August in New Orleans averages 91°F highs and 76°F lows with about 13 rainy days — the most humidity-intense month in one of America's most humid cities, where 90°F with 85% humidity feels closer to 105°F. French Quarter cobblestone streets flood during heavy rain, making waterproof ankle boots more practical than open sandals. Linen and moisture-wicking cotton are the only comfortable outdoor fabrics; the vibrant NOLA aesthetic expresses itself in breathable choices.
Also packing for this trip?
Full August packing list for New Orleans →
Checklist of clothes, shoes, and gear — separate from these outfit ideas.
Compare prices across top booking sites for Aug 1–4.
Powered by Hotellook · prices from Booking.com, Agoda, and more
top / Tank & Cami
tank top
breathable — lets heat escape in warm weather
bottom / Shorts
denim shorts
breathable fabric for high-heat days
lightweight linen pants for more coverage
footwear / Waterproof Boots
ankle boots
rubber sole for traction — keep feet dry all day
outerwear / Rain Jacket
shell jacket
lightweight
Based on typical August conditions in New Orleans. Weather varies year to year — check the live forecast when you're within two weeks of your trip.
Visiting New Orleans in August means embracing the peak of its summer heat and humidity. Expect daily high temperatures to consistently hover in the low 90s°F (32-34°C), with overnight lows rarely dipping below the upper 70s°F (25-27°C). The air will feel thick and muggy, amplifying the heat index. August is also firmly within hurricane season and brings frequent, often intense, afternoon thunderstorms that can appear and dissipate quickly. The sun is powerful, so UV protection is paramount. Given these conditions, your packing strategy should prioritize staying cool and comfortable. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or rayon in loose-fitting styles – think sundresses, flowy skirts, shorts, and airy tops. Lighter colors will reflect the sun better. For footwear, comfortable, open-toed sandals or espadrilles are ideal for navigating the city's charming but uneven streets and handling potential puddles. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a compact umbrella for sun and sudden downpours. While outdoors is sweltering, air conditioning indoors can be quite strong, so a light scarf or cardigan might be a welcome addition for museum visits or restaurant dinners. Embrace the heat with smart, stylish choices that prioritize comfort.
Warm conditions with light rain highlight the Essential Black Sleeveless Crop Top as the hero item. White straight-leg jeans with Black low-top tennis sneakers sustain the relaxed casual mood.
Warm conditions with light rain highlight the Navy linen sundress as the hero item. White low-top sneakers sustain the relaxed casual mood.
Hot conditions with light rain highlight the Navy linen sundress as the hero item. The Everyday Brown Leather Sandal with Brown woven leather belt sustains the relaxed casual mood.
Warm conditions with light rain highlight the Navy linen sundress as the hero item. The Padded Leather Thong Sandal with Classic Small Gold Hoop Earrings sustains the relaxed casual mood.
Warm conditions with light rain highlight the White smocked sundress as the hero item. Tan flat slide sandals with Simple Silver Curb Chain Bracelet sustain the relaxed casual mood.
To combat the intense heat and humidity, prioritize lightweight and breathable fabrics such as linen, cotton, or rayon. Opt for loose-fitting sundresses, shorts, skirts, and airy tops in light colors. Comfortable sandals or espadrilles are essential for walking and navigating potential rain puddles.
Absolutely not; August in New Orleans is characterized by extreme heat and very high humidity. Daily highs consistently reach the low 90s°F (32-34°C), with overnight temperatures remaining in the upper 70s°F (25-27°C). Your focus will solely be on staying cool, rather than needing any warm clothing.
Yes, August is typically one of New Orleans' rainiest months, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. These are usually brief but heavy downpours that pass quickly. It's wise to carry a compact umbrella or wear quick-drying fabrics to stay comfortable.
Pack light and breathable clothing like linen shorts, cotton sundresses, and flowy tops in light colors. Essential items include comfortable walking sandals, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a small umbrella for sudden downpours. Consider a light scarf or cardigan for heavily air-conditioned indoor spaces.
Packing tools
Free calculators — city and month pre-filled when we know them. No account required. Start with how many outfits, sudoku packing, or bag fees.
Trip
Planning a trip to one city?
One city → typical weather for your month, packing counts that fit your bags, and email your plan.
Outfits
How many outfits for this trip?
Trip length, bag size, and climate → exact tops, bottoms, layers, and outfit combinations.
Jacket
Not sure about a jacket?
City + month → base / mid / shell stack and pack-or-skip verdicts for rain jacket, coat, and thermals.
Shoes
Shoes for this climate?
Climate, activities, and bag size → pair count, primary/backup types, and climate-matched picks.
Bags
Will this trip cost bag fees?
Airline + fare bucket + bags you plan to bring → fit verdicts and typical carry-on / checked fee ranges.
Capsule
Try sudoku packing for this climate?
City + month → climate-ready 3 tops / 3 bottoms / 3 layers you can edit — up to 27 mix-and-match outfits.