Tamanrasset What to Pack

Luggage and bags: If you pack absolutely everything in sealable plastic bags inside your bag the sand has less chance to get into everything. You should also take spare ones to bring back any litter - don't leave it in the desert.

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: The chech (traditional head cover) is much more effective than a sun hat. It is much better at keeping the sun off and is cooler. It also covers your hair when it hasn't been washed for days.

Toiletries and Medical Supplies: Wet wipes and anti-bacterial hand wipes are essential when there is a scarcity of water.

Photo Equipment: Keeping sand out of the camera is much more difficult as the wind blows the sand around, particularly at the top of the dunes and if you want to get that sand dune picture you just have to get the camera out. Some of the smaller digital cameras now have dust covers to fit them, a bit like Ipod cases. Unfortunately mine doesn't so I had to take my camera to have the sand cleaned when I got home. It was worth it for the pics though!

Camping/Beach/Outdoor Gear: It gets quite windy at night in the desert so if you don't have a tent, a wind break is a good idea for protection from the sand that blows around.
A good torch is also essential for trips to the "loo" in the dark.

Miscellaneous: For women travellers. If you take gifts such as pens for the children, it is also a good idea to give gifts to the women such as hair slides or something pretty, as when you go to visit villages or nomads it helps to break the ice and you are more likely to be given permission to take photographs.