What to Pack for a Summer Trip to New Orleans

When you’re planning a trip to New Orleans in the summer (brave soul), you need to prepare for the holy trinity of Southern weather: heat, humidity, and sudden downpours. But don’t fret, because you get an excellent trade-off — amazing travel deals, discounts on hotel rooms, and food specials, like COOLinary. But back to the weather.

What should you pack for a summer vacation in New Orleans so that you keep cool, dry (sort of), and looking your best? We’re going to give you the must-haves for your Big Easy travels so that you can keep cool, comfortable, and ready for anything. Think of it as sweating in style.

Prepare for Plenty of Heat and Surprise Rain During a New Orleans Summer

Summer in New Orleans is not for the faint of heart or the easily overheated. The city gets average temperatures in the 90s, but it can feel more like 105 thanks to humidity (and lots of it). Therefore, you’ll certainly want to plan a few activities that help you stay cool in NOLA during the sweltering summer days.

But at some point, you’ll need to brave the outside temperatures, especially if you want to catch one of the many incredible summer festivals in New Orleans. Therefore, packing smart is critical.

What Clothes Should You Pack for New Orleans in the Summer?

How many of each item you pack depends on how long you plan to stay, but keep your suitcase light by choosing things you can mix and match. Include the following clothing items on your NOLA summer packing list.

• Breathable tops made from linen, cotton, or moisture-wicking blends. You’re going to sweat, so if sweat stains bother you, pack items that do a good job at camouflaging the spots.
• Shorts or breezy skirts that won’t cling to you
• Sundresses or rompers that keep things cool and effortless
• Pants in a lightweight fabric (yes, pants) — when night rolls around, you’ll appreciate the extra protection from mosquitoes
• A poncho or light rain jacket that folds up easily in your tote or purse so you’re prepared for the sudden rain that tends to come out of nowhere (like a jazz band on Bourbon Street).
• Swimsuits to take advantage of the hotel pool
• Breathable, quick-drying socks, underwear, bras, etc. — and pack extras. You’ll likely want to change midday when things get super sweaty.
• Cozy PJs for when hotels crank up the AC in the summer heat
• Comfortable shoes — yes, comfortable. Don’t attempt to stroll the French Quarter in heels or impossibly high wedges. A pair of supportive, comfy sandals, sneakers, and flip-flops (for the pool) are your best friends.

(If you’re planning some fancy dinner or event, and you have to have heels to go with your formal, plan to get transportation. Take a streetcar or a rideshare, your ankles will thank you.)

Don’t Forget These Essentials for Your Summertime Trip to NOLA

In addition to the right clothes and shoes, a few essentials are necessary to make your summertime in New Orleans as comfortable as possible. You’ll want to carry most of these items with you as you explore the city, so you’re prepared for anything.

• Small umbrella
• Sunhat or baseball cap
• Sunscreen 30 SPF or higher
• Sunglasses
• Refillable water bottle (it’s important to stay hydrated, especially if you plan to partake in one of the city’s most popular pastimes — alcohol)
• Crossbody bag or small backpack
• Bug spray or wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• Chafing balm or powder
• Travel-sized deodorant to carry with you
• Hair ties or headbands
• Portable fan or cooling towel
• Waterproof mascara (keep makeup minimal overall, because you’re going to end up sweating most of it off)
• Phone charger and power pack

If you have extra space, include a foldable tote bag to hold your treasures from the French Market and other unique shops. You’ll also likely want a lightweight sweater, mostly for indoors when businesses blast the AC.

New Orleans Melts Your Heart and a Lot More During the Summer Heat — Pack Right

The right packing list makes a big difference when it comes to enjoying summertime in New Orleans. Check the forecast the day before you leave, because NOLA’s weather has a reputation for being a bit moody. So be prepared for anything when it comes to the weather.

However, despite the intense heat and surprise rain showers, it’s more than possible to have an amazing time. You just need to come prepared, and don’t forget to pack a sense of humor and good spirits.

Need a place to stay during your trip? Relax and cool off in a cozy New Orleans property that exudes Southern hospitality while pampering you with modern amenities and comforts. It’s the perfect way to start each morning and wind down each night so you can experience everything the Big Easy has to offer.