The non-negotiables
Layered clothing (Sahara nights drop 25°C below day temps), comfortable closed walking shoes for medina cobbles, a scarf or shemagh for sun and dust, sunglasses, SPF 50, refillable water bottle with filter, paper tissues (many public toilets lack paper), a small daypack.
Clothes for women
Morocco is more relaxed than people fear, but covering shoulders and knees in medinas avoids unwanted attention. Loose linen trousers, midi dresses, long-sleeve cotton shirts. A scarf can double for mosque visits and dune climbs.
Clothes for men
Long shorts are fine in tourist areas but trousers blend better in old medinas. Light long-sleeve shirts protect from sun and look respectful.
For the desert overnight
A fleece or down jacket (October–April), warm socks, a hat that stays on in wind, a head torch, lip balm, and a power bank — camps run on solar.
For Atlas trekking
Broken-in hiking boots, merino base layers, a waterproof shell, trekking poles, and a 30-litre pack. Mules carry the rest.
What NOT to bring
Drone (heavily restricted), revealing beachwear outside hotel pools, expensive jewellery, hardcover books (heavy and sold cheap in cafés).