January in Sri Lanka is dry season in the west and southern part of the island. Expect dry, warm weather this time of year.

Shaped like a teardrop, Sri Lanka offers an incredible variety of landscapes, ranging from stunning beaches to lush mountain regions. January is the best time to visit. You can enjoy hot, sunny days without fear of monsoon showers. 

In the south, you’ll find Mirissa, a surf-and-yoga haven known for its laid back culture and some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. If you need a break from the beach, head to Kandy and Ella for cooler mountain weather. Take the iconic train from Kandy to Ella, and experience the famous tea plantations along the way.

What to Pack for Sri Lanka:
Don't forget your towel for the beach days. Leave behind the bulky towels that take up way too much space in your bag. Instead, bring a NanoDry™ Packable Beach Towel for a compact option that dries quickly.

Peak summer time for Cape Town is January. Low rainfall and temps ranging from mid-70s to mid-80s °F (24-29 °C).

South Africa is a hot travel destination, quite literally. December through February is peak season in Cape Town, and the city is buzzing. The Atlantic ocean runs chilly, but January is one of the few months where you can enjoy a dip in the ocean. 

Cape Town is made for both foodies and active travelers. You’ll find no shortage of ways to get outside. Popular activities include paragliding, bungee jumping, hiking, surfing, and diving. You can kayak with penguins in the morning and hike Lion’s Head at sunset for an epic view of the city. Between outings, indulge in everything from trendy cafes to fine dining. Then spend a day trying local wines at the gorgeous vineyards in Stellenbosch. There’s always something to do.

Pro Tip for South Africa:
When you're out and about, keep your valuables tucked away and close to your person. The ReFraction Packable Sling makes it easy to stay secure and hands-free.

Philippines weather in January: lower humidity and minimal rainfall this time of year. It's dry season with temperatures sitting consistently around 80 °F (26 °C).

Come for the sunshine, stay for the warm culture. January in the Philippines means stunning coastlines and the kind of hospitality that sticks with you. Don’t forget about the volcanoes, rainforests, and mountains. These islands pack a punch, serving beauty in every corner. 

Take a daytrip from Manila and find yourself in Tagaytay. Fondly called the country’s “Second Summer Capital”, you won’t be disappointed. Snack on fresh pineapple and mango while enjoying gorgeous views offered by Taal Lake and Volcano. It’s one of the most unique landscapes you’ll see: a volcano sitting inside a lake, with the lake filling a caldera—an island on an island, with a lake and a volcano all in one.

What to Pack for Philippines:
For a comfortable and lightweight adventure pack, bring along the Beast18 Ultralight Technical Backpack.

When to visit Oaxaca: January is a great time to visit Oaxaca, thanks to comfortable temperatures and thinner crowds. It falls during the shoulder season, meaning flexibility with reservations and often more competitive rates.

Oaxaca is a charming city in southern Mexico, known for its incredible food scene and smoky mezcal. From Oaxacan cheese to signature dishes like rich, complex mole, it’s a true foodie destination.

Spend your days discovering artisan markets, popping into local cantinas, and maybe even stumble across a street festival. Consider booking a cooking class or mezcal tasting while you’re there.

What to Pack for Oaxaca:
Create additional space in your packing system with the ReFraction Packable Duffle. It stows into its own pocket when you don't need it. Perfect for artisan-market finds, gifts for family, or everything you somehow packed on the way there but can’t quite Tetris back in.

January in Buenos Aires means longer daylight hours and warm temperatures, which range from mid-70s to mid-80s °F (24-29 °C).

Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is warm and sunny in January thanks to its location south of the equator. Leave winter behind and find yourself sipping coffee at a local café or dining at one of their famous parrilla restaurants such as Don Julio (make sure to reserve a table well in advance).

If it's adventure you seek, use this city as your launching pad and venture into Patagonia. January is arguably the best time to visit, with long daylight hours and favorable weather for hiking, camping, glacier exploring, and experiencing the raw beauty of places like Torres del Paine National Park.

Best Travel Luggage for Argentina:
The GlobeRider35 Travel Backpack makes the perfect travel companion. This travel pack is robust yet carry-on friendly. With supportive shoulder and hip straps, it's built for all-day carry.

January in Hawaii: Enjoy mild temperatures and peak whale-watching season this month.

With great weather year round, Hawaii is an obvious choice. January is an ideal time to visit for whale watching. Other activities in Kauai include hiking, surfing, scuba diving, and more. Alternatively, take in the island from the skies by booking a helicopter ride. Soak up island vibes, whether that’s enjoying some beach time or planning a waterfall adventure. 

An iconic hike in Kauai is the Kalalau Trail. Before you start planning, check out our guide to backpacking the Kalalau Trail to know what to expect on this stunning route.

What to Pack:
Keep your belongings dry on waterfall adventures, beach trips, and other water activities with the Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack.

Tasmania in January: This time of year is summer in Australia, with long daylight hours and comfortably mild temperatures.

Tasmania is an underrated summer escape that truly shines in January. Located off Australia’s southern coast, the island delivers impressive landscapes. Think rugged coastlines, alpine lakes, and plenty of hiking (or bushwalking) trails to choose from. The laid-back pace of life makes this warm travel destination a perfect break. From farm-to-table dining and world-class seafood to wildlife encounters and epic road trips, Tasmania is a nice blend of adventure and relaxation. If you’re looking to slow down while still getting outside, Tasmania belongs on your travel hit list.

Power Outlets in Tasmania:
Tasmania uses Australia’s Type I power outlets with a 230V supply, so travelers from North America and other regions will need a Global Travel Adapter to charge their devices.