What to Pack for Mackinac Island? Start Here to Plan Your Trip Now!

Find yourself wondering “What to Pack for Mackinac Island?” You’re in for a one-of-a-kind experience filled with stunning views, charming shops, and plenty of outdoor adventures. But before you hop on the ferry, let’s talk about what to pack! Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying a little longer, this guide will help you pack smart, so you can make the most of the beauty and history of Mackinac Island.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn compensation when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. This compensation is used to support our website so we can continue to bring you great content. Thank you!

What Should I Bring to Mackinac Island?

With no cars on the island, getting around looks a little different, and the island’s unique setting means packing wisely can make all the difference in your trip. From navigating its picturesque streets to exploring scenic trails, having the right essentials will ensure you stay comfortable and ready for whatever the day brings. Here is a list of some of the items we pack every time we visit Mackinac Island:

Appropriate Clothing for the Season

No matter what time of year you visit Mackinac Island, layers are essential for staying comfortable in the ever-changing weather. Summers may bring warm afternoons, but mornings and evenings can be crisp, especially near the water. In spring and fall, temperatures fluctuate throughout the day, making a combination of lightweight and insulating layers ideal.

Even in winter, when the island transforms into a peaceful snowy retreat, layering helps you stay warm while exploring. If you’re visiting from a warmer climate, the island’s cooler temperatures might surprise you, so be sure to pack accordingly. With the right layers, you’ll be ready for whatever Mackinac’s unpredictable weather brings!

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Walking is the most popular way to explore Mackinac Island, so a comfortable pair of walking shoes is a must. Whether you’re strolling through downtown, visiting historic landmarks, or venturing onto scenic trails, you’ll be on your feet a lot. If you plan to explore beyond the main streets, sturdy shoes will make all the difference on uneven paths and wooded trails. And since the island is home to many horses, be sure to watch your step—you never know what you might find on the road!

Rain Jacket or Umbrella

Mackinac Island’s weather can be unpredictable, so packing a rain jacket or umbrella is always a good idea. I strongly recommend keeping an eye on the forecast leading up to your trip so you’re not caught off guard by sudden showers. If you do bring an umbrella, be mindful when opening it near horses, as the sudden movement can startle them. And if rain does make an appearance during your visit, don’t worry—there are still plenty of great ways to enjoy the island! Check out our guide on Things to Do on Mackinac Island When It Rains for fun indoor activities and rainy-day adventures.

Sunscreen, Sunglasses, and a Hat

Since you will be spending a lot of time outdoors on Mackinac Island, like biking, walking, or taking in the views by the water, be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A hat can provided extra protection and keeps you cool during long days of exploring. If you are visiting during the summer season make sure to also stay hydrated and limit your time in the direct sun.

Any Necessary Prescription Medications

If you take any prescription medications, be sure to pack enough for your entire trip—plus a little extra, just in case. While Mackinac Island has a medical center, there’s no full-service pharmacy, so replacing a forgotten prescription isn’t as simple as stopping by a drugstore. A little preparation ensures you can fully enjoy your time on the island without any unnecessary stress.

Allergy Medications

If you have allergies, especially to horses, be sure to bring any necessary allergy medications with you. With Mackinac Island’s reliance on horse-drawn transportation, allergens like dander and hay can sometimes trigger flare-ups—something I’ve personally experienced! If you plan to take a carriage tour and are sensitive to horses, I highly recommend sitting in the back of the carriage, where you’ll have a little more distance from the horses up front.

First-Aid Kit

Bringing a small, portable first aid kit is always a smart idea when traveling. With so much walking, biking, and outdoor exploring, minor cuts, blisters, or bug bites can happen. Having bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers on hand means you won’t have to hunt down supplies if you need them. A few extras like blister pads and motion sickness remedies (for the ferry ride) can also come in handy. It’s a simple addition to your bag that can save you a lot of hassle during your trip!

Phone Charger and/or Power Bank

With so many beautiful sights to capture your phone’s battery can drain faster than expected on Mackinac Island. Bringing a phone charger or a portable power bank ensures you won’t run out of battery while exploring. Since outlets aren’t always easy to find when you’re out and about, a fully charged power bank is especially useful for long days of sightseeing, biking, or snapping photos. Staying powered up means you’ll always have access to your camera, maps, and any other essentials you need on your phone throughout the day.

Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is key while exploring Mackinac Island, and bringing a reusable water bottle is an easy way to ensure you always have water on hand. There are refill stations conveniently located at Shepler’s ferry dock and the Mackinac Parks Visitor’s Center across from Marquette Park, making it easy to top off your bottle before heading out for the day. Not only will a reusable water bottle save you money, but it also helps cut down on plastic waste—so you can stay refreshed while being eco-friendly!

Bike Accessories (If Bringing Your Own Bike)

If you plan to bring your own bike, don’t forget a bike lock and helmet for safety and convenience. While the island is very bike-friendly, parking areas can get busy, so having a lock ensures your bike stays secure while you explore. If you run into any mechanical issues, don’t worry—there are a few bike repair shops on the island that can help with repairs or maintenance.

Travel Wallet or Money Belt

A travel wallet or money belt is a great way to keep your essentials secure while exploring Mackinac Island. With no cars and plenty of walking, you’ll want something lightweight yet functional to hold your cash, ID, credit cards, etc. While the island is generally very safe, having a secure way to carry your valuables gives you peace of mind, especially in busy areas like the ferry docks or downtown. A money belt or crossbody travel wallet keeps everything easily accessible while allowing you to explore hands-free!

Cash

Bringing some cash with you to Mackinac Island is always a good idea, especially for tipping carriage drivers, tour guides, dock porters, and hotel staff. There are a few ATMs on the island, but they can occasionally be out of service or run out of cash during busy times. Having some bills on hand ensures you won’t be caught off guard when it’s time to tip or make a quick purchase.

Small Backpack or Crossbody Bag

A small, comfortable bag is perfect for carrying your daily essentials—whether it’s snacks, sunscreen, a water bottle, or souvenirs from downtown shops. There are lockers located on the ferry docks downtown just in case you don’t want to carry your items.

Binoculars

Bringing a pair of binoculars to Mackinac Island can enhance your sightseeing experience in unexpected ways. Whether you’re gazing out at passing freighters on the Great Lakes, spotting birds along the shoreline, or getting a closer look at Round Island Lighthouse from the ferry, binoculars help bring the island’s stunning scenery into even greater detail. If you’re hiking in Mackinac Island State Park, they’re also great for spotting wildlife like bald eagles, deer, and foxes. With so many breathtaking views and hidden details to discover, a compact pair of binoculars can be a fun and useful addition to your packing list!

Driver’s License, ID, or Passport

Don’t forget to bring your driver’s license, ID, or passport when visiting Mackinac Island. While cars aren’t allowed on the island, you’ll still need your license if you plan to rent a vehicle for any off-island travel before or after your visit. If you’re traveling from outside the United States, a valid passport is required for entry into the country.

Protect Your Trip With Stress-Free Travel Insurance

Since we started our Mackinac Island Travel Tips & Suggestions Facebook group, we’ve heard from many group members who had to cancel their trips due to unexpected circumstances and, sadly, ended up losing their hard-earned money. It’s tough to see, especially when travel plans are something we all look forward to and work hard to make happen.

To help you avoid this kind of disappointment, we encourage you to consider travel insurance from VisitorsCoverage. They offer a range of options to suit your needs, whether you’re concerned about last-minute cancellations, trip delays, or medical emergencies while traveling.

When planning your visit to Mackinac Island, having travel insurance means protecting your investment and enjoying your trip with peace of mind. Don’t let the unexpected ruin your plans—explore your coverage options today and travel confidently.

Medical Insurance Card and Emergency Contact Information

It’s always a good idea to have your emergency contact information and medical insurance details with you while traveling. In the event of an unexpected situation, having a list of emergency contacts easily accessible can be helpful for both you and those assisting you. Carrying your medical insurance card and any necessary information ensures you’re prepared if you need medical care during your trip. While Mackinac Island has a medical center, serious emergencies may require transport to the mainland, so having this information on hand can help streamline the process if needed.

Reservation Confirmations

Keeping a copy of your reservation confirmations and itinerary is essential for a smooth trip to Mackinac Island. This includes ferry tickets, lodging reservations, booked activities, and any car rental details if you’re traveling off-island. While digital copies are convenient, it’s a good idea to take screenshots or print them out in case of spotty cell service. Having both a physical and digital copy ensures you have all the important details at your fingertips, no matter what!

Let’s Book That Trip!

Mackinac Island is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the tenth, you’ll discover something new and enchanting with each trip. Pack your sense of adventure and get ready to create unforgettable memories! Planning your trip can be part of the fun, and our Mackinac Island Travel Guide eBook is the perfect companion to help you make the most of your time on the island.

Make sure to check out some of these other Mackinac Island posts to help you plan your ideal vacation:

• DON’T STEP FOOT ON MACKINAC ISLAND WITHOUT KNOWING THIS FIRST!
• UNFORGETTABLE WAYS TO CELEBRATE BIRTHDAYS ON MACKINAC ISLAND
• DISCOVER WHAT TO DO ON MACKINAC ISLAND IF IT RAINS
• UNFORGETTABLE SOMEWHERE IN TIME MOVIE LOCATIONS EVERY FAN MUST SEE
• EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE MACKINAC ISLAND FERRY
• 22 UNIQUE THINGS TO DO ON MACKINAC ISLAND WITH YOUR TODDLER
• GRAB YOUR ESSENTIAL MACKINAC ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE EBOOK TODAY!
• HOW TO BE A PART OF FORT MACKINAC HISTORY
• 12 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE STAYING AT MISSION POINT RESORT