What to Pack for Louisiana: Heat, Storms, Jazz & Mardi Gras
Beat the muggy 77–95°F heat with breathable linen and moisture-wicking tees, a packable rain jacket, waterproof sandals and insect repellent. From French Quarter cobbles to bayou boats and Mardi Gras nights, add a festive outfit and zip pockets.
Updated on October 7, 2025
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Morning beignets, afternoon bayou breezes, and jazz that runs past midnight — Louisiana days stretch long and swing between sidewalks and water. You can’t pack for every scene, so build a light, breathable capsule with one sharp layer that cleans up fast. The promise here is simple: comfort that keeps pace with humidity, polish that fits a supper club, and rain sense for those sudden, theatrical skies.
Style is relaxed but not sloppy. In New Orleans and beyond, clean lines and quiet hues look right by day, while one festive touch earns smiles at parades and live sets. Jazz clubs and fine Creole rooms prefer neat, smart-casual over flashy. Churches and historic sites lean conservative, so shoulders covered feels respectful. Choose shoes with grip for brick and damp sidewalks.
Subtropical is the headline: summers run hot and extremely humid at 77–95°F, with sudden thunderstorms; spring and fall hover 59–82°F and power the festival calendar; winters are mild at 41–64°F, cooler up north. Nights stay muggy and mosquitoes are persistent, especially near water. Hurricane season spans Jun–Nov and can disrupt power and streets. Practical note: carry a light waterproof and insect defense.
From here, the guide lays out breathable essentials and weather gear that actually work, then seasonal adjustments for spring, summer, fall, and winter. After that come activity outfits for festivals, swamp tours, and city evenings, the footwear playbook and what not to pack, and finally safety, transportation, and packing strategies for short and long trips.
Part 1: Packing Essentials
Packing List
Adults
Clothing
Footwear
Essentials
Infant Clothing
Louisiana Day Bag Checklist
What you'll carry for a typical day exploring the city.
Part 2: Style & Weather
Louisiana Weather & Festival-Ready Packing
Louisiana has a subtropical, very humid climate: hot, muggy summers with frequent thunderstorms and highs around 77–95°F; spring and fall are warm festival seasons (59–82°F) with sudden showers; winters are mild (41–64°F). Hurricane season (Jun–Nov) brings heavy rain, flooding and power outages; bayous create damp microclimates and persistent mosquitoes.
Monthly Temperature Guide
| Month | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 61°F | 45°F |
| Feb | 63°F | 45°F |
| Mar | 68°F | 50°F |
| Apr | 73°F | 55°F |
| May | 81°F | 64°F |
| Jun | 86°F | 72°F |
| Jul | 90°F | 75°F |
| Aug | 90°F | 75°F |
| Sep | 86°F | 72°F |
| Oct | 79°F | 63°F |
| Nov | 70°F | 54°F |
| Dec | 63°F | 46°F |
Seasonal Insights
spring
Spring (Feb–Apr) brings warm 59–82°F days, sudden showers and muddy festival streets. Pack breathable cotton/linen layers, a light waterproof shell, quick-dry trousers or shorts, comfy sneakers, mosquito repellent and a rainproof pouch for valuables.
summer
Summer (Jun–Aug) is hot and muggy, 77–95°F with frequent storms. Pack lightweight shirts, a wide-brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen, quick-dry shorts, waterproof sandals or sneakers, a packable rain jacket, and DEET repellent.
fall
Fall (Sep–Nov) can be 68–82°F into Sep then cool to 50–68°F; it's peak hurricane season with heavy rain and gusty winds. Pack a sturdy packable rain jacket, waterproof shoes, layered shirts, a power bank and check storm alerts before travel.
winter
Winter (Dec–Feb) is mild, often 41–64°F: sunny days and cooler nights, especially inland. Pack a midweight layer, light sweater or merino base, a packable windbreaker, versatile jeans or chinos, waterproof shoes for wet days, and one dressier layer.
Louisiana Style: Pack for Heat, Rain & Festivals
Louisiana style blends Southern ease with festival flair. Expect hot, humid days, sudden downpours and mosquito-heavy evenings: favor breathable cotton, linen and technical blends, quick-dry layers and a single standout festive outfit. Practicality meets color—think bead-ready pockets, sun protection and shoes that handle cobbles, boardwalks and puddles.
The Local Dress Code
Daytime is casual Southern: breathable shirts, linen and lightweight denim are common. Dressier smart-casual looks work for jazz clubs and fine dining; be conservative and remove hats in religious sites. Festival costumes are welcomed but follow public decency laws and avoid obstructing crowds.
Muggy subtropical heat, sudden storms and festival culture shape Louisiana dressing—pack breathable, insect-smart layers, waterproof footwear, and one festive outfit for Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest.
Style at a Glance
- • Favor breathable cotton, linen and moisture-wicking technical blends
- • Pack a packable waterproof jacket and water-resistant footwear
- • Bring insect repellent and easy-change layers for swamp tours
- • One festive outfit—colorful, comfortable and bead-ready pockets
- • Choose relaxed daytime silhouettes with one sharper evening layer
Color Palette
Shopping in the City
Shop urban markets and local boutiques for breathable fabrics, waterproof footwear and festival accessories. Prioritize packable rain gear, insect-smart pieces and one standout festive item rather than many formal garments.
Brands to Look For
NOLA Thread Co.: Lightweight cotton and linen staples designed for humid climates—shirts, tees and relaxed trousers with breathable weaves and easy-care finishes. ($ - $$)
Bayou Outfitters: Practical outdoor pieces focused on water resistance and insect protection—packable rain shells, quick-dry pants and swamp-ready footwear. ($$ - $$$)
Crescent City Clothier: Smart-casual eveningwear and tailored pieces for jazz-club nights—unlined blazers, silk-blend tops and loafers suited to city dining. ($$ - $$$)
Cajun Cotton Works: Breathable cotton basics and festival-friendly separates with bold colorways and bead-friendly pocket designs for parade days. ($ - $$)
MardiMade Accessories: Local accessories including secure crossbody pouches, bead-friendly pockets, waterproof phone pouches and festival scarves. ($ - $$)
Where to Shop
French Market: Local crafts, breathable cotton pieces and festival accessories.
Magazine Street: Boutiques for smart-casual clothing, artisanal accessories and footwear.
Neighborhood Vibes
French Quarter: Colorful, historic and tourist-forward: lightweight, breathable layers, comfortable walking shoes for cobbles, and one dressy evening outfit for jazz clubs or fine dining on Royal Street.
Garden District: Polished, relaxed Southern prep—linen dresses, unstructured blazers and loafers work well for tree-lined streets, historic homes and daytime photography stops.
Seasonal Outfit Formulas
spring
Mardi Gras Ready — Parade days and street parties—breathable, colorful and bead-friendly.
- • White cotton eyelet blouse: Breathable and easy to tuck into pockets for beads.
- • Beige linen shorts
- • Water resistant leather sandals: Closed-toe or strap-secured styles handle crowds and puddles.
- • Secure zip crossbody pouch
Jazz Club Smart-Casual — Evening live music and dinner—polished but comfortable.
summer
Parade Day Comfort — Hot, humid daytime parades—shade, breathable fabrics and secured valuables.
Riverwalk Dining — Outdoor dining along the river—breezy but polished.
fall
Festival Layering Kit — Variable festival temps and hurricane-season showers—layer and be prepared to dry quickly.
Plantation Visit — Daytime historic-site touring—respectful, breathable and sun-smart.
winter
Mild Winter Stroll — Cooler days and mild nights—layers that breathe and a rain shell for showers.
Cozy Night at a Jazz Club — Mild winter evenings—elevate casual with silk and a smart blazer.
Footwear Guidelines
- • Bring comfortable sneakers for long urban walks and cobblestones
- • Pack water-resistant sandals or closed-toe waterproof shoes for humid days and quick storms
- • Include loafers or low-heel dress shoes for evenings and fine dining
- • Carry rubber or tall waterproof boots for swamp trips and post-storm conditions
Accessory Guidelines
- • Use a small crossbody with secure zip pockets for beads and valuables
- • Pack a waterproof phone pouch or dry bag for swamp and river outings
- • Carry strong insect repellent and consider permethrin-treated clothing
- • Bring a wide-brim sun hat and high-SPF sunscreen for daytime heat
- • Include a compact portable umbrella and a packable rain shell for sudden storms
What to Wear for Louisiana Adventures
French Quarter & Historic Districts
Cobblestones, balconies and sudden showers define exploring the Quarter—dress for humid days, sticky nights, and long walks.
Mardi Gras & Street Festivals
Festival season is loud, crowded and rain-prone—pack for daytime parades, long waits, and a quick-change festive look that respects local decency.
Jazz Clubs & Live Music Nights
Evenings call for a smarter, layered look—jazz clubs are intimate, often AC-cooled, and require comfortable shoes for standing and dancing.
Swamp & Bayou Boat Tours
Bayou trips are mosquito-heavy, sun-exposed and often wet—prepare for insect protection, sun coverage, and water splashes while riding small boats.
Cajun & Creole Food Tours
Louisiana food defines the trip—expect outdoor lines, casual counters, and a few upscale spots where a smarter layer is appreciated.
Mississippi Riverboat Cruises
Riverboat cruises are scenic and relaxed—pack for sun, breezy decks, and a mix of casual daytime and dressier evening vibes.
Part 3: Expert Tips
What Not to Pack for Louisiana
Save luggage space and avoid common overpacking mistakes by leaving these items behind.
- • Heavy wool coat or bulky parka: Louisiana winters are mild (5–18°C); a heavy wool coat or bulky parka is overkill. Pack a light packable down or merino layer plus a waterproof, breathable jacket for rainy, windy nights instead.
- • Stiletto heels: Stiletto heels sink into cobblestones, brick streets, and crowded festival areas and are unsafe on wet surfaces. Bring low-heel dress shoes, sturdy loafers, or water-resistant closed-toe sandals for nightlife, parades, and walking.
- • Delicate compact umbrella: Relying on a fragile compact umbrella fails in sudden summer storms and strong winds; umbrellas invert and break. Use a packable waterproof jacket with taped seams and a waterproof phone pouch or dry bag for electronics instead.
- • Valuable flashy jewelry: Loud, expensive jewelry draws attention on Bourbon Street and in festival crowds, increasing pickpocket risk. Leave high-value pieces at home and choose inexpensive costume jewelry or keep valuables in a money belt or hotel safe.
- • Non-breathable synthetic garments: Non-breathable fabrics trap sweat in humid 25–35°C conditions, causing overheating and persistent odor. Swap heavy polyester for cotton, linen, moisture-wicking technical shirts, or merino layers that dry quickly and control odor.
- • Large unsecured backpack: A large unsecured backpack is an easy target in festival crowds and on streetcars and can block walkways. Opt for a small zippered daypack, anti-theft bag, or money belt and use interior pockets to secure valuables.
- • Multiple formal gowns: Packing several formal gowns wastes space unless you have a specific gala; most evenings in Louisiana are smart-casual or festival-friendly. Bring one versatile dress or a blazer with mix-and-match pieces to save luggage room.
- • Bulky mountain hiking boots: Bulky mountain hiking boots are overkill for flat bayous, muddy boardwalks, and occasional flooded streets and can trap water. Choose waterproof trail shoes, rubber boots, or closed-toe water-resistant sandals for swamp tours.
Louisiana Packing Insider Tips
Local wisdom and practical advice gathered from seasoned travelers and residents.
- • Beat the Humidity: Pack breathable cotton or moisture-wicking layers for 25–35°C summer days. Quick-dry shirts and linen shorts cut sweat; bring a spare top for sudden thunderstorms and sticky evenings.
- • Mosquito Strategy: Bring DEET or picaridin insect repellent and a small tube of after-bite cream—mosquitoes persist at dusk and on swamp tours. Treat clothing with permethrin for longer trips into wetlands; it reduces bites substantially.
- • Be Rain-Ready: Leave fragile umbrellas at home and pack a packable waterproof jacket with taped seams plus waterproof shoes or quick-dry sandals. Streets flood fast; waterproof soles protect you from soggy cobblestones and standing water.
- • Pack One Festive Outfit: Bring one breathable, quick-change festive outfit for Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest—think moisture-wicking dress or linen shirt plus comfortable shoes. Add zip pockets or a small crossbody to stash beads and cash safely.
- • Footwear for Streets and Streetcars: Skip stilettos—pack comfortable sneakers for long walks, low-heel loafers for evenings, and water-resistant sandals for steamy days. Cobblestones, brick and streetcar steps demand good grip and ankle support.
- • Prepare for Storm Outages: During hurricane season (Jun–Nov) pack a high-capacity power bank, a compact flashlight, and a small emergency kit. Urban services can fail in storms; a charged phone and printed directions help if cell service drops.
- • Swamp Tour Essentials: For bayou trips bring a waterproof phone pouch or dry bag, quick-dry clothing, and closed-toe water-resistant shoes. Guides warn of snakes and bugs—follow instructions and keep hands inside the boat for safety.
- • Sun, Sweat & Hydration: High humidity and sun make dehydration easy—carry a refillable water bottle and sunscreen SPF 30+. A wide-brim hat and sunglasses help during 25–35°C days; seek shade during parades and long walks.
- • Pack Light, Plan Laundry: Expect laundromats in New Orleans—pack multipurpose pieces, two pairs of shoes and merino or quick-dry underwear to rotate. Lighter luggage helps with streetcar stairs and crowded festival streets.
- • Dress Respectfully at Historic Sites: When visiting churches, plantations or memorials wear conservative, cool layers—knees and shoulders covered. Lightweight linen or cotton allows comfort at 15–28°C while showing respect during tours and services.
- • Keep Valuables Secure: Use a small crossbody with zippered compartments or money belt in crowded Bourbon Street and festival zones. Avoid flashy jewelry, carry minimal cash, and photograph important documents in case of loss or theft.
- • Car vs. City Transit: New Orleans is walkable with streetcars—leave a compact daypack for rides and parades. For rural bayou exploring or plantation drives rent a car; expect limited parking during festivals and occasional road closures.
Louisiana Travel FAQs: Festivals, Swamps & Weather
Common questions from fellow travelers, answered with local insight and practical experience.
What should I wear to Mardi Gras and street festivals?
How do I pack for Louisiana's humid summers and sudden storms?
What insect and sun protection should I bring for swamp tours?
Which shoes work best for French Quarter cobblestones and flooding?
How should I prepare for hurricane season and possible power outages?
Can I rely on laundromats and quick-dry options during longer trips?
What is respectful attire for churches, plantations, and fine dining?
Common packing mistakes and fixes for Louisiana
Learn from others' experiences to avoid these common packing pitfalls and travel more comfortably.
Packing non-breathable fabrics for humid 25–35°C heat
Mistake: packing non-breathable fabrics that trap sweat in hot, muggy 25–35°C days. Fix: choose linen, cotton, or moisture-wicking merino, pack quick-dry tees, and schedule laundromat stops.
Skipping mosquito protection for swamp and dusk outings
Mistake: skipping insect repellent and treated clothing before swamp tours or dusk walks. Fix: pack DEET or picaridin repellent, permethrin-treated clothing, long breathable sleeves, and after-bite gel for relief.
Relying only on umbrellas during heavy storms or hurricane season
Mistake: relying solely on flimsy umbrellas during sudden storms or hurricane-season downpours (Jun–Nov). Fix: bring a packable waterproof jacket with taped seams, waterproof shoes or poncho, and a dry bag for electronics.
Overpacking large suitcases instead of planning laundry access
Mistake: overpacking large suitcases instead of using available laundromats. Fix: choose lightweight, multipurpose pieces, quick-dry socks, merino underwear, plan laundromat stops, and bring one festive outfit for 15–28°C spring events.
Assuming all of Louisiana is walkable like the French Quarter
Mistake: assuming everywhere is walkable like the French Quarter. Fix: plan transport—use streetcars and rideshares in cities, rent a car for rural bayou trips, and expect limited cell service and festival parking headaches.
Bringing unsecured bags into festival crowds and street closures
Mistake: bringing loose, unsecured bags to Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest. Fix: use a small zippered daypack or crossbody, conceal valuables, carry a portable charger, wear festival-friendly pockets, and avoid flashy jewelry.
Ready for Your Adventure
You're set to savor Louisiana's music, food, and swampy charm with confidence. Pack breathable cotton or linen, a packable waterproof jacket and water-resistant shoes for sudden thunderstorms and flooded streets, and insect repellent for bayou evenings. Don't forget one festive outfit for Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest and sturdy walking shoes for the French Quarter's cobbles. Embrace the warmth, expect 25–35°C summer muggy days, and enjoy every vibrant moment.
