List of What to Pack for Traveling to Egypt

Are you going to start an exciting trip to Egypt and are stuck in the messy stage of what to pack? From travel essential documents to clothes, even some small items you never thought of, here is an ultimate packing list for you to make the preparing a breeze.

Egypt Tour Packing List

Step #1: Travel Documents & Money Matters

The first and most important thing to pack is the items for entering Egypt and for the ability to buy the things you need. So as follows:

Passport:

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 more months and has at least one blank page (more if you're visiting other countries too). It is a good idea to keep a photo of it on your phone and bring a paper copy, just in case.

E-Visa:

Though Egypt also allows visas on arrival for most countries' citizens, I prefer to apply for an e-visa online in advance. It does help for a smoother entry, saving time from filling out the form and potential lines. However, if you prefer to get a visa on arrival, take a pen and USD 25 cash with you.

Flights Itinerary & Hotel Reservation:

You will likely be required to show proof of your travel arrangements, especially when you need to apply for a visa at the airport. So, it is better to keep both digital and printed versions of your onward and return flight tickets and the hotel reservation confirmation letter.

Cash:

Cash is still king in Egypt, especially when shopping in local bazaars or paying for small purchases. It's a good idea to always keep some small bills on hand.

"How much cash should I bring to Egypt?" - the answer really depends on your travel style, but you don't need to bring too much. If you have already booked your hotel and tours, most of your major expenses are covered. For casual daily spending on meals, tips, and souvenirs, $20-30 USD per person per day in local currency should be enough for a mid-range traveler.

Don't worry if you plan to enjoy a few luxury meals or do some high-end shopping, credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and large stores. And if you do need more cash, ATMs are easy to find in cities and tourist areas, allowing you to get Egyptian pounds with your debit or credit card.

Credit Cards:

As we mentioned above, while cash is essential for small purchases, credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, upscale restaurants, and big shops in Egypt. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly used, but some places may also accept American Express.

It is a good idea to carry at least two credit cards and one debit card. Just in case one doesn't work or gets blocked. Make sure to let your bank know about your travel plans to avoid any issues with international transactions.

Step #2: Clothing

What to wear can be the most complicated part when packing your luggage. But since Egypt has a desert climate, things get a bit simpler. Before we jump into the list, let's make the key to what to wear in Egypt much clearer: loose, lightweight, breathable, and modest. Keep this in mind, then move on.

Clothes to Wear in Egypt

T-Shirts:

Thanks to the warm desert sun, you can wear a short-sleeved T-shirt in Egypt, even during the daytime in winter. Cotton or linen t-shirts will keep you cool and comfortable, perfect for sightseeing, and will never go wrong here.

Short/Long-Pants:

You can take 2 short pants and 2 long pants. Though Egypt is a religious country, shorts are acceptable for both men and women in many touristy areas. While short pants are cooler, lightweight long pants are better for sun protection and modesty, especially when visiting mosques or local villages. Linen or quick-dry pants are great options.

Long-Dress:

For women, loose, ankle-length dresses made of breathable fabric can be a great option. Stylish dresses offer more chances for nice photos while keeping you cool and respecting local customs. What's more, they save space in your luggage. By the way, avoid low-cut dresses with suspenders. If you do want to wear them, add a shirt or other outfit to cover your shoulder.

Long-Sleeved Shirts:

Bring a couple of long-sleeved shirts for added sun protection or for cooler evenings. Again, go for breathable fabrics and loose fits.

Light Jacket or Sweather (If It's Winter Months):

Though Egypt has a warm climate, the nights of winter months (December - February) can get chilly. A light jacket or sweater will keep you warm without taking up much space in your luggage. It is a must if you are going to explore the western desert like Siwa Oasis. The night temperatures of these areas sometimes even drop below 5°C (41°F) during their winter.

Sleepwear:

Nothing fancy here. The loungewear provided by hotels won't be as comfortable as your own pajamas. Just pack two pairs of comfortable, lightweight pajamas. They help you relax and get a good night's sleep after a day of exploring. Or, you can take oversized t-shirts and sports shorts instead.

Underclothes:

Packing 4-5 sets of underclothes is usually enough, especially if you're open to hand-washing during your trip. And many hotels offer laundry services or provide space to dry clothes.

If you prefer not to do laundry, bring one set per day. You can also pack older underclothes and simply discard them after use to lighten your luggage as you go.

Alternatively, disposable underwear is a practical choice, particularly if you're heading to remote areas like the desert where washing isn't easy. Women may also want to include a few moisture-wicking or quick-dry options for added comfort in Egypt's hot and dry climate.

Swimsuits:

A swimsuit is a must if you want to swim in the hotels, not to mention if you're planning to visit the Red Sea or enjoy a hot spring in an oasis like Siwa or Bahariya. Pack at least one, but bringing two is ideal. This way, you will always have a dry one ready.

While a bikini is accessible in the Red Sea area, a modest swimsuit or a cover-up is useful for women in more conservative areas.

Light Walking Shoes:

Since you will do a lot of walking during your trip to Egypt, like climbing the pyramids and exploring the Valley of the Kings, it is wise to bring a pair of sturdy, breathable sneakers.

Closed Shoes:

A pair of closed shoes is highly recommended for exploring desert areas and more rugged terrain like the Black and White Desert, remote Egyptian oases, or Sinai Mountain. Closed shoes can protect your feet from sharp stones, hot surfaces, and blowing sand that could easily get inside open-toed sandals. They also provide better grip and ankle support, which is especially useful when walking on dunes or climbing around ancient ruins.

Sandals, Beach Shoes or Flip-flops:

Sandals, beach shoes, or flip-flops are perfect for more relaxed parts of your Egypt trip. They're ideal for strolling around the city, visiting beach towns like Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh, or simply giving your feet a break after a long day of walking.

Just remember: these are for comfort, not adventure. Save them for casual moments or beach time, not for pyramids, temples, or desert trips.

Light Scarf:

A light scarf is super handy, especially for women. Use it to cover your shoulders when entering religious sites, protect yourself from the sun, and shield your face during sandstorms.

Sunhat:

A wide-brimmed hat is your best friend under the Egyptian sun. It keeps your face shaded and helps prevent heatstroke during long sightseeing days.

Step #3: Electronics

This part is simple but important. Having the right electronics ready can make your trip smoother and more worry-free.

Get Your Smart Phone Ready

Before your trip, make sure your phone is unlocked for international use (you may also buy a local SIM card on arrival) and preloaded with useful apps:

• Uber: For convenience, cashless rides in major cities like Cairo or Alexandria.
• Google Translate: Helpful when language barriers come up.
• Google Maps: Essential for your free time in Egypt. It can take you to explore local markets, towns, or even find your hotel. Don't forget to download offline maps and update your travel itinerary and confirmations.
• Talabat: A local food delivery app, perfect for nights when you prefer to stay in.

Chargers & Power Adapter

Do not forget chargers for each device you pack. Egypt operates on 220V and uses Type C and Type F plugs (the same as most of Europe). A universal travel adapter is highly recommended, especially if you're bringing several devices like phones, cameras, or tablets. There is no need for a voltage converter for most modern electronics, but double-check your device labels to be safe.

Power Bank

You will likely be snapping photos throughout your Egypt vacation, which can quickly drain your phone battery. So, a power bank is essential. Take one with a capacity of 10,000-20,000 mAh, enough to charge your phone 2-3 times on the go.

Camera (Optional)

Not a must if your smartphone has a good one, but photography lovers might want to bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera for Egypt's pyramids, ancient temples, stunning Nile River and the Red Sea. Don't forget extra memory cards and batteries!

Step #4: Toiletries

While most essentials can be found in Egypt, it's always more convenient to bring your own trusted items.

Basic Toiletry Kit

Pack a basic toiletry kit including a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, body wash, and a razor. If you want to save space, you can also use the hotel's shampoo and body wash. Besides, travel-sized bottles help save space and are airport-security friendly.

Sunscreen & After-Sun Skincare

The Egyptian sun is no joke, so pack a high-SPF sunscreen to shield your skin. Don't forget lip balm with SPF and a hydrating moisturizer to combat the dryness caused by heat and dust. An after-sun lotion or aloe gel is also great to soothe your skin after long days outdoors.

Wet Wipes & Tissues

Most Egyptian toilets are equipped with bidets and do not always provide toilet paper. It is a good idea to bring small packs of tissues or travel-sized wet wipes. But for lightweight, you do not need to take too much. Hotels usually supply toilet paper, and you can take some from your room before going out for day trips. Also, keep some small change with you, as some public toilets charge a small fee.

For women who are about to be on their period, packing feminine hygiene products is wise, especially if you're heading to remote areas where supplies may be limited.

Step #5: Other Essential Items

Now that the main parts of your luggage are packed, here are a few more must-haves:

Medicine:

Pack any daily medications you need - just enough for the trip rather than the full container. It's also wise to bring a small first-aid kit with motion sickness pills, anti-diarrhea medicine, and rehydration salts, especially if you're heading to remote or desert areas.

Light Daybag:

A foldable, lightweight daypack will make day trips much easier. Use it to carry water, sunscreen, snacks, your camera, and other daily must-haves.

Mosquito Repellent:

Don't overlook this! Mosquitoes can be an issue near the Nile or in oasis regions. Go for a DEET-based repellent or a natural option like citronella, especially for evenings outdoors.

Finally: Things Not to Pack for Egypt Tour

To help you travel light and smart, here are a few things you don't need to pack for your Egypt tour:

Things Not to Pack for Egypt

Not Allowed (Restricted by Law)

• Drone: Leave your drone at home. It is not allowed into Egypt without special government permits, which are extremely hard for tourists to get. If you try to bring one in, it will likely be confiscated at the airport and could even land you in legal trouble.

Not Recommended (For Safety & Saving Space)

• Heavy jackets or too many clothes: Egypt is hot most of the time, and you will likely repeat outfits or do laundry. Pack light, breathable layers instead of bulky extras.
• High heels or dress shoes: From sandy deserts to uneven streets, Egypt is not heel-friendly. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are much more practical.
• Flashy or expensive jewelry: Valuables can attract unwanted attention. Stick to simple, low-value accessories.
• Heavy books or guidebooks: Save space by using digital versions on your phone or tablet.
• Hairdryers and bulky styling tools: Most hotels provide a hairdryer. Unless essential, leave these at home.