Essential items to keep in your car for a smooth and comfortable journey.
After years of road trips across Morocco, I've refined my packing list to exactly what you need without overpacking. In your car at all times: water - minimum 2 liters per person, more if you're desert-bound. Dehydration happens faster than you think. Snacks that don't melt - nuts, dried fruit, biscuits - because the next village might be an hour away. A physical road map as backup to GPS - cell service drops in mountains and remote areas, and Google Maps isn't always accurate on Moroccan back roads. Phone charger with car adapter is essential. Download offline maps before you leave WiFi. Sunglasses and sunscreen are non-negotiable - the sun is intense year-round. A hat protects you during roadside stops. Pack a light jacket or sweater even in summer because mountains and desert nights get surprisingly cold. First aid kit with basics: bandaids, pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication (just in case), any personal prescriptions. Toilet paper and hand sanitizer - public bathrooms don't always have paper. Wet wipes are lifesavers. A flashlight or headlamp for nighttime emergencies. Spare phone battery pack. Your passport, driver's license, International Driving Permit, rental papers, and insurance documents should always be in the car. Keep copies separate from originals. Cash in small bills - cards don't work everywhere, and you'll need change for parking, tips, and tolls. A reusable shopping bag for market stops. If you wear glasses, bring a spare pair. For longer trips, consider: a cooler for drinks and fresh food purchases, a good travel pillow for passenger naps, a universal power adapter, and binoculars for spotting wildlife and distant views. In winter, add a warm blanket. For desert trips, sand recovery boards if you're going really remote. This might seem like a lot, but it all fits easily and you'll use almost everything. Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it in the middle of nowhere.