What to Pack for Morocco: A Practical Travel Checklist

Posted on May 14, 2025 | Julie J. |

Packing for Morocco isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. Between the snowy peaks of the Atlas Mountains, the golden dunes of the Sahara, the Atlantic coast, and the maze-like medinas, this country packs a lot of beautiful places into a relatively small space—and your suitcase needs to be just as versatile.

During my trip, I found myself peeling off layers in the midday sun and bundling up at night in the desert. I also quickly realized that having the right shoes for the cobbled streets (and the right scarf for a sudden dust storm) made all the difference. Morocco’s mix of cultures, climates, and customs calls for a thoughtful packing list—one that strikes the right balance between respectful, practical, and comfortable.

I packed clothes for a week and everything fitted into a carry-on. The mistake I made was not thinking about what I’d be wearing on laundry day and ended up having to choose between doing laundry every few days or wearing clothes for longer than I’d liked.

Here’s everything I’d recommend bringing, based on firsthand experience and a few lessons learned the hard way.

Table of Contents show

Essential Documents & Travel Basics

Before thinking about clothes or gadgets, make sure you have your travel essentials in order. These are the non-negotiables you’ll want to double-check before heading to the airport:

Passport – Valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
Travel insurance – Strongly recommended; Morocco has excellent private healthcare, but costs can add up without coverage.
Visa (if required) – Most nationalities can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days, but always confirm based on your passport.
Flight & accommodation confirmations – Printed copies can come in handy, especially when internet access is spotty.
Cash (Dirhams) & Cards – ATMs are common in cities, but cash is king in markets and smaller towns. Bring a no-foreign-transaction-fee card if possible.
Travel adapter – Morocco uses European-style Type C and E outlets (220V).
Copies of important documents – A few paper and digital backups never hurt.

Clothing & Accessories

Morocco’s diverse climate and cultural expectations mean you’ll want a wardrobe that’s both adaptable and respectful. Layers are key, and comfort is non-negotiable.

For Women:

Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing – Maxi dresses, wide-leg pants, and tunics are great for staying cool while keeping covered.
Scarf or shawl – Handy for sun protection, visiting religious sites, or extra warmth at night.
Light sweater or jacket – Essential for chilly desert evenings or breezy coastal cities.
Comfortable walking shoes – Think sturdy sandals, sneakers, or ankle boots for cobbled medina streets.
Swimsuit – For riads with pools or a beach day in Essaouira or Agadir.

For Men:

Lightweight pants and breathable shirts – Shorts are fine in touristy areas but less common among locals.
Button-down or polo shirts – Useful for looking a bit more polished in cities.
Sweater or jacket – Temperatures can drop quickly after sunset.
Comfortable shoes – You’ll be doing a lot of walking, often on uneven surfaces.

Accessories for All:

Sunhat or cap – Especially helpful in the desert.
Sunglasses
Daypack or crossbody bag – Useful for day trips and keeping valuables close in crowded places.
Reusable water bottle

Pack jeans (or warmer pants) and more sweaters if you’re traveling during wintertime.

Toiletries & Personal Care Items

While you’ll find pharmacies and small shops in most cities, it’s smart to bring your personal essentials—especially if you have preferred brands or plan to venture off the beaten path.

Essentials:

Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
Shampoo, conditioner, body wash (travel-sized or solid versions are handy)
Deodorant
Sunscreen (high SPF recommended, especially for the desert)
Lip balm with SPF
Moisturizer – the dry climate can be tough on skin
Razor and shaving cream
Menstrual products – bring enough if you use specific brands, as availability can be limited
Wet wipes and hand sanitizer – very useful for market days, long bus rides, or remote areas
Tissues or toilet paper – not always provided in public restrooms

Optional but useful:

Travel towel (quick-dry)
Nail clippers and tweezers
Basic makeup items and makeup remover
Small first-aid kit

Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakesh, Morocco — *Marrakesh*

Electronics & Travel Gear

Morocco’s mix of traditional and modern makes it a place where you’ll want a few handy devices, especially if you’re planning to capture the sights, stay connected, or navigate around on your own.

Electronics to Pack:

Phone + charger – with plenty of storage for photos
Portable power bank – for long day trips or desert overnights
Universal travel adapter – Morocco uses type C and E plugs (European-style two round pins), 220V
Camera – optional, but worth it if you want high-quality photos
E-reader or tablet – great for downtime or long travel legs
Headphones or earbuds – useful for bus rides or relaxing with music

Other Handy Travel Gear:

Packing cubes – to keep your bag organized
Dry bag or zip pouches – to protect electronics or important documents from dust or moisture
Flashlight or headlamp – can be useful in the desert or riads with dim lighting

Cultural & Practical Tips

Packing for Morocco isn’t just about clothes and gadgets—it’s also about being prepared to travel respectfully and comfortably in a different cultural context. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas. While touristy cities like Marrakesh are more relaxed, you’ll feel more comfortable (and avoid unwanted attention) if you cover shoulders, cleavage, and knees—especially as a woman traveler.
Slip-on shoes are a win. You’ll be taking your shoes off in some riads, certain shops, or when visiting local homes, so shoes you can easily remove are handy.
Bring your own toilet paper or tissues. Public restrooms may not always be stocked, so a small pack of tissues or toilet paper in your day bag goes a long way.
Hand sanitizer is essential. Soap isn’t always guaranteed in public facilities, so keep sanitizer on you at all times.
Learn a few phrases. A couple of words in French or Moroccan Arabic (Darija) can go a long way in daily interactions. It’s also a respectful way to connect with locals.
Respect local customs during Ramadan. If your visit overlaps with Ramadan, be discreet when eating or drinking in public during the day, especially outside tourist zones.

View of Chefchaouen from the Spanish Mosque — *Chefchaouen*

Final Thoughts

Packing for Morocco doesn’t have to be complicated — the key is to strike a balance between comfort, cultural respect, and practicality. Whether you’re wandering the medinas of Marrakesh, hiking through the Atlas Mountains, or sleeping under the stars in the Sahara, a little planning goes a long way. Think layers, modest clothing, and practical accessories that make your journey smoother.

With this list in hand, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy everything Morocco has to offer — from its rich traditions and flavors to its stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.

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