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19 Top Morocco Packing List Items for 2023 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

19 Top Morocco Packing List Items for 2023 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring
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A mere mention of its name evokes images of camel caravans in the desert, people in flowing robes, and markets packed with exotic spices –Morocco is a place Westerners dream of. But as when traveling to any country that feels so foreign, first-time travelers will be questioning, “What do I need to pack for Morocco?”

This Morocco packing list includes everything you’ll need during your trip, and you can scroll down for some tips on what to wear in Morocco and what to pack for different seasons as well. There’s also a list of things NOT to bring, as well as answers to many of the most frequently asked questions about traveling in Morocco.

19 Top Morocco Packing List Items for 2023 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring
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What to Pack for Morocco – 19 Essentials

  • 1. Packing Cubes

    Using packing cubes makes staying organized on the road easier than ever. Instead of putting clothes directly into your bag where they’ll inevitably get unfolded and mixed up, pack them into different colorful cubes. Instead of having to dig through your entire bag to find one specific item, you’ll know right away where it is and can simply pull out the cube it’s packed in.

    aqua packing cubes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Jet Lag Relief

    For travelers coming from far and wide, you’re likely to experience the effects of jet lag after a long flight to Morocco. To combat and prevent this, we recommend bringing natural jet lag relief tablets like these which will alleviate your negative symptoms. Make the most of your first day in Morocco instead of falling prey to the effects of jet lag!

    Jet Lag Relief

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    Investing in a VPN is a good idea any time you travel. Whether you’re connecting to public WiFi in a hotel, airport, or internet cafe, you run the risk of your personal information such as passwords and credit card numbers getting hacked. Using a VPN  like NordVPN will protect you from potential hackers and will also grant you access to websites from your home country that may be censored or unavailable in the country you’re traveling to.

    Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    View NordVPN.com Options ➜

  • 4. Morocco Power Adapter

    As in Europe, power outlets in Morocco take two round pins (and may or may not be grounded), so you’ll definitely need to bring a power adapter. This universal adapter will cover you for Morocco, and almost every other place you might be visiting before or after. It also has built-in device protection via a safety fuse which is awesome.

    Morocco Power Adapter

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Tunic or Long, Modest Tops

    When it comes to dressing for Morocco, the conservative culture and predominance of Islam means modesty is the name of the game for both men and women. Tunic tops are ideal for women because they provide sufficient coverage and are comfortable in the heat if made from a lightweight fabric, like this one. Long, modest tops will go a long way in Morocco as far as helping you to blend in properly and respect the culture.

    Tunic or Long, Modest Tops

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Neck Wallet

    Whenever you’re traveling to a foreign place, you’ll want to feel that your important belongings are safe and secure. This neck wallet is perfect for holding your passport, phone, credit cards, and cash all in its separate pockets, which will keep your valuables organized and easily accessible. Wear it under your clothes to protect yourself from pickpockets, especially when visiting particularly crowded or touristy locations like markets and bazaars.

    Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO”.

    hero neck wallet

    or View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 7. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    An invaluable item to bring on a trip overseas is a reliable, lipstick-sized portable charger. Especially if you’re using your smartphone for navigation, translation, and photos, you won’t want to find yourself stuck in a situation where you’ve run out of battery. Stick this small portable charger in your purse or pocket to have as a backup battery when you need it most. This will really come in handy if you’re lost and don’t speak the language!

    Lipstick-Sized Charger

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 8. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    You’ll find so many uses for a travel towel on your trip to Morocco. Use it to dry off after going for a swim, sit on it at the beach, or keep the sweat out of your eyes when you’re out exploring or hiking. Travel towels dry quickly, repel odors and sand, and fit compactly in any bag. I don’t go on any trip without one.

    HERO Travel Towel - Blue

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Cooling Towel

    Home to part of the Sahara Desert, it’s no surprise that Morocco is HOT. If you sometimes struggle to stand the heat, I have the perfect solution, cooling towels. These small but mighty towels pack an icy punch as soon as you wet them. They drop to 20 to 30 degrees colder than the air temperature and feel so refreshing. Be sure to bring one with you whether you’re relaxing on the beach, hitting the town, or exploring the Sahara on camelback.

    towel pink

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 10. Modest Swimsuit

    If your itinerary includes spending time on the coast, a swimsuit will be another of your Morocco packing essentials. The country’s standards of conservative dress are relaxed at the beach, but both men and women should err on the side of modesty when choosing a swimsuit and beach cover up.

    Modest Swimsuit

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    An unexpectedly useful item to bring to Morocco is a good travel umbrella. If you plan to travel during the rainy season, you’ll be glad you have a sturdy umbrella and raincoat to protect you from the elements. During the summer, beat Morocco’s oppressive heat by using your umbrella to shield you from the hot rays of the sun.

    travel umbrella

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 12. Activated Charcoal

    You’ll be glad you packed activated charcoal if you end up eating something your stomach doesn’t agree with in Morocco, which is likely, as your body won’t be used to the spices, foods, and germs in a foreign place. These capsules will absorb any toxins in your stomach and put a stop to the travelers’ diarrhea that could otherwise ruin your trip. Don’t leave home without them!

    Activated Charcoal

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 13. LifeStraw Water Bottle

    In Morocco’s hot climate, you’ll need to make sure to stay hydrated, so it’s a good idea to always keep a bottle of water with you. While bottled water is available for purchase in most parts of the country as the tap water is unsafe to drink, you’ll save money and reduce your environmental footprint by bringing a reusable bottle with a reliable filter like this one.

    LifeStraw Water Bottle

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. Travel Insurance for Morocco

    Travel insurance probably isn’t the most exciting item on your Morocco checklist, but it’s a crucial one. Even if you don’t end up needing it – and hopefully you won’t – just knowing you have it provides some peace of mind. And if something unexpected happens that leaves you needing insurance, it will be a lifesaver. We always use TravelInsurance.com to compare policies from top companies and find the plan that’s best for us.

    travelinsurance.com

    Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

  • 15. Comfortable, Breathable Walking Shoes

    If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing in Morocco, there’s no doubt you’ll need a great pair of comfortable, breathable walking shoes. The weather can get quite hot, so you’ll need shoes like these, that you can wear all day without your feet getting overheated. Whether you’re on a walking tour of Casablanca, strolling through the bazaars of Marrakech, or getting lost in the charming blue streets of Chefchaouen, your feet will thank you for bringing a good pair of walking shoes!

    Comfortable, Breathable Walking Shoes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 16. Theft Proof Backpack

    It’s always wise to bring along a small and stylish daypack for excursions and outings while in Morocco. We recommend this anti-theft backpack which is perfect for carrying all your important belongings and keeping them secure and out of reach from pickpockets. With several hidden pockets and and an anti-theft zipper, you can’t go wrong with this trendy and useful bag.

    Theft Proof Backpack

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 17. Shawl or Scarf

    With endless functions, a scarf or shawl is one of the most useful things to bring to Morocco. In addition to dressing up a casual outfit, you can also throw it on over a tank top or low-cut shirt for more coverage, use it to cover your head when entering Mosques and holy sites, or use it to keep sand out of your face in the desert. A scarf like this one is totally essential for any trip to North Africa.

    Shawl or Scarf

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 18. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

    It’s great to travel with a “just in case” bag like this one. It’s compact and takes up barely any space in your luggage, so much so that you’ll forget you even packed it until the end of your trip when you’ll need it to bring home all your Moroccan souvenirs. Use it as a beach bag or for any other unexpected need that may arise, and easily attach the duffel to your suitcase handle for hassle free transport at the airport or around the country.

    Packable “Just in Case” Bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 19. Deodorant Wipes

    As we’ve mentioned before, Morocco can certainly get hot, especially during the summer months. It’s great to have deodorant wipes on hand to refresh during long days of sightseeing, hiking, or trekking through the vast desert. These wipes will keep you feeling and smelling clean, which trust us, you’ll need, throughout your adventure in Morocco.

    Deodorant Wipes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

What Should I Wear in Morocco?

It’s always a little tricky to figure out what to wear in a place with hot weather and a conservative culture. Clothing for Morocco must be modest, especially for women. With few exceptions, your shoulders, knees, cleavage, and midriff should stay covered, so leave things like miniskirts, shorts, and crop tops at home. T-shirts, tunic tops, and capri pants are all acceptable clothes for Morocco, as are longer skirts and dresses, and women will also want to bring a headscarf for visiting mosques. Expectations for men are more forgiving, but sleeveless shirts should be avoided; collared shirts and long pants are the ideal Morocco wardrobe for males.

For both men and women, you’ll want to bring nicer clothes than you might imagine. Especially in the cities, Moroccans tend to be fashionable and to dress up a bit. To stay as comfortable as possible in the hot weather, choose clothes made from lightweight, breathable fabrics. However, you’ll also want a light jacket for the evenings, as well as warmer clothes if you’re visiting in the winter or planning to go up into the mountains. Morocco also has some great hiking, so bring your activewear and clothes that are easily layered if you want to hit the trail.

The best footwear for Morocco will be comfortable walking shoes, whether they’re sneakers, loafers, or flats, and you’ll also probably want a pair of flip-flops or other sandals.

How to Pack for the Seasons in Morocco

Winter: December, January, February

Morocco’s climate varies dramatically throughout the country, but winter is the rainy season in many areas, so pack your rain jacket and umbrella. You’ll also want at least a medium-weight jacket and close-toed shoes for visiting the coast and full winter wear – a warm coat, hat, gloves, and boots – for the mountains.

Spring: March, April, May

The rain continues into early spring in some regions, so be sure to pack your rain gear, as well as a light jacket.

Summer: June, July, August

Morocco in the summer is incredibly hot. You may want a light jacket, especially if you go into the mountains, but otherwise loose-fitting, lightweight clothes made from breathable fabrics will be the most comfortable.

Autumn: September, October, November

Early autumn is still extremely hot in much of Morocco, while the rain starts by the end of the season. Pack lightweight clothes and a light jacket, and bring an umbrella if you visit in November.

What NOT to Take to Morocco

  • 1.DON’T PACK short-shorts or miniskirts

    Women’s clothing for Morocco should be modest, and covering your thighs and knees is most important. Leave your shorts and short skirts at home.

  • 2.DON’T TAKE lots of cash

    Except in the most rural areas, there are ATMs throughout Morocco, and they are easy to find in all the larger cities and major tourist destinations. Since you’ll be able to withdraw money once you’re there, don’t bring a bunch of cash with you.

  • 3.DON’T BRING unnecessary valuables

    Morocco is safe to visit, but it’s always possible for things to get lost or stolen while you’re traveling, and flashing valuables can make you a target. Bring the things you’ll actually need on your trip – like a camera – and leave the rest at home.

  • 4.DON’T PACK books

    You’ll probably have a chance to catch up on some reading during your trip, but a bunch of books will seriously weigh down your bag. Bring a Kindle instead, which takes up as much space as a single book and can hold more titles than you’ll ever read.

  • 5.DON’T BRING a mosquito net

    Some Morocco packing lists suggest bringing a net to protect against mosquitoes and other critters. But most any hotel in Morocco will provide a net if you need one, and probably won’t have a way for you to hang up your own.

  • 6.DON’T TAKE a sleeping bag

    Sometimes people suggesting bringing a sleeping bag to Morocco, but few travelers find a need for one. Consider bringing a travel sheet instead, which will take up much less space and should be sufficient.

FAQs About Morocco Travel

  • 1. Is it safe to visit Morocco?

    While there are risks associated with traveling anywhere (and with staying at home, for that matter) and it’s smart to take some basic precautions in Morocco, it is a safe country to visit. Millions of Western tourists visit the country each year, and very few have any significant problems. To stay safe in Morocco, though, it’s important to use common sense. Avoid places that are isolated, walk in groups at night, and be aware of possible scams. As in many places, road safety is one of the biggest issues, so travel during daylight hours whenever possible.

  • 2. How can I stay healthy in Morocco?

    The most important way to stay healthy in Morocco is to watch what you eat and drink. As in most developing countries, tap water is not safe for Western visitors to drink; stick to filtered or bottled water, and avoid any beverages or ice cubes made from tap water. Similarly, skip raw fruits and vegetables that don’t have a peel, and make sure your food has been thoroughly cooked and that it hasn’t been sitting out. Of course, try to wash your hands or at least use hand sanitizer before eating. Lastly, make sure you’re up-to-date on recommended vaccinations, including hepatitis A and typhoid, before traveling to Morocco.

  • 3. What is the best way to get around?

    Morocco has a fairly well-developed system of long-distance transportation, though some routes will be slow or uncomfortable. Trains connect most of Morocco’s main cities and are the preferred mode of travel for many visitors as they’re safer and more comfortable than buses. Overnight trains run on some routes and have sleeper cars with beds. Buses in Morocco are usually cheaper than trains, and they serve destinations the train does not. While there are many bus companies to choose from, CTM and SupraTours are considered the safest and most reliable. A less comfortable but more interesting way to travel is by shared taxi (called grand taxi), which hold six people and leave whenever they’re full. Finally, if time is more important than budget, Royal Air Maroc has domestic flights connecting several destinations within Morocco.

  • 4. How much does it cost to visit Morocco?

    While there are many, many ways to splurge in Morocco, it’s a relatively affordable travel destination, particularly when compared to Europe. In touristy areas, you can find hostel dorms for $10 or less and private rooms for $15-20, and breakfast is often included. Restaurant meals generally start at around $3, and street food is cheaper. Since alcohol isn’t widely available in Morocco, you won’t need to factor much drinking into your budget. Costs for getting around will vary depending on your route and mode of transportation, but the train from Casablanca to Marrakesh, for example, is about $15 for second-class and $23 for first-class. All in all, you can get by on an average of about $40 per day if you’re traveling on a budget and not doing a lot of tours or activities.

  • 5. How can I access cash or pay for things?

    Except in extremely rural areas, you’ll find ATMs throughout Morocco and shouldn’t have any trouble accessing cash. Plan to pay for most things in cash, as only larger businesses accept credit cards, and often tack on a hefty fee.

  • 6. What are the top things to do in Morocco?

    Morocco is an incredibly diverse country with an abundance of things for visitors to do. Marrakesh is easily the country’s most popular destination, and the Djemaa el-Fnaa market is the heart of the Old City; take in the atmosphere, and enjoy a lively dinner at one of the stalls. As in Marrakesh, the Old City of Fez, another of the country’s most famous cities, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the main area of interest to travelers. Though most visitors overlook Casablanca, it’s home to the Hassan II Mosque, the largest in the world, which is definitely a reason to stop there. Morocco’s famous blue city of Chefchaouen is another can’t-miss destination – you’ll recognize its streets from Instagram. You should also head to the coast and enjoy the relaxed charm of Essaouira or give surfing a try in Taghazout. Make sure you explore rural Morocco, too, and go trekking in the Atlas Mountains or camping in the Sahara Desert. No matter which parts of Morocco you end up visiting, staying in a riad and visiting a hammam should be at the top of your list of things to do.

  • 7. What are the best beaches in Morocco?

    Morocco may be known for the desert, but it also has 1,200 miles of Atlantic and Mediterranean coastline boasting some stunning beaches. Nearly on the Algerian border, Saidia is one of the best and is popular with Moroccans, as is Martil, also on the Mediterranean. On the Atlantic coast, Legzira Plage is famed for its red rock formations, and Sidi Kaouki is a nice alternative to the more popular Essaouira nearby. Further down the coast are the best surf spots, like Taghazoute and Taghazout.

  • 8. What are the top foods to try in Morocco?

    For visitors, the delicious food with its fragrant spices is one of the highlights of visiting Morocco. The ubiquitous Moroccan meal is tagine, which is actually the name of the dish it’s served in – a round clay bowl with a tall cone-shaped lid. Tagine varies widely but generally refers to slow-cooked stews of meat and vegetables. Moroccan food is also known for couscous, with is usually served with a meat or vegetable stew that’s spiced with flavors like turmeric, cumin, ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. Flat, round loaves of bread called khobz are served with most meals and may be used in place of silverware. Zaalouk (eggplant dip), harira (lentil soup), and meat brochettes are other common dishes. Of course, you’ll want to save room for the traditional desserts, including cakes, cookies, and flakey pastries, often with almond or sesame flavors. Lastly, you can’t miss the ubiquitous Moroccan mint tea – green tea with a generous helping of mint leaves and sugar.

  • 9. What’s it like to travel in Morocco as a woman?

    Traveling in Morocco can be a challenge, especially for women. Many female visitors receive a lot of unwanted attention and groping and harassment are common. But while it can be frustrating to travel in Morocco as a woman, it’s not unsafe. To limit negative interactions, dress modestly and walk in a group when possible, especially at night. Many unmarried women also wear a fake wedding ring to fend off potential suitors.

  • 10. How does Ramadan affect travel in Morocco?

    Visiting Morocco during Ramadan is very different from traveling at other times of the year. The month-long period of fasting – during which time Muslims fast from all food and water between sunrise and sunset – follows the lunar calendar and shifts each year. If you visit during Ramadan, you’ll likely find towns to be quieter and things to happen at a slower pace. While foreigners are never expected to fast during Ramadan, it’s respectful to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the day. Outside of tourist areas, many restaurants are closed (some during the day, some for the whole month), and alcohol is even harder to come by than usual. Businesses may also keep different hours to accommodate the meal schedule. Still, it’s very possible to travel to Morocco during Ramadan, and you’ll benefit from fewer crowds, and get to experience a part of the culture that most people don’t – you may even get invited to join in the breaking of the fast!