Like all other countries, Morocco is special with its own culture. Furthermore, it is also a place of acceptance of differences.
We shall speak to you about its original features and the reality that Morocco has become a country where you’ll embrace other cultures and traditions and even practice in certain corners. This country has truly known the meaning of multitude, given that its culture has changed throughout history.
One of the first questions people ask before coming is what to wear in Morocco. The answer to this varies widely. The most important thing to know is that Morocco has no dress code. You are not required to dress in one way or another.
People that live in Morocco dress in a wide variety of ways and do not expect visitors to dress as they do. That being said, it is always a good idea to dress more modestly than you may at home. It is easier than you think to remain fashionable while respecting local norms.
How Conservative Is Morocco?
Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and its deep ties to Islam make it a more traditional and conservative place than most other western countries. This conservatism looks differently throughout different parts of the country, and it would be inaccurate to generalize what to expect in Morocco.
Desert communities are vastly different from major cities, and even the differences between major cities are quite different. For example, Casablanca is a more liberal city, while Rabat and Marrakech are more conservative places.
We’ll look at what travelers should wear in Morocco and provide a general Morocco packing guide to alleviate any confusion.
Whether visiting the famed cities of Fes, Marrakesh, Casablanca, or Tangier or taking advantage of the renowned “glamping” opportunities in the Moroccan desert, read on to learn what you should pack and wear in the Kingdom of Morocco.
Factors To Decide What To Wear When Travelling To Morocco
Morocco’s climate is as diverse as its geography, and with so many different experiences on offer, packing for Morocco needs to be both practical and respectful of local culture.
With all this in mind, it can be difficult to know what to wear in Morocco and what you will need to bring.
Here are the important considerations to keep in mind to figure out what to wear in Morocco:
1. Where in Morocco are you going?
One of the very first questions people have before visiting Morocco is what to wear in Morocco.
The answer to this question varies greatly. The most important thing to know is that Morocco has no dress code. You are under no obligation to dress in any particular way.
Moroccans dress in various ways and expect visitors to dress differently. However, dressing more modestly than you would at home is always a good idea. It’s easier than you think to stay fashionable while adhering to local norms.
While the streets of major cities such as Marrakech and Casablanca may have an “anything goes” attitude, this is not the case in smaller towns and rural areas.
Depending on what time of year you visit, you must adjust your wardrobe accordingly. For example, packing for a trip to Marrakech requires careful consideration. Marrakech can see daytime temperatures climb above 40°C, while winter evenings are chilly.
Another important factor to consider when choosing what to wear in Marrakech is respecting the country’s culture. Islam is the main religion in Morocco, and the indigenous population tends to dress very modestly. There isn’t an enforced dress code for tourists, but men and women are advised to respect the culture and leave short, revealing clothes at home.
It is best to dress modestly when visiting Marrakech, even though you will see some tourists who are dressed in more revealing clothing. But, dressing to fit in is recommended out of respect and to avoid hassle and unwelcome comments. It will make your stay much more pleasant.
If you didn’t decide where to go yet, then I invite you to read our previous post on the best places to visit in Morocco.
2. What Time Of Year Are You Visiting Morocco?
With extreme heat, snow-capped mountains, and conservative religious culture, there’s one word you should keep in mind for dressing in Morocco – layers.
The heat in Morocco can be oppressive, with temperatures often cracking the 30°C mark by May and climbing up to 40°C in July and August. While linen and cotton are good options for heat, cotton does not dry well in high humidity.
Athletic wear designed to absorb sweat and stay dry is a better option for humid days. Remember that short shorts, crop tops, and tank tops are not considered appropriate attire in Morocco.
Evenings can be cooler than expected in late spring, autumn and winter. Be sure to pack a jacket or fleece for chillier evenings if you plan to travel during these periods.
Good quality, comfortable footwear is essential for travel in Morocco, even if you don’t plan to do any hiking. Paths can be uneven, dusty, and covered in debris, so worn-in walking shoes with good grip are recommended.
If you are heading into the High Atlas Mountains, keep in mind it can get quite cool in the evenings (even in spring and autumn). Packing a light fleece or jacket suitable for temperatures of around 10°C is a good idea.
In the main cities, you can get away with wearing pants or a skirt that reaches below the knee and a short-sleeved t-shirt. The looser these are, the better, as they will serve you best in the heat of Morocco – plus, form-fitting clothing can be just as poorly received as exposed skin in certain areas.
Packing a couple of tunics and long-sleeved shirts is also good for easy layering in more conservative or rural areas.
3. What Activities Will You Be Doing In Morocco?
Generally, you will feel more comfortable dressing conservatively in Morocco when visiting smaller towns or remote villages.
When it comes to things to do on your holiday to the African continent, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more incredible experience than a camel ride in Morocco.
Whether it’s a glittering night under the stars with your strange desert horse, or you’re pairing it with a quad bike ride through the dunes, climbing atop one of these ‘ships of the desert or taking a wave at one of the beaches is an experience you’ll never forget.
But hang on, you might want to consider a few things before you jump on that hump.
Namely, what you should bring and how you should dress. There are a few things to consider when planning your desert wardrobe, especially when you’re going to be on top of a camel.
Now, I hate to break it to you, but camels aren’t that comfy. For example, that famous hump is far from a big squishy beanbag. It’s a hard lump of fat. Oh, and camels don’t have a reputation for being the smoothest ride, either.
They sway and bob a lot, and trust me, you don’t have a choice. Strap in for a rodeo, baby!
What I’m trying to say is comfort is vital! The last thing you want to be worrying about on your camel ride in Morocco is some tight jeans or expensive jewelry when you’re desperately trying to hang on to this unfamiliar desert horse.
So, go for something light, something loose, and something comfortable. Linen is a great shout, and so is lightweight cotton. They’re breathable, soft, and will not weigh you down.
Moroccan beaches are popular destinations for local and foreign tourists alike. This is especially true on the popular beaches of Tangier, Essaouira, and Agadir. Men will feel comfortable wearing their typical swim shorts, and women can wear a one-piece or bikini swimsuit.
If you’re straying off the beaten path, smaller Moroccan beaches are sometimes frequented only by local Moroccan boys, who play on the beach with their friends. Don’t let this deter you from visiting, though, because these remote beaches can have the softest sand and most beautiful scenery.
At local beaches, women might feel more comfortable in a one-piece swimsuit than a bikini. For versatility on all occasions (and for light packing), consider bringing a single one-piece swimsuit that can be hand-washed and dry quickly in the hot Moroccan sun.
Surf destinations often have many local shops that offer rentals and full-body wetsuits. You don’t need to bring equipment other than a rashguard and a towel. Hiking opportunities abound everywhere you go, but you must be prepared to know what to dress in Morocco for the outdoors!
In addition to some of the other items listed here, if you know you’ll be spending time exploring the mountains or taking lengthy excursions through the countryside, you should also consider the following:
And let’s say you are interested in mountain biking, comfort, weather conditions, protection, and, to some extent, personal style determine what to wear for these activities.
Where you ride and the time of year or season will significantly impact what you decide to wear. When the weather is warm, and the trails (mostly) dry in the middle of summer, you’ll require less protection from the elements than in the depths of winter.
Hiking pants that are loose to protect against heat, tiny needles, and other prickly plants and pests. A pair of shorts with knee-high socks is another choice in the spring and summer. Good hiking boots will come in handy all year, especially in rainy conditions.
A fleece top is nearly always necessary in the mountains, no matter what time of year. Bring a thick, waterproof coat if you’re heading to the mountains between October and May.
And suppose you’re visiting the Merzouga Desert (the more precise name of where tourist trips into the Moroccan Sahara begin). In that case, you’ll either ride a camel for a day trip or “glamping” overnight (i.e. “glamorous camping” in luxury tents).
Like all desert climates, be prepared for warm days and cold nights. Prepare by bringing an extra layer of clothing for the nighttime.
Don’t wear your nicest pair of white Adidas. You’ll inevitably find sand in them when you get home. I recommend open-toed flip-flops, which are easily rinsed and packable.
What To Wear In Morocco As A Man?
Men do not have the same considerations as women when traveling in a conservative country such as Morocco. However, they still need to consider local culture to avoid offending or attracting unwanted attention. Blending in can go a long way to enhancing your experience in any country.
Like women, men in Morocco dress relatively modestly and avoid looking untidy or too casual. The idea of modest dressing also extends to ostentatious displays of brand names, logos, jewelry, or high-end electronics. Also, consider covering any excessive or offensive tattoos.
In Summer & Spring
Despite being the sweltering time of the year, summer is Morocco’s peak tourist season. If you’re visiting during the summer (June-September), you’ll want to pick the lightest possible fabrics, like cotton and linen.
You’ll also need to plan on frequently washing, as the humidity will soak through your clothing quickly.
In The Fall & Winter
If you’re visiting during the winter (December-February), remember that most of Morocco has a mild winter, and central heating is not widely available. Pack extra layers, like a long-sleeve or tank top base, cozy sweaters, and warm socks.
A packable winter jacket will also be extremely versatile to pull out when the temperatures drop. If you’re visiting a city in the Central Atlas Mountains of Morocco (think: Fes, Meknes), this is essential, as these cities are drier than the coast, and temperatures fall at night.
What To Wear In Morocco As A Woman?
Compared to other Muslim countries, Morocco is pretty relaxed about how female tourists dress, and rarely will you be required to cover your head. It doesn’t mean you don’t still need to consider the local culture with what you wear.
While the main tourist areas are quite accepting of how foreigners dress, some rural areas you visit may not be, so there is still a dress code for tourists to consider. Even in the more progressive tourist hubs, you need to consider any unwanted attention your dress may attract.
In Summer & Spring
Springtime temperatures (March, April, and May) grow warmer during the day. Depending on which month and where in Morocco you go, you can wear thinner clothing such as light trousers or a midi/maxi skirt and a light long/¾/short-sleeved blouse or a t-shirt; below the knees or maxi dress, either long-sleeved or short-sleeved.
The evenings cool off quickly once the sun goes down, so having layers such as warmer tops and a jacket is important.
The weather becomes significantly warmer in the months of June, July, and August. While the temperatures in June are still reasonable in most parts, July and August are Morocco’s hottest and driest months, meaning the temperatures can be 29-45°C degrees during the day, depending on the region!
Very lightweight and natural, breathable fabrics are the best for this kind of weather: think flowy trousers or maxi skirts with a loose shirt or a blouse; maxi dresses (sleeveless ones are fine too, but make sure to cover your shoulders with a shawl); a full kaftan is also a good option for staying cool and having enough coverage.
Evenings cool down a bit, and the temperatures drop to 18-22°C degrees; it’s good to have something to layer on, such as a scarf, cardigan, or a lightweight jacket.
The most practical footwear for warmer months is still closed-toe if you want to explore Morocco comfortably. You can opt for lighter trainers or espadrilles. Comfy sandals or mules are also good, but your feet will get dirty!
In The Fall & Winter
Temperatures in the south will still be mild during the day, although evenings can get surprisingly cold. If you’re planning an overnight camel trek in the Sahara, the nights and mornings get very cold.
The north experiences wet winters. The High Atlas Mountains can be frigid. There will be snow in the mountains and even the possibility of skiing if you’re keen. Snow can still be visible on its peaks as late as July.
- Bring a warm jacket. A windbreaker will be welcome if heading to the coast; it can get quite windy.
- Additional lightweight underlayers for cold mornings and evenings. Easy to remove as the days warm up.
- Closed-toe shoes and socks.
- A wool beanie and winter-weight scarf.
What Not To Wear In Morocco?
Wearing something revealing will be very awkward in morocco. Over 99% of the Moroccan population is Muslim, and walking around in clothing that disregards religious customs is just bad etiquette.
While many Moroccans are fashion-forward and dress nicely, the reality about what not to wear in Morocco relates to respect for the religion and conservative culture.
While navigating a different dress code can feel like a minefield for a female traveler, keep in mind that Moroccans are used to foreigners and are generally forgiving of their fashion faux pas.
The most important thing to remember is to dress in a way that makes you feel comfortable while traveling so you can focus on soaking up the culture and not holding your hemline.
Clothing items to avoid during your trip to Morocco include:
- Do not pack short shorts or miniskirts: Women’s clothing in Morocco should be modest, and covering your thighs and knees is most important. Leave your shorts and mini-skirts at home.
- Anything too tight or formfitting (because of the unwanted attention and because it’s a hot place).
- Clothing with vulgar images, glorifying drugs/alcohol, or anything otherwise offensive to Islam or Muslims.
- Sheer or provocative clothing (Some girls feel confident if they receive attention for their dress. It’s nice to be noticed, but if you visit Morocco as a visitor or tourist, you must avoid wearing a provocative dress. Often girls dress to impress other girls, maybe even more than guys. But for many girls, it’s even more important to fit in).
What To Pack For Morocco Year-round?
Mentioning its name evokes images of camel caravans in the desert, people in flowing robes, and markets packed with exotic spices –Morocco is a place Westerners dream of. But as when traveling to any country that feels so foreign, first-time travelers will question, “What do I need to pack for Morocco?”
This Morocco packing list includes everything you’ll need during your trip, and you can scroll down for tips on what to wear in Morocco and what to pack for different seasons:
1. Packing Cubes
Using packing cubes makes staying organized on the road easier than ever. Instead of putting clothes directly into your bag, where they’ll inevitably get unfolded and mixed up, pack them into different colorful cubes.
Instead of digging through your entire bag to find one specific item, you’ll know where it is and can pull out the cube it’s packed in.
2. Jet Lag Relief
For travelers coming from far and wide, you’re likely to experience the effects of jet lag after a long flight to Morocco. To combat and prevent this, we recommend bringing natural jet lag relief tablets, which will alleviate your negative symptoms.
Make the most of your first day in Morocco instead of falling prey to the effects of jet lag!
3. Morocco Power Adapter
As in Europe, power outlets in Morocco take two round pins (may or may not be grounded), so you’ll need to bring a power adapter.
This universal adapter will cover you for Morocco and almost every other place you might be visiting before or after. It also has built-in device protection via an awesome safety fuse.
4. Tunic or Long, Modest Tops
When it comes to dressing for Morocco, the conservative culture and predominance of Islam mean modesty is the name of the game for both men and women.
Tunic tops are ideal for women because they provide sufficient coverage and are comfortable in the heat if made from a lightweight fabric like this one. Long, modest tops will go a long way in Morocco as far as helping you to blend in properly and respect the culture.
5. Neck Wallet
Whenever you’re traveling to a foreign place, you’ll want to feel that your important belongings are safe and secure. This neck wallet is perfect for holding your passport, phone, credit cards, and cash in separate pockets keeping your valuables organized and easily accessible.
Wear it under your clothes to protect yourself from pickpockets, especially when visiting particularly crowded or touristy locations like markets and bazaars.
6. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger
An invaluable item to bring on a trip overseas is a reliable, lipstick-sized portable charger. Especially if you’re using your smartphone for navigation, translation, and photos, you won’t want to find yourself stuck in a situation where you’ve run out of battery.
Stick this small portable charger in your purse or pocket for a backup battery when you need it most. This will be handy if you’re lost and don’t speak the language!
7. Quick-Dry Travel Towel
You’ll find many uses for a travel towel on your trip to Morocco. Use it to dry off after a swim, sit on it at the beach, or keep the sweat out of your eyes when you’re exploring or hiking.
Travel towels dry quickly, repel odors and sand, and fit compactly in any bag. I don’t go on any trip without one.
8. Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Investing in a VPN is a good idea any time you travel. Whether connecting to public WiFi in a hotel, airport, or internet cafe, you risk your personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers, getting hacked.
Using a VPN will protect you from potential hackers and grant you access to websites from your home country that may be censored or unavailable in Morocco.
9. Cooling Towel
Home to part of the Sahara Desert, it’s no surprise that Morocco is HOT. I have the perfect solution, cooling towels if you sometimes struggle to stand the heat.
These small but mighty towels pack an icy punch as soon as you wet them. They drop to 20 to 30 degrees colder than the air temperature and feel refreshing.
Be sure to bring one with you whether you’re relaxing on the beach, hitting the town, or exploring the Sahara on camelback.
10. Modest Swimsuit
If your itinerary includes spending time on the coast, a swimsuit will be another of your Morocco packing essentials. The country’s standards of conservative dress are relaxed at the beach, but both men and women should err on the side of modesty when choosing a swimsuit and beach cover-up.
11. Windproof Travel Umbrella
An unexpectedly useful item to bring to Morocco is a good travel umbrella. If you plan to travel during the rainy season, you’ll be glad you have a sturdy umbrella and raincoat to protect you from the elements.
During the summer, beat Morocco’s oppressive heat by using your umbrella to shield you from the sun’s hot rays.
12. Activated Charcoal
You’ll be glad you packed activated charcoal if you end up eating something your stomach doesn’t agree with in Morocco, which is likely, as your body won’t be used to the spices, foods, and germs in a foreign place.
These capsules will absorb toxins in your stomach and stop the travelers’ diarrhea that could otherwise ruin your trip. Don’t leave home without them!
13.LifeStraw Water Bottle
In Morocco’s hot climate, you’ll need to stay hydrated, so it’s a good idea to always keep a bottle of water with you.
While bottled water is available for purchase in most parts of the country, as tap water is unsafe to drink, you’ll save money and reduce your environmental footprint by bringing a reusable bottle with a reliable filter like this one.
14. Travel Insurance for Morocco
Travel insurance probably isn’t the most exciting item on your Morocco checklist, but it’s crucial. Even if you don’t end up needing it – and hopefully you won’t – just knowing you have it provides peace of mind.
And if something unexpected happens that leaves you needing insurance, it will be a lifesaver.
15. Comfortable, Breathable Walking Shoes
If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing in Morocco, there’s no doubt you’ll need a great pair of comfortable, breathable walking shoes.
The weather can get quite hot, so you’ll need shoes like these that you can wear all day without your feet getting overheated.
Whether you’re on a walking tour of Casablanca, strolling through the bazaars of Marrakech, or getting lost in the charming blue streets of Chefchaouen, your feet will thank you for bringing a good pair of walking shoes!
16. Theft Proof Backpack
It’s always wise to bring along a small and stylish daypack for excursions and outings in Morocco. We recommend this anti-theft backpack which is perfect for carrying all your important belongings and keeping them secure and out of reach from pickpockets.
You can’t go wrong with this trendy and useful bag with several hidden pockets and an anti-theft zipper.
17. Shawl or Scarf
With continuous functions, a scarf or shawl is one of the most useful things to bring to Morocco. In addition to dressing up a casual outfit.
You can also throw it on over a tank top or low-cut shirt for more coverage, use it to cover your head when entering Mosques and holy sites or use it to keep sand out of your face in the desert. A scarf like this one is essential for any trip to North Africa.
18. Packable “Just in Case” Bag
Traveling with a “just in case” bag like this one is great. It’s compact and takes up barely any space in your luggage, so much so that you’ll forget you even packed it until the end of your trip when you’ll need it to bring home all your Moroccan souvenirs.
Use it as a beach bag or for any other unexpected need, and easily attach the duffel to your suitcase handle for hassle-free transport at the airport or around the country.
19. Deodorant Wipes
As we’ve mentioned, Morocco can certainly get hot, especially during summer. It’s great to have deodorant wipes to refresh during long days of sightseeing, hiking, or trekking through the vast desert.
These wipes will keep you feeling and smelling clean, which, trust us, you’ll need throughout your adventure in Morocco.
Other Things To Pack When Visiting Morocco
Here are a few other things you might need to pack when planning to visit Morocco:
- Morocco has a ‘closed currency, so you’ll need to buy your Dirhams at the airport when you get there. Make sure you keep your receipts, as you’ll need them to convert your left-over cash back into your currency when you leave.
- A bag or soft-sided rucksack is more practical than a hard case when traveling around or if you plan to travel with carry-on baggage. Using packing cubes can help keep your belongings tidy while compressing the volume.
- Combine your bag with a fold-away day sack that will carry your daytime essentials.
- Don’t drink or even brush your teeth in tap water. Consider taking a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle.
- To use electrical gadgets, you may need a travel adapter plug and a step-down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for the local voltage (220V).
- Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don’t forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! You’ll find myriad treasures in the souks, including beautiful embroidered linens, spices, dried goods, and Moroccan argan oil (best bought in Agadir, Essaouira, or small villages) that can be used for cooking or cosmetic use. Remember that any liquids will need to be packed in your luggage when you fly home.
What To Wear In Morocco For Hiking And Exploring?
Hiking is as good for the soul as it is for the body. If like us, your zen place is the mountains, then you’re probably pretty bummed that the snow doesn’t last all year. But that doesn’t mean the mountains are rendered useless for six months in the summer!
Hiking is a great way to stretch your legs, keep healthy, and free your mind from the daily grind. And we know this brilliant pass time attracts new faces every day.
You might be worried about which trail to follow, whether to wear your sneakers or rain jacket and how light you should pack. What if you are alone on the path? Is it safe?
Morocco’s weather can get weird when on a hike, as can the terrain, so it’s always good to get the right gear, carry the right clothing, and make sure you’re ready for whatever the day is about to hurl your way. It’s always an adventure out there, so be prepared!
Here are the things you should pack for your hiking and camping trip in Morocco:
- Waterproof Jacket: In Morocco, a waterproof jacket is the most important item to protect against rain and keep you warm at high altitudes. A breathable style is recommended for strenuous climbs.
- Walking Trousers: A pair of stretch walking trousers, zip-offs, or shorts are ideal for hiking as you can pack a pair of waterproof overtrousers in your bag for wet weather. If it’s raining, a pair of waterproof trousers are ideal.
- Base Layers: A wicking or quick-drying base layer top is highly recommended to help regulate your body temperature while on a hike. Leggings could also be a useful layer underneath your waterproof trousers if it’s colder.
- Backpack: You’ll want a backpack that can fit everything you need for the hike without weighing you down. You’ll need enough room for extra layers, food, water, and essentials like your keys and phone.
- Walking Boots or Shoes: A comfortable pair of walking boots are essential for easy climbing and hiking in Morocco. They need to offer support for your ankles when going downhill and a good grip on slippery or unstable surfaces. A good fit is imperative, too; blisters will cause a lot of pain and slow you down.
- Walking Socks: These give an extra layer of cushioning for your feet on walks or treks. Depending on the conditions, you can choose from merino wool or anti-bacterial socks.
- Hat: Especially important in colder weather, as you will lose a lot of heat from your head.
- Gaiters: A pair of walking gaiters over the bottom of your trousers and boots will help you avoid getting water or dirt on the top of your boots.
- Gloves: Again, if you are hiking in colder weather, a pair of thermal or waterproof gloves will help you retain your body heat.
- Walking Poles: A pair of walking poles will help your balance and take some pressure off your joints on steep hills.
- Map / Compass: The last thing you want when hiking in a new area is to get lost! Phone signals aren’t always reliable, so a good old-fashioned map is handy when technology fails.
- First Aid Kit: Being prepared can’t hurt, but lots of things can in rough terrains. Plasters, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, and pain-relief medication are all useful to keep on you.
- Torch: Visibility can deteriorate suddenly on the hillside or wherever you trek, so take a head torch or flashlight just in case!
- Suncream: Even if it doesn’t feel that warm when you set off, take suncream to be on the safe side.
- Insect Repellent: If you’re enjoying the great outdoors, chances are there will be bugs enjoying it, too, so don’t let them ruin your day.
- Sunglasses: On sunny days, try a pair with a head strap so you won’t lose them on the bumpiest of trails.
- Camping Equipment: If you’re going on a longer hiking trip, then tents, cooking equipment, sleeping bags, and furniture might make life that bit easier. It is essential to research the weather days before you head out to the trails to help you plan better and pack relevant items.
What To Wear In Morocco For Swimming & Surfing?
As low-impact exercises, swimming and surfing are easier on the joints and bones than other workouts, like running or biking. Anyone can benefit from swimming for training, so it’s often a top choice for those looking to lose weight, get in shape or maintain their current weight.
Here are a few things you need to pack for your swimming and surfing trip in Morocco:
- Swimsuits: A swimsuit should top your list of swimming accessories. Though you can swim in a T-shirt and shorts, they’re uncomfortable and difficult. Men can wear either a Speedo or well-fitted swim trunks. For exercise, women should wear a one-piece suit that streamlines the body and makes swimming more comfortable. Two-piece swimsuits work well for some women, but make sure your breasts are well-contained by the top of the suit. Bikinis are not intended for physical activity.
- Extra Layers: Suppose you want to improve your time or create more resistance while swimming; consider wearing multiple suits simultaneously. This adds more weight for your body to pull through the water, creating additional resistance to help build muscle. Wearing extra layers during practice can improve your swim time if you participate in swimming competitions.
- Nose Plug: A nose plug is optional but benefits those who can’t plug their noses without using their hands. If you struggle to keep water out of your nose, an inexpensive nose plug will help you feel more comfortable swimming and can even improve your time.
- Goggles: Goggles are optional and allow swimmers to open their eyes underwater. Goggles come in handy if you’re swimming laps in a pool and need to see the wall in advance. When you swim in a lake, pond, or ocean, goggles keep dirt and debris out of your eyes and help you see more clearly underwater.
- Swim Cap: A swim cap serves several purposes. A rubber swim cap prevents your hair from getting wet. This decreases the time spent showering, cleaning up, and tending after a workout. The cap also protects your hair from the chlorine used in pools. Too much chlorine can dry the hair and tint blond hair green. A swim cap also reduces resistance and keeps hair out of your eyes.
If you are planning a trip to Morocco to do surfing, I invite you to read our in-depth guide about surfing in Morocco and The Best Morocco Beaches.
The Bottom Line
If you’ve read up on any other advice on how to dress in Morocco, you’ve probably gotten the message that you’ll want to “cover up”.
For men, this is simple. Don’t go shirtless except at the beach. Women’s dress codes tend to be more ideologically and pragmatically complicated. Frankly, you can wear whatever you want. You will not get arrested. However, the question isn’t necessarily what you can wear but what you should wear. Morocco is a Muslim country. Many people will feel offended by provocative clothing.
Aside from cultural considerations and the different activities you have planned in Morocco, you also need to pack clothes to cover you for a changeable climate. No matter what time of year, bring layers and prepare for both hot and cold weather at some point.
Women have heard a thousand times that it’s safer to travel in conservative clothing. Catcalling is frequent in Morocco, as in many places worldwide, and is likely to happen regardless of clothing choice. But, the travel guides say dressing modestly will help lessen unwanted attention. Legally, women can dress however they want in Morocco. However, covering up shows respect to local women by following the local dress standard.
Contrary to what you might think, “covering up” does not mean dressing “conservatively”. In Morocco, you’ll find that many girls and women regularly go about their day in short sleeves and skinny jeans without a headscarf. Unlike some other Muslim countries, Moroccan women do not wear other Muslim headwear (such as a niqab or burqa).
Dressing to local standards doesn’t mean you agree with all the local institutions. Rather, your willingness to adapt shows your ability to learn, understand, and withhold judgment about social customs that are not your own. This is respect and tolerance that we should convey to other communities if we want to be accepted and invited as welcome visitors.
Ultimately, you can choose how you dress when you travel. But your appearance and behavior may affect the hospitality locals show you.
That’s thanks for reading all the way to the end.
Cheers (:
