Knowing what to pack for the Sahara desert makes your Morocco trip far more comfortable. Days in the dunes are sunny and dry, but nights can be cold. In addition, sand gets everywhere. This guide gives you a simple packing list, season by season, based on the trips we run every week to Merzouga and Zagora.
In short: pack light layers for the day, a warm layer for the night, a scarf, sunglasses, sunscreen, closed shoes and a small backpack for the camp.
Sahara desert packing list at a glance
| Item | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| Light, loose long sleeves and trousers | Protect you from the sun and keep you cool |
| Warm fleece or down jacket | Desert nights can drop close to 0 °C from November to March |
| Scarf or cheche (turban) | Covers your head, face and neck from sun and sand |
| Sunglasses and sunscreen | The light on the dunes is very strong |
| Closed shoes or sandals | Sand is hot by day and cold at night |
| Small backpack | Your main luggage stays behind or goes to camp by 4×4 |
| Power bank and headlamp | Camps have lighting, but charging can be limited |
| Cash in dirhams | For drinks, tips and small purchases |
What to wear in the Sahara desert
During the day
First, choose loose clothes in light colours. Long sleeves and long trousers protect you better than shorts. Moreover, natural fabrics such as cotton and linen let your skin breathe in the heat.
In the evening and at night
As soon as the sun sets, the temperature falls fast. Therefore, keep a fleece, a warm hat and socks in your small bag. In winter, a light down jacket is a good idea. The camp provides beds and blankets, so you do not need a sleeping bag.
Shoes
Sandals are easy to empty of sand. However, closed trainers are better if you want to climb a dune at sunrise. Avoid heavy hiking boots, because you will not need them.
What to pack for the Sahara desert by season
| Season | Days | Nights | Add to your bag |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Warm | Cool | A fleece and a light jacket |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Very hot, often above 40 °C | Warm | Extra water, electrolytes, a wide hat |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Warm | Cool to cold | A fleece; a warm jacket in November |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Mild and sunny | Close to 0 °C | Down jacket, hat, gloves, warm socks |
Not sure when to go? Read our guide to the best time to visit Morocco before you pack.
Protection from sun and sand
The sun is strong all year in the desert. So, bring a high-factor sunscreen, lip balm and good sunglasses. A scarf or cheche is the most useful item of all: you can buy one in Marrakech or in Merzouga, and your guide will show you how to tie it.
Sand also gets into bags and cameras. For this reason, keep your phone in a zip bag and bring a soft cloth for your lenses.
Your small bag for the camel ride and the camp
You do not ride a camel with your suitcase. Instead, your main luggage stays in the vehicle or travels to the camp by 4×4. Therefore, prepare a small backpack with:
- A warm layer, a hat and socks for the night
- Toothbrush, wet wipes and any medicines
- Power bank, phone and a headlamp
- Water, sunscreen and sunglasses
Curious about the ride itself? Our guide to the Merzouga camel trek explains what to expect.
Money, power and phone signal
Camps rarely accept cards, so carry some cash in dirhams for drinks and tips. Most camps have lighting, and many can charge phones. Even so, a power bank is the safest option. Phone signal is usually available near Merzouga, although it can be weak in the dunes.
What to leave at home
You can leave behind formal clothes, heavy boots and a hair dryer. Likewise, there is no need for a sleeping bag or a towel in most camps. If you travel on to the cities, though, keep one smart outfit for dinner.
Respectful clothing in villages
Southern Morocco is traditional. So, when you visit villages, kasbahs or souks, cover your shoulders and knees. In the camp and on the dunes, comfortable clothes are perfectly fine.
What to pack for the Sahara desert: FAQ
Is it cold at night in the Sahara?
Yes. From November to March, desert nights can drop close to 0 °C. In summer, nights are warm, but a light layer is still useful.
Do I need a sleeping bag for a desert camp?
No. Desert camps provide beds and blankets. Bring a warm layer and socks instead.
Can I wear shorts in the desert?
You can, but long, loose clothes protect you better from the sun and sand. In villages, cover your shoulders and knees.
Do I take my suitcase on the camel?
No. Your main luggage stays in the vehicle or goes to the camp by 4×4. You only carry a small backpack.
Where can I buy a desert scarf?
You can buy a scarf or cheche in the souks of Marrakech or Fes, or in Merzouga and Zagora before the camel ride.
Ready for the desert?
Now that your bag is ready, choose your route. The 3 days Marrakech to Merzouga desert tour is our most popular trip. If you are short on time, the 2-day Zagora desert tour is the quickest option. Starting in Fes? Then try the 2-day Merzouga tour from Fes. You can also compare all our Morocco desert tours or read about the region on the official Visit Morocco website.
Planning your Morocco trip?
Tell us your dates and we will suggest a private route with your own driver, riads and a night in the desert.
