Wilmington, North Carolina, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Wilmington, North Carolina, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Wilmington, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Wilmington
- Important essentials for Wilmington
- Activities for Wilmington
- Wilmington in January: weather and what to pack
- Wilmington in February: weather and what to pack
- Wilmington in March: weather and what to pack
- Wilmington in April: weather and what to pack
- Wilmington in May: weather and what to pack
- Wilmington in June: weather and what to pack
- Wilmington in July: weather and what to pack
- Wilmington in August: weather and what to pack
- Wilmington in September: weather and what to pack
- Wilmington in October: weather and what to pack
- Wilmington in November: weather and what to pack
- Wilmington in December: weather and what to pack

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
When to go to Wilmington, North Carolina, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Wilmington, the best time to go is October. See below for details.
Important essentials for Wilmington, North Carolina, United States of America
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Wilmington, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards can wear out. An unreadable vaccination card may result in severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps avoid that.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID-19 protection available.
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Wilmington. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
For families with young children
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one should be sufficient for most locations, but you should check with your hotel.
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
What to wear/what to pack for Wilmington, North Carolina, United States of America by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Wilmington is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Fleece
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Extra socks
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Jacket or coat
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
If you go to Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
February
February in Wilmington is chilly and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) to low 50s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
If you go to Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
March
Traveling to Wilmington in March, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Dresses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Extra socks
-
Pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
If you go to Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
April
If you are traveling to Wilmington in April, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Light skirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Extra socks
-
Sandals
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
If you go to Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
May
May in Wilmington is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light skirts
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Extra socks
-
Sandals
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
If you go to Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
June
June in Wilmington is extremely hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes harmful contaminants:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Skirts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunglasses
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
If you go to Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
July
In July, Wilmington is consistently hot, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (low 30s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Wilmington, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Skirts
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
-
Sunglasses
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
-
Bug repellent
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes contaminants:
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
If you go to Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
August
In August, Wilmington is really hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) and about a third of the time jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Wilmington, with several of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Skirts
-
Sunglasses
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans contaminants:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
If you go to Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
September
In September, Wilmington is hot. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) and sometimes jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Wilmington, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Skirts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans harmful contaminants:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
-
Sunglasses
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
If you go to Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
October
October in Wilmington is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light skirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Bug repellent
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Extra socks
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
If you go to Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
November
If you visit Wilmington during November, you are likely to see that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Extra socks
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Pants or jeans
-
Dresses
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
If you go to Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
December
December in Wilmington is cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
If you go to Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Binoculars
Activities for Wilmington, North Carolina, United States of America
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Wilmington.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Sugar Land, Texas, United States of America, Jaca, Spain, Berry, New South Wales, Australia, Tula Oblast, Russia, Northern Mindanao, Philippines, Tarawa, Kiribati, Forsand, Norway, Prilep, Macedonia, Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, Russia, Foggia, Italy, and Trinidad, Uruguay.