Toubkal Packing List

Hiking gear and backpack laid out showing essential equipment for mountain trekking

For Toubkal you need broken-in hiking boots, layered clothing (base, fleece, down jacket, waterproof shell), a 30–40 L daypack, headtorch, 2–3 L water, sun protection and a sleeping-bag liner. Winter adds crampons, ice axe and warm gloves.

Packing right makes the difference between a comfortable summit and a miserable one. The key is layers — Toubkal has a 20°C swing between dawn on the summit and midday in the valley. This list covers the 2-day and 3-day summer treks, with a winter addendum for cold-season ascents.

Clothing

Base layer — moisture-wicking top and trekking trousers (avoid cotton).
Mid layer — a warm fleece or light insulated jacket.
Outer shell — waterproof jacket (afternoon storms are possible, especially spring).
Down jacket — essential for the pre-dawn summit start; cold even in summer.
Trekking trousers — convertible or lightweight, plus a spare pair.
3–4 pairs of good trekking socks (merino is ideal).
A warm hat and a sun hat.

Footwear

Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support and grip — not new on the day.
Break boots in for at least two weeks before the trek.
Trail shoes are not enough for the upper scree slopes; boots are strongly recommended.
For winter: stiff B1/B2 boots that take crampons.

Gear

A 30–40 L daypack (mules carry your main bag; you carry water, layers and camera).
A sleeping-bag liner (refuges provide blankets; a liner is cleaner and warmer).
A headtorch with spare batteries — essential for the pre-dawn summit start.
Trekking poles — they save your knees on the long descent.
A 2–3 L water bottle or bladder.
A small dry bag for electronics and a power bank.

Safety and personal items

A small personal first-aid kit (blister plasters, painkillers, personal medications).
High-SPF sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, sunglasses.
Hand sanitiser and tissues (basic refuge bathrooms).
Earplugs for the shared refuge dormitory.
A lightweight travel towel and wet wipes.
Cash in small notes for drinks and tips (no ATMs above Asni).

Winter additions

Insulated down jacket and waterproof shell trousers.
Gaiters and two pairs of warm gloves.
A warm hat and a buff.
Crampons and an ice axe — provided with instruction on our winter ascents.
B1 or B2 stiff boots that take crampons.

Winter Toubkal ascent

What NOT to bring

A tent, stove or camping gear — the refuge provides bedding.
A huge expedition backpack — mules carry your main bag; you only need a daypack.
Cotton jeans — heavy, slow to dry and uncomfortable.
A massive first-aid kit — your guide carries a comprehensive one.
Lots of changes of clothes — two sets of trekking clothes is plenty.
Alcohol — none is available or appropriate in Berber villages.

Packing tips

Keep your main bag under 15 kg — mules have weight limits, and a soft duffel packs onto a mule far better than a hard suitcase. Pack for a 20°C dawn-to-midday swing. Lay everything out the night before the summit start — you will dress in the dark and in the cold.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most important item for Toubkal?

Broken-in hiking boots with good grip and ankle support. Blisters and twisted ankles are the most common problems, and both are preventable with the right footwear broken in well before the trek.

How much should my backpack weigh?

Your main bag (carried by the mule) should be under 15 kg. Your daypack — water, layers, camera — should be light, around 4–6 kg. You only carry the daypack while walking.

Do I need special boots for Toubkal?

Sturdy broken-in hiking boots with ankle support are strongly recommended for the upper scree slopes. Trail shoes are not enough. For winter you need stiff B1/B2 boots that take crampons.

What layers do I need for Toubkal?

A moisture-wicking base layer, a warm fleece mid layer, a waterproof shell, and a down jacket for the pre-dawn summit start. Pack for a 20°C dawn-to-midday swing.

Do I need a tent for Toubkal?

No. The Neltner refuge provides dormitory bunks with blankets. Bring a sleeping-bag liner for hygiene and extra warmth. Camping gear is only needed if you book a tented departure.

Do I need a sleeping bag for Toubkal?

A sleeping-bag liner is usually enough — the refuge provides blankets. For winter and anyone who feels the cold, bring a three-season sleeping bag. Check your trek's packing notes.

What about food and water on Toubkal?

All meals on the trek are included and prepared by your guide/cook. Carry 2–3 L of water per day; bottled water is provided. Bring snacks and electrolytes if you like them.

Do I need a headtorch for Toubkal?

Yes — essential. The summit start is pre-dawn, around 4–5 am, and you walk in the dark for the first 1–2 hours. Bring a headtorch with spare batteries.