What you wear on a Louisiana swamp tour depends on the season, and New Orleans ranges from January highs near 62°F to July highs around 92°F. Bayou Swamp Tours runs 1-hour-45-minute airboat and covered pontoon trips about 30 minutes from downtown, and the right clothing keeps you comfortable for all 6 daily departures. This guide breaks it down season by season.
Temperature normals come from the National Weather Service. The open-air airboat exposes you to sun and spray, while the covered pontoon offers shade, so factor in your boat choice too.
What Should You Wear in Each Season?
Louisiana weather swings a lot across the year. Use the table to pack for your dates, then read the season notes below.
| Season | Typical high | What to wear |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | 70–85°F | Light layers, hat, sunscreen, bug spray |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | ~92°F | Breathable clothes, hat, sunglasses, water |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | 70–85°F | Light layers, sun protection, repellent |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | ~62°F | Layers, jacket or fleece, closed-toe shoes |
How Do You Dress for a Summer Swamp Tour?
Summer is hot and humid, with highs near 92°F and frequent afternoon showers. New Orleans averages about 62 inches of rain a year, most of it May through September, so pack for sun and the chance of a quick storm.
- Light, breathable, quick-dry clothing.
- A hat with a chin strap and sunglasses on a strap.
- Sunscreen applied before boarding, reapplied after.
- Water — hydration matters at 90-plus degrees.
The airboat may spray, so choose fabrics that dry fast. If you prefer shade, book the covered pontoon; our best season guide helps you time your visit.
What Do You Wear on a Winter Swamp Tour?
Winter is mild but cooler on the water. January highs average about 62°F, and morning departures at 8:00 am feel colder once the boat moves, so dress in layers you can remove as the day warms.
Wildlife shifts in winter too. Alligators become sluggish and stop feeding below about 70°F as they enter brumation, per the Smithsonian's National Zoo, so winter tours highlight birds and scenery. Louisiana's wetlands host more than 200 species of birds along the Mississippi Flyway.
- A warm jacket or fleece over a base layer.
- Closed-toe shoes and light gloves for early trips.
- A hat and sunglasses — winter sun still reflects off water.
How Should You Handle Sun and Bugs?
Sun and mosquitoes are the two constants in Louisiana. The subtropical sun is strong even on cloudy days, and bugs are busiest from spring through fall.
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen 15 minutes before boarding.
- Use insect repellent at the dock and during check-in.
- Wear a wide-brim hat and UV sunglasses.
- Consider light long sleeves for extra sun and bug cover.
The moving boat's breeze keeps most bugs away underway, but you will want protection while waiting to board. Arrive 15 to 30 minutes early so you have time to apply everything.
What Footwear and Gear Work Best?
Decks get wet, so footing matters. Choose closed-toe shoes or secured sandals with non-slip soles and a back strap.
- Water-friendly shoes for the airboat.
- A strap or waterproof case for your phone or camera.
- A small dry bag for essentials.
For family packing, see our swamp tour with kids guide, and compare boats on the airboat tour page.
What Should You Not Bring or Wear?
A few items cause problems on the water. Skip loose hats without straps, dangling jewelry, high heels, and anything you cannot afford to lose overboard.
- No loose flip-flops or heeled shoes.
- No unsecured hats or valuables on the airboat.
- No large bags — onboard storage is limited.
Dress smart for the season and you will stay comfortable for the full 1 hour 45 minutes. Pricing varies by boat and season — call 504-618-1692 to book your departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
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