Chicago Packing List (25 Things People Forget to Bring)

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Looking for an epic Chicago packing list? You’re in luck!

I’m a Chicago local and I help my friends and family with their packing lists whenever they come to town. Chicago has a unique city-lake setting which means there are special weather factors and things to consider. This guide is here to help make packing for Chicago a breeze.

In this article, we’ll go over the top items to bring to Chicago, Chicago packing tips, and more. And while you’re here, be sure to bookmark my picks for the best things to do in Chicago!

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Chicago Packing Checklist

🖨️ Get a free, printable version of this packing list here!

Day Pack

A day pack can be incredibly helpful for families or those planning lots of activities. They’re comfortable to wear and can carry everything from water bottles and snacks to swimsuits and flip-flops. This anti-theft day pack is fairly small, durable, and is made to give you some extra peace of mind. 

Belt Bag

This belt bag is the perfect purse alternative for the city. It’s compact, comes in different colors, and you can keep your personal items secure and close to you. It’s a great way to be hands-free and still have your things accessible if you need them. Lots of Chicagoans actually use these! 

Portable Charger

Let’s face it, you’ll need your phone for looking up directions, taking pictures, booking tickets, and more. Having a portable, rapid charger will save you a lot of hassle if your phone starts to die. This portable charging bank is easy to pack and can charge a phone up to 2.5 times. 

Sunscreen

Having sunscreen is a must if you plan on spending a summer day on the lake or out in the city. This sunscreen is good for you and the environment since it’s vegan, hypoallergenic, and reef-friendly (the lake might not have a reef, but it still has fish!). Protect your skin and save yourself from an uncomfortable sunburn. 

👉 Wondering when to plan your trip? This guide to the best time to visit Chicago is the perfect resource!

Hand Warmers

Hand warmers could be a great addition to your packing list if you aren’t used to cold weather. These hand warmers come in two pairs and stay warm for up to 10 hours. Being from the South, these were a lifesaver during my first winter in Chicago.

Packing Cubes

If there’s anything I’ve learned from years of travel, it’s that packing cubes are a secret weapon. These packing cubes come in different styles and sizes and will make packing hassle-free and organized. I like to keep one packing cube for miscellaneous items, too – this makes it easy to find the little things.

👉 Pro Tip: For more storage, roll your clothes instead of folding them!

Reusable Bag

Most shops in Chicago charge a small fee for bags, so bringing your own is an easy way to save money in the city! Not to mention, reusable bags are better for the environment.

These reusable bags come in different patterns, are washable, and are of great quality. Plus, you can fold them up to throw in your purse and fit them anywhere. They’re perfect for a shopping spree down the Magnificent Mile!

Reusable Water Bottle

You’ll want to stay hydrated (especially in the summer), so bring this reusable water bottle with you during the day. It has an easy-to-carry, leak-proof lid so you can have it on hand or throw it in your day pack. It’s also insulated, so your water will stay cold for a long time.

👉 Pro Tip: A reusable water bottle is handy for picnics in Chicago parks! Pick up take-out from a restaurant downtown and enjoy a relaxed picnic somewhere like Grant Park or Lincoln Park.

Umbrella

Keeping an umbrella handy while traveling is never a bad idea. This travel umbrella is compact and easy to place in your luggage or day pack. Chicago gets its fair share of rain in the summer so it’s good to be prepared in case you experience some showers during your trip.

Headphones

Having headphones for listening to music and podcasts while you travel is a must, but they might also come in handy for self-guided audio walking tours and informative listening guides offered by Chicago museums. These wireless headphones are great quality, noise-canceling, and easy to throw in your bag for the day.

Earplugs

There are plenty of great places to stay in Chicago, but I’m not going to lie, it can be noisy at night. Each hotel room is a little different based on street location, but chances are, you’ll probably hear some city noise while you’re heading off to sleep.

Bring some earplugs if you aren’t used to city noise. Being well-rested is so important when it comes to traveling! 

Face Masks

Mask mandates will vary in Chicago based on case numbers. However, having masks handy is still a good idea for public transportation in Chicago. Trains and buses can get crowded and it’s nice to have extra peace of mind.

I’ve used these KN95 masks myself and would recommend them. They’re comfortable, adjustable, and of good quality. 

Hand Sanitizer

Chicago is fairly clean as far as cities go. But at the end of the day, it’s still a major city. Keep hand sanitizer with you just in case. This classic hand sanitizer has a gentle formula and kills 99.99% of common germs. It also comes in a couple of different scents with holders to attach to bags and keychains.

Travel Laundry Bag

How cool is this travel laundry bag?! A laundry bag is an easy item to overlook, but a good one to have. Laundry might not always be accessible, so this is a good way to keep your clean and dirty items separate. If you’re concerned about space, don’t worry because this laundry bag folds up small.

Other Chicago Essentials to Pack

• Passport, driver’s license, or valid ID
• Vaccination card
• Cash
• Sleep mask
• Sunglasses
• Face wipes/makeup remover
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Chapstick
• Personal toiletries
• Medications
• Cell phone and charger
• Computer and charger
• Wallet
• Disinfectant wipes
• Snacks 

Clothing to Pack for Chicago

Packing layers is one of my top tips for visiting Chicago. Depending on what season you visit, your packing list will vary quite a bit. But generally, a versatile jacket and good walking shoes are a must. 

Bring clothes that you can mix, match, and layer. When it comes to the basics like shoes, jeans, and a jacket, pack light and only bring your favorites that you know you’ll wear.

So what clothing should you pack for Chicago? Here is a quick clothing checklist for Chicago: 

• 1 pair of comfortable sneakers
• 1 pair of winter boots
• 1-2 pairs of jeans
• 1 pair of nicer pants
• 2-3 shirts
• 1-2 dressier shirts
• 1-2 t-shirts
• Pajamas 
• 1 beanie
• 1 scarf
• 1 pair of gloves
• A few thermal base layers
• 1 parka or puffer coat
• 1 rain jacket/windbreaker
• 1 denim or everyday jacket 
• 1-2 sundresses
• 1-2 swimsuits 
• 1 pair of flip flops or water shoes
• 1 beach coverup
• 1 baseball cap or sunhat
• 5-7 pairs of underwear
• 5-7 pairs of socks

Hopefully, this list gave you a good idea of what to pack. Below, I’ll break down some specific items and details. If you’re wondering about style, know that Chicagoans can fall anywhere from dressy and stylish to casual and comfortable. Dress however makes you feel best.

Sneakers

Walking is one of the best ways to get around Chicago. And trust me, you’re going to want some comfy sneakers when you’re walking the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, or spending hours at the Art Institute.

This men’s pair and this women’s pair are comfortable, stylish, and versatile. Your feet will thank you!

Winter Boots

In the winter, snow melts, creating icy sidewalk conditions. This is why you need waterproof boots with good grip. These unisex boots are popular among Chicagoans and I, myself, wear them all winter long. They’re comfortable, durable, and keep your feet warm with good socks.

Parka

A good coat means everything during Chicago winters. Long, down parkas like this one for men, and this one for women, are good options. It may feel like a bulky thing to pack, but the cold weather is no joke. You’ll thank me later.

Beanie

You’ll be warm if your head’s warm. This beanie is a great option because it’s thick and comes in a ton of colors to suit everyone’s style. It’s a classic toboggan and easy to pair with any outfit. 

Baseball Cap

A baseball cap is a great addition to your packing list. It’s a Midwestern staple that will give you a little shade and protection from the wind. Plus, it’ll be handy to have until you’re able to hit up a Cubs game and get a baseball cap by Wrigley Field! This baseball cap is made from soft cotton, is breathable, and is super versatile to wear. 

Scarf

You’d be surprised by the difference a scarf can make. And with Chicago weather being unpredictable at times, a scarf is a great transitional item to have for the spring, fall, and winter. This scarf comes in a ton of color combinations. 

Gloves

Don’t overlook a good pair of gloves, even if you have pockets in your coat or jacket. There’s nothing worse than being so cold you lose feeling in your hands. I personally use these gloves every winter and they are warm, have great touchscreen compatibility, and have a good grip for holding onto things.

Rain Jacket / Windbreaker

Rain and wind can be expected during all four seasons in Chicago. So, to be on the safe side, travel with a jacket that blocks out both. This men’s jacket and this women’s jacket are durable and versatile for changes in the weather.

Denim Jacket

Denim jackets are perfect for everyday wear in Chicago. They’re easy to layer, go with a ton of outfits, and are comfortable to wear. This men’s jacket and this women’s jacket are classic styles. Plus, they have extra pockets which are great for traveling. 

Flip Flops

You’ll need (and want) a pair of flip flops if you plan on hitting up some Lake Michigan beaches in the summertime. These men’s flip flops and these women’s flip flops are thin for packing and perfect for a day at the beach.

Beach Coverup

To keep life simple, bring a versatile beach coverup like this one that can be worn on and off the beach. This dress comes in a ton of different colors, has pockets, and can be dressed up or down. It’ll save room in your luggage and come in handy for multiple occasions. 

Chicago Packing Tips

Laundry

There aren’t many laundromats around the Loop or the center of Chicago, so be sure to bring enough outfits for each day of your visit. And definitely check to see if your hotel offers a laundry service!

Layers

Layering in Chicago is a must, and the best way to dress for changes in the weather forecast. For example, layer a couple of shirts and wear a jacket or vest on top. Just a few warm layers can make a big difference.

Winter Accessories

I recommend bringing what I call “the holy trinity” of winter accessories: a hat, gloves, and a scarf. As long as you have at least two out of three of these accessories, you should be warm.

Go ahead and bring some hand warmers, too, if you aren’t used to cold weather. It’s better to be overprepared than underprepared when it comes to winter and staying comfortable and safe in Chicago.

Rain and Wind

It’s called the Windy City for a reason. To be prepared for wind and rain, bring a jacket that can act as a rain jacket and windbreaker. Also, bring an umbrella, and something to tie your hair back if the wind gets crazy.

Lake Effect

Being close to Lake Michigan has its perks, especially the many beautiful beaches in Chicago that come alive during the summer. But it also comes with unpredictable weather. If you’re planning on spending time close to the lakefront, just know that it’s likely to be a little colder and windier.  

👉 More Packing Lists: Seattle Packing Checklist, Puerto Rico Packing Checklist, Mexico Packing Checklist

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Hopefully, this packing list was helpful and you feel better prepared for your trip to Chicago, no matter the season. Next, read my top pick for day trips from Chicago!

👉 Don’t forget! you can also get a printable version of this Chicago packing guide here!