What to Pack for a Desert Expedition: Complete Checklist

The Sahara is hard to pack for. It swings from hot to cold within a day, the sun is strong and sand gets into everything. This is the list we give guests, for a day tour or a multi-day expedition.

Clothing

Essential Clothing

• Long-sleeved shirts (2-3), for UV protection
• Long trousers (2), to keep off sun and sand
• Warm jacket or fleece for cold evenings
• Thermal base layer for winter nights
• Comfortable closed-toe shoes for walking and riding
• Scarf or shemagh: you will need it when the sand blows
• Wide-brimmed hat against the sun
• Sunglasses (UV protection)

For Multi-Day Expeditions

• Extra underwear and socks
• Swimwear (some oases allow swimming)
• Gloves and beanie for winter nights
• Sleepwear, ideally warm layers

Personal Care

• Sunscreen SPF 50+, because the desert sun is intense
• Lip balm with SPF
• Moisturiser, as the desert air is very dry
• Wet wipes for a quick clean-up
• Hand sanitiser
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Personal medications
• Basic first aid kit

Electronics

• Camera with extra batteries (the cold drains them)
• Power bank for charging devices
• Phone with offline maps
• Headlamp or torch: you will need one at night in the desert
• Universal adapter

Desert-Specific Gear

• Reusable water bottle (1-2 liters)
• Dry bag to keep sand out of electronics
• Quick-drying microfibre towel
• Snacks such as energy bars and nuts
• Zip-lock bags for anything sand could damage

Documents

• Passport (valid 6+ months)
• Travel insurance documents
• Cash (Moroccan Dirham) for tips and purchases
• Emergency contact information

Season-Specific Additions

Winter (December-February)

• Heavy jacket or down vest
• Warm hat and gloves
• Thermal underwear
• Wool socks

Summer (June-August)

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Extra water (3+ liters)
• Electrolyte tablets
• Cooling towel

What NOT to Bring

• Expensive jewellery
• Heavy luggage (pack light)
• Dark clothing, which absorbs heat
• Sandals or flip-flops, which are not safe for riding
• Perfume, which attracts insects

Our Packing Rule of Thumb

What you pack has a big effect on how comfortable your trip is. Think in layers, since the desert can be hot by day and cold at night, and keep your bag light. Forgot something? Most basics can be bought in Merzouga. When you are ready, browse our tours or contact us to book.