What to Pack for Morocco (And What to Leave Behind)
Packing for Morocco can be tricky – you'll encounter diverse climates from coastal cities to mountain peaks to desert dunes, all while respecting local cultural norms. Here's your comprehensive guide to packing smart for Morocco.
Essential Clothing Items
For Women
**Long-sleeved shirts**: Lightweight cotton or linen**Long pants/maxi skirts**: Covering ankles**Modest tops**: No low necklines or revealing cuts**Light cardigan**: For air-conditioned spaces and mosques**Comfortable flats**: For walking on cobblestones**Sandals with straps**: Avoid flip-flops in citiesFor Men
**Long pants**: Essential for religious sites**Collared shirts**: Short or long-sleeve cotton**Lightweight sweater**: For mountain areas and desert nights**Closed-toe shoes**: For mosque visits**Comfortable walking shoes**: For medina explorationFor Everyone
**Layers**: Temperature varies greatly between day/night**Hat with brim**: Essential sun protection**Sunglasses**: High UV protection**Light scarf**: Versatile for women's head covering when neededClimate-Specific Packing
Desert Areas (Merzouga, Zagora)
**Warm layers**: Desert nights can be surprisingly cold**Light colors**: Reflect heat during the day**Closed shoes**: Protect from sand**Bandana**: Keep sand out of nose/mouthMountain Regions (Atlas Mountains)
**Waterproof jacket**: Weather changes quickly**Warm layers**: Even in summer, mornings are cool**Hiking boots**: If you plan to trek**Gloves and warm hat**: For winter visitsCoastal Cities (Essaouira, Casablanca)
**Light jacket**: Ocean breeze can be cool**Swimwear**: For hotel pools (not public beaches)**Windbreaker**: Essaouira is particularly windyTech and Electronics
Must-Bring
**Universal adapter**: Morocco uses European plugs (Type C/E)**Power bank**: For long days of sightseeing**Offline maps**: Download Google Maps offline**VPN app**: Some services may be restrictedConsider Leaving Behind
**Hair dryer**: Most hotels provide them**Multiple devices**: Keep it simple to avoid theft riskToiletries and Health
Essential Items
**Sunscreen SPF 30+**: Moroccan sun is intense**Hand sanitizer**: Not always available**Basic first aid**: Band-aids, pain relievers**Insect repellent**: For rural areas**Probiotics**: Help your stomach adjust to new foodWhat's Available Locally
**Shampoo/soap**: Pharmacies are everywhere**Toothpaste**: International brands widely available**Contact solution**: Available in major citiesMoney and Documents
Must-Have Documents
**Passport**: Valid for 6+ months**Travel insurance**: Print and digital copies**Hotel confirmations**: Some places still require printed copies**Emergency contacts**: Keep separate from phoneMoney Tips
**Cash**: ATMs can be unreliable in rural areas**Credit cards**: Notify your bank of travel plans**Money belt**: Keep valuables secureCultural Considerations
Respectful Choices
**Conservative clothing**: Especially for rural areas and religious sites**No alcohol**: Don't pack it – it's controlled and expensive**Modest swimwear**: For hotel pools onlyGifts from Home
**Small gifts**: For hosts or new friends you might make**Business cards**: If traveling for work**Photos of your hometown**: Great conversation startersWhat NOT to Pack
Clothing to Avoid
**Shorts**: Inappropriate in most contexts**Tank tops**: Too revealing for local standards**Flip-flops**: Impractical for walking and culturally insensitive**Expensive jewelry**: Risk of theft and draws attentionItems to Leave Home
**Drones**: Heavily regulated, can be confiscated**Military-style clothing**: Can cause problems at checkpoints**Pork products**: Prohibited for religious reasons**Prescription drugs**: Without proper documentationPacking Tips by Season
Spring/Fall (March-May, September-November)
**Light layers**: Perfect for variable temperatures**Rain jacket**: Spring can have occasional showers**Comfortable walking shoes**: Ideal weather for explorationSummer (June-August)
**Minimal clothing**: But still modest**Sun protection**: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen**Cooling towel**: For desert areasWinter (December-February)
**Warm layers**: Mountains and desert nights are cold**Waterproof shoes**: Possible rain in coastal areas**Warm hat and gloves**: Essential for mountain regionsSample Packing List (7-day trip)
Clothing
3 long-sleeve shirts2 short-sleeve shirts (modest necklines)3 pairs long pants1 light sweater/cardigan7 underwear sets1 pair comfortable walking shoes1 pair sandals1 hat1 light scarfAccessories
SunglassesDay pack for excursionsMoney beltUniversal adapterPower bankCameraToiletries
Travel-size basicsSunscreenHand sanitizerAny prescription medicationsFirst aid basicsFinal Packing Wisdom
**Pack light**: You'll want room for souvenirs like rugs, pottery, and spices.
**Check airline restrictions**: Especially for connecting flights through European hubs.
**Layer smartly**: It's easier to remove layers than to wish you had them.
**Respect the culture**: When in doubt, dress more conservatively.
**Leave room for shopping**: Morocco has incredible textiles, leather goods, and crafts.
Remember, you can buy almost anything you forget in Morocco's cities, often at great prices. The key is bringing the right base items that will keep you comfortable and respectful throughout your journey.
Safe travels, and enjoy your Moroccan adventure!
