What to Pack for New Orleans

What to pack for New Orleans perplexes many visitors, especially those not accustomed to the humidity and hot temperatures of this low-lying Southern city. Think in terms of layers to pack right.

What to Pack for New Orleans

Here are tips for deducing what to pack for New Orleans.

Your Best Sun Blockers

A visit to New Orleans requires defensive thinking when it comes to protecting your skin from the blistering sun. Hats with a brim are essential to your New Orleans packing list, as are UVA- and UVB sun-blocking glasses and sunscreen.

Light Weight and Rain Proof Jackets

Showers can strike at any time, so be sure to pack a rain jacket. Nothing too heavy that will trap in heat, though. If you are attending one of the city’s classic outdoor festivals and rain is in the forecast, your happiness is worth the extra luggage weight to pack stylish galoshes—especially for Jazz Fest, when the Fairground location can instantly transform into a mud fest.

Yes to Swim Wear

A large percentage of New Orleans hotels sport pools, including many stunning rooftop hotspots. And with these temps, it’s no wonder. A cool dip on a hot afternoon is often the perfect way to transition from day to night.

No to Mosquitos

Where there are swamps, there are mosquitos. This low-lying part of the world has both in abundance, so don’t forget natural repellent, especially for evening strolls.

Athletic Wear Scores

New Orleans is a fun city to explore by bike, so pack active wear and plan to rent a bike for a loop around City Park or a ferry-and-cruise over to Algiers Point. A guided cycling tour is also a great way to experience New Orleans.

More from SmarterTravel:

• New Orleans Travel Guide
• 11 Best Hotels in New Orleans
• 10 Best Cheap Hotels in New Orleans
• 9 Haunted Hotels in New Orleans
• 10 Must-See New Orleans Attractions
• 12 Places to Hear Incredible New Orleans Jazz
• 10 Things You Can Only Do in New Orleans
• 10 Best Restaurants in New Orleans
• 12 Best Spots for Cheap Eats in New Orleans
• Everything You Need to Know About New Orleans Food
• What to Wear in New Orleans

Original reporting by Jess Simpson