Packing Guide for Desert Treks

Many travelers ask what they should bring for a desert trek in Wadi Rum. Below is a list of essential items we recommend packing for your trek. The equipment needed is similar to what you would normally bring on any multi-day hiking trip, but adapted for the desert environment.

Clothing

  • Lightweight layered clothing

  • T-shirts and long-sleeved shirts

  • Hiking trousers, athletic leggings, or hiking shorts

  • Lightweight fleece

  • Hiking socks (synthetic or wool)

  • Sleepwear

  • Casual clothes for relaxing at camp and an extra pair of shoes

  • Thermal layers (recommended in colder months)

  • Rain jacket (recommended in colder months)

  • Insulated jacket (recommended in colder months)

Footwear

  • Hiking shoes — lightweight with good grip and support

  • Sandals or comfortable footwear for evenings at camp

Luggage

  • Backpack for day essentials

  • Duffle bag or medium soft-sided bag for your main luggage

Sun Protection

  • Sun hat or Bedouin scarf

  • Sunglasses

  • Sunscreen SPF 30 or higher

Personal Items

  • Water bottle

  • Headlamp or torch

  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, lip balm, soap or hand sanitizer)

  • Tissues or wet wipes

  • Prescription medications

  • Basic first aid items (blister care, pain or fever relief)

Optional Items

  • Trekking poles

  • Camera, charger, and power bank (extra batteries)

  • Travel power adapter

  • Binoculars

  • Travel towel

Additional Packing & Camping Tips for Your Desert Trek

Sun Protection The desert sun can be very strong, so bringing proper sun protection is essential. A hat or Bedouin scarf, sunglasses, and sunscreen will help protect you during long hours outdoors.

Backpack & Hydration Make sure your backpack is comfortable and suitable for hiking. A backpack with a supportive waist strap helps distribute weight during longer walks. It is also important to keep your water bottle or hydration pack easily accessible so you can drink regularly throughout the trek.

Luggage & Storage Your main luggage will be transported to the campsite by vehicle, so it will be available to you each evening. Any belongings you do not need during the trek can be safely stored at our office.

Clothing Tips Temperatures in the desert can change significantly between day and night, so layering your clothing is recommended. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that you can easily add or remove as needed. It is also advisable to test your hiking shoes beforehand to make sure they are comfortable for longer walks.

Camping Gear We provide all the essential camping equipment needed for a comfortable night in the desert, including mattresses, pillows, blankets, and sleeping bags, all of which are cleaned before each trip. For extra comfort, some guests like to bring a sleeping bag liner or a light cotton sheet.

Extra Snacks Although meals are provided during the trek, bringing a few high-energy snacks such as nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit can be helpful, especially during longer hiking days.

Dietary Restrictions If you have dietary restrictions or food intolerances, please inform us in advance. While we try to accommodate most needs, guests with gluten intolerance may prefer to bring their own gluten-free food to supplement the meals provided.