January Packing List for Hilo — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Lightweight breathable shirtsEssential

  Hilo's humid tropical rainforest climate and 79°F highs make moisture-wicking fabrics ideal for the downtown area.

• Rain jacket or waterproof shellEssential

  With 20 days of precipitation in January, a reliable waterproof layer is necessary to navigate brief showers near Rainbow Falls in Hilo.

• Quick-dry hiking pantsEssential

  The jungle trails around Akaka Falls can be damp given January's 20 days of precipitation in Hilo.

• Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential

  The hardened lava rock at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park requires sturdy footwear to protect against the terrain during January's 20 rainy days in Hilo.

• Rain bootsEssential

  Essential for navigating the muddy jungle trails around Akaka Falls during January's 20 rainy days in Hilo.

• Compact umbrellaEssential

  Essential for sudden showers while walking through the Hilo Farmers Market during January's 20 rainy days in this tropical city.

• SunscreenEssential

  Even with 20 days of rain, the tropical sun is strong when temperatures hit 79°F in Hilo.

• Waterproof backpack coverEssential

  Keeps your belongings dry when navigating Hilo's rainforests during the 20 days of precipitation expected in January.

• Reusable water bottleEssential

  Stay hydrated in Hilo's tropical rainforest climate even when temperatures reach a warm 79°F.

Clothing

• Lightweight breathable shirtsEssential

  Hilo's humid tropical rainforest climate and 79°F highs make moisture-wicking fabrics ideal for the downtown area.

• Rain jacket or waterproof shellEssential

  With 20 days of precipitation in January, a reliable waterproof layer is necessary to navigate brief showers near Rainbow Falls in Hilo.

• Lightweight sweater or fleeceRecommended

  While highs are 79°F, the 61°F lows mean you'll need warmth for cooler evenings in Hilo's tropical climate.

• Quick-dry hiking pantsEssential

  The jungle trails around Akaka Falls can be damp given January's 20 days of precipitation in Hilo.

• Lightweight thermal layerRecommended

  If visiting Mauna Kea, temperatures can drop to 32°F despite Hilo's warm tropical climate.

Footwear

• Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential

  The hardened lava rock at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park requires sturdy footwear to protect against the terrain during January's 20 rainy days in Hilo.

• Waterproof sandalsRecommended

  Perfect for walking the flat Hilo Farmers Market during those 20 days of potential rain in this tropical city.

• Lightweight sneakersRecommended

  Ideal for exploring the walkable downtown area where temperatures average a pleasant 79°F in Hilo's humid climate.

• Rain bootsEssential

  Essential for navigating the muddy jungle trails around Akaka Falls during January's 20 rainy days in Hilo.

Accessories

• Compact umbrellaEssential

  Essential for sudden showers while walking through the Hilo Farmers Market during January's 20 rainy days in this tropical city.

• SunscreenEssential

  Even with 20 days of rain, the tropical sun is strong when temperatures hit 79°F in Hilo.

• Lightweight hatRecommended

  Protects from the sun and helps manage humidity while exploring jungle trails where temps reach 79°F in Hilo.

• Waterproof phone pouchRecommended

  Protects your device from sudden showers while exploring Hilo's tropical rainforest terrain in the 79°F heat.

Gear

• Waterproof backpack coverEssential

  Keeps your belongings dry when navigating Hilo's rainforests during the 20 days of precipitation expected in January.

• Dry bagRecommended

  Useful for keeping electronics safe while trekking to Akaka Falls where temperatures average 79°F but rain is frequent in Hilo.

• Portable power bankRecommended

  Essential for keeping devices charged while navigating Hilo's humid terrain and using GPS during the 20 rainy days of January.

• Reusable water bottleEssential

  Stay hydrated in Hilo's tropical rainforest climate even when temperatures reach a warm 79°F.