What to Pack for Morocco

Perhaps the most essential item on a Morocco packing list, a scarf will prove itself invaluable. In the city, you may be asked to cover your head or shoulders to enter heritage sites, tombs, and mosques, i.e.: Hassan II in Casablanca (though heads up—most aren't open to non-Muslims). Whereas in the desert, it's great for sun protection during the day and a little extra warmth at night.

The easiest thing you can do to avoid unwanted attention is wear loose-fitting clothes. A tunic—like this breezy bohemian top from Free People—is simultaneously comfortable, stylish, and culturally appropriate.

Morocco enjoys a mild, Mediterranean-like climate where even the winter months experience long sunny periods. For this reason, you'll want to have at least one pair of shades on you.

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Though space is at a major premium in most riads—traditional multi-story Moroccan houses laid out around an interior courtyard—you'll find many have small pools. After a long, sweaty day in the souks or post a five-hour caravan ride back from your Saharan excursion, you won't regret having packed a swimsuit.

When you're out and about in the souks and squares, you'll want a small bag that hugs your body and has a zipper or snap closure. Like any destination, you'll want to keep an eye on your belongings, and this makes it easier. PS: don't bring more than one—you'll definitely be going home with a suitcase full of handmade, authentic leather bags. (Spoken from experience.)

A simple cotton tee pairs well with everything on our Moroccan packing list. Throw it on over some joggers, tuck it into a maxi skirt, or pair it with jeans for an effortless outfit.

Comfortable sandals are a must for long days spent in the souks. They'll also come in handy if you're staying in a riad (most bathrooms are shared and just down the hallway from your room), or plan on visiting a hammam.

You're free to wear jeans in Morocco, but with high summer and fall temps exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you'll definitely be more comfortable in a pair of loose-fitting linen pants. Even in winter, temps hover between 50- and 70 degrees, so you won't have to worry about being chilly.

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If your itinerary is taking you to the High Atlas mountains (any good one should), then you'll definitely want a pair of sporty sneaks on-hand. This minimalist knit pair from People Footwear is stylish enough to wear in the city and practical enough for desert activities.

Midi and maxi skirts are a staple in Morocco—just look at the way local women dress. As long as your skirt doesn't have any thigh-barring slits and isn't made from see-through fabric, you should be good.

Planning to trek the Sahara on camelback? You're going to want one of these guys. Protect your head and your face from the blazing desert sun—and be sure to throw on some sunblock as well.

This canvas backpack from Madewell is ideal for overnight Moroccan excursions. Even if you're in the city, it's great for carrying around a DSLR and other valuables; with a ruck-style closure and interior zip pockets, it'll keep everything safe.

If you're trying to pack light, midi dresses make a lot of sense. The one-piece outfit is modest, on-trend, and takes up less space than pants and shirts.

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The Atlas Mountains can get chilly at night, so you'll want to have a light coat at the ready. This layerable option from Lululemon also comes in handy on frigid flights.