New Orleans Spring Packing List

Colorful Creole-style houses with intricate balconies and vibrant shutters line a tree-shaded street in the Garden District of New Orleans.

Welcome to New Orleans in the Spring!

Travel Dates: March, April, May

Spring in New Orleans is all about layering! Mornings and evenings can still be cool in March, so you’ll want a light jacket or long sleeves, but by the afternoon, it warms up nicely. April and May get hot and humid, so be sure to pack short sleeves and lightweight clothing. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore the French Quarter or Garden District. Don’t forget a rain jacket or umbrella as afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially in May!

Dress Code

New Orleans has a casual but colorful style! Jeans or shorts with a t-shirt are perfect for exploring the French Quarter during the day, while a dress or casual jumpsuit works well for brunch or dinner in the Garden District. If you’re attending a festival like Jazz Fest, wear something light and comfortable as it can get warm and crowded. For nights out at music venues or bars, smart casual attire—like a nice top or dress with flats—will fit right in. Make sure to pack comfortable shoes for walking on uneven streets!

*This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

MARCH

54 – 72F (12 – 22C)

Cool mornings, mild, sunny afternoons

4.2 inches

APRIL

61 – 78F (16 – 26C)

Warm, mostly sunny, breezy

4.4 inches

MAY

68 – 85F (20 – 29C)

Hot, humid, afternoon thunderstorms

5.1 inches

Tops & Layers

1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for the warmer afternoons while exploring the French Quarter or strolling along the river. I loved having these for festival days!

2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for the cooler mornings in March and early April.

3. Light Jacket: Ideal for evenings when the temperature drops or when you’re out at a late-night jazz show.

4. Rain Jacket: A must for those sudden spring thunderstorms, especially in April and May.

Bottoms & Dresses

1. Pants: Great for walking around the city and visiting historic sites like Jackson Square. I liked having these for comfort and versatility.

2. Skirt: A breezy option for warmer days, perfect for brunch or walking around the Garden District.

3. Dress: Ideal for a night out or attending a music festival like Jazz Fest.

4. Jumpsuit: Perfect for a stylish yet comfortable look, great for day or night.

5. Leggings: Comfortable for casual days or walking tours through the French Quarter.

Shoes & Accessories

1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring the French Quarter and Garden District. I found these really practical for the cobblestone streets!

2. Flats: A stylish option for evening dinners or drinks at a jazz club.

3. Flip Flops: Great for relaxing at City Park or enjoying a day trip to the bayou.

4. Sunglasses: A must for sunny afternoons, especially if you’re walking along the Mississippi River or attending outdoor festivals.

5. Hat: Perfect for sun protection during outdoor activities like Jazz Fest or swamp tours.

6. Swimsuit: If your hotel has a pool or you’re planning a visit to the beach or a boat ride, bring one!

7. Pajamas: Comfortable and perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring New Orleans.

Luggage & Packs

1. Carry-On: Great for a weekend trip to New Orleans, with room for casual and dressy outfits.

2. Daypack: Handy for carrying your essentials, like sunscreen, snacks, and an umbrella during walking tours or festivals.

3. Purse: Perfect for carrying your essentials for a night out in the French Quarter or on Bourbon Street.

4. Tote Bag: Great for festivals or exploring City Park, where you might need to carry a few extras like a water bottle or hat.

Travel Essentials

  1. Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
  2. Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
  3. Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
  4. Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
  5. Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
  6. White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
  7. Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
  8. Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
  9. Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
  10. Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
  11. Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
  12. Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
  1. Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
  2. Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
  3. E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
  4. Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
  5. Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
  6. Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
  7. GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
  8. Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
  9. Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
  10. Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
  11. Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
  12. Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
  13. Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
  1. Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
  2. Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
  3. Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
  4. Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
  5. Floss: Any floss will do.
  6. Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
  7. Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
  8. Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
  9. Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
  10. Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
  11. Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
  12. Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
  13. Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
  1. Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
  2. Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
  3. After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
  4. Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
  5. Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
  6. Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
  7. Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
  8. Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
  9. Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
  10. Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
  11. Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
  12. Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
  13. Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
  14. Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
  15. Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
  16. Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
  1. Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
  2. Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
  3. Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
  4. Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
  5. Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
  6. Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
  7. Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
  8. Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
  9. Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
  10. Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
  11. Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
  12. Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
  1. Passport
  2. Travel Visas (if needed)
  3. Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
  4. Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
  5. Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
  6. Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
  7. Credit / Debit Cards
  8. Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.

What to Know Before You Pack

  • Layers: Bring layers to handle cool mornings and warm afternoons, especially in March.
  • Rain gear: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in spring, especially in May, so pack a rain jacket or travel umbrella.
  • Comfortable shoes: The French Quarter and Garden District have uneven streets, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must.
  • Festival outfits: New Orleans is known for its festivals—bring lightweight, breathable clothing and a hat if you plan to attend any events.
St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans stands tall with its white facade and three spires, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees.

New Orleans Spring Travel FAQs

WHICH SPRING MONTH IS THE BEST TO VISIT NEW ORLEANS?

April is the best month to visit New Orleans in spring, with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and events like the Jazz & Heritage Festival.

WHAT SPRING FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN NEW ORLEANS?

March: Mardi Gras – The biggest celebration in New Orleans with parades, parties, and music all over the city. 🎉

April: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival – One of the world’s greatest music festivals with jazz, blues, rock, and more. 🎶

May: Bayou Boogaloo – A music and arts festival held along Bayou St. John. 🎨

March: St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Irish music, dancing, and parades through the French Quarter. 🍀

April: French Quarter Festival – A celebration of New Orleans’ food and music in the historic French Quarter. 🎷🍴

May: Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo – A laid-back music festival along the bayou with food, music, and art. 🎤🍲

WHERE SHOULD I GO IN NEW ORLEANS IN THE SPRING?

Spring is the perfect time to explore New Orleans’ outdoor spaces and cultural hotspots. Start in the French Quarter with a visit to Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and Café du Monde for beignets. Walk through the Garden District to admire historic mansions, or take a streetcar ride down St. Charles Avenue. Enjoy live jazz at Preservation Hall or catch a music festival like Jazz Fest. A boat tour of the swamps is a must, and don’t miss City Park for beautiful spring blooms and a visit to the New Orleans Museum of Art.

HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT NEW ORLEANS IN THE SPRING?

A 4-5 day trip is ideal to enjoy New Orleans’ festivals, historical sites, and lively music and food scenes.

Suggested Itineraries:

2 Days: Day 1: Explore the French Quarter, visit Jackson Square, enjoy beignets at Café du Monde, and catch live jazz at Preservation Hall. Day 2: Take a swamp tour in the morning, stroll through the Garden District, and have dinner in the French Quarter.

5 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 2-day schedule. Add: Day 3: Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art and take a stroll through City Park, then have dinner at a local restaurant in the Garden District. Day 4: Take a tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, explore the French Market, and enjoy the nightlife on Bourbon Street. Day 5: Attend a music festival like Jazz Fest or visit the historic Faubourg Marigny neighborhood.

1 Week: Copy the itinerary of the 5-day schedule. Add: Day 6: Take a day trip to Plantation Country for a tour of a historic plantation home. Day 7: Visit the National WWII Museum and enjoy a riverfront walk along the Mississippi River.

10 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 1-week schedule. Add: Day 8: Take a day trip to the bayou for a boat tour or fishing adventure. Day 9: Explore the New Orleans Jazz Museum, then enjoy live music and dinner in the French Quarter. Day 10: Visit the New Orleans Botanical Garden and enjoy a relaxing day in City Park.

2 Weeks: Copy the itinerary of the 10-day schedule. Add: Day 11: Visit the historic St. Charles Avenue and take a streetcar ride through the Garden District. Day 12: Explore the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, known for its bohemian vibe and music venues. Day 13: Take a day trip to Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve for a hike through the wetlands. Day 14: Spend your final day revisiting your favorite spots or enjoying a leisurely brunch in the French Quarter.

WHAT SHOULD I PACK 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN NEW ORLEANS?

2 Days

  • 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
  • 1 Light Jacket
  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 1 Skirt
  • 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • 1 Pair of Flats
  • 1 Hat
  • 1 Pair of Sunglasses
  • 1 Swimsuit
  • 1 Pair of Pajamas

5 Days

  • 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Light Jacket
  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 1 Skirt
  • 1 Dress
  • 1 Jumpsuit
  • 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • 1 Pair of Flats
  • 1 Hat
  • 1 Pair of Sunglasses
  • 1 Swimsuit
  • 1 Pair of Pajamas

1 Week

  • 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Light Jacket
  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 1 Skirt
  • 1 Dress
  • 2 Jumpsuits
  • 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • 1 Pair of Flats
  • 1 Hat
  • 1 Pair of Sunglasses
  • 1 Swimsuit
  • 1 Pair of Pajamas

10 Days

  • 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Light Jacket
  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 1 Skirt
  • 2 Dresses
  • 2 Jumpsuits
  • 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • 1 Pair of Flats
  • 1 Hat
  • 1 Pair of Sunglasses
  • 1 Swimsuit
  • 1 Pair of Pajamas

2 Weeks

  • 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Light Jacket
  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Skirts
  • 2 Dresses
  • 2 Jumpsuits
  • 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • 1 Pair of Flats
  • 1 Hat
  • 1 Pair of Sunglasses
  • 1 Swimsuit
  • 1 Pair of Pajamas

WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR NEW ORLEANS IN THE SPRING?

Heavy Winter Coats: New Orleans’ spring is warm, so leave the bulky coats at home.

Thick Sweaters: The weather is generally mild and warms up quickly during the day.

High Heels: The cobblestone streets in the French Quarter are better navigated in flats or comfortable shoes.

WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO NEW ORLEANS IN THE SPRING?

Airfare: $200 – $500, depending on your departure location and booking time.

Accommodation: $150 – $300 per night, depending on location and hotel class.

Transportation: $30 – $70 for local travel, including Ubers or public transit.

Meals: $40 – $120 per day, depending on dining choices, from casual to upscale restaurants.

Activities: $50 – $150 for festival tickets, tours, and museum entries.

IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN NEW ORLEANS? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?

Yes, tipping is common in New Orleans. Around 20% is expected in restaurants, and $1-3 per drink depending on the venue.

WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT NEW ORLEANS BEFORE I VISIT?

  • Streetcars: The streetcar system is a fun and easy way to get around the city, especially to the Garden District.
  • Festivals: Spring is festival season, so plan your trip around events like Jazz Fest or the French Quarter Festival.
  • Food: Don’t miss out on local classics like po’boys, jambalaya, and beignets—New Orleans has an incredible food scene!
  • Walking: Many of New Orleans’ top attractions are walkable, especially in the French Quarter and Garden District.

Leave a Comment