Morocco, Spring
A curated packing list for your trip across Marrakech, the High Atlas, and the dunes at Merzouga. Built for medina dust, cold mountain nights, and the long warm afternoons of a Moroccan spring.
Border & arrival
What customs and immigration expect.
On the ground
How life actually works once you arrive.
Visa-free for 90 days
US, UK, EU, and Canadian citizens can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Passport must be valid 3+ months from entry, with one blank page.
Get dirhams on arrival, cash for souks
The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is non-convertible, you cannot buy it abroad. Hit an airport ATM (¥35 fee, ~MAD 2,000 limit) and break larger notes at your riad. Souks, taxis, cafes, and small shops are cash-only.
Tip in dirhams, 10% at meals
Tipping is customary at restaurants (around 10%) and for guides, drivers, and hotel staff. Use small dirham notes, foreign currency is awkward to exchange.
Bargaining is part of the experience
In souks, start at one-third the asking price. Smile. Take your time. Walking away is part of the dance, not an insult.
Modest dress is appreciated
Cover shoulders and knees, especially in medinas, mosques, and traditional neighborhoods. Ramadan 2026 ran Feb 18-Mar 19, so March travelers should plan around shorter shop hours and respectful daytime conduct.
Type C and E plugs at 220V
European-standard outlets at 50Hz. US/Canadian devices need an adapter; check voltage on hair tools (most hair dryers are not dual-voltage). Most modern phone/laptop chargers handle 220V automatically.
Pre-Trip Checklist
Bookings, applications, and admin for the weeks before departure. Work backwards from your trip date.
- 6 weeks out
- 4 weeks out
- 2 weeks out
- 1 week out
- Day before
- Day of
Clothing
Modest, breathable, layered. Cover shoulders and knees in medinas. Pack one nicer outfit for rooftop dinners.
Shoes
Cobblestone medinas eat thin soles. Pack closed-toe for Atlas hikes and camel rides.
Toiletries & Personal Care
Skip argan oil and rose water, buy them locally. Bring everything else; pharmacies are good but selective.
Health & Medications
Stomach issues are common with new cuisine and water. Bring more than you think you need.
Documents & Money
Cards are accepted at hotels and big restaurants only. Cash everywhere else.
Tech & Electronics
Type C/E plugs at 220V. US/Canadian travelers need an adapter; most chargers handle the voltage.
Luggage & Organization
Soft-sided bags travel medinas better than hard cases. Bring an empty foldable for the rugs you will inevitably buy.
Comfort & In-Transit
Long travel days, especially the Sahara overnight. Pack for them.
Weather & Climate Gear
Sun protection is non-negotiable. Cold evenings catch travelers off guard.
Cultural & Activity-Specific
Modesty in medinas, gifts for tour guides, water for the Atlas.
Safety & Precautions
Morocco is generally safe; pickpockets target tourists in crowded medinas. Stay aware.