What to Pack for Marrakech

Long days spent exploring the bustling souks, devouring delicious tagines at rooftop restaurants or wandering through the sensory experience that is Marrakech’s medina – not to mention the possibility of good weather and lounging in a tranquil riad – all combine to make it an ever-popular spot to visit. However, packing for a trip to Marrakech requires careful consideration. The climate can spell hot days and contrastingly cooler evenings, thus, it’s important to be respectful of the Muslim culture. Dress modestly when outside your hotel or riad by choosing high necks and ankle lengths in light linen layers for daytime. Moreover, pack a lightweight shawl or scarf to cover up with. Most importantly? Leave your suitcase half empty for baskets and Boucherouite rugs galore.

Linens

A simple linen shirt set will become your multitasking best friend on a trip to Marrakech: keeping you cool while providing a modest layer for exploring the city. You can mix and match depending on the temperature or your setting. If you’re staying in a riad or hotel with a pool, the shirt also doubles as an easy swimwear cover-up – a great hack for over packers. An earthy hue such as desert red is wonderful for this climate.

Shoulder Bag

A decent-sized shoulder bag is the perfect companion for a day perusing the souks and stocking up on souvenirs. Look for a style that can double as an evening bag, opting for leather in colors like dark green or tan that looks chic in warmer settings. Non-block leather, such as woven styles, keeps things less structured and more in holiday-mode.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a vital part of any holiday look – protect your eyes under Marrakech’s yellow sun with a decent, wide-lens style. A cat-eye design gives full coverage without looking too oversized. Stay away from metal as this can really heat up in the sun, and go for acetate; a tortoiseshell colorway looks chic with anything.

A Wrap

This is a really useful, multi-purpose item that you wouldn’t want to travel to Marrakech without. If you’re planning on visiting any religious monuments or temples, it’s vital to be covered up, so pack a lightweight scarf or shawl to throw over your shoulders. This versatile piece can also double as a pool wrap or a headscarf.

Sandals

For any hot-weather holiday where there might be more walking than the stroll from your room to the buffet, a comfortable and sturdy pair of sandals is a must. Fisherman-style sandals with chunky straps and supportive soles work wonderfully with trousers or dresses and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for adventures in the Atlas Mountains.

Swimwear

Escape the city’s heat with a day by the pool in the perfect swimwear. A patterned one-piece that keeps you covered while still being fashion-forward is an excellent choice. Prints like paisley or palm trees are great for any holiday mood.

Printed Maxi Dress

When in doubt, look to the maxi dress; from kaftans to kimono shapes, this easy, breezy style is perfect for throwing on from day to night. Look for a print or pattern in a darker tone that works as an evening dress as well as a cover-up during the day. This one-stop style will keep you looking chic effortlessly.

Sunhat

Finally, the finishing touch to any look is the sun hat. Stay out of Morocco’s harsh rays with a good sun hat to protect your face and shoulders. A classic style can be paired beautifully with a dress, trouser suit, or swimwear. Opt for a black ribbon trim or a colourful raffia stripe for added flair.