December Packing List for Hilo — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Lightweight Aloha ShirtsEssential

  Hilo's average high of 79°F makes breathable fabrics perfect for the tropical rainforest climate.

• Waterproof Rain ShellEssential

  With 22 precipitation days, a shell is vital to stay dry during Hilo's frequent showers.

• Quick-dry Hiking PantsEssential

  Ideal for Akaka Falls jungle trails where humidity is high despite the 79°F heat.

• Closed-toe Hiking ShoesEssential

  The hardened lava rock terrain in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park requires closed-toe shoes even when it's a warm 79°F.

• Comfortable Walking ShoesEssential

  Perfect for the flat, walkable areas of the Hilo Farmers Market during a warm 79°F day.

• Sturdy Hiking BootsEssential

  Necessary for navigating Akaka Falls trails where humidity and rain are common in the 79°F heat.

• Compact UmbrellaEssential

  A must-have for dodging sudden showers during any of Hilo's 22 precipitation days in the 79°F heat.

• Waterproof Phone PouchEssential

  Keeps electronics safe during any of the 22 precipitation days in Hilo's 79°F heat.

• Dry BagEssential

  Keep gear dry during any of the 22 precipitation days in Hilo's rainforest.

• Reusable Water BottleEssential

  Stay hydrated while exploring Akaka Falls trails in the 79°F humidity.

Clothing

• Lightweight Aloha ShirtsEssential

  Hilo's average high of 79°F makes breathable fabrics perfect for the tropical rainforest climate.

• Waterproof Rain ShellEssential

  With 22 precipitation days, a shell is vital to stay dry during Hilo's frequent showers.

• Lightweight FleeceRecommended

  Even with Hilo's 79°F highs, the 62°F lows can feel damp in the rainforest.

• Quick-dry Hiking PantsEssential

  Ideal for Akaka Falls jungle trails where humidity is high despite the 79°F heat.

• Thermal Base LayerRecommended

  If visiting Mauna Kea, you'll need warmth as temperatures drop to 32°F even if Hilo stays at 62°F.

Footwear

• Closed-toe Hiking ShoesEssential

  The hardened lava rock terrain in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park requires closed-toe shoes even when it's a warm 79°F.

• Waterproof SandalsRecommended

  With 22 precipitation days, waterproof sandals are great for navigating Hilo's wet streets in the 79°F heat.

• Comfortable Walking ShoesEssential

  Perfect for the flat, walkable areas of the Hilo Farmers Market during a warm 79°F day.

• Sturdy Hiking BootsEssential

  Necessary for navigating Akaka Falls trails where humidity and rain are common in the 79°F heat.

Accessories

• Compact UmbrellaEssential

  A must-have for dodging sudden showers during any of Hilo's 22 precipitation days in the 79°F heat.

• Sun HatRecommended

  Protects you from the sun even when clouds roll over Hilo's tropical rainforest at 79°F.

• Waterproof Phone PouchEssential

  Keeps electronics safe during any of the 22 precipitation days in Hilo's 79°F heat.

• Lightweight DaypackRecommended

  Ideal for carrying gear through Akaka Falls' humid and wet jungle trails during a 79°F afternoon.

Gear

• Dry BagEssential

  Keep gear dry during any of the 22 precipitation days in Hilo's rainforest.

• Reusable Water BottleEssential

  Stay hydrated while exploring Akaka Falls trails in the 79°F humidity.

• Compact BinocularsOptional

  Great for spotting wildlife in the lush jungle terrain of Akaka Falls even when it's a warm 79°F.