What to pack for your Trip to Egypt

If you're planning a trip to Egypt, often referred to as the Cradle of Human Civilization, there are essential items you'll want to pack to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. While Egypt boasts incredible historical sites and a warm climate, it's necessary to be prepared.

When planning your trip to Egypt, it's crucial to pack for the predominantly hot and sunny weather. Sun protection is not just a suggestion but a vital step towards a safe and enjoyable trip. There's always a good time to visit Egypt, except for the scorching summer months, as the weather is consistently agreeable year-round.

November – March: This is the ideal time to visit for cooler weather and fewer crowds at popular sites (though December and early January can be busier due to school holidays). Winter temperatures are mild, ranging from the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (10-20°C), but Alexandria and occasionally Cairo can experience quite a bit of rain during this period.

April – May / September – October: These months are great for exploring northern and southern Egypt. The weather is warmer but not excessively hot, making hiking and beach activities enjoyable.

June – August: If you can handle the heat, summer is perfect for enjoying the beach and pool all day. The above months are the peak season for tourism at the Red Sea. In contrast, Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan see fewer visitors due to temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C).

Items to bring on your trip to Egypt:

Essential Travel Accessories

Egyptian Power Adapter: Besides exploring ancient civilizations and pristine beaches, Egypt offers stunning coastlines and some of the world's best scuba diving. As you look forward to your trip, don't forget to consider whether you'll need a power adapter. This item is at the top of the list if you want to avoid frustrations and is essential because Egypt uses different electrical outlets and voltages from many other countries. You will need a suitable adapter or converter. Bear in mind that it is your responsibility to ensure the safety and functionality of your electronic devices. Egypt typically uses Type C and Type F plugs, and the standard voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. Be sure to check your device's compatibility with these specifications to avoid any issues with the power supply during your trip. Be aware that if you are visiting Egypt from the United States, you must purchase an adapter since the US runs at 120V and 60Hz.

Power Bank: I can’t imagine traveling without a power bank. You’re using your phone all day for navigation, photos, and more, so having a backup charge is essential. Choose one lightweight that holds several charges and charges phones quickly. Definitely a win, win. Do yourself a favor and place the power bank in the carry-on, it is not that airlines are against passengers carrying batteries and power banks; it is only because these items can get hot if you place them on the checked luggage. These items must travel in carry-on luggage; do so, and you will be fine.

Appropriate Clothing: For your trip to Egypt, focus on comfort and modesty, especially for mosque visits. Respecting local customs is essential. Forget everything you heard before about covering yourself from head to toe to come to Egypt; it is not true. You are fine as long as you wear everyday vacation clothing; just avoid exaggerations. There is always a dress code for visiting mosques in any Arabic Country.

Many people in Egypt dress conservatively, so following a similar style when visiting is respectful. While tourists have more flexibility, wearing shorts, dresses, or skirts at least mid-thigh length is generally recommended. Please avoid excessive cleavage and transparency.

For Historical Sites and Mosque:

Long, breathable pants, skirts, or maxi dresses, scarves, or shawls to cover the head and shoulders are allowed; anything above the knees is not allowed.

• Choose breathable fabrics like light-colored cotton linen to stay cool while adhering to local norms.
• Light, Loose-Fitting Clothes: To stay cool while respecting local customs, choose breathable fabrics like light-colored cotton linen. Avoid transparency and low-cleavage blouses.
• Casual Outfit: Pack at least one smart/casual outfit for dining out or visiting upscale venues like the Grand Egyptian Museum.
• Footwear should be comfortable for walking, whether sturdy sandals for most sites or closed shoes for more extensive
• walking tours.
• Scarves, and more scarves: I can't emphasize this enough: Scarves are your best friend. They look great, immerse you in the culture, add instant modesty, and prevent any issues during a visit to any mosque. Some Mosques in Cairo offer an abaya for free during your visit, but they are super oversized and, honestly, not fancy enough to take photos in.
• Long-sleeve apparel: Always carry long-sleeved items. Hey! You never know when the temperature will drop a couple of degrees; if so, have at least light jackets and long-sleeve items available.

At Hotels, Beach Resorts & Restaurants:

• Bathing Suit: Yes! You can wear a bathing suit in Egypt! When staying at a Western resort or hotel in Egypt, you don’t need to be as concerned about modesty. However, if you prefer a one-piece over a bikini, we recommend it. Always be mindful that men in Egypt are not used to nudity; even among the hotel guests, topless sunbathing, etc, is not permitted; even in the most modern Western hotels, it will be frowned upon and highly discouraged. Whether you’re at a resort in Cancun, Dominican Republic, or Cairo, it’s always considered polite to have a suitable bathing suit cover-up when transitioning between the hotel’s interior, restaurants, and pool area. I'm Not razzing here, and it's common sense.

Prescribed Medications: Ensure you have enough prescribed medications for your trip (if needed). Always remember is better to be safe than sorry!

Also, consider bringing:

• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the bright Egyptian sun with a good pair of sunglasses.
• Travel Neck Pillow: A travel pillow can significantly enhance your comfort for long flights or road trips within Egypt.
• Preparing well for your trip ensures you can fully enjoy the wonders of Egypt without unnecessary discomfort. Explore our range of affordable private tours and Egypt private guided tours to make the most of your journey through this extraordinary land.
• Moisturizing Lotion: The heat in Egypt can quickly dry out your skin, so pack moisturizing lotion to keep your skin hydrated.
• Staying hydrated is also crucial to enjoying your trip. Bottled water is readily available, while tap water isn't safe to drink. Consider packing:
• Insulated Water Bottle: An insulated water bottle keeps your water cool throughout the day, ideal for staying refreshed in Egypt's warm climate.

Personal Hygiene, it's essential to pack essentials like toiletries (considering purchasing more oversized items locally) and necessary medications, including:

In Egypt, toiletries are generally available in various sizes; please always carry toilet tissue if you are in rural areas and loose change for the bathroom keepers. Most stores and pharmacies offer standard sizes of items like shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, and other personal care products. This convenience allows you to travel light and purchase items as needed, especially with a group tour. Remember that you might be unable to purchase these items due to time constriction or tour pace, so it is better to be well-prepared.

• Travel Toilet Paper: In Egypt, toilet paper is only sometimes available because many places use bidets for cleanliness. While I always needed more toilet paper to dry off, I've learned to bring my own and am passing this tip on to you. Your supply ensures you're always prepared, whether you buy locally or take some from your hotel. I prefer keeping a few small flat packages widely available in Egypt. Additionally, toilet seat covers are rarely found outside North America, so if you're concerned about hygiene, consider packing travel toilet seat covers. Also, remember not to refrain from flushing anything down the toilet in Egypt, including toilet paper, as the pipes are not equipped to handle it.
• Oral Care: Bring your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss sticks. Your preferred brands might be more expensive in Egypt, so it’s best to pack them with you.
• Razors: To avoid using low-quality hotel razors, I recommend packing the compact and effective ones
• Deodorant: Essential for staying fresh. No explanation is needed.
• Sanitary Pads: If you do not want to be caught off-guard, pack essential items wisely

FORBIDDEN ITEMS

Drones are not allowed in Egypt, and bringing one into the Country can lead to significant trouble. The Egyptian government has stringent regulations regarding the use and possession of drones, and any drone found in your possession will be confiscated. Be compliant to avoid inconvenience, legal issues, or the loss of your equipment; it is crucial to leave your drone at home and refrain from attempting to bring it into the Country. Always check the rules of the Country you visit to ensure compliance with regulations.

Narcotics: Bringing any form of narcotics into Egypt is strictly prohibited and will lead to serious legal consequences. Additionally, travelers should ensure that a prescription accompanies any medical medications they carry, and they must avoid bringing any narcotics.

Alcohol: In Egypt, alcohol is not widely available. The primary opportunity to purchase it is at the duty-free shop at the airport, where you can buy up to 1 liter. Needless to say, drinking on the street is strictly forbidden.