What to wear and pack for Petra.
Updated October 2026
For Petra, wear shoes with good grip, light layers that cover shoulders and knees, a hat and sunglasses, and carry two litres of water, sunscreen, a scarf and some cash. Mornings and evenings are cool even in spring, so bring a warm layer.
Shoes
The single most important thing. Petra is about twenty kilometres of sand, smooth worn rock and stone steps, and the Monastery climb alone is around 800 steps. Wear trainers or light walking shoes with grip, already broken in. Sandals are fine for the hotel, not for the trail.
Clothes
- Light layers: a breathable shirt, a light jumper or fleece for the early start, and a jacket in winter. The Siq is cool in the morning; the open valley is hot by noon.
- Cover shoulders and knees. Jordan is relaxed with visitors, but modest clothes are respectful in the town and the villages, and they protect you from the sun.
- A scarf: for sun, for dust when the wind blows through the Siq, and as a cover-up.
- A hat and sunglasses, all year.
- Swimwear, for the pool in the warm months and the hammam.
In your daypack
- Two litres of water each, more in summer. You can buy more inside, at a mark-up.
- Sunscreen and lip balm.
- Lunch and snacks, or cash for the restaurant near Qasr al-Bint.
- Cash in small notes for tea, water, toilets and tips.
- Your ticket or Jordan Pass and your passport.
- A small torch or phone light, for the tombs and for the walk back after Petra by Night.
- A power bank. You will take more photos than you think.
By season
| Season | Add |
|---|---|
| Spring and autumn | Layers; warm top for early mornings and evenings |
| Summer | Light, loose clothes; hat; extra water; electrolytes |
| Winter | Warm jacket, hat and gloves for mornings and Petra by Night; waterproof layer |
What you can get in Wadi Musa
Forgotten something? The shops on Tourism Street and in the town centre sell scarves, hats, water, sunscreen and snacks. Reception can prepare a packed lunch if you ask the evening before.
Short answers.
What shoes should I wear in Petra?
Trainers or light walking shoes with good grip, already broken in. There are about 800 steps to the Monastery.
Is there a dress code in Petra?
No strict dress code, but covering shoulders and knees is respectful and protects you from the sun.
How much water should I carry in Petra?
At least two litres each, more in summer. You can buy more inside.
Is Petra cold in the morning?
Yes, often. Bring a warm layer for the early start, even in spring and autumn.
Do I need cash in Petra?
Yes, small notes for tea, water, toilets and tips inside the site.