What to pack for a Morocco desert trip
A night in a Berber desert camp swings between hot afternoon sun and a cold night, often in the same 24 hours. Layering is the whole strategy.
Why layering matters
The Erg Chebbi dunes near Merzouga run hot by day and cold after dark year-round — the swing is most extreme in winter, when daytime sun can feel warm while the desert camp night drops close to freezing. The sunset camel trek and campfire dinner happen right at the point where the temperature is turning, so the same outfit that felt fine at 3pm won't be enough by 8pm.
Packing list
by categoryDaytime
- Lightweight, breathable long sleeves and trousers (sun protection, not just heat)
- A scarf or shesh to cover your face during wind or blowing sand
- Sunglasses, a wide-brim hat, and high-SPF sunscreen
- Closed shoes or sandals with straps for the camel trek and dune walking
Evening & overnight
- A warm fleece or jacket for the campfire dinner
- A hat and gloves in autumn through spring (colder camp nights)
- A headlamp or phone flashlight — desert camps have limited lighting
- A basic first-aid kit and any personal medication
Add a small daypack for the camel trek (cameras and water don't fit well in your main luggage, which stays with the vehicle), and cash in dirhams for tips, drinks, or souvenirs at the camp — cards aren't accepted in the desert.
Related questions
Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag to the desert camp?
No — bedding is provided at the camp. Bring warm sleepwear layers instead, especially outside summer.
When is the desert camp coldest at night?
December through February. See our best time to visit the Sahara guide for month-by-month detail.
Plan your desert trip
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