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Packing for the desert is simpler than it seems, but there are a few things that really make a difference. This is the list we send our travellers before they leave.
The golden rule: dress in layers
In the desert it’s hot by day and cool (or cold) at night. Instead of a single heavy garment, bring several light layers: a T-shirt, a long-sleeved shirt, a sweatshirt and a jacket. That way you can adapt to every hour of the day.
Clothes
- Light T-shirts and one or two long-sleeved shirts for the sun
- Comfortable long trousers: they protect you from the sun and are more practical on a camel
- A sweatshirt or fleece for the evening
- A warm jacket from November to March
- A large scarf or a turban: it protects you from sun and sand (you can also buy one in Morocco and have someone show you how to tie it)
- Swimsuit, if your hotel has a pool
Shoes
You can walk barefoot on the sand very comfortably when it isn’t too hot. Otherwise bring light closed shoes or sports sandals. Avoid low-cut canvas shoes: they fill with sand within a few steps.
The backpack for the night at camp
You don’t need your suitcase for the night in the desert: it stays safe in the vehicle or at the hotel. In your backpack pack:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste and wet wipes
- A change of clothes and a jacket for the evening
- A headlamp or charged phone
- Personal medicines
- A power bank
Sun and sand
- Sunglasses, preferably wraparound
- High-factor sunscreen and lip balm
- A hat
- A plastic bag or case to protect your camera and phone from the sand
Documents and money
Carry your passport on excursions too (there are checkpoints in some areas) and some cash in dirhams: in desert villages cards don’t always work and the nearest cash machines are in Rissani and Erfoud.
What to leave at home
Overly smart clothes, high heels, too much jewellery and the big suitcase for the night at camp. And you don’t need heavy-duty repellent: mosquitoes are rare in the desert.
Not sure what to bring for your travel dates? Write to us: we’ll send you the right list for the season. And if you want to choose your experience already, take a look at the desert night by camel.
