What to Pack for Morocco: From Medinas to the Sahara
Move easily from Marrakech’s souks to dune camps with breathable layers, a scarf for dust, closed-toe sneakers, a light fleece for cold desert nights, and a soft-sided bag for narrow medina lanes.
Updated on September 29, 2025
We may earn commissions for purchases made via this page
Packing for Morocco can feel like juggling opposites: desert heat, mountain chill, and conservative city style. This guide explains what locals actually wear, how to stay comfortable in winding medinas, and which extras to skip so your bag stays light. Think breathable layers with modest coverage. Expect advice that fits riad mornings, souk afternoons, and Sahara horizons without overpacking.
Style here reads relaxed yet respectful. Loose, airy silhouettes in sand, indigo, and olive feel right beside zellige tiles, and clean sneakers handle long alleyways. By day the vibe is easy; after dark a single upgrade piece sharpens the look for tagine dinners without feeling fussy. One neat layer shifts you from souk to table.
Seasons swing more than maps suggest: spring and autumn hover around 50–77°F, summers inland run 86–104°F while the coast stays milder, and desert nights can drop below 50°F. The north sees rain from November to March, and dusty winds meet strong sun year round. Add one warm layer for nights.
From here, we build a lean capsule: layers and modest basics first, then footwear for cobbles and trails, sun and dust protection, a secure daybag setup, and a light rain and wind shell with a small first‑aid kit. We map seasonal tweaks for cities, the Atlas and the Sahara, flag what not to pack, highlight common mistakes, and close with power, money, and transport tips.
Part 1: Packing Essentials
Packing List
Adults
Clothing
Footwear
Essentials
Kids Clothing
Kids Footwear
Morocco Day Bag Checklist
What you'll carry for a typical day exploring the city.
Part 2: Style & Weather
Morocco Weather & Seasonal Packing Guide
Morocco's climate ranges from Mediterranean coasts and Atlantic-moderated cities to cool Rif and High Atlas highlands and the hot, dry Sahara. Spring and autumn generally sit around 50-77°F; summers inland hit 86-104°F while coastal zones stay milder. Desert nights can drop below 50°F. Rain concentrates Nov-Mar in the north. Sunny days and dusty winds shape medina navigation and desert plans.
Monthly Temperature Guide
| Month | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 61°F | 45°F |
| Feb | 61°F | 45°F |
| Mar | 64°F | 46°F |
| Apr | 70°F | 50°F |
| May | 77°F | 55°F |
| Jun | 84°F | 61°F |
| Jul | 93°F | 66°F |
| Aug | 93°F | 66°F |
| Sep | 86°F | 63°F |
| Oct | 79°F | 57°F |
| Nov | 70°F | 52°F |
| Dec | 63°F | 46°F |
Seasonal Insights
spring
Spring (Mar-May) varies from 50-77°F: warm days, cool mornings. Pack breathable layers, linen shirt, light merino, scarf for dust and a light wind/rain shell. Layers make medina mornings, Atlas day hikes and riad evenings comfortable.
summer
Summer (Jun-Aug) inland often 86-104°F while coast stays 72-82°F. Focus on loose cotton/linen, long-sleeve sun shirts, wide-brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen and breathable closed sandals. Plan early medina walks, siestas at midday and hydrate often.
fall
Fall (Sep-Nov) cools from 72-86°F early to 50-64°F by November. Bring mix-and-match layers, a light waterproof shell, scarf for dust and wind, and sturdy closed shoes for cobbles and wet streets. Evenings in riads call for a smarter mid-layer.
winter
Winter (Dec-Feb) brings rainy, chilly weather: coastal 50-61°F, inland lowlands 41-54°F and High Atlas often below 32°F with snow. Pack a waterproof shell, warm mid-layer (merino), insulated boots and hat. Allow extra time for mountain transfers.
Morocco Style Compass: Layered, Modest, Medina-Ready
Morocco blends desert heat, Atlantic breezes and mountain chill — a wardrobe built on breathable cottons and linens, merino mid-layers and quick-dry pieces. Aim for loose, mobile silhouettes that cover shoulders and knees when needed; add scarves, a lightweight shell and adaptable items that travel from souk to riad to Sahara dunes.
The Local Dress Code
Urban and rural areas skew conservative: women should be prepared to cover shoulders and knees in many towns and at religious sites; men should avoid beachwear away from the shore. Smart-casual works for riads and restaurants — choose tasteful, non-flashy pieces and a lightweight scarf for modesty and sun protection.
Breathable, modest layering for hot days and cool nights: sun and dust protection, medina-friendly soft luggage, and tailored evening pieces for riads and fine dining.
Style at a Glance
- • Loose, breathable silhouettes that can cover shoulders and knees
- • Layering: lightweight base, merino mid-layer, wind/rain shell
- • Neutral base palette with terracotta and saffron accents
- • Soft-sided luggage and secure crossbody daybag for medinas
- • Sun and dust protection: wide-brim hat, scarf and high-SPF sunscreen
Color Palette
Shopping in the City
Souks and small ateliers reward time and bargaining: buy textiles, leather goods and ceramics from artisans, use tailors for adjustments, and favor washable fabrics that stand up to sun and sand. Seek out neutral, travel-friendly cuts that fit the country’s modest expectations.
Brands to Look For
Beldi Atelier: Handmade kaftans, tunics and embroidered linens crafted by local artisans; ideal for lightweight coverups and riad evenings. Tailoring services often available for custom fits and shortened hems. ($$ - $$$)
Souk Studio: Contemporary takes on traditional Moroccan textiles: indigo-dyed pieces, saffron-tinged accents and travel-friendly linen blends that pair well with neutral bases. ($$ - $$$)
Aywa Crafts: Small-batch leather goods and sandals made in traditional workshops; choose muted tones and secure crossbody styles for medina navigation to minimize pickpocket risk. ($ - $$)
Maison Tazi: Homegrown label offering lightweight merino and cotton layers designed for temperature swings between hot days and cool 10°C nights in the desert and mountains. ($$ - $$$)
Atlas Atelier: Durable travel trousers, light utility jackets and tailored pieces suited to walking days and dinner in riads; practical, repair-friendly designs for multi-day trips. ($$ - $$$)
Where to Shop
Marrakech Medina: Textiles, scarves, leatherwork and custom tailoring in narrow souk alleys.
Fes Tanneries & Medina: Traditional leather goods, artisanal dyes and hand-stitched slippers.
Casablanca Habous: Smaller boutiques with contemporary Moroccan homewares and textiles.
Neighborhood Vibes
Marrakech Medina: A colorful, bustling mix of loose linen, layered scarves and low-profile crossbody bags. Opt for breathable tunics, relaxed trousers and comfortable closed footwear for cobbles and long souk walks; avoid ostentatious jewelry that draws attention.
Essaouira & Coast: Atlantic breezes favor light layers: linen shirts, breathable tees and windproof shells for 18–24°C coastal days. Sand-friendly slip-ons and closed-toe sandals work for promenades; bring a mid-layer for cooler evenings.
Atlas & Desert: Mountain and Sahara itineraries need versatile layering: quick-dry base layers, merino mid-layers for 5–10°C nights, and dust-ready scarves. Prioritize secure daypacks, sturdy ankle boots for uneven trails and washable fabrics for sandy conditions.
Seasonal Outfit Formulas
spring
Medina Morning — Exploring souks and riad courtyards on mild spring days (8–18°C mornings, 20–25°C afternoons).
- • white linen long-sleeve shirt: Breathable and covers shoulders in sunny souk lanes.
- • lightweight cotton midi skirt
- • white leather sneakers: Comfortable for cobbles and long walks.
- • large cotton scarf
Riad Evening — Smart-casual dinner in a riad courtyard; evenings can be cooler around 12–18°C.
summer
Sahara Day Ready — Hot desert days and cool nights; plan for 30–40°C daytime and drops to 8–12°C after sunset.
Coastal Promenade — Beachside towns and promenades with wind; coastal days often 20–26°C.
fall
Riad & Souk Layering — Autumn days vary 10–25°C; layers for warm afternoons and cooler mornings.
Mountain Village Walk — Day trips in the High Atlas with rocky trails and variable weather.
winter
Northern Rainy Days — Wet season in the north and mountains; expect rainy, chilly conditions and 8–15°C days.
Desert Winter Night — Overnight in dunes with cold nights near or below 10°C; layer up for sleeping and early mornings.
Footwear Guidelines
- • Primary: sturdy walking sneakers for cobbles and mixed terrain — choose breathable, supportive pairs.
- • Closed-toe sandals with straps are fine at beaches and promenades but avoid flimsy flip-flops in medinas.
- • Light ankle boots (leather or suede) work for Atlas treks and cooler evenings; treat with a protector for dust.
- • Pack comfortable slip-ons for riads and airport transitions; keep an easily accessible pair for security checks.
Accessory Guidelines
- • Carry a large lightweight scarf for sun, modesty and dust protection that doubles as a shawl in riads.
- • Wide-brim hat and high-SPF sunscreen are essential for inland and desert days — keep them in your daybag.
- • Choose low-profile crossbody bags with zip closures and interior pockets to reduce pickpocket risk.
- • Minimal, non-flashy jewelry only; leave standout pieces at home to avoid unwanted attention.
- • Pack a compact travel umbrella or packable wind/rain shell for Atlantic and mountain rainy spells.
What to Wear for Every Morocco Adventure
Wandering Medinas & Souks
Medina crowds mix narrow alleys, haggling vendors and uneven cobbles—dress discreetly and travel light for safe, comfortable exploration.
Staying in Riads & Guesthouses
Riads are tranquil hubs — pack for courtyard comfort, respectful dress, and relaxed evenings over mint tea or dinner.
Atlas Mountains Day Trips
Day treks to the Atlas expose you to altitude, rocky trails and rapid temperature swings—pack for mobility and changing conditions.
Desert Excursions & Overnight Dunes
Sahara trips demand sun, sand and night cold prep—protect skin, pack dust-proof gear and prepare for dramatic day‑night temperature shifts.
Coastal Promenades & Beach Time
Morocco's Atlantic beaches offer relaxed swims and sunny promenades—choose modest swimwear for towns and layer for cool coastal breezes.
Street Food & Tagine Dining
Morocco's food scene ranges from busy street stalls to intimate tagine restaurants—pack for comfort, hand hygiene and modest evening attire.
Shopping for Textiles & Leather
Souk shopping is a highlight—bring negotiation patience, a secure bag and flexible outfits that let you try on local textiles and garments.
Historical Sites & Museum Visits
From kasbahs to museums, visits require comfortable, respectful clothing and ability to handle steps, guards and photography rules.
Part 3: Expert Tips
What Not to Pack for Morocco
Save luggage space and avoid common overpacking mistakes by leaving these items behind.
- • Stiletto heels or fragile high heels: Stilettos are useless on cobbled medina streets, riad steps and Sahara sand; they damage easily and slow you down. Choose low-heeled closed-toe shoes, sturdy walking sneakers or light ankle boots instead.
- • Flashy or expensive jewelry: Loud jewelry attracts pickpockets in crowded souks and feels out of place in conservative towns. Opt for simple, inexpensive pieces, keep valuables in a hotel safe or use a discreet money belt instead.
- • Large hard-shell suitcase only: Oversized hard cases are hard to maneuver through narrow medina alleys and riad courtyards. Pack a soft-sided duffel or compact checked bag and a small daypack for steps and stairs.
- • Only open-toe sandals with no support: Packing just flimsy sandals ignores rocky mountain trails and cobbled streets; they offer poor protection in dunes and on stairs. Bring sturdy walking sneakers or closed-toe sandals with straps.
- • Heavy down parka (for most travelers): A bulky down coat is overkill except for High Atlas winter treks; desert nights can drop below 10°C but a merino mid-layer plus a compact wind/rain shell is more versatile.
- • Revealing outfits (crop tops, micro-shorts): Many towns and religious sites expect modest dress; very short or sheer clothing can draw unwanted attention. Pack lightweight linen tops, knee-length skirts or use a scarf to cover shoulders.
- • Single-use plastic water bottles in bulk: Carrying many disposable bottles creates waste and is unnecessary where refillable water is available. Bring a reusable bottle with a filter or buy local sealed bottles as needed.
- • Bulky paper guidebooks and maps: Heavy guidebooks add weight and quickly become outdated; they also take space you need for layers. Download offline maps, carry a concise phrasebook and use local guides or riad recommendations.
- • Large, obvious camera tripods or flashy gear: Big camera rigs draw attention in crowded souks and can be awkward on narrow alleys. Use a compact camera, small gorillapod, or keep equipment discreet and insured instead.
- • Formal ball gowns or tuxedos: Extravagant formalwear is rarely needed outside specific events and is impractical for riads or desert evenings. Pack one versatile smart-casual outfit or a tailored piece for fine dining instead.
Insider Morocco Packing Tips
Local wisdom and practical advice gathered from seasoned travelers and residents.
- • Layer for Big Temperature Swings: Pack lightweight layers—linen/cotton shirts, a merino midlayer and a wind shell. Daytime can hit 30–40°C inland while desert or Atlas nights fall below 10°C, so layers keep you comfortable.
- • Soft-sided Luggage for Medinas: Use a soft duffel or weekender with external pockets—medina alleys are narrow and steps require flexible bags. Soft sides squeeze past stalls and avoid damage on cobbles; easier to carry up riad stairs.
- • Secure Daybag & Money Organization: Carry a slash‑proof crossbody or money belt for souks. Keep small bills and coins accessible, split cash and cards between pockets. This prevents pickpocketing in crowded stalls and taxi hassles.
- • Sun & Dust Protection Kit: Bring a wide‑brim hat, high‑SPF sunscreen, UV sunglasses and a light scarf to shield dust. Sand can sting and sun is strong—protection keeps skin safe and lenses clear for long days in the medina or Sahara.
- • Footwear for Mixed Terrain: Choose sturdy walking sneakers and closed‑toe sandals with good grip. Medinas have cobbles and steps, Atlas trails are rocky and desert transfers have sand—stable shoes prevent blisters and slips.
- • Pack a Light Scarf for Modesty & Function: A light cotton or linen scarf doubles as a modest cover for sites, a sun shield, and a dust barrier in the Sahara. Easy to fold in a daypack, it respects local norms and solves multiple weather needs.
- • Bring Quick‑Drys & Plan Laundry: Pack quick‑dry underwear and shirts—riads and guesthouses often offer laundry but remote deserts don’t. Quick‑dry fabrics keep you fresh on multiday trips and solve limited wardrobe space.
- • Prepare for Rain in the North and Mountains: Pack a compact waterproof shell for Rabat, Casablanca and Atlas treks—north rains run Nov–Mar. A breathable rain jacket keeps you dry without overheating on changeable mountain hikes.
- • Adapters, Power & Phone Prep: Bring a Type C/E adapter and a charged power bank; riads have outlets but plugs vary. Download offline maps and phrasebooks—connectivity dips in rural areas and desert transfers lack reliable Wi‑Fi.
- • Respectful Evening & Dining Wear: Pack one smart-casual outfit—lightweight trousers or a midi dress and a blazer for riad dinners and fine dining. It’s respectful and practical; many restaurants prefer smart attire after sunset.
- • Sahara-Specific Gear for Overnight Trips: For Sahara nights, pack a warm insulating midlayer, closed shoes, and a bandana or goggles for blowing sand. Temps can drop below 10°C at night—prepare for cold after hot daytime dunes.
- • Negotiate & Pre‑Agree Prices: Always agree fares before hopping into petit taxis and confirm guides' prices in riads. Bargain politely in souks—pre‑agreed rates avoid misunderstandings and protect you from common tourist haggling scams.
Morocco Travel FAQs
Common questions from fellow travelers, answered with local insight and practical experience.
What should I wear in Moroccan medinas and riads?
How do I pack for big day/night temperature swings?
Which shoes are best for medinas, mountains and dunes?
How should I secure money and valuables in busy souks?
What gear do I need for a Sahara overnight trip?
Will I need a rain or wind shell in different seasons and places?
Can I rely on cards and ATMs in rural Morocco and medinas?
Common Morocco packing mistakes and fixes
Learn from others' experiences to avoid these common packing pitfalls and travel more comfortably.
Ignoring big day–night temperature swings
Assuming daytime heat lasts: Sahara days are hot but desert nights can fall below 10°C and Atlas evenings chill. Pack a lightweight insulating mid‑layer (merino/fleece), a scarf and thin down for nights.
Packing only sandals and flimsy shoes
Only bringing sandals ignores cobbled medina alleys, rocky Atlas trails and sand tracks. Bring sturdy walking sneakers, a pair of closed‑toe strapped sandals and light ankle boots; slip‑ons for riads and showers.
Using obvious tourist bags or flashy gear
Wearing flashy cameras, obvious tourist backpacks or jewelry makes you a target in souks. Use low-profile crossbody or money belt, soft-sided luggage for medina alleys, conceal valuables and avoid large visible cash.
Not planning for laundry or quick‑dry clothing
Expect limited laundry in remote areas and bring quick‑dry fabrics. Pack travel soap, a lightweight sink bag or plan riad laundry every 4–7 days. Choose washable pieces and a spare outfit for desert transfers.
Assuming cards and English are everywhere
Expect cash-centric transactions in souks and remote towns; cards or English may be unreliable. Carry small MAD bills and coins, notify your bank, have an ATM backup and download offline maps and a basic French/Arabic phrasebook.
Ready for Your Adventure
You're ready for Morocco. Embrace its medinas, riads and Sahara dunes with confidence: pack lightweight breathable layers for big day-night swings (desert nights can drop below 10°C), bring sun and dust protection - wide-brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen and a scarf - and choose a soft-sided, theft-aware daybag or money belt for busy souks. Morocco's warm colors, textiles and welcoming rhythms await; travel curious, travel respectful, and enjoy every discovery.
