What to Pack for New Orleans

New Orleans is so much more than just Mardi Gras.

It’s an amazing food destination, a music city, a cultural hub, and just an all-around amazing place to visit, with so much to do and see.

I recently spent a long weekend there, and as I predicted, I completely fell in love with New Orleans — and I know you will too!

If you’re not sure what to pack for New Orleans, here are some top things you’ll want to make sure to bring.

What kind of weather does New Orleans have?

Of course, if we’re going to talk about what to pack for New Orleans, then we have to talk about the weather.

New Orleans is known for being uncomfortably hot, humid, and rainy, especially from June to September — so with that said, the summer isn’t generally seen as the best time to visit.

I love the heat and I’m not usually too bothered by humidity, but even I probably wouldn’t try to visit at this time.

In my opinion, October is the best time to visit. It’s still hot but not too hot, and it’s also the driest month. This is when I went!

March and November are typically in the 60s, while April and October are in the 70s. December through February are usually around the 50s.  

March and November will generally see temperatures in the 60s, April and October will be in the 70s, while May through September have average temperatures in the 80s. 

New Orleans Packing Guide

A water bottle

This is pretty self explanatory (and is also a reminder to myself), but a water bottle is a necessity! Considering the heat and humidity, how much you’ll probably end up walking, and possibly drinking, it’s a good idea to stay extra hydrated.

A travel umbrella

A travel umbrella is a must, especially during that June to September time. I didn’t end up using mine during my October trip, but since it takes up barely any space to bring, I was glad I had it just in case.

A crossbody bag

When traveling in a city, a crossbody bag or bag that securely closes is a requirement.

Although I felt safe throughout my time in NOLA, it’s still important to take precautions like this.

Especially in places like Bourbon Street, an area well-known for its many bars and typically intense crowds, you want to keep your things secure.

I have something like this, but it’s obviously up to your personal preference!

Bug spray

Since New Orleans is rainy and humid, having bug spray will definitely come in handy, especially if you’re planning on going on a swamp tour or something like that.

Comfortable walking shoes

New Orleans is full of walkable areas like the French Quarter, the Bywater neighborhood, the Garden District, and more, that are best explored on foot. (I especially recommend going on a walking tour at some point!)

Seriously, I was walking like 15,000 to 18,000 steps a day during my three-day trip.

My feet don’t typically get sore (and I’ll be honest, I disregarded my own advice and went with sandals the whole time, because sneakers just did not work with my outfit), but I was definitely feeling it by the end.

A sweater

Layers are your friend in New Orleans. Even in the summertime, the AC situation here is intense, so it’s a good idea to have a cardigan or something similar. And if visiting New Orleans during the winter, layers are even more necessary.

A jacket

Make sure to bring a light jacket (or a medium-weight one if visiting during the winter) to have just in case if you’re visiting November through March. 

Lightweight, casual clothing

You shouldn’t worry too much about what to wear in New Orleans — it seems like a pretty casual city, so whatever style you’re most comfortable in, is perfect.

The one caveat (apart from if you’re attending an event like a wedding) is if you plan on any fancy dining experiences.

I ate at some nice places, but none were fancy enough where there was actually a dress code. But of course, you’ll want to bring appropriate clothes if this is your plan.

The main thing is to dress for the heat and humidity, especially, especially, if you’re visiting in the summer.

Airy sundresses and shorts are great (this is what I wore the whole time during my trip in mid-October). If you’re visiting November through March, I would bring jeans, but otherwise, you probably won’t end up wanting to wear them.

Sunglasses

Finally, sunglasses were the one thing I forgot on my trip, and really wished I’d brought.