Do you have images of windswept scarves blowing in the Sahara sands? If you’re planning for your desert trip and wondering what Sahara desert clothes you’ll need to pack or what shoes to wear in the Sahara desert, this is the post you’ve been looking for!
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 along a lot. If you’re hoping to take a Morocco desert tour however you might want to bring a few extra items with you 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 for before you go. I have done both budget and luxury camps and hands down 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 bathrooming easiest and if you need to bring toiletries.
- What food(s) and drinks are provided? Will you need to bring your own both en route and at the camp?
What are the Best Clothes for the Sahara Desert?
These general packing guide and suggestions for the Sahara are good for any time of the year and any camp situation, especially when considering Sahara clothing. 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
Women’s Mid Rise Pull-On Pant
Experience comfort and functionality with our Contemporary Women’s Mid Rise Straight Leg Pant, featuring a knit waistband, multiple pockets, and 4-way stretch moisture-wicking fabric.
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05/27/2024 02:01 pm GMT
Men’s Relaxed Fit Twill Utility Work Pants
These pants sit at the waist, feature a relaxed seat and thigh, have multiple tool and utility pockets with a left-leg hammer loop, and a straight leg opening.
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- 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
Off Shoulder Shirts for Women
This casual off-shoulder top, made from t-shirt material, features a loose fit, batwing sleeves, waist tightening for a flattering silhouette, and a sexy, one-shoulder design.
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- A long scarf that you can wrap around your face to protect from sun/sand.
Cotton-Linen Scarves
Crafted from soft, lightweight cotton and linen, this unique summer scarf, featuring a textured, reversible design with fringe edges for ultimate comfort and style.
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05/27/2024 02:02 pm GMT
- Sunglasses
- A hat, again for the shade
- Socks
- Tennis shoes or hiking boots are recommended for a camel ride in Morocco (It’s 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
10,000mAh Power Bank
This remarkably compact and lightweight 10,000mAh portable charger offers high-speed charging and certified safety for your devices.
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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 another 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. Here’s what to wear in the desert to stay comfortable and safe during your visit.
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
Merino Wool Socks
Designed for extreme temperatures, these versatile Merino wool socks provide optimal warmth and comfort, making them perfect for hiking, skiing, and year-round outdoor activities.
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05/27/2024 02:02 pm GMT
- a heavier jacket for the evenings
Down Hooded Jacket
This jacket features StormRepel DWR for a moisture-shedding finish, 650-fill RDS-certified down insulation for warmth, recycled shell and lining, and secure zip side pockets for essentials.
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- a sweater or extra layer of clothing to wear
- long underwear to wear in the evening
Thermal Underwear
Experience ultimate comfort and warmth with our Ultra Soft Thermajane women’s thermals, featuring fleece lining for added softness, excellent heat retention, moisture-wicking properties, and perfect for layering all day.
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- a shawl or wrap to cover with and double as a lap blanket if needed.
- hand warmers (these are so good!)
Hand Warmers
Ideal for skiers, fishermen, hunters, campers, construction workers, and all outdoor activities, this product easily fits inside your gloves or pocket to provide quick and gentle natural heat.
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05/27/2024 02:00 pm GMT
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 on 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
Rechargeable Solar Camping Fan
This portable fan features a powerful, ultra-quiet motor with 3 speeds, a 20,000 mAh battery, fast solar charging, and up to 58 hours of runtime, perfect for both outdoor adventures and home use.
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- 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.
Fever Relief Soft Gel Sheets
$15.99
$14.00 ($1.17 / Count)
Be Koool Disney Characters Fever Relief Soft Gel Sheets, in a 12-count pack, provide soothing relief with fun Disney designs.
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Additional Items to Pack 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.
Sleeping Bag
Experience ultimate comfort and durability with our waterproof nylon sleeping bag, featuring breathable polyester lining, compact design, and versatile use for any outdoor adventure.
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05/27/2024 02:03 pm GMT
- toilet paper and hand sanitizer
- flip flop sandals or water shoes
Swim Shoes Water Sports
These quick-dry, breathable shoes feature a stretchy upper for comfort, easy on-and-off pull tab, and durable anti-slip rubber soles for excellent protection and flexibility.
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- 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.
Read More Posts about Visiting the Deserts of Morocco
Morocco Desert Tours: Everything you need to know about a Sahara Desert Tour
Cool Hotels in Merzouga, Morocco for Your Sahara Stay
Can’t Get to the Sahara? Visit the Agafay Desert!
Why Luxury Camping in the Sahara is the Only Way To Go
Visiting the Sahara Desert with Kids
