Practical guide
What to pack for a night in the Sahara
You do not need much for a night in our camp, but a few things make a real difference. Here is the list we give our own friends.
In short: pack a small overnight bag with layers (light clothes for the day, a warm jacket for the night), a scarf or cheche against sun and sand, sunglasses, sunscreen, closed shoes or sandals you can walk in on sand, a power bank and a headlamp. Leave the big suitcase in the car or with us: the camel ride is easier with a small bag.
Clothes: think in layers
The desert is hot by day and cool, sometimes cold, by night. Layers are the answer.
- Light, loose clothes for the day, ideally long sleeves and long trousers against the sun.
- A warm layer: a fleece or a sweater from March to November, a real warm jacket from December to February.
- A scarf or a cheche (the Berber turban). It protects you from sun and wind on the camel. Our team can show you how to tie it.
- Comfortable shoes. Sand gets everywhere: sandals or light trainers are best. Many guests walk barefoot on the dunes, the sand is soft.
- Something to sleep in and a change of clothes for the next day.
For the camel ride
- A small backpack you can carry on your back or hang on the saddle. Big suitcases travel by 4x4.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen, even at the end of the afternoon.
- A bottle of water.
- Trousers rather than shorts: they are more comfortable on the saddle.
Useful extras
- A power bank for your phone and camera.
- A headlamp or small torch for walking on the dunes at night to look at the stars.
- A zip bag to protect your phone and camera from fine sand.
- Lip balm and moisturiser: the air is very dry.
- Some cash in dirhams for tips or souvenirs in Merzouga.
What you can leave behind
No need for a sleeping bag, towels or any camping equipment. Our tents have real beds with linen and warm blankets, a private bathroom with hot shower, towels, and heating or air conditioning depending on the season. Dinner and breakfast are included.
Packing by season
| Season | Add to your bag |
|---|---|
| December to February | Warm jacket, hat, gloves for the sunrise, warm socks. |
| March to May | Fleece for the evening, scarf for windy days. |
| June to August | Very light clothes, hat, plenty of sunscreen, refillable water bottle. |
| September to November | Light sweater for the night, scarf, sunglasses. |
Not sure when to come? Read our guide to the best time to visit Merzouga, and see what is inside our tents.
FAQ
Packing for the desert, quick answers
Do I need to bring a towel or a sleeping bag?
No. Every tent at Abdo Luxury Camp has real beds with linen, warm blankets and towels, and a private bathroom with hot shower.
Can I bring my big suitcase to the camp?
Yes, but not on the camel. Large luggage can stay in your car in Merzouga or travel to the camp by 4x4. Take a small bag with what you need for the night.
What should I wear for the camel ride?
Long, comfortable trousers, a light top with long sleeves, a scarf against sun and sand, and sunglasses. Bring a warm layer for after sunset.
Bag packed? Your tent is waiting
Send us your dates and we take care of the rest, from the camel to the dinner.