What to Pack for Egypt: Essential Packing List for Tourists

What to pack for Egypt: lightweight, breathable clothes; a light layer for cool evenings and strong AC; comfortable walking shoes; serious sun protection; a day bag; a power bank; basic meds; and small cash for tips and quick purchases. Pack smart and you’ll feel comfortable everywhere—from Cairo streets to desert temples, Nile cruises, and Red Sea beaches.

Egypt packing is all about balance. You’ll move between bright sun, dry air, coastal breezes, and cooler nights depending on where you go and how late you stay out.

What to pack for Egypt.. Clothing Essentials

Lightweight, Breathable Outfits

Egypt is warm most of the year,What to Pack for Egypt, so prioritize cotton or linen pieces that stay comfortable during long sightseeing days:

• Loose T-shirts

• Breathable long-sleeve shirts (great for sun protection)

• Airy dresses or long skirts

• Linen trousers

Layers for Cooler Evenings and Cold AC

What to Pack for Egypt, Even when days are hot, nights can feel cool—especially in desert areas and during winter months. Indoor air conditioning can also be intense.

Bring:

• Light jacket

• Thin hoodie

• Scarf or shawl

Cultural Clothing Tips

You don’t need to dress ultra-conservatively, but respectful clothing is appreciated—especially around religious sites and in more traditional areas.

Helpful guidelines:

• Cover shoulders in mosques

• Choose loose-fitting outfits in rural areas

• Women may want a scarf ready for mosque visits

• In Red Sea resort towns, swimwear is fine inside resorts

Footwear You’ll Actually Use

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Expect sand, stone paths, uneven ground, and lots of steps.

Pack:

• Sturdy sneakers (your main sightseeing shoe)

• Comfortable sandals (for lighter walking days)

• Flip-flops (beach/pool)

Tip: Avoid brand-new shoes to prevent blisters during tours.

Travel Accessories That Make Egypt Easier

Sun Protection Must-Haves

The sun can feel strong even in winter.

Bring:

• High-SPF sunscreen

• Sunglasses

• Wide-brim hat or cap

• Lip balm with SPF

Reusable Water Bottle

Hydration matters in Egypt. A refillable bottle helps you stay consistent on long days and reduces single-use plastic.

Daypack or Crossbody Bag

Choose something lightweight and comfortable for tours.

What to keep inside:

• Passport copy

• Wallet + small cash

• Snacks

• Water

• Camera/phone

Electronics and Tech

Universal Travel Adapter

Egypt commonly uses Type C and Type F plugs with 220V electricity, so a universal adapter keeps everything charged. WorldStandards

Power Bank

You’ll use your phone constantly for navigation, photos, and messages—especially during full-day tours.

Camera or GoPro

Egypt is visually stunning, from temple interiors to Red Sea reefs. If you love photos, a proper camera (or action cam) is worth it.

E-Reader or Tablet

Ideal for transfers, beach days, and quiet Nile cruise downtime.

Toiletries and Medicine

Basic Toiletries

Pack the essentials, plus a few tour-friendly extras:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Shampoo and conditioner

• Deodorant

• Wet wipes (very useful on long days)

• Travel-size hand sanitizer

Mini Health Kit

Pharmacies exist, but having basics saves time and stress:

• Pain relievers

• Anti-diarrhea medication

• Motion sickness tablets (boats/buses)

• Rehydration salts (very useful in hot weather)

• Band-aids

• Any prescription medication you rely on

Mosquito Repellent

Especially useful for:

• Nile cruises

• Aswan

• Gardens and riverside areas

Documents and Money

Passport + Copies

Keep the original secure and carry a photocopy during day trips.

Cash in Small Denominations

Cash is commonly used for:

• Small shops

• Taxis

• Tips

• Markets

ATMs exist, but small bills make everyday moments smoother.

Travel Insurance

Highly recommended for medical coverage, luggage issues, and adventure activities.

Confirmations (Digital + Printed)

Keep copies of:

• Hotel details

• Domestic flight tickets

• Tour bookings

Special Items for Certain Destinations

If You’re Going to the Red Sea

• Swimwear + cover-ups

• Waterproof phone case

• Dry bag

• Snorkeling mask (optional, but convenient)

If You’re Doing Desert Safaris

• Lightweight scarf (blocks sand)

• Closed shoes

• Thin jacket (evenings)

If You Plan Mosque Visits

• Scarf (women)

• Long trousers or a maxi dress

Comparison Table: Pack by Your Egypt Itinerary

Which Packing Approach Is Best for You?

What to Pack for Egypt.. Choose the version that matches your travel style:

• Fast-moving multi-city trip (Cairo + Luxor + Aswan): pack lighter, repeat outfits, prioritize shoes and sun protection.

• Cruise-focused trip: bring layers and a few “evening casual” outfits, but keep daytime clothing simple.

• Beach-heavy Red Sea trip: add water-proof protection and extra swimwear, but keep city clothes modest and breathable.

• Adventure/desert-heavy trip: lean into closed shoes, scarf, and hydration essentials.

Optional Useful Extras

What to Pack for Egypt.. These small items often end up being lifesavers:

• Travel pillow

• Notebook or journal

• Ziplock bags (protect items from sand)

• Small flashlight (early mornings)

• Portable laundry soap

What to Pack for Egypt?

• Keep your suitcase light—you’ll likely transfer between cities.

• Aim for mix-and-match outfits.

• Leave room for souvenirs (markets are tempting).

• Check the weather before you fly; winter evenings can feel cooler than many visitors expect.

Official planning resource: Visit Egypt travel info 

4. FAQ Section 

1) What should I pack for Egypt in hot weather?

Pack lightweight cotton or linen clothing, strong sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen), and breathable shoes for long walking days. Bring a reusable water bottle and rehydration salts to stay comfortable when temperatures rise and tours run long.

2) Do I need to dress modestly in Egypt as a tourist?

Modest clothing is appreciated in Egypt, especially in religious sites and rural areas. You don’t have to dress extremely conservatively, but covering shoulders in mosques and choosing loose-fitting outfits helps you feel comfortable, respectful, and less exposed to strong sun.

3) What shoes are best for Egypt tours?

Sturdy sneakers are best for Egypt tours because you’ll walk on sand, stone, and uneven paths. Pack comfortable sandals for easier days and flip-flops for beach resorts. Avoid brand-new shoes, since blisters can ruin long sightseeing itineraries.

4) What plug adapter do I need for Egypt?

Egypt typically uses Type C and Type F plugs and runs on 220V power, so a universal travel adapter is the simplest solution. A good adapter ensures you can charge your phone, camera, and power bank reliably across hotels, cruises, and resorts.

5) Should I bring medicine with me to Egypt?

Bring a small health kit with pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, motion sickness tablets, rehydration salts, and any prescription medication. Pharmacies are widely available, but having your basics on hand saves time and helps you handle sudden issues during tours.

6) What should I pack for a Nile cruise in Egypt?

For a Nile cruise, pack light layers for cooler evenings and strong air conditioning, mosquito repellent for riverside areas, and a power bank for long photo days. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for daily temple visits and uneven stone walkways.

7) What should I pack for the Red Sea in Egypt?

For the Red Sea, pack swimwear with cover-ups, a waterproof phone case, and a dry bag to protect valuables during boat days. A snorkeling mask is optional but convenient. Keep sun protection strong, since you’ll spend extended time outdoors near water.

8) How much cash should I carry in Egypt?

Carry small cash denominations for tips, taxis, markets, and small shops. ATMs are common, but having smaller bills makes everyday payments easier. Keep your main cash stored securely and carry only what you need for the day in a crossbody or daypack.

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