Packing list for a desert tour in Morocco

Packing for a desert tour in Morocco is not about bringing a lot of things, but about bringing the right ones. A route to the Sahara usually combines road trips, changes in temperature, a night in camp and time outdoors in an environment where the sun, wind and sand are very present.

Many travelers hesitate between two extremes: carrying too much for fear of forgetting something important or traveling so light that they end up missing basic clothes for the night or for the journey. The recommended thing is in the middle point. The goal is not to be loaded, but to be prepared.

In this guide you will find a practical list to know what to put in your backpack or suitcase if you are going on a desert tour in Morocco, especially towards Merzouga or Erg Chebbi.

1. Comfortable and easy-to-match clothes

The desert does not require complex technical clothing, but it does require functional clothing. The ideal is to dress in layers and avoid uncomfortable or too heavy pieces.

Recommended basics

• breathable t-shirts,
• a light sweatshirt or sweater,
• a jacket for the evening,
• comfortable pants,
• enough underwear for the tour,
• Socks that don't get in the way on long rides.

If your route lasts several days, you don't need a complete change for each moment. Practical and easy to repeat clothes are enough.

2. A piece of outerwear yes or yes

This point surprises many travelers. Although it may be hot during the day, nights in the desert can be cold, especially between fall and winter or early spring.

Even in mild months, it is a good idea to bring at least one warm layer for the afternoon and evening. A light jacket, a thin fleece or a sweater with something warm can make a big difference.

3. Comfortable footwear, not necessarily specialized

It is not necessary to wear hiking boots if you are not going to do demanding hiking. For most desert tours, closed-toe, comfortable footwear already worn before the trip is best.

Good options

• comfortable slippers,
• light boots if you like them,
• resistant sandals for specific moments if you travel in the warm season.

The important thing is that they do not hurt you, that they allow you to walk on sand and that they hold up well for several hours of travel and small stops.

4. Sun protection

The sun in southern Morocco can be intense, even when the environment does not seem extremely hot. Therefore, there are three elements that should almost always be carried:

• sunglasses,
• sun cream,
• cap, hat or scarf.

This is especially important if you do camel riding, sunset photography or long stops under the open sky.

5. A light scarf or scarf

Few things are as practical in the desert as a light scarf. It serves to protect you from the sun, the wind, some sand and can also be useful at certain times for simple comfort.

It is not necessary to buy anything very elaborate before traveling. A large, light scarf is enough. Plus, on many routes you can buy one locally if you feel like using it during the experience.

6. Small overnight camping backpack

If you spend the night in a desert camp, you won't always want to carry your entire suitcase with you to the tent. On many circuits it is more practical to leave the main luggage in the vehicle and prepare a small backpack with what you need for that night.

What to put in that backpack

• light shedding,
• basic toiletry bag,
• charger or external battery,
• personal medication,
• jacket,
• water,
• mobile or camera.

This small organization makes the experience much more comfortable.

7. Water and small snacks

On most tours you can buy water during the journey, but it is advisable to carry at least one bottle on hand. It can also be useful to keep some simple snacks, especially if you are sensitive to changes in meal times or if you take long road trips.

There is no need to exaggerate, but some nuts, cookies or something light can come in handy.

8. Practical hygiene items

A small and functional toiletry bag is better than a huge one. For a route to the desert it is usually enough to:

• toothbrush and toothpaste,
• wipes,
• deodorant,
• hair brush,
• essential personal products,
• lip balm,
• moisturizing cream if your skin dries easily.

Dry air, wind and sun exposure cause lips and skin to suffer more than usual.

9. Technology: less, but well thought out

There is no need to take half an electronic device to the Sahara. The important thing is to cover what is necessary.

Recommended

• mobile,
• charger,
• external battery,
• camera if you are really going to use it,
• adapter if you need it according to your country.

An external battery is often especially useful if you take a lot of photos or recording while traveling.

10. Documentation and money

Never leave this to the last minute. On any trip through Morocco, and even more so on a long route, it is advisable to always carry with you:

• passport,
• some cash in dirhams,
• digital copy of reservations,
• travel insurance if you have it,
• telephone number of the operator or driver.

Do not put important documentation in the bottom of the suitcase. Keep it accessible, but safe.

11. What you don't need to bring

Just as important as knowing what to put in is knowing what you can leave out. In many cases there is excess luggage because the traveler imagines a scenario that is more complicated than it really is.

It is usually not necessary to carry:

• too many changes of clothes,
• unnecessary extra shoes,
• bulky objects just in case,
• excessive cosmetics,
• very elegant clothes that you are not going to wear.

In the desert, simple, comfortable and adaptable things work best.

12. How to adapt the suitcase according to the season

Spring and autumn

These are very grateful seasons, but it is still important to wear layers because the difference between day and night can be noticed.

Summer

Light clothing, sun protection and plenty of hydration are priorities. Still, don't forget a light layer for the night or the vehicle's air conditioning.

Winter

During the day the weather can be pleasant, but the night in the desert is usually quite cold. Here it is advisable to reinforce the shelter part.

Conclusion

The best packing list for a desert tour in Morocco is not the longest, but the most useful. Comfortable clothing, a warm layer, sun protection, simple shoes, basic personal items and a small well-thought-out backpack are usually more than enough.

When you pack your suitcase logically, the trip becomes lighter in every way. And that matters a lot in an experience where the best is not in what you have on you, but in the landscape, the silence, the evening light and the feeling of being very far from the usual rhythm.