HOME TO ANCIENT RUINS, BEAUTIFUL FABRICS, AND FLAVORFUL FOOD, MOROCCO IS A NORTHERN AFRICAN HOTSPOT. FIND OUT WHAT TO BRING TO THIS UNIQUE DESTINATION SO YOU CAN RELAX AND ENJOY YOUR TRIP.
Morocco is as much of a dream destination for the city slicker as it is for the outdoor explorer. You'll find snake charmers and fortune-tellers in bustling Marrakesh, as well as gorgeous landscapes in the Sahara Desert and Atlas Mountains that lie beyond. With countless adventures at your fingertips, packing can be tricky. Follow these five tips so you can pack like a pro.
Step 1: Bring the Basics
You can’t get far without your passport or travel documents, so pack those items first. Save time by using TripIt, an easy-to-access mobile application that will keep all of your booking details together. If you’re heading to a hostel, pack a small towel that is lightweight and dries fast. That way, you won’t have to worry about a damp towel getting all the clothes in your suitcase wet. Planning any bus journeys? Consider bringing along a pillow, blanket, or eyeshade.
Bring the Basics Tip: When heading to crowded attractions like the Marrakech souks, consider wearing a money belt . Ladies can even opt for a silk undercover bra stash .
Step 2: Gear Up
Even the most disorganized traveler can become a packing pro with the right tools. Both compression sacs and travel cubes allow you to cram lots of items into small spaces, which is super useful for anyone who is determined to travel with just a small carry-on. Plus, cubes are ideal for separating dirty and clean laundry. For daytime excursions, bring along a packable daypack and leave your suitcase at the hotel.
Gear Up Tip: Eagle Creek offers many great carry-on bags, such as the Load Warrior Wheeled Duffel , Tarmac AWD , and No Matter What Flatbed .
Step 3: Think Light and Loose
Morocco has a Mediterranean climate and it can get hot, so opt for lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Pack a fleece or hoodie for cooler nights. Also, keep in mind that Moroccan culture is more conservative than some Western countries. This is especially true for women, so, ladies, leave your strappy tank tops and cut-off jean shorts at home. Many female tourists wear scarves over their heads out of respect, although it's certainly not mandatory. For shoes, stick to sandals for casual outings and pack a pair of sneakers for rougher terrain and walking excursions.
Think Light and Loose Tip: After walking all day, your shoes will be covered in grime. Keep them away from you clean clothes by storing them in a Pack-It Specter Shoe Sac .
Step 4: Stock up on Meds
While in Morocco, buy bottled water rather than drinking straight from the tap. Tap water there contains higher levels of minerals, and if your body isn't used to this, you might get sick. Your doctor might also prescribe an antibiotic and/or an antidiarrheal drug for precaution. Typhoid and Hepatitis A are among the vaccinations that you're recommended to get before you leave, but they aren’t required. And don't skimp on bug spray and sunscreen. Since there are so many items to think about packing use packing sacs to stay organized. Use one bag for over-the-counter drugs like decongestants, allergy medications, and ibuprofen tablets and another bag to store all of your loose cosmetic items. The same goes for small toiletries.
Stock up on Meds Tip: Not a fan of hotel soaps and shampoos? Avoid them altogether by bringing a 3-1-1 bottle set and carry on your favorite products. You can use these bottles to store sunscreen, too.
Step 5: Be Tech Savvy
A phone with no battery won’t go far. Moroccan power outlets have a voltage of 220 V, a frequency of 50 Hz, and type C / E power sockets, which are two circular prongs. Some electronics come with a built-in converter, but you'll still need an adapter. To be safe, bring both.
Be Tech Savvy Tip: Keep your valuable electronics and tech accessories organized in an eTools Organizer .
No matter what type of Moroccan adventure you take, this packing list is sure to help you make the most of your vacation. Visit during the spring or fall to avoid crowds of tourists and extreme temperatures.
