December Packing List for Minneapolis — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Heavy Down ParkaEssential

  Essential for when you step out of the Skyway system into the biting 27°F December air.

• Merino Wool Base LayersEssential

  Crucial because Minneapolis temperatures drop to 11°F, making cotton layers dangerously inadequate.

• Thermal LeggingsEssential

  Necessary for exploring the Chain of Lakes when wind chill makes it feel much colder than 11°F.

• Insulated Waterproof BootsEssential

  Essential for navigating slushy sidewalks during any of the 9 days of winter precipitation in Minneapolis.

• Thick Wool SocksEssential

  Keeps feet warm when temperatures drop to 11°F near the Chain of Lakes.

• Thermal GlovesEssential

  Protects hands from frostbite when temperatures hit 11°F in the windy Minneapolis streets.

• Warm BeanieEssential

  Essential for covering ears against the wind chill that sweeps across the open prairie terrain at 11°F.

Clothing

• Heavy Down ParkaEssential

  Essential for when you step out of the Skyway system into the biting 27°F December air.

• Merino Wool Base LayersEssential

  Crucial because Minneapolis temperatures drop to 11°F, making cotton layers dangerously inadequate.

• Mid-weight SweatersRecommended

  Ideal for layering when moving between heated buildings and the windy Minneapolis streets during a 27°F afternoon.

• Thermal LeggingsEssential

  Necessary for exploring the Chain of Lakes when wind chill makes it feel much colder than 11°F.

Footwear

• Insulated Waterproof BootsEssential

  Essential for navigating slushy sidewalks during any of the 9 days of winter precipitation in Minneapolis.

• Thick Wool SocksEssential

  Keeps feet warm when temperatures drop to 11°F near the Chain of Lakes.

• Traction-soled BootsRecommended

  Necessary for walking on icy patches in downtown Minneapolis during the freezing 27°F days.

Accessories

• Thermal GlovesEssential

  Protects hands from frostbite when temperatures hit 11°F in the windy Minneapolis streets.

• Warm BeanieEssential

  Essential for covering ears against the wind chill that sweeps across the open prairie terrain at 11°F.

• Thick ScarfRecommended

  Helps seal in heat while transitioning between the Skyway system and the 27°F outdoor air.

Gear

• Hand WarmersRecommended

  A lifesaver when walking through windy, open areas of Minneapolis during a 27°F afternoon.

• Insulated Water BottleOptional

  Prevents liquids from freezing if you are out near the Chain of Lakes in sub-freezing 11°F temps.

• Compact UmbrellaOptional

  Useful for staying dry during any of the 9 days of winter precipitation in Minneapolis.