The Only Packing List You Need for New Orleans

Planning a trip to New Orleans? You’re in for an unforgettable experience – live music spilling into the streets, incredible food around every corner, and a one-of-a-kind energy you won’t find anywhere else. 

Whether you’re here to soak up the history, enjoy a unique NOLA festival, or just explore the city’s unique neighborhoods, knowing what to pack for New Orleans can make all the difference. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to be ready for anything. 

Once you have the perfect New Orleans vacation rental, this guide will help you figure out exactly what to pack for your trip (and what to leave at home) so you can focus on having the best time in the Big Easy.

What to Pack for New Orleans, Season by Season

No matter when you’re visiting New Orleans, there are a few year-round essentials you’ll want to bring: comfortable walking shoes (trust us—those charming 300-year-old streets will get you!), a small crossbody bag or backpack, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated as you explore. (More on year-round packing essentials in a minute.)

But what you pack beyond the basics will depend on when you’re visiting. Here’s what to bring by season so you’re ready for whatever the Crescent City throws your way.

What to Pack for Winter in New Orleans

Winter is one of the best times to visit if you’re looking for mild weather, smaller crowds, and better rates. Temperatures usually hover in the 50s and 60s, so pack light layers. 

Long sleeves, cozy sweaters, and a medium-weight jacket are perfect for chillier nights. If you’ll be spending breezy evenings by the river, closed-toe shoes and maybe even a scarf are a good idea. 

What to Pack for Spring in New Orleans

If you’re heading to NOLA in the spring, you’ll be in the heart of the action. Festivals like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest take over the city, and the crowds come along with them. During the day, temperatures rise into the 70s and 80s, so pack light and breathable clothing. 

If you’re attending a spring festival, pack comfy shoes and a rain jacket or umbrella just in case. And don’t forget your party gear – costumes, sequins, or beads are always in style during festival season!

What to Pack for Summer in New Orleans

Summer in New Orleans is steamy (in the 90s) and often rainy, so come prepared. Pack lightweight, breathable clothes along with closed-toed sandals or waterproof shoes. A hat and travel fan can be lifesavers during hot afternoons, and a travel umbrella is a must.

You might think you won’t need a sweater or sweatshirt in the summer heat, but restaurants and other businesses will be cranking the A/C, so pack one anyway.

What to Pack for Fall in New Orleans

Fall in NOLA can be a lovely and less crowded time to visit. Pack similarly to spring – light layers, rain protection, and breathable clothes for warm afternoons. Bring a jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings, and keep an eye on the forecast as your trip gets closer.

Packing Overview: Planning for Your Trip to New Orleans

Daytime Exploring

New Orleans is a city made for walking – whether you’re wandering through the French Quarter, admiring the historic homes in the Garden District, or hopping from café to boutique on Magazine Street. That means comfort is key.

Start with breathable, weather-appropriate clothing. Lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen are your best friends for most of the year, especially spring through fall when the heat and humidity kick in. In cooler months, swap in layers — think jeans, a light sweater, and a jacket you can take off once the sun warms things up.

No matter the season, comfortable walking shoes are needed! Sidewalks can be uneven, and you’ll likely be on your feet a lot, so opt for sneakers or supportive closed-toed sandals. Bonus points if they’re stylish enough to carry you from day to night! Just note that open-toed footwear is not a good idea, especially in the French Quarter, where puddles from daily street washing and the aftermath of Bourbon Street revelry leave exposed toes vulnerable.

New Orleans Nights

When the sun goes down, New Orleans truly comes alive. Cozy jazz clubs, candlelit restaurants, lively shows on Frenchmen Street, and rooftop cocktails with a view – they’re all calling your name.

New Orleans style is relaxed and expressive, so you can have fun with your outfit. You’ll see ladies out and about in breezy maxi dresses, jumpsuits, and stylish tops with jeans. For men, a button-down or polo with jeans or chinos is a good go-to.

Bring a lightweight jacket if you’re visiting during the cooler months or plan to spend time in chilly indoor spots with strong A/C. And while you’ll still want comfortable shoes, the evening is your chance to elevate the look a bit with trendy sneakers or shoes you can comfortably walk in.

New Orleans Festivals

New Orleans knows how to throw a party — and if you’re visiting during one of the city’s iconic festivals like Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, Essence Festival, or French Quarter Fest, you’ll want to come prepared for the fun with layers, comfortable shoes, a crossbody bag or clutch, sunscreen, and rain gear.

Packing Guide: Essential Items for New Orleans

Aside from your everyday clothing items and toiletries, there are some additional items to consider packing for your trip to New Orleans (or purchasing when you get here) to make your getaway more enjoyable.

Daytime Packing List

• Breathable, weather-appropriate clothing and layers for varying temps
• Comfortable walking shoes like sneakers
• A crossbody bag or small backpack to keep your hands free while exploring
• Sunscreen and sunglasses for bright days
• A hat or umbrella to shield you from the sun or surprise showers
• A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated in the NOLA heat!

Evening Essentials

• Casual but put-together outfits for a night out
• A lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or A/C
• A small bag or clutch to keep your cards, phone, and lip gloss handy
• Inexpensive jewelry or accessories to dress up a basic outfit 

Must-Haves for Festivals

• Layers, especially for all-day events where the weather varies from day to night
• Statement pieces, bold accessories, sequins, and beads (especially for Mardi Gras!)
• Comfortable shoes for hours of walking and dancing (maybe even rain boots for Jazz Fest)
• Sunscreen – even in cooler months, the sun can be strong during daytime events
• Portable phone charger – you’ll use your phone more than usual for photos, etc.
• Crossbody bag or belt bag to keep your belongings secure while staying hands-free
• Water bottle, especially if the event allows reusable bottles and offers refill stations
• Poncho or compact umbrella for sudden showers at outdoor events

Extra Essentials

• Travel pack of tissues or wipes – for on-the-go hand cleaning, wiping down a restaurant table, or freshening up after a long day of exploring (especially in the heat)
• Hand sanitizer – to keep germs at bay when you’re out and about
• Earplugs or a white noise app – especially if you’re staying near the French Quarter, attending a festival, or are a light sleeper
• Electrolyte packets – to help you stay hydrated and feel refreshed, especially after long days in the heat or nights out drinking
• Bug spray or wipes – especially in warmer months, mosquitoes can be a nuisance, particularly in parks, gardens, or areas near the river
• Phone case with a card holder or clutch – so you have less to carry and monitor when you’re out at night or attending an event

What You Won’t Need in New Orleans

As tempting as it is to pack for every possible scenario, there are a few things that are better left at home when you’re heading to New Orleans. Traveling light (and smart) can make your experience more enjoyable, especially in a walkable city where you’ll likely be hopping between restaurants, festivals, museums, and live music venues.

Leave at Home:

• Heavy clothing – a light sweater or jacket is usually enough, even in December or January
• Expensive jewelry or flashy accessories – not necessary, and could make you a target for pickpockets in crowded areas (learn more about safety when visiting NOLA)
• High heels – lots of uneven streets and broken sidewalks in historic areas, and lots of walking that’s best with comfy shoes
• Open-toed shoes – they’re a big no, especially in the French Quarter, due to puddles from daily street washing and potential hazards from horse carriages and Bourbon Street festivities 
• Large purses – don’t bother carrying a ton and trying to navigate crowds with an overstuffed bag when you could use a crossbody, belt bag, or small backpack
• Full-size toiletries – pack travel-sized toiletries or check with us to see if your vacation rental will be stocked with the items you need
• Lots of electronics – leave tech at home unless you need it – a smartphone and portable charger are really enough

Pack Smart, Stay Local, and Enjoy Every Moment

No matter when you visit New Orleans, packing thoughtfully can make all the difference. With the right wardrobe, a few well-chosen extras, and a good sense of what to leave behind, you’ll be ready to embrace NOLA. 

And while you’re planning your trip, don’t forget where you’ll rest your head. Staying in a vacation rental gives you the space to spread out, the comforts of home, and a more authentic experience than a typical hotel stay. Whether you’re steps from the French Quarter or tucked into a quieter neighborhood with local flair, our homes put you close to the heart of it all so you can spend less time commuting and more time making memories.

Ready to start planning? Browse our vacation rentals and find your perfect home base in the Big Easy.