What to wear in Morocco on a family trip

Pack lightweight, long-sleeved clothing that covers shoulders and knees for cultural respect and sun protection. Bring layers for temperature changes between coast, mountains, and desert. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for medina exploration.

  1. Choose modest base layers. Pack long-sleeved shirts and pants in lightweight cotton or linen. Women should bring tops that cover shoulders and neckline. Men can wear t-shirts but long sleeves are better for sun protection and cultural sensitivity.
  2. Plan for temperature extremes. Bring a warm jacket for mountain areas and desert nights where temperatures drop to 40°F. Pack a light rain jacket for potential showers in northern cities like Fez and Chefchaouen from November to March.
  3. Select proper footwear. Bring closed-toe walking shoes with good grip for cobblestone medinas. Pack sandals for beach time and hotel relaxation. Avoid flip-flops as they're impractical for walking on uneven surfaces.
  4. Add sun protection accessories. Pack wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and scarves. A light scarf serves multiple purposes: sun protection, mosque visits, and keeping dust out during windy days.
  5. Consider laundry logistics. Pack 7-10 days of clothing regardless of trip length. Most riads and hotels offer same-day laundry service for $3-5 per load. Bring quick-dry fabrics when possible.
Can kids wear shorts in Morocco?
Kids can wear knee-length shorts in tourist areas and beaches, but long pants are more appropriate for religious sites and conservative areas. Pack both options and let children choose based on the setting.
Do I need to cover my head as a woman?
Head covering isn't required for tourists except when entering mosques (which most don't allow non-Muslims anyway). A scarf is useful for sun protection and shows cultural respect in conservative areas.
What about swimwear for beach destinations?
Regular swimwear is fine at hotel pools and beach resorts. At public beaches, consider more modest options like rash guards or one-pieces. Always cover up when walking to/from the beach.
Are there any colors to avoid?
No specific colors to avoid. Neutral tones like beige, white, and earth tones are practical for hiding dust and fitting in. Bright colors are perfectly acceptable, especially for children.
What if it's too hot for long sleeves?
Choose the lightest weight cotton or linen possible. In very hot weather (summer months), short sleeves are acceptable in tourist areas, but bring a light cardigan for air-conditioned spaces and evening.