Published 2018 | Updated March 2026
Are you visiting Idaho and have no idea what to wear? Well you’re not alone! I’ve had many questions about what to wear in Idaho and what to wear in Boise specifically that I have finally decided to make a post for you all!
I’m an Idaho native and am currently living in Boise. Since I’ve lived in Idaho in all seasons, I’ve finally become an Idaho seasonal clothing expert.
Idaho is VERY casual and outdoorsy. The fanciest anyone gets is usually to go out on the town, go to work, or go to church. Just keep in mind that anything really goes, and it’s not a very fashionable state. Not to dis on the people that live here, but it’s the truth!
What to Wear in Idaho in All Seasons
Idaho has four distinct seasons, and what you wear can change a lot depending on the time of year and whether you’re visiting the mountains or cities like Boise.
What to Wear in Winter in Idaho
Winter in Idaho is cold and depending on where you’re spending your time, it can be freezing! If you’re in the mountains, you’ll definitely want to come prepared with the warmest clothing you have. Think puffer jackets, snow boots, warm hats, scarves etc. In the cities and more of the desert climate, you will be able to wear regular boots and booties to walk around and will still need warm clothing, but not as extreme. Temps in Idaho in the winter range from: low of 20-30’s and highs of 60’s. Just remember the mountains are always colder!
My personal favorite winter gear for Idaho!
What to Wear in the Winter: Quick Packing Tips
Shoes:
-Winter snow boots – I have Sorrel’s like these
-Leather or suede tall boots for nights out (walking around)
-Short booties
-Tennis shoes with good traction
Ski/Snow Gear (if doing winter sports):
-Helmet (to keep warm and safe on the mountain)
-Neck warmer
-Hand warmers
-Jacket for Ski/Board
-Ski/Board pants
-Ski/Board goggles
-Sturdy ski gloves
Winter Accessories:
-Mittens
-Hat
-Scarf
-Hand warmers
-Wool Socks
-Sunglasses
Clothing:
-Long sleeve shirts/thermals
-Thermal leggings or regular
-Warm Sweaters
-Sweater Dress
-Sweats for sleeping/lounging
-Jeans
-Swimsuit for hot springs/hot tubs
Jackets:
-Fleece jacket
-Puffer or parka coat
-Pea coat for fancier attire/going to dinner etc.
-Sweatshirt
Other/Toiletries:
-sunscreen – the sun can be scorching at higher elevation in Idaho
-chapstick – Idaho is super dry in the winter
-hydrating lotion – helps with the dryness in the winter
-Camelbak water carrier – if winter hiking
-Any other snow gear (snow shoes, skis, cross-country skis, snowboard, ice fishing gear etc)
What to Wear in Fall in Idaho
Fall in Idaho is my favorite! The air is crisp, the leaves are changing and there are a ton of fun fall activities. Depending on where you’re spending your time, it can get kinda cold. If you’re in the mountains, you’ll definitely want to come prepared with warmer clothing. In the cities and more of the desert climate, you will be able to wear lighter jackets and long sleeves depending on what month in the fall it is. Temps in Idaho in the fall range from: low of 40’s and highs of sometimes 70’s. Just remember the mountains are always colder!
My personal favorite fall gear for Idaho!
What to Wear in Fall: Quick Packing Tips
Shoes:
-Leather or suede tall boots for nights out (walking around)
-Short booties
-Mules or flats
-Short rain boot
-Tennis shoes or hiking shoes
Fall Accessories:
-Light mittens
-Fall hat
-Blanket scarf
-Sunglasses
Other/Toiletries:
-Sunscreen
-Chapstick
-Hydrating Lotion
-Camelbak water carrier – if going on a fall hike
Clothing:
-Long sleeve shirt
-Chambray or Flannel
-T-shirt
-Sweater/Cardigan
-Sweater Dress
-Pajamas
-Leggings
-Jeans
-Swimsuit for hot springs/hot tubs
Jackets:
-Rain Jacket
-Jean Jacket
-Army Jacket
-Puffer Vest
-Sweatshirt
What to Wear in Spring in Idaho
Spring in Idaho is beautiful! Everything that was once brown, is bright green and the flowers start to bloom all around the state. The air is nice and crisp, but not too hot or too cold. The rivers, waterfalls and lakes are at their fullest in the spring and driving or hiking anywhere throughout the state is gorgeous! If you’re in the mountains, you’ll definitely want to come prepared with warmer clothing for the nighttime, but days are usually perfect weather. Temps in Idaho in the spring range from: low of 40’s and highs of 70’s. Just remember the mountains are always colder!
My personal favorite spring gear for Idaho!
What to Wear in Spring: Quick Packing Tips
Shoes:
-Sandals
-Tennis Shoes
-Hiking Shoes
-Rain boots
-Flats
Spring Accessories:
-Baseball hat
-Umbrella
-Sunglasses
Other/Toiletries:
-Sunscreen
-Bugspray
-Chapstick
-Hydrating Lotion
-Camelbak water carrier – if going on a spring hike
-Read here for my Idaho camping gear list
Clothing:
-Jeans
-Leggings
-Rain Coat
-Jean Jacket
-Army Jacket
-Leather Jacket
-Maxi Dress
-Regular dress
-Shorts (sometimes temps can get hot)
-Romper
-Swimsuit
-Short sleeve T-shirt
-Cardigan
-Sweats or leggings
-Hiking shorts
-Workout tank or shirt
What to Wear in Summer in Idaho
Summer in Idaho is awesome because you can be outdoors all day and it stays light clear until 10pm! Everything does start to turn brown, but the heat lasts well into the night, so most of the time you don’t even need a jacket at night (unless you’re in the mountains). This is one of the main times I recommend people to come visit Idaho, because the weather is great and it’s the perfect time to go camping and hiking or just to explore Idaho’s wilderness. In the summer in Idaho it gets anywhere form 85-110 degrees. Remember that you will be at a higher elevation in most locations in Idaho, so air will be dryer. Going camping? Check out my Idaho camping checklist!
My personal favorite summer gear for Idaho!
What to Wear in Summer: Quick Packing Tips
Clothing:
-Tank top
-T-Shirt
-Jean or khaki shorts
-Hiking shorts/light leggings
-Workout tank or shirt
-Swimsuit
-Swimsuit Cover Up
-Light sweatshirt or cardigan
-Jean Jacket
-Romper
-Dresses
Other/Toiletries:
-Sunscreen
-Bugspray
-Chapstick
-Hydrating Lotion
-CamelBak water carrier – if going on a summer hike
Shoes:
-River sandals like Chacos
-Flip Flops
-Leather Sandals
-Tennis Shoes
-Hiking Shoes
Summer Accessories:
-Baseball hat
-Sun hat
-Quick-Dry Towel
-Sunglasses
-Camping Gear (Idaho camping packing list here)
What to Wear in Boise, Idaho (Local Packing Guide)
If you’re visiting Boise specifically, the clothing you pack might look a little different from what you’d wear in other parts of Idaho. As a Boise local who has lived here for many years, I’ve got you covered. Boise sits in the Treasure Valley and has a milder climate than the mountains, which means winters are a bit warmer and summers can get very hot.
Boise is also a very casual city, so you’ll see locals wearing everything from jeans and sneakers to athleisure and outdoor gear. You don’t need to pack anything fancy unless you’re planning a nicer dinner or night out downtown and even then, things are still pretty casual.
Boise has four distinct seasons, so packing layers is usually the best strategy when visiting.
What to Wear in Boise in Spring
Spring in Boise can be unpredictable. Some days feel like summer, while others still feel like winter. Layers are key. Think jeans, sneakers, light jackets, and sweaters. A rain jacket is also helpful during spring showers as well as an umbrella. For more seasonal events and things to do, see my Boise Spring Guide.
What to Wear in Boise in Summer
Summers in Boise are hot and dry, often reaching the 90s -100 degrees. Lightweight clothing is essential. Pack shorts, dresses, sandals, and breathable fabrics. A hat and sunglasses are also helpful if you’re spending time outside on the Boise River or Greenbelt. And bring a swimsuit and river shoes if you plan to float the Boise River. Planning a trip? Check out my Boise Summer Guide for the best things to do and seasonal events.
What to Wear in Boise in Fall
Fall in Boise is beautiful and one of the best times to visit. You’ll want layers like jeans, sweaters, boots, and jackets. The weather is usually crisp but comfortable. You can also see my Boise Fall Guide for seasonal activities and events.
What to Wear in Boise in Winter
Winter in Boise is much milder than the mountains, but it can still get cold. Expect temperatures in the 30s and 40s with occasional snow. A warm coat, boots, and sweaters are usually enough for getting around the city. See my Boise Winter Guide for winter activities and seasonal events.
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FAQ: What to Wear in Idaho and Boise
Is Idaho casual or dressy?
Idaho is a very casual and outdoorsy state. Most people wear jeans, sneakers, boots, and outdoor gear. Even in cities like Boise, the dress code is usually relaxed unless you’re going somewhere upscale.
Do you need winter boots in Boise?
Not usually. Snow in Boise typically melts quickly, so regular boots with good traction are usually fine. If you’re heading into the mountains, though, snow boots are a good idea.
Is Boise very hot in the summer?
Yes. Summers in Boise can reach the 90s and sometimes over 100 degrees. Lightweight clothing, sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are essential if you’re spending time outside.
What should I pack for a trip to Idaho?
Layers are always a good idea in Idaho. Temperatures can change quickly depending on the season and whether you’re in the mountains or the cities.
That was very helpful! We’re looking to visit and possibly move to Idaho and this really gave us a visual! We’re also from the Bay Area (Hayward) and looking for a new place to call home. Thanks
-K&S
This is really good to know! We moved in a few months ago and have spent most of that time indoors as we’ve been making some big renovations in our home. We just finished with our cabinet painting and now we have time to finally get outside and enjoy ourselves, but I have no idea how to dress for the cold appropriately so this is really helpful! Thank you for sharing all this!