Morocco spans cool Atlas mornings, sunny medina afternoons, and breezy desert nights. Pack light, layer smart, and focus on items that earn their space every day.
The 21 essentials
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Lightweight long-sleeve shirt (sun + modesty).
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Breathable trousers (quick-dry if possible).
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Warm mid-layer (fleece/sweater; desert & winter).
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Packable jacket (wind/rain shell; Atlas & winter showers).
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Comfortable walking shoes (cobbles + dust).
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Grip sandals (for riad courtyards and coast).
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Scarf/bandana (sun, dust, impromptu head cover).
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Sun hat or cap (wide brim helps).
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UV sunglasses.
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Refillable water bottle (many riads offer filtered water).
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Power bank + cables.
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Universal travel adapter (Type C/E/F common).
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Phone with offline maps (download medina + desert areas).
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Photocopies of passport (and digital backups).
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Small first-aid kit (plasters, pain reliever, rehydration salts).
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Hand sanitizer & tissues (for on-the-go).
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SPF 30+ sunscreen and SPF lip balm.
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Lightweight daypack (zips securely).
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Earplugs & sleep mask (courtyards echo, dawn calls to prayer).
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Travel laundry soap (sink washes on longer circuits).
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Snacks (nuts, cereal bars for road stretches).
Seasonal tweaks
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Nov–Feb: Add beanie, gloves for desert nights; thicker mid-layer.
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Jun–Aug: Prioritize breathable fabrics; plan midday breaks.
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Shoulder seasons: Versatile layers; light jacket still useful.
What to wear (quick guide)
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Cities/medinas: Modest, breathable outfits; shoulders/knees coverage is respectful and sun-smart.
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Atlas & desert: Layer up; mornings and nights can surprise you.
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Hammam day: Pack flip-flops, swimsuit (if required), small quick-dry towel.
Tech & admin tips
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Download translation and maps for offline use.
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Keep cash for small purchases—ATMs can be sporadic outside cities.
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Save your riad meeting points with photos; alleys look similar at night.
What not to bring
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Heavy jeans (dry slowly), bulky hair tools (many riads provide), and valuables you’d worry about 24/7.
Packing mindset: You can buy most things locally if needed—leave space for rugs, ceramics, and argan oil.
