I have been adding a variety of packing lists to the site, including what to wear in the Arctic Circle, how to dress in London, and what to bring to the beach. Today I’m sharing a Desert Packing List. If you’re heading to a remote place like the Sahara, you don’t want to forget anything important.

Last year my sister and I took our mother to Morocco, and the highlight was two days glamping deep in the Sahara. If you get the chance, go — it was one of the most memorable travel experiences I’ve had.

Desert Packing List

Clothing

Layering is essential. Deserts can be scorching by day and surprisingly cold at night. I preferred athleisure pieces because they layer easily and are comfortable for long drives or camel rides. Think lightweight leggings or joggers with tanks or long-sleeve shirts. For evenings, pack warmer sleepwear—sweatpants and a sweatshirt kept me cozy overnight.

Shoes

Shoes will get sandy, but the sand is extremely hot in daylight, so closed shoes are important. Bring a sturdy pair of hiking boots for walking on dunes and rough terrain, and bring sandals for wearing around camp or when the sand cools. Choose footwear that you can easily clean afterward.

Accessories

Neck gaiters or scarves — These simple fabric tubes are surprisingly useful. When the wind blows, sand flies everywhere; a gaiter pulled up over your nose and mouth keeps grit out and can also protect your ears and hair. I often wore two: one around my ears and another around my neck to pull up when needed. They’re lightweight and pack down small.

Sunglasses — Protect your eyes from sun and blowing sand. Choose a wraparound pair if possible to reduce sideways exposure.

Hats — A baseball cap or wide-brim hat helps keep sun and sand out of your face and hair. Consider one that secures under the chin if it’s windy.

Gear

Camera protection — Sand gets into everything, so use rain sleeves or protective covers for cameras and lenses to reduce exposure. A small mirrorless or compact DSLR with a versatile lens (something around 24mm equivalent) is ideal when you want quality photos without too much weight.

Action camera — A GoPro or similar action camera is great for video and is designed to keep out sand and dust. It’s compact and can capture dynamic footage during rides or dune excursions.

Other Desert Packing List Essentials

Sunscreen — High SPF is a must for long days under intense sun, especially if you’ll be on a camel ride or exposed to reflected light from the sand.

Wipes — Showers at desert camps are often very basic. Antibacterial wipes, body wipes, and facial wipes are extremely useful for freshening up between washes.

Headlamp or flashlight — Nights in the desert are extremely dark. A reliable headlamp keeps your hands free and helps with nighttime tasks around camp.

Hand sanitizer — Handy for meals and any time water isn’t readily available.

Medication and prescriptions — Pack a small medical kit and any prescription meds you need. I always bring an essentials medicine kit for travel.

Feminine supplies — Tampons or other products you use; desert camps won’t have stores nearby.

Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage — Desert travel can be remote; having insurance that covers evacuation provides peace of mind.

How to Pack

Separate your desert bag from the rest of your luggage. We left other luggage at our hotel in Marrakesh and took a clean, compact bag for the desert. Use a waterproof or easily washable duffel so you can rinse out sand when you return. Keeping a fresh set of clothes stored elsewhere prevents bringing sand back to the city and makes post-desert cleanup easier.

You can read more about my trip to Morocco here:

Glamping in the Sahara Desert Part 1
Glamping in the Sahara Desert Part 2
Essaouira
Marrakesh