January Packing List for Michigan City — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Heavy Down JacketEssential

  Crucial for staying warm when temperatures drop to the average low of 21°F near Washington Park Beach in Michigan City.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  Essential for managing moisture during the 9 days of precipitation that occur in Michigan City's humid continental climate.

• Thermal LeggingsEssential

  Necessary when exploring the windy areas near the Michigan City Lighthouse where it feels much colder than the 34°F average high.

• Waterproof Winter BootsEssential

  Essential for navigating potentially slushy or snowy paths during the 9 days of precipitation in Michigan City.

• Wool SocksEssential

  Vital to prevent cold feet when exploring the Lake Michigan shoreline in January's freezing conditions where lows hit 21°F.

• Windproof BeanieEssential

  Protects against biting lake breezes at Washington Park Beach that make even a 34°F day feel much colder.

• Insulated GlovesEssential

  Necessary for keeping hands warm when temperatures dip to the average low of 21°F near Lake Michigan.

Clothing

• Heavy Down JacketEssential

  Crucial for staying warm when temperatures drop to the average low of 21°F near Washington Park Beach in Michigan City.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  Essential for managing moisture during the 9 days of precipitation that occur in Michigan City's humid continental climate.

• Waterproof Outer ShellRecommended

  Protects against sudden wind-driven snow or rain common when temperatures hover around the 34°F average high in Michigan City.

• Wool SweatersRecommended

  Ideal for layering as Michigan City's January temperatures fluctuate between a low of 21°F and a high of 34°F.

• Thermal LeggingsEssential

  Necessary when exploring the windy areas near the Michigan City Lighthouse where it feels much colder than the 34°F average high.

Footwear

• Waterproof Winter BootsEssential

  Essential for navigating potentially slushy or snowy paths during the 9 days of precipitation in Michigan City.

• Insulated Walking BootsRecommended

  Keeps feet warm when temperatures hover near the 21°F low while walking around downtown Michigan City.

• Wool SocksEssential

  Vital to prevent cold feet when exploring the Lake Michigan shoreline in January's freezing conditions where lows hit 21°F.

Accessories

• Windproof BeanieEssential

  Protects against biting lake breezes at Washington Park Beach that make even a 34°F day feel much colder.

• Insulated GlovesEssential

  Necessary for keeping hands warm when temperatures dip to the average low of 21°F near Lake Michigan.

• Warm ScarfRecommended

  Helps block wind from entering your coat during chilly walks in Michigan City when temperatures are around the 34°F high.

Gear

• Compact UmbrellaRecommended

  Useful for those 9 days of precipitation that can arrive suddenly off Lake Michigan in Michigan City.

• Hand WarmersOptional

  A great addition if you plan to spend extended time at the Michigan City Lighthouse in freezing winds near the 21°F low.

• Thermal Water BottleRecommended

  Keeps drinks warm during the freezing January temperatures that average a low of 21°F in Michigan City.