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What to Pack for New Orleans

What to Pack for New Orleans

Louisiana USA Travel Guide

Summer Clothing June-August

Lightweight, breathable fabrics are optimal. Think cotton or linen. Pack loose-fitting clothes like shorts, skirts, t-shirts, and vests. Layers are generally not needed.

Summer Essentials

  • A Light rain jacket or Small umbrella is useful for sudden thunderstorms in the afternoon.
  • Choose light colors as they reflect sunlight better, helping you stay cooler.
  • The heat and humidity are constant, so prioritize coziness in your clothing choices.

Winter Clothing December-February

Layers are important. Pack long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and fleece. A medium-weight jacket or coat is recommended. New Orleans winters can have warm spells, so pack lighter options too.

Winter Layering Tips

  • A Scarf and light Gloves are useful for colder evenings.
  • Start with a long-sleeved base, add a sweater or fleece, and top with a jacket. Adjust layers throughout the day.
  • Temperatures may drop unexpectedly, so be ready for varied conditions.

Footwear Recommendations

Main Footwear

Comfortable, supportive Walking shoes or sneakers are needed. Many streets, especially in the French Quarter, are cobblestone or uneven.

Prioritize comfort and support.

Secondary Footwear

Sandals or lighter shoes are fitting for highly hot weather. Ensure they offer good support for walking. Avoid flimsy flip-flops for extensive walking.

Good for warm days, however still supportive.

Evening Footwear

Bring dressier footwear if you plan fine dining or upscale nightlife. Avoid high heels on cobblestones, as they pose a tripping hazard.

Stylish but practical for uneven surfaces.

Essential Documents for Travel

Documents to Carry

Keep important documents safe and accessible. Have both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation: Valid passport, U.S. Visa (if needed), or ESTA approval.
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information: Digital and printed copies, including emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable): Needed if your home country'a driver'a driver's license is not in English.
  • Health Papers: Copies of medical records, especially for prescription medications.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Flight itineraries, hotel bookings, tour confirmations, car rental agreements.
  • Emergency Contact Information: List of family members, friends, or embassy contact details in your wallet and phone.
  • Ids For student/senior/press Discounts (if applicable): Any identification cards that might grant discounts.
  • Doctor's note for controlled substances: Explaining medical necessity.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

The standard voltage in the U.S. is 120 V at 60 Hz, using Type A and B plugs. Most modern electronics are dual voltage, needing only a Plug adapter.

Power Essentials

Mobile & Camera Gear

Most current smartphones are usable with U.S. cellular networks (GSM 850/1900 MHz and LTE bands). An Unlocked phone allows use of a U.S. SIM card.

Tech Essentials

  • Prepaid SIM cards are obtainable from major carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) or MVNOs.
  • eSIMs from Airalo offer digital activation before arrival, avoiding physical SIMs.
  • For photos, a Smartphone a camera is sufficient, but a Compact mirrorless or DSLR like the Sony Alpha a6100 is also suitable.

Essential Apps & Data Backup

Recommended Apps

Download Google Maps (offline maps), Uber/Lyft, Yelp, OpenTable, Google Translate, and RTA's Le Pass app for navigation and local services.

Data Backup Solutions

Regularly create backups of pictures and important files using cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or a Small external hard drive.

VPN Services

Consider a VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

Make a Personal first aid kit with standard and The Big easy-specific items.

Kit Contents

Medications & Sun Protection

Have all your prescribed medicines in their original, clearly labeled containers, with a doctor's note for controlled substances.

Health & Safety Items

Insect Repellent & Water Safety

Insect Protection

  • Insect repellent is a must needed, especially during warmer months (April-October) and near water.
  • Products with DEET (20-30%) or Picaridin (Sawyer Products Picaridin) are effective.
  • Wear long sleeves and pants if outdoors in marshy areas for added protection.

Water & Hygiene

  • Common things for grooming and cleanliness are easily found in The Big easy.
  • Bring any specialized or preferred brands that may be harder to find.
  • Tap water in New Orleans is potable; options for purifying water are not needed.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Swamp Tours

Binoculars for wildlife viewing and a camera with a zoom lens are useful for capturing distant animals.

  • Binoculars
  • Camera with zoom lens
  • Closed-protective footwear
  • Insect repellent

Walking Tours

Comfortable, broken-in Walking shoes are needed. A Small daypack for water, snacks, and a camera.

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Small daypack
  • Water bottle
  • Camera

Renting vs. Bringing

Bicycles are easily hired in the area, no need to bring your own. Formal wear can be leased locally if needed for certain events.

  • Local bicycle rentals
  • Formal wear rentals
  • Specialty items generally not needed
  • City offers charm, not gear

Attire for Various Activities

Casual & Comfortable

  • Walking/Sightseeing: Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are needed.
  • Nightlife (Frenchmen Street): Casual and comfortable clothing is suitable, focusing on the music.
  • Nightlife (Bourbon Street): Very casual attire is common; anything goes here.
  • Swamp Tours: Wear comfortable, relaxed clothing; long sleeves and pants deter insects.

Dining & Cultural Venues

  • Casual Dining: Casual dress is acceptable at most eateries.
  • Fine Dining: Smart casual or business casual attire is often appropriate.
  • For men, collared shirts may be needed; women might wear dresses or blouses.
  • Check restaurant online resources for specific dress code recommendations.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security Items

These items contribute to comfort, security, and convenience during your trip.

Travel Comfort

Reusable & Regional Items

These items back sustainable travel and cater to New Orleans' specific climate.

Sustainable & Local

Local Availability

Most Items Available

Anything available in a standard U.S. City is available in New Orleans.

Specialty Medications

Particular prescription drugs might be exceptions; bring from home.

Dining Scene

Experience local flavors without needing special gear.

Travel Sized Items

Travel-sized personal hygiene versions are useful for flying.

Cultural & Activity Considerations

Cultural Dress Code

  • New Orleans has no particular cultural dress code or modesty requirements.
  • For church visits, respectful dress (shoulders and knees covered) is appreciated.
  • This city is known for its relaxed and eclectic style; express yourself.

New Orleans Specifics

  • Spring is festival season; plan outfits comfortable for standing and walking outdoors.
  • No specific specialty items are generally needed for typical New Orleans experiences.
  • The city's charm comes from its atmosphere, not specialized gear.

Packing Pro Tips

Get necessary apps prior to your trip to save data and time.

Regularly back up your photos and important documents using cloud storage or an external hard drive.