Most people overpack for Morocco. Half what you think you need will do. The key is understanding what actually matters versus what makes you feel safe but sits unused in your suitcase.

The Non-Negotiables: What You Actually Need

These items solve real problems and have no good substitutes in Morocco:

Documents and Money

  • Passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  • Travel insurance documents (printed and photo backup)
  • Offline maps downloaded (Google Maps, Maps.me, or Gaia GPS)
  • Type C and E travel adapter (European two-pin)
  • Cash in GBP/EUR to exchange (around £200-300 equivalent)
  • ATM/debit card (multiple if possible)
  • Prescription medications in original bottles

Health and Hygiene

  • Sunscreen 50+ (you cannot find good SPF in Morocco)
  • Antimalarial tablets if required (get from UK GP before travel)
  • Any regular medications (bring double what you think you need)
  • Plasters and blister treatment (medina walks are brutal)
  • Deodorant (useful but available)
  • Feminine hygiene products (available in larger towns, less choice)
  • Antihistamines for food sensitivities

Practical Essentials

  • Phone charger and portable battery
  • One versatile scarf (sun, modest coverage, warmth)
  • Comfortable walking shoes already worn in
  • Sandals or slides for indoor wear
  • Light fleece or jumper for Sahara night cold
  • Sunglasses
  • Reusable water bottle

Medina-Specific Packing

If you are spending time in the medinas of Fez or Marrakech, add:

  • A small cross-body bag worn in front (not backpack)
  • Closed-toe walking shoes (not sandals)
  • A long scarf (wraps around shoulders and hips)
  • Lightweight trousers that dry quickly if spilled on
  • A small torch or phone torch app is essential in dark souks

Sahara-Specific Packing

If you are doing a desert tour:

  • A buff or lightweight neck scarf (sandstorm protection)
  • Merino wool or thermal layers (nights go below 10°C)
  • Torch with extra batteries or headlamp
  • Moisturiser and lip balm (desert air is very dry)
  • Wet wipes or dry shampoo (water is scarce)
  • Any issues with altitude: paracetamol, ibuprofen

What to Leave Behind: The Overpack Culprits

Clothes You Think You Need But Do Not

  • More than two pairs of trousers
  • Dresses or skirts (find good ones in Marrakech instead)
  • Heavy jeans (they do not breathe and take forever to dry)
  • Anything with straps between toes
  • Formal shoes (the only dress code is a mid-range riad dinner, and trainers work)

Toiletries You Do Not Need

  • Full-size bottles of shampoo and conditioner (buy small bottles, reuse)
  • Deodorant (find it easily in Maroc Telecom stores and supermarkets)
  • Razors (pharmacies have them everywhere)
  • Specific toothpaste brands (Moroccan toothpaste is fine)

Things That Sound Useful But Are Not

  • Guidebooks (outdated within months, your phone is better)
  • Voltage converter (most modern devices handle 220V without issue)
  • Special hiking boots (good trainers do the job)
  • Anti-diarrhea tablets (bring them if prone, but unlikely you need them)
  • Wet wipes for everything (buy when you arrive)

What to Buy There

Some things are genuinely cheaper and better once you arrive:

  • Lightweight cotton clothing (half the UK price in medina markets)
  • Genuine Moroccan djellabas for women (£15-30)
  • Habibi scarves (£3-8)
  • Lightweight trousers and linen shirts
  • Toiletries and medications
  • Phone credit and SIM card (100-150 MAD for 10GB)

Do not attempt to pack these. Show up and shop on day two once you understand what you need.

Luggage: Size and Practicality

Bring one carry-on sized suitcase plus a small day backpack. That is it. Nothing larger.

Why: Riads have narrow stairs, most transport is tight, and wheeling a large suitcase through medina cobblestones is genuinely miserable. A cabin-sized case (55cm x 35cm x 20cm) is the maximum.

Rolling suitcases get stuck in medina cobblestones. A soft-sided cabin bag is better. If you have a proper backpack, even better, but most people need the wheels.

FAQ

Can I buy clothes in Morocco cheaply?

Absolutely. The medina markets in Marrakech and Fez have entire souks of cotton clothing at a fraction of UK prices. Wait to buy until you understand your needs.

What if I forget something?

Pharmacies are everywhere. Supermarkets (Carrefour, Marjane) are in all cities. Medina markets have everything. Genuinely, you will not lack anything except very specific prescription items.

Should I pack a power bank?

Yes. Riads and guesthouses often have single plug outlets. A 10,000mAh power bank solves this.

Is Type C and E adapter enough?

Yes. Morocco uses primarily Type C (two round pins) and Type E (two round pins plus earth). A universal adapter that covers both is ideal.

How much luggage space for souvenirs?

Leave 30% of your suitcase empty. Or plan to buy a local woven bag in Marrakech (they are cheap and brilliant for packing extra items).

Related reading: What to Wear in Morocco | Morocco First-Time Guide | Morocco Electricity and Plugs