What to Wear for a Winter Trip to Kansas City, Missouri

Got a winter trip planned to Kansas City, MO? Kansas City can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around 43°F (that's 6°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

First and foremost, you'll need to dress warmly, as the temperatures can drop below freezing. A coat, scarf, and hat are going to be essential. Layering is also key, so consider wearing a sweater or vest under your coat. Boots with some grip are a good choice of footwear, as they'll keep your feet warm and dry whatever the conditions.

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Kansas City in winter—whether you're visiting the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, taking a stroll through the Country Club Plaza, visiting the Kansas City Zoo, or touring the Kansas City Royals Stadium.

🔗 What should women wear in Kansas City, Missouri in winter?

Kansas City in winter is generally cold, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: hat and scarf, jeans, cardigans, warm coat, and thermal baselayers. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Kansas City has to offer.

🔗 Hat and scarf

A trip to Kansas City in winter can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be prepared for the chilly weather. A hat and scarf are essential accessories to keep you warm. A good hat will protect your head and ears from the cold, while a scarf can help to insulate your neck and trap heat. A statement beanie or colorful scarf will also really make your outfit pop.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Kansas City, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Kansas City in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 Warm coat

A good coat will keep you warm in inclement weather and can also be a stylish addition to your travel wardrobe. When choosing a coat, look for one that is made from insulating materials such as wool or down (or synthetic equivalents). A hood is also a helpful feature, as it will protect your head and face from the elements. If you plan on doing any outdoor activities, such as hiking or skiing, make sure to choose a coat that is waterproof and windproof.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

🔗 Thermal baselayers

As Kansas City in winter has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Kansas City trip despite the cold weather.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

🔗 What should men wear in Kansas City, Missouri in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: thermal baselayers, heavy coat, cardigans, long-sleeved shirts, and jeans. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Kansas City in comfort and style.

🔗 Thermal baselayers

As Kansas City in winter has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Kansas City trip despite the cold weather.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 Heavy coat

You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Kansas City, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Kansas City in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Kansas City, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

Here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Kansas City, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Kansas City, Missouri will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Kansas City has to offer!