops toward the 29°F low.

Clothing

• Heavy Insulated CoatEssential

  Knoxville's January lows hit 29°F, so a heavy insulated coat is vital for walking around Market Square.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  Since temperatures can drop to 29°F in Knoxville, layering with thermals is necessary for staying warm during outdoor activities.

• Waterproof Rain JacketRecommended

  With 11 days of precipitation expected in January, a reliable rain layer will keep you dry while exploring the Old City.

• Sweaters and Mid-layersEssential

  To manage the temperature swing between 29°F and 48°F, bring versatile sweaters for layering in Knoxville.

• Sturdy Jeans or CorduroyRecommended

  Heavy pants are best for navigating Knoxville's hilly terrain while staying warm in the 40-degree highs.

Footwear

• Waterproof BootsEssential

  With 11 days of precipitation expected, waterproof boots will keep your feet dry on the damp streets of Market Square.

• Comfortable Walking ShoesRecommended

  Essential for exploring the flat but walkable entertainment district of the Old City during daytime highs of 48°F.

• Insulated Hiking BootsEssential

  If you head toward the Smoky Mountains, temperatures can be much lower than Knoxville's 29°F low, requiring heavy insulation.

• Wool SocksEssential

  Thick wool socks are essential when Knoxville's lows hit 29°F to prevent cold feet while walking.

Accessories

• Warm ScarfEssential

  Protect your neck from the biting winds that accompany January's 29°F lows in Tennessee.

• Thermal GlovesEssential

  Essential for keeping hands warm when Knoxville temperatures drop toward the 29°F mark.

• Winter BeanieEssential

  A good hat is necessary to retain heat when Knoxville's temperature drops toward the 29°F low.

• Lightweight MittensOptional

  Lightweight mittens are great for quick trips to Market Square during the 48°F highs.

Gear

• Compact UmbrellaRecommended

  With 11 days of rain expected, an umbrella is a must for navigating downtown Knoxville.

• Daypack with Rain CoverOptional

  Useful if you plan to visit the nearby Smoky Mountains where weather can change rapidly despite the city's 48°F high.

• Portable Power BankOptional

  Cold temperatures can drain phone batteries faster while you are navigating Knoxville in the 40-degree weather.

• Hand WarmersOptional

  Hand warmers are helpful when exploring the Smoky Mountains where temperatures can drop well below Knoxville's 29°F low.