Last Updated on 3 February, 2024
Planning what to pack for your trip to Morocco might sound like a tricky task (at first!) if you’re a woman. While there isn’t a dress code in Morocco as such, it’s advisable to dress more on the conservative side and there is clothing that you should avoid wearing in public. Shorts or skirts above the knees, tops with big cleavage, exposed back or shoulders are not appropriate to wear in Morocco and may cause offense and attract unwanted attention especially if you’re travelling solo. Covering your head in Morocco is not necessary.
What you wear in autumn/winter months, of course, will be different from what you wear in spring/summer months. Please check the weather forecast before you go, but here are some ideas of what you can pack.
What to Wear in Autumn/Winter
The weather in autumn months (late September, October, November) is warm and sunny during the day, but chilly in the evening. Therefore, you should have some layers to prepare for that.
During the day you can wear light trousers/jeans/maxi skirt and either a long or ยพ sleeved blouse/shirt and be fine. It might be even warmer that you can wear a t-shirt. However, in the evening the temperature drops and you will need a jacket to wear on top.
Read More: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Marrakech, Morocco
In the winter months (December, January, February) itโs colder during the day than in autumn and you might not get away with lightweight trousers, therefore I recommend thicker trousers/jeans or maxi skirt but with tights underneath and a long-sleeved top during the day and maybe a jumper on top. However, having said that, I happened to wear a t-shirt on one occasion in Morocco in early January during the day, so do pack a t-shirt too which you can always wear underneath a jumper.
Once the sun goes down (or early in the morning), it gets significantly colder and youโll need a jumper and a coat/jacket and maybe even gloves and a hat as the temperature can drop to 0ยฐC degrees depending on where in Morocco you’re. Due to the dramatic temperature changes in the same day, Morocco is referred to as ‘cold country with the hot sun’.
The best footwear for autumn/winter in Morocco is trainers or flat ankle boots so they are warm and comfortable enough.
Read More: My Experience Glamping at The Desert Luxury Camp in The Sahara Desert, Morocco
What to Wear in Spring/Summer
Dressing modestly in Morocco in warmer months can be trickier than in colder months, but there are still lots of great pieces of clothing that you can wear! I haven’t visited Morocco in warmer months (yet), but after doing some research here are some ideas of what you could wear if you travel there in spring or summer.
The temperatures in spring months (March, April, May) grow warmer during the day. Depending on which month and where in Morocco you go, you will be able to wear thinner clothing such as light trousers or a midi/maxi skirt and a light long/ยพ/short-sleeved blouse or a t-shirt; below the knees or maxi dresses either long sleeved or short sleeved. The evenings still cool off quickly once the sun goes down, so having layers such as warmer tops and a jacket is important.
In the months of June, July, August the weather becomes significantly warmer. While the temperatures in June are still reasonable in most parts, July and August are the hottest and the driest months of the year in Morocco meaning during the day the temperatures can be 29-45ยฐC degrees during the day depending on the region! Very lightweight and natural, breathable fabrics are the best for this kind of weather: think flowy trousers or maxi skirts with loose shirt or a blouse; maxi dresses (sleeveless ones are fine too, but make sure to cover your shoulders with a shawl); a full kaftan is also a good option for staying cool and having enough coverage. Evenings cool down a bit and the temperatures drop to 18-22ยฐC degrees, it’s good to have something to layer on such as a scarf, cardigan or a lightweight jacket.
The most practical footwear for warmer months is still closed-toe if you want to explore Morocco comfortably. You can opt for lighter trainers or espadrilles. Comfy sandals or mules are also good, but your feet will get dirty!
Other essentials
Across body bag
If you’re not carrying big camera gear with you, a small size across body bag is essential for keeping your valuables close to you as there can be pickpockets especially in busy places like Jemaa el-Fna in Marrakech.
Lightweight tote bag
Depending on how long you’re out exploring and if you need to carry larger camera gear or a water bottle with you, a lightweight (either soft leather or natural fabric) tote bag is very practical (and stylish too!). It’s also safer than a backpack since you can keep a better eye on it.
Sunglasses
Whether you’re in Morocco in winter or summer, bring a pair of sunnies as Morocco gets plenty of sun all year round!
Scarf
Whilst it’s not necessary to cover your head, having a scarf is still very handy since it’s so versatile whether for some extra layers or just to cover your shoulders or dรฉcolletรฉ. If you forget to pack one, there are plenty of scarves to buy in Morocco. Actually, some of my favourite scarves are from Marrakech!
Sun Hat
Definitely pack a lightweight sun hat if you’re in Morocco during the hotter months to protect you from the sun and allow you to stay cool while you explore.
Swimwear & flip-flops
Just because it’s advisable to cover yourself up when you’re out and about, it doesn’t mean that you cannot enjoy the pool if your accommodation has one! You can opt for either a one piece or a bikini.
Hiking shoes
If you plan on hiking then, of course, hiking shoes (and a backpack) will be necessary.
Useful Tips
- My number one advice for anyone going to Morocco is to leave some room in your suitcase for shopping, especially if you’re going to Marrakech. You’ll know why I said this when you get there!
- Avoid high heels or wedges as the pavements are uneven and you will struggle walking.
- Do not pack your best footwear as the streets in the Medinas are not very clean and your shoes will be covered in dirt and dust. If you go to the desert, you’ll have sand everywhere.
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