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New Orleans Travel Checklist

New Orleans Travel Checklist

New Orleans Louisiana, USA Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

-6 Months Prior

Confirm passport validity, apply for visas, book main flights and accommodation, research festivals.

Month Prior

Make popular restaurant and tour reservations, check vaccinations, inform banks of travel dates.

Week Prior

Confirm all bookings, pack, download essential apps, organize documents, check weather forecast.

Advance Bookings & Research

Required Advance Bookings

  • Flights.
  • Hotels/accommodations, especially for peak season.
  • Popular tours (e.g., swamp tours) and major attraction tickets.
  • Fine dining restaurants for popular times.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

  • Familiarize yourself with New Orleans' unique culture and history.
  • Understand sensitive topics like slavery and Hurricane Katrina.
  • Learn a few basic local phrases.
  • Prepare your home: secure, arrange pet care, pay bills, notify contacts.

Comprehensive Planning Details

Travel Documents

Confirm passport validity (6+ months). Apply for visa/ESTA if needed (online 72 hours prior).

Financial Prep

Inform banks/credit card companies of travel dates. Arrange some local currency or ATM access.

Health & Safety

Check recommended vaccinations with your doctor. Purchase travel insurance covering medicals and cancellations.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps Upon Arrival

These steps aid a quick and easy settling in process.

Immediate Actions

  • Clear immigration and customs at MSY.
  • Collect luggage from baggage claim.
  • Proceed to pre-chosen ground transportation.
  • Check into your accommodation.
  • Obtain a physical map from your hotel or visitor center.
  • Take a preliminary walk around your neighborhood.
  • Consider a hop-on-hop-off bus tour for an overview.
  • Activate your local SIM or eSIM.

Currency & Purchases

Cash Access

Withdraw cash from an ATM or exchange currency. ATMs are widely available.

Transit Passes

Purchase a Jazzy Pass if you plan on frequent public transport use.

Hydration

Buy bottled water or fill a reusable bottle. Stay hydrated, especially in warm weather.

Orientation Strategies

Neighborhood Walk

Take a walk to locate nearby restaurants, pharmacies, and public transport stops.

City Overview

A hop-on-hop-off bus tour offers an overview to identify areas for exploration.

Map Familiarity

Use a physical map of the French Quarter and CBD to get your bearings.

Airport to Accommodation

Airport Shuttle

Use your pre-booked airport shuttle for direct transport.

Taxi or Rideshare

Taxis or rideshare services offer quick transport from MSY.

Public Bus

The public E2 Airport Express bus provides an economical option.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a stress-free exit by preparing for your departure in advance.

Departure Preparation

Organize your exit from New Orleans seamlessly.

Departure Logistics

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs well in advance to avoid last-minute rushes. If shipping items, visit a post office or courier service early.

  • Inquire about shipping costs and timelines.
  • Consider online purchases for large items.
  • Keep shipping receipts.

VAT Refund Procedures

Louisiana offers a sales tax refund program for international visitors. Keep all original receipts from participating retailers.

  • Show passport, visa, and return travel info at refund centers.
  • Refund centers are located at MSY airport or downtown.
  • Reclaim sales tax paid on eligible purchases.

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours before international flights. Confirm hotel check-out time. Arrange late check-out or luggage storage if needed.

  • Check-out time for hotel.
  • Luggage storage availability.
  • Ample time for check-in and security.

Return Trip Preparation

Ensure all aspects of your return journey are in order.

Final Checks

  • Confirm flight, train, or bus details.
  • Ensure all travel documents are secure and accessible.
  • Check for any prohibited items in luggage.

Double-check departure times and terminal information for your flight.

Pack valuables and important documents in your carry-on bag for security.

Review any customs declarations or requirements for your home country.

Affiliate Resources Review

Additional tools to streamline your travel.

Travel Insurance

Consider World Nomads for comprehensive coverage.

Packing Organizers

Explore Eagle Creek products for efficient packing.

Language Learning

Use Babbel to pick up local phrases before your trip.

Last-Minute Reminders

A final check before heading to the airport.

Pre-Flight Essentials

Documents Ready

Passport, boarding pass, and ID are easily accessible.

Valuables Secured

Keep important items and electronics in your carry-on.

Home Security

Ensure windows are locked and appliances are off.

Travel Considerations

Flight Status

Double-check for any last-minute delays or gate changes.

Airport Transportation

Confirm your ride to the airport or public transit schedule.

Local Currency

Ensure you have enough local currency for any airport needs.

Final Preparations Overview

Packing & Baggage

  • Check baggage weight limits.
  • Ensure all items on your packing list are included.
  • Secure all luggage.

Digital Readiness

  • Charge all electronic devices.
  • Download offline maps and entertainment.
  • Back up photos and important data.

Home & Contingency

  • Leave a spare with a trusted neighbor.
  • Pause mail delivery or arrange collection.
  • Ensure fire alarms are functioning.

Ready for Departure

With these steps, your departure should proceed smoothly and without stress.