What to pack for Morocco

Long-sleeved maxi dress

You can’t go wrong in a long-sleeved maxi dress. This staple outfit is ideal for covering up when you’re haggling over the different spices at Marrakech’s bustling medina. Here, you’ll get to take in the fragrant smells of brightly-coloured cumin, paprika, turmeric, and fenugreek, to name a few. A maxi dress is also great for exploring the world-renowned Saadian Tombs. Inside the grounds, the striking burial chamber of Morocco’s former ruler, Sultan Ahmad l al-Mansur, is regarded as one of the most impressive of the 16th-century thanks, to the 12 gigantic marble columns that stand over it.

Culottes

Did you know the temperature in Morocco can soar up to 38 degrees in summer? We’re not kidding. This means when you’re exploring sun-kissed places like the Grand Souk, loosely-fitted clothing like culottes are a must when it comes to keeping cool and protecting your skin. You’ll find the Grand Souk just a stroll away from the main Jemaa el-Fnaa square, which is marked by more than a jaw-dropping 3,000 stalls. Here, you can barter for everything from leather goods and iron work to carpets – so leave some space in your case!

Tote bag

Holidays to Morocco would be incomplete without a trendy tote bag. And we think it’s the perfect accessory to pack for Marrakech when you’re visiting the wealth of souks. We advise opting for a brightly-coloured, vintage-looking number that’s large enough to hold all of your garments and keepsakes. Plus, a tote bag looks seriously chic, so you can shop in style.

Light jumper

When you picture a holiday to Morocco, it’s easy to think you’ll never get chilly with high temperatures of 38 degrees in the summer months. But, if you’re a bit of an adventurer and sign up for our tour of the Atlas Mountains in Toubkal National Park, you’ll need to make sure you pack a light jumper to keep warm – temperatures can drop to 13 degrees. While you’re there, you can also swim in natural pools, feel the spray of the Ida Outanane waterfall on your face, and explore ancient village of Imouzzer.

Scarf

A lightweight scarf is the ideal accessory to pack for Morocco when you’re visiting sacred places. Take El Badi Palace in Marrakech, for example, where you’ll need to make sure you cover your shoulders to explore the area. This huge 16th-century sultan’s palace was one of the most beautiful and prominent buildings of its time. Fast forward to today, and it’s famous for its four sunken gardens with reflecting pools, and beautiful stork’s nests.

Trainers

If you picture Morocco as a fly-and-flop holiday, then think again. Trips here will have you out and about exploring the wealth of sights, meaning it’s important to pack a pair of comfy trainers that will keep you comfortable throughout the day. We think a trusty pair of trainers are ideal for bouncing and sliding through the desert on a camel or 4x4, bird-watching at Massa Lagoon, or hitting the fairway at Dar El-Salam Royal Golf Course.

Flip-flops

It wouldn’t be a holiday if you didn’t pack a pair of flip-flops. They’re stylish, comfortable and lightweight, meaning you’ll want to wear them everywhere – whether it’s at the airport or to a quirky restaurant in Morocco. We think a rose gold pair (colour of the moment, in case you didn’t know) is your best bet for looking super chic from day to night. Plus, this staple wardrobe item will go with any outfit, so you’ll look holiday ready in no time at all.

Suncream

Did you know the temperature in Morocco can reach up to a whopping 40 degrees in July? This means it’s really important to keep your skin protected from the sun’s harmful rays, especially when you’re exploring the souks, relaxing on a sun lounger by the pool, or trekking the Atlas Mountains. In fact, dermatologists recommend you apply at least three tablespoons of suncream all over your body before exposing your skin to the sun. Use a suncream with a high SPF that you can keep applying throughout the day.

Adaptor plug

It might seem like an obvious one, but a travel adaptor is one of the most essential items you'll need to pack for Morocco. Besides, without one, how else do you expect to charge your iPhone in between taking selfies and navigating quirky restaurants on Google Maps? So, when it comes to holidays in Morocco, you'll need to purchase a European adaptor despite its geo-location in Africa. This adaptor is also known as type C, which is recognisable by its two round pins. You can purchase a travel adaptor at most airports before you catch your flight.

Insect repellent

It's important to use an insect repellent throughout the day and night on any exposed areas of skin while you’re in Morocco. You should only use insect repellents that contain DEET. This type of repellent is the most effective at combatting insects and is the most durable, meaning fewer applications are needed each day - so you can spend more time enjoying your trip than worrying about critters. We also recommend covering your skin up in the evenings as this is when you're more likely to be bitten.

Now you know what to pack for Morocco, it’s time to book.

Browse our holidays to Morocco.

If you liked reading this, you might also like to find out what to wear in Ibiza. Or, read about the best excursions in Marrakech.

Author: Olivia Hunt