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New Orleans, commonly known as the Crescent City or the Big Easy, is packed with various attractions and activities perfect for women over 50 like you. There are restaurants, relaxing drinks, and even Southern hospitality that you will certainly enjoy. Indulge in different arts, music festivals, television filming, sports events, or simply spend a day shopping and dining.
Knowing what to pack for New Orleans can be challenging because you have to ensure that you have all you need, including clothes that suit the weather. So what do you need to bring? Read on!
When to Visit New Orleans
The question of when you should visit New Orleans mainly depends on whether you desire to attend Mardi Gras! Mardi Gras, more commonly known as Fat Tuesday, refers to the time when you get to eat all you wish before the Lenten season and fasting begins. It’s when several festivities and food fairs are happening.
Suppose you want to enjoy all the Mardi Gras fiasco. In that case, you should visit New Orleans during early spring, commonly from February to May, when festivities and celebrations are in full swing!
Should you decide to attend the exact Mardi Gras Day, it commonly happens at the end of February or the beginning of March. However, take note that hotel rates might go up because of the influx of tourists during this time. Book them at least one year in advance to avoid experiencing flights and accommodations from being sold out.
For a more affordable trip to New Orleans, visit during one of the summer months, especially if the Big Easy’s heat doesn’t bother you. The best time to get discounts for accommodations is from July to September.
What to Pack for New Orleans
As you decide what to pack for your next trip to New Orleans, the activities you plan to try and the season’s weather will dictate the essentials you need to bring. The following list will make sure you don’t miss anything from daypacks to sunglasses.
1. Daypack
A daypack is the perfect travel bag during your stay in New Orleans. It’s waterproof in case you’ll encounter scattered rain showers, and it’s very lightweight! A daypack allows you to bring all the essentials you need for a full day out. It’s pretty convenient.
2. Packing Cubes
It can be hard to fit all your essentials in the luggage so make sure you have packing cubes! They are a great way to organize your clothes and other items, keeping your luggage neat and spacious. Packing cubes also allows you to find your items quicker..
3. Portable Battery Charger
Ensure your devices stay powered up while on the go. This is especially important if you will be away from an outlet for an extended period of time. By having a battery charger with you, you’ll be able to keep your phone, laptop, and other devices running without any problems.
4. Light Jacket
Even when it’s sunny, having a light jacket can help protect your skin from harmful rays. It’s thin and waterproof, so it’s also handy when you encounter sudden light rain showers. This light jacket is also comfortable to wear and light enough to fit your day bags without that extra load.
5. Tumbler
You should never let an entire day pass without sipping water regardless of where you go. Don’t forget to bring a tumbler of water with you, especially when it’s too hot outside. This water tumbler is insulated, so it can help make your water stay cold or hot for a long time.
6. Sunscreen
Applying sunscreen is essential, especially when you’re spending the day under the sun. If you intend to visit New Orleans during the hot summer months, bring a sunscreen. It will protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent you from getting sunburns.
7. Toiletry Bag
If you love traveling, owning a toiletry bag is a must! It’s convenient and less of a hassle to bring because it’s compact and can fit all your travel-sized toiletries. Choose a waterproof one so you can easily hang it in the bathroom when you take a bath.
8. Travel Umbrella
Bring a travel umbrella to protect yourself from the elements when you’re on the go. Whether you’re caught in a rainstorm or trying to stay cool in the sun, a good umbrella can make all the difference. And when you’re traveling, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
9. Travel Towel
What could be better than having a soft, fluffy towel to wrap around yourself after a long day at the beach or pool? Bringing your own travel towel is the perfect way to make sure you always have a clean and comfortable towel to dry off. Plus, it’s small and easy to pack in your luggage, so you can take it with you wherever you go.
10. Walking Shoes
You’ll be spending days out, especially during the week of Mardi Gras, so you must wear the most comfortable walking shoes you have. This footwear is not only comfy but also good for styling with casual outfits.
11. Dressy Sandals
New Orleans has a long list of fine dining restaurants perfect for a date night. Be prepared by bringing one of your dressy sandals! Pair them with one of your formal dresses.
12. Toiletries
And of course, how can you forget your toiletries? These are essentials that you must never forget, no matter where you go. Make sure you bring your shampoo, conditioner, other hair care products, soap, and feminine wash!
One pro tip: when bringing your toiletries, only bring the travel-sized ones that will fit in your toiletry bags. They are convenient to bring and won’t take up much space in your bags. And if they run out, you can always purchase them in local drugstores and supermarkets.
13. Sunglasses
Having a pair of sunglasses becomes handy when the sun’s rays become too harsh for your eyes. They will serve as your eyes’ protection, and you can also wear them when you want to take a nap while en route to your next destination.
Clothes You Need to Pack
If you’re going to stay in New Orleans for a few days to weeks, you should also be wise in choosing the clothes you bring. Clothes can also take up space in your packing cubes, and they should depend on the season you’ll be visiting.
Don’t forget to include these pieces of clothing in your packing list:
- Casual pants
- Casual tops
- Plain long sleeve
- Maxi Dress
- Leggings
- Light sweater
- Dress
What Not to Pack for New Orleans
When planning a trip to New Orleans, don’t go crazy and pack all your things! Travel light, and only bring the items you certainly need! Here’s what you should leave at home to save space in your luggage:
1. Heavy-duty jackets: It’s almost always warm in New Orleans.
2. Clothes with abundant sequins: They’re pretty heavy and a hassle to bring.
3. Evening long gowns: You won’t be needing this. A semi-formal dress for your date night is enough.
4. High heels: They’re just an added weight to your luggage, so it’s better to leave them at home.
5. Heavy books: Bring digital ones as they are so much lighter!
Travel Light to New Orleans
The perfect vacation is where you enjoy the activities smoothly without any stress. Hopefully, this list of what to pack for New Orleans helps you determine what you need to bring and leave when planning a trip to the City. Have a great time on your vacation!
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