what to wear

When you’re wondering what to wear in Morocco you need to consider all of the activities that you will be doing. Overall many clothes can be used for different situations so you don’t need to bring a long a lot. If you’re hoping to take a Morocco desert tour however you might want to bring a few extra items with to make your experience more comfortable.

Types of Sahara Camps

There are three types of camps you’ll encounter on a Sahara desert trip and it’s important for you to know which you’re signing up to before you go. I have done both budget and luxury camps and hands down the luxury is the way to go (if you want to find out why, read this post). There also are camps that will fall somewhere in between. Major questions you’ll want to know the answers to include;

• what are the sleeping arrangements; will you have a bed with covers or do you need to bring your own. Also will you have a bed or will you be sleeping on the ground. Is there heat in the tents?
• what are the bathroom facilities; this is important for you to know what clothes will make bathroom-ing easiest and if you need to bring toiletries.
• what food(s) and drinks are provided or will you need to bring your own both en route and at the camp.

General Packing Guide for the Sahara

These suggestions are good for anytime of year and any camp situation. I highly recommend you bring only a small bag with you on this trip. DO NOT bring a giant suitcase with you. It’s not practical and will likely remain in the van for the trip. The guides are not going to mount your 50lb roller bag on the back of a camel. A backpack or duffle bag is enough – just bring the essentials. Sahara desert clothing just needs to be functional!

Packing Advice for Women and Men

• Loose fitting comfortable pants/trousers OR jeans (for women | for men)
• Underwear that are briefs not a thong. If you are riding a camel, you DO NOT want to wear a thong.
• Long sleeve, loose fitting top
• A long scarf that you can wrap around your face to protect from sun/sand.
• Sunglasses
• A hat, again for the shade
• Socks
• Tennis shoes or hiking boots, not a good idea to wear sandals on the camels.
• Ibuprofen or paracetamol. If you’ve never ridden a camel you will discover your body may hurt the next day.
• Your camera
• A power bank to charge anything you may need to overnight as the camp may or may not have electricity
• A small flashlight
• A travel first aid kit
• any toiletries you may need

Get This Look!

• Long sleeved tee 
• Converse
• Denim jacket
• Sunglasses
• Floppy hat
• White Linen Pants
• SPF Lip Gloss

Visiting the Sahara in Winter

If you’re planning to visit the desert in winter months you’ll need to be a little more prepared than if you go other time of year. While daytime Sahara desert temperatures are comfortable due to the direct sunlight, as soon as the sun goes down temperatures can plummet.

Yes, there even rarely is snow in the Sahara! Many people are not prepared for this. As an example the average January temperature is around 20C+ (68F) during the day and just 3C (37F) at night. Quite the temperature spread!

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go, in fact visiting in the winter can be better as there are rarely sandstorms and you don’t have to worry about extremely hot temperatures.

In addition to the main packing list above you may also want to bring;

• a pair of wool socks or extra insulated socks to sleep in at night
• a heavier jacket for the evenings
• a sweater or extra layer of clothing to wear
• long underwear to wear in the evening
• a shawl or wrap to cover with and double as a lap blanket if needed.
• hand warmers (these are so good!)

What to Pack for a Spring/Fall Desert Tour

Spring is the most common time of year to experience sandstorms in the Sahara. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go. In fact seeing an actual sandstorm in person can be a really unique experience. But you should prepare for this possibility. In addition to the main list above some things you might consider include;

• An extra waterproof/sand proof bag if you have camera equipment.

What to Pack for a Summer Desert Tour

Summer is the most difficult time of year to visit the Sahara. Many camps actually close down for a month or two due to the extreme temperatures and risk involved with bringing people to the desert during these months.

If you’re planning to visit Morocco in summer and consider a Sahara visit a must, look into this ahead of time so you can plan around it if needed. If you really can’t swing it, you could visit an Agafay desert camp just outside Marrakech where it will still be hot but camps remain open.

You can wear short sleeve shirts in the summer but keep in mind the sun will be brutal on your skin and blowing sand can also take a toll. It is sometimes better to just opt for loose weight long sleeves to protect yourself. I would advise against wearing shorts camel trekking as it’s just uncomfortable. In addition to the main list some things you might consider for a summer visit include;

• a lot of extra water
• sunscreen
• short sleeve shirts
• a battery or solar powered hand fan
• these fever reducing strips that can be used to just cool off! They’re also good to have on hand in case you or someone with you gets heat stroke. 

Pack Additional for Budget Camps

Many low cost Marrakech desert tours (I am most familiar with these) are to very basic desert camps. You need to be a little more prepared in this case.  Just showing up with a change of clothes may not be sufficient. First, as mentioned above get as many details as possible about what is available both on the way to the Sahara as well as what you will experience at the camp. A few additional things you may need to bring include;

• a sleeping bag or blankets. If the idea of shared blankets that haven’t been washed in who knows how long puts you off, I’d bring my own sleeping bag. If you aren’t traveling with one, buy a blanket OR choose a different camp.
• toilet paper and hand sanitizer
• flip flop sandals
• plenty of bottled water and snacks. You can probably buy this on the road as well but make sure you have it before getting into the camp.
• if you have any food allergies or simply eat a different diet you should come prepared with the things you will need.

Making Sand Bread in the Sahara

Why Luxury Camping in the Sahara is the Only Way To Go

With Mediterranean coves and windswept oceanic waterfronts, Morocco boasts spectacular fun in water and sun for locals and tourists alike. But what does one wear on a Moroccan beach getaway? We’ve got you covered (and maybe not the way you’re thinking!)

Can I wear a bikini in Morocco?

This question comes up a lot and I’ll do my best to answer. If you’re headed to the beach and plan to wear a bikini know that there is nothing that makes this wrong. You MIGHT get more looks than if you were wearing a one-piece but truthfully most Moroccan beach communities are really laid back and open-minded.

Wearing a bikini off the beach however will be more frowned upon. So once swimming is done and you head back into town it’s a good idea to at least put on a swimsuit coverup.

If you’re headed to a pool or private beach, wearing a two piece swimming suit is not a big deal at all. It is however not ok to sunbathe topless in public.

A Day on the Waves

For adventure seekers, a day riding the waves of Tagahzout’s coastline or taking up wind and kite surfing in Essaouira is the ultimate draw. A trusty pair of water resistant shoes, a practical bathing suit and a cute, matching rash guard to protect your skin from the salty waves and air are a must. Don’t forget to throw in a towel to dry off and warm up after experiencing the power of the ocean. Sunscreen and a bottle of water are also highly recommended!

Add these items to your luggage;

• Uneek W- Sandals – Great for walking on the beach and other rough surfaces and can wear into the water.

• Women’s Bathing Suit Scalloped High Neck Backless One Piece Swimsuit – Super cute one piece suit that looks great and has good coverage.
• TYR Women’s Arvada Belize Long Sleeve Rashguard Swimming Top – If you want a little more coverage from the sun or for modesty this is an option to consider.

• CamelBak Eddy Insulated Water Bottle – A great water bottle to keep your water cold.

• Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen – Yes this sunscreen is a bit more expensive however it uses ingredients that are safe for ocean reefs, is water resistant and blocks UVA and UVB rays. If you have sensitive skin this is also safe for you!
• Compact Water-Resistant Outdoor Blanket – You already have plenty in your luggage so this little blanket will only take up a little more. It is super compact and large enough for two adults to fit on easily!

A Day at the Cove

For relaxation along the calm, warm waters of the Mediterranean in towns like Al Hoceima, a sunhat is highly recommended to keep your face protected from UV rays.

A stylish bathing suit and strappy sandals complete the look and will have you ready to dip your toes in the waters or relax on the sands all day. Throw a few snacks, a bottle of sunscreen and my favorite SPF lipbalm into your beach bag, and you’re set!

Add these items to your luggage;

• Coolibar UPF 50+ Women’s Wide Brim Hat – Not only will this hat protect you from the sun but it packs easily – something not easily said for hats!

• Betsey Johnson Women’s Swimwear Tropical Escape One Piece Swimsuit – A cute suit that comes with a removable neck strap so you can wear it as a halter or strapless.

• Billabong Womens Beach Braidz Sandal – lightweight, cute and comfortable these sandals can sneak in your bag and work for a day at the beach or even a night out for dinner.
• KAVU Adult Rope Sling – You need a spot to store your snacks and this bag is great. It also would make for a good day bag when you’re wandering the medinas of Morocco.

Beach Bums on the Sand

If you’re like me, usually unwilling to dip anything past my toes in the deep blue (I just recently faced my fear of the ocean), the beaches of Morocco are the perfect spot in to devour your newest book or log a few words in your favorite journal. Need reading suggestions? I’ve got plenty!

Throw your book or e-reader into a cute cover to protect from sand and water, plop your sun glasses on your head and hit the beach in your favorite bathing suit covered by lightweight linen pants or a cute cover-up dress. Now that’s what I call the perfect beach day!

Add these items to your luggage too – perfect for the beach vacation!

Women’s Swimsuit Lace Covers the for Beach – Make sure to protect your skin if you’ll be sitting out for long periods of time. This cover up works for those moments while still being stylish.

Vera Bradley E-Reader Sleeve – I don’t go anywhere without my kindle and it needs sun protection too. I love having a case like this to slip it and a little Moleskin in for reading and writing waterside.

TKEES Women’s Foundations Flip Flop – Wear these flip flops with anything!

Lilly Pulitzer Women’s Beach Pant – Whether you’re lounging near the pool or beach or heading out for a walk these pants are multi-functional and lightweight for the hot sun of Morocco.

Rectangular Sunglasses – Sunglasses are your best friend in Morocco, so you’ll for sure want to bring at least one pair (or more!)

PS Love the pieces in the pin? Find them here; Ruffle Bathing Suit,  Cover Up, Gladiator Sandals,  Aviators,  Woven Straw Tote, Floppy Hat, Beaded bracelet set

When you’re planning to spend a night out in Morocco it can be tricky to know what to wear. Depending on where you’ll be going and what you’ll be doing may affect what you wear, but aside from a few suggestions – anything can really go. To help you pack and plan accordingly, I’ve put together a few different outfit suggestions! 

Casual Night Out

Embroidered Shift Dress; Wedges; Clutch; Silver watch; Silver earrings; Essie nail polish ‘Saltwater Happy’; Kendra Scott bracelet

This is a great casual outfit to go out in any seaside city or for a late evening get together. You could pair it with leggings and a cardigan if you wanted to be a little more covered up but you’ll see plenty of women out for the night in shorter dresses. Personally, I’d opt for something a little longer underneath. I also really like these sandals because they could easily be worn during the day as well – saving you some luggage space. 

A Night in the Clubs

Night Out in the Medina 

In most cases nightlife tends to come alive in the newer parts of the city. But, if you’re getting dressed up to go out in the medina, I would suggest toning it down a little. You could wear anything but you’re likely to get a lot more stares and comments if you’re more uncovered. Instead choose a cute dress like this high low maxi dress for a mix of both. A long duster can also be paired to cover up a little more if you feel uncomfortable or cold. 
 
Kendra Scott Tricia Earrings 
Women’s Eliza J Floral Print Chiffon Maxi Dress
Kate Spade New York Shoot The Breeze Idiom Cuff Bracelet
Caroline Rose Drama 3/4-Sleeve Crochet Duster Coat
Head Over Heels Head over Heels By Dune Melaniey Nude Snake Effect Heeled Sandals
Large Wristlet with Included Cross Body Strap

Dinner in the City 

When you’re meeting friends or simply have dinner reservations but want to dress up without a nightclub feel I like this jumpsuit outfit. Black is always chic and you won’t feel uncomfortable in this loose fitting outfit. If jumpsuits aren’t your style you could opt for a black pant/shirt combo instead. A large pashmina is a pop of color and can double as a shawl if temperatures drop. Choose a few cute accessories that won’t take up much luggage space pop can change up an outfit. 
 
Lanston Halter Jumpsuit
6th Borough Boutique Yellow Pashmina Scarf 
Bally Gray Yellow Black B Geometric Print Canvas Small Tote Handbag
Essie Nail Color, Topless And Barefoot
MICHAEL Michael Kors MK Flex Mid Pump
Aurélie Bidermann Woven Cuff Bracelet

I hope that from this you’re able to see there’s really a lot of versatility in what you can wear when you plan to go out for the night in Morocco. My one final word of advice is that in smaller cities you really want to tone things down as they are typically much more conservative. Chances are those cities aren’t going to have many options for going out anyway so no need to pack things you won’t use!

Planning to visit Morocco in spring and wondering what to wear? I’ve got you covered ladies! Many people assume that you really need to be all covered up to visit but this isn’t entirely true. I think it’s important to respect local cultural norms and not show off too much skin but you can still be fashionable and comfortable without being overexposed.

So if you’re wondering when is spring in Morocco and what to wear in Morocco in March, what to wear in Morocco in April, or what to wear in Morocco in May this is for you! (Hint: that’s when spring is!) Keep in mind you will want to check local weather for different parts of the country. A stay in Tangier will be different than if you’ll be in Agadir.

Outfit One

Girlfriend Cropped Pants I love this solution because you can still look really put together and stay cool. A higher pant length also means you won’t end up getting your pants dirty on the streets – it’s rare to see anyone here with pants that touch the ground. 

Bell sleeved tee: Look for looser fitting tops that have some coverage. The higher neckline on this piece keeps your chest covered and can be paired with a fun necklace for a little extra color. 

Tory Burch sandals: Nope it’s not too cold in spring for sandals so feel free to pack a pair! These are fashionable to wear out but still casual enough for poolside lounging. You also should pack a pair of closed toed shoes for days when you’ll be doing more walking or in rural areas. 

Tote bag: Morocco has a zero plastic bag law (though you’ll still find them here and there) so bring a big tote for all your shopping!

Sunglasses: Spring in Morocco means full on sun and yes, you will want at least one pair of sunglasses! Not only are they great for sun (obviously) but they also are a great decoy tool! Wear your glasses and look around without people really being able to see what you’re looking at! 

Kendra Scott necklace: Remember that cute necklace idea to pair with a shirt? Here’s an idea! Or you can pick up something fun when you’re out exploring the souks!

Bangle: I’m a sucker for cute bracelets to dress up an outfit. Choose something simple and lightweight so as not to add to your luggage weight! 

Outfit Two

Midi Skirt: I love spring midi skirts! They’re not so long that they drag on the ground and can work for a night out or day sight seeing. They are the perfect option for what to wear in spring when you want to better regulate your temperature.

Three-quarter sleeve fitted shirt: I am a big fan of monochrome colors when I travel – especially blacks. They’re stylish and can be dressed up or down. This shirt paired with the skirt can be tucked in and worn as is or with a cardigan or jacket on top for cooler temperatures.

Cardigan: Spring time temperatures are warm during the day but nights are still cool. You’ll want a cardigan or blazer on hand to take the chill off!

Booties: Bring a pair of booties along for your wardrobe! Choose a color that can go with most of your outfits and add a pair of leggings or tights to your luggage to quickly put together another outfit without taking up a lot of space. Booties are also a great option when you’re wondering what shoes to wear with a midi skirt.

Colorful Scarf: You can easily buy scarfs when you arrive but I think having one in your luggage makes for an easy transition. Wear it for a pop of color or an added accessory.

Outfit Three

Skinny or Fitted Jeans: Look for light weight jeans that won’t add bulk to your luggage and keep you cool when you’re outside. Ripped jeans are totally fine to wear, but you may want to avoid jeans with rips higher up – around the knees is ok.

Tunic Tops: Love these! Wearing shirts with a little more length can really help deflect any unwanted attention. Plus you can pair them with jeans or leggings for multiple outfits!

Lightweight Jacket: Yes, I do suggest packing one! Bring something that is good for both colder temperatures and water repellant in case you find yourself out on a rainy day. You’ll especially want a jacket if your plans include a visit to the Sahara desert.

Blazer: I always have a nice button up shirt, blazer, and tunic in my luggage – anywhere I go. These pieces can instantly transform an outfit and can be used interchangeably. Look for fabrics that don’t need to be dry cleaned and won’t wrinkle easily.

Shoes – Flip Flops and Booties – Take those shoes from your other outfits and combine them here. I never pack more than three pairs of shoes if I can help it so make your shoes and outfits do double – and triple duty!

I hope this gives you some ideas of what to pack and how to prepare for your time in Morocco!

You can find more suggestions in my post on What to Pack When Visiting Morocco: Women and 10 Tips for Women Visiting Morocco