People pack for the New Orleans heat and forget the rain. Summer highs hit 90°F (32°C) to 93°F (34°C), and May to July brings 15 to 20 rain days a month, often sudden afternoon storms that can flood streets fast. Pack light, breathable clothes and plan on getting wet.
New Orleans weather by month
Daily high and low (°F), and days with rainSee the numbers
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | 61°F16°C | 68°F20°C | 72°F22°C | 79°F26°C | 84°F29°C | 90°F32°C | 90°F32°C | 93°F34°C | 88°F31°C | 81°F27°C | 72°F22°C | 64°F18°C |
| Low | 46°F8°C | 54°F12°C | 59°F15°C | 64°F18°C | 72°F22°C | 77°F25°C | 79°F26°C | 81°F27°C | 75°F24°C | 66°F19°C | 59°F15°C | 52°F11°C |
| Rain days | 13 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 15 | 18 | 20 | 11 | 12 | 6 | 11 | 9 |
Season by season
Winter
December–FebruaryMild and damp, with highs of 61°F (16°C) to 68°F (20°C) and lows from 46°F (8°C) to 54°F (12°C). January has 13 rain days. A light jacket and a sweater cover most days, and Mardi Gras parade season often lands in this window, so bring layers for long nights outside.
Spring
March–MayPrime time. Highs climb from 72°F (22°C) to 84°F (29°C), with 11 to 15 rain days a month. French Quarter Fest and Jazz Fest fall in spring, so pack sunscreen, a hat and shoes you can stand in all day.
Summer
June–AugustHot and heavy. Highs of 90°F (32°C) to 93°F (34°C), lows of 77°F (25°C) to 81°F (27°C), and July has 20 rain days. Hurricane season starts in June, so watch the forecast and pack clothes that dry fast.
Fall
September–NovemberSeptember is still hot at 88°F (31°C). October is the driest month, with 6 rain days and 81°F (27°C) highs, and by November it's down to 72°F (22°C). Hurricane season runs to the end of November, so keep an eye on the forecast, especially in September.
What to bring to New Orleans
0 of 22 packedJuly brings 20 rain days of sudden storms, and a shell that packs into its own pocket keeps you dry between the French Quarter and the Marigny.
A light, packable women's rain shell for New Orleans's showers. Easy to keep in a day bag.
- Sawyer 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion, 4 ozHealth & Safety
It's rated for up to 12 hours against mosquitoes, which is what swamp tours and evenings in City Park call for, and picaridin won't damage your sunglasses or synthetic clothes.
Courtyard dinners and patio drinks are half the point of New Orleans, and Thermacell rates this repeller for a 20 feet (10 meters) zone around your table while you stay put.
- Hydro Flask 24 oz Wide Mouth Bottle with Flex Straw CapWater Bottles & Hydration
In 93°F (34°C) August heat an insulated bottle that keeps water cold for 24 hours is the difference between a good walk and a bad afternoon.
- Bearwind S40 Portable Handheld Turbo FanTech & Power
Waiting for the streetcar in summer humidity is rough, and a handheld fan helps, just charge it nightly because the battery runs a few hours on high.
- Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip 20LBags & Luggage
Weather sealing on the main compartment and zippers keeps your phone and camera dry when an afternoon downpour hits.
Clothing
- Breathable tops · 5Summer highs of 32–34°C
- Light shorts or skirts · 3
- Outfit for dinner or jazz clubs · 2
- Light sweater · 1January lows of 8°C
- Sun hat
Footwear
- Walking shoes you don't mind getting wet · 1 pairAfternoon storms can flood streets fast
- Sandals · 1 pair
Gear
- Compact umbrellaJuly has 20 rain days
- Sunglasses
Health and toiletries
- Sunscreen
- Anti-chafe balm
- Basic medications
Documents and money
- ID or passport
- Travel insuranceHurricane season June 1 to November 30
Tech
- Phone charger
What shoes should you pack for New Orleans?
Sidewalks in the French Quarter and the Garden District are cracked, uneven and lifted by oak roots, and they're often wet. Wear cushioned shoes with grip, not flip-flops. Bourbon Street at night is no place for open toes.
What do people wear in New Orleans?
New Orleans is casual and loves a costume. Light cotton and linen, shorts and sundresses are normal, and festivals bring out sequins and feathers. A few old-line restaurants like Galatoire's and Commander's Palace have dress codes, so pack one smarter outfit.
What plugs does New Orleans use?
New Orleans uses type A and B plugs at 120V, the standard US outlet. Visitors from the UK, Europe or Australia need an adapter, and should check that hair tools are dual voltage before plugging in.
Tours and things to do in New Orleans
Packed and ready? Browse guided tours, day trips and tickets for New Orleans.
What should you leave at home for New Orleans?
Leave the heavy jeans and anything that holds sweat, because they're miserable from May to September. Skip the suede shoes too, since streets get wet and Bourbon Street gets messy. A big umbrella is optional, and a shell is easier in festival crowds.
Packing for New Orleans: questions people ask
What should I wear in New Orleans in summer?
Light, breathable clothes for highs of 90°F (32°C) to 93°F (34°C) and heavy humidity, plus a rain shell for July's 20 rain days. Shoes that handle wet sidewalks matter too.
What is the best month to visit New Orleans?
October is hard to beat, with 81°F (27°C) highs and only 6 rain days. March and April are also mild, at 72°F (22°C) and 79°F (26°C).
What should I wear to Mardi Gras?
Layers. February highs are around 68°F (20°C) but lows hit 54°F (12°C) and parades run late, so bring a jacket and comfortable shoes. Costumes in purple, green and gold are welcome.
Do I need bug spray in New Orleans?
Yes, especially from spring through fall and around dusk. Mosquitoes are common in parks, near the swamps and on outdoor patios.
When is hurricane season in New Orleans?
June 1 to November 30. August and September are the riskiest stretch, so watch the forecast if you're booking then.
Prices change often — the price on the retailer’s page is the one you pay.