Clothing Considerations
- Lightweight Fabrics: Cotton and linen are breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that help keep you cool in Egypt’s warm climate. These are ideal for daytime activities. Opt for light-colored clothes to reflect the sun.
- Modest Attire: While casual clothes are fine for tourists in many areas, Egypt is a conservative country, especially around religious sites. For women, long sleeves and skirts or trousers are appropriate when visiting mosques or sacred sites. Men should avoid wearing shorts in these settings.
- Cool Evenings: Desert regions can experience significant temperature drops at night. A light jacket or sweater will help you stay comfortable in cooler evenings, especially during desert excursions or boat rides on the Nile.
Sun Protection Tips
- UV-Protective Sunglasses & Lip Balm: Protect your eyes and lips from intense sunlight. Consider sunglasses with polarized lenses for clear vision in bright conditions and lip balm with SPF to avoid sunburned lips.
- Reapply Sunscreen: Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially if you’re swimming, sweating, or spending long periods in direct sunlight. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Electronics and Charging
- Smartphone and Camera: Capture memories, but ensure your devices stay charged for long sightseeing days. Smartphones are also great for navigating and translating, especially with apps like Google Maps or Google Translate.
- Power Bank: Egypt’s heat can drain battery life quickly, especially if you’re using your phone for directions or photography. A portable charger (power bank) will help keep your devices ready for the next adventure.
- Universal Power Adapter: Egypt uses the European-style plug with two round pins, so if your devices have different plugs, bring a universal adapter.
Health and Safety
- Stay Hydrated: The heat, especially in summer, can cause dehydration. Aim to drink at least 2-3 liters of water per day, particularly if you’re walking through the desert or exploring ancient sites.
- Hand Sanitizer & Wipes: Carry hand sanitizer for situations where water isn’t available, such as on buses or in remote areas. Wipes are also useful for cleaning hands before meals.
- Malaria and Vaccinations: Malaria is a risk in certain regions of Egypt, so if you’re visiting areas like the Nile Delta or near the border, consider taking malaria prophylaxis. Additionally, check with your healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations before traveling.
Travel Documents & Money
- Egyptian Visa: Many nationalities require a visa for entry into Egypt. You can apply for an e-visa online or obtain one upon arrival at the airport, depending on your nationality. Be sure to check visa requirements before your trip.
- Travel Insurance: It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost baggage, especially since Egypt is a destination that involves some outdoor adventure and activities like cruises and hiking.
- Local Currency (Egyptian Pound): While some high-end restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, cash is king in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. ATMs are widely available in major cities, but exchange some money before arriving for convenience.
Cultural Etiquette
- Respect for Religion: Egypt is home to many significant Islamic sites, so when visiting mosques or religious landmarks, remember to remove your shoes, cover your head (for women), and show respect by maintaining a quiet demeanor.
- Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are frowned upon in Egypt. Avoid kissing or hugging in public, especially in rural or conservative areas.
Safety Tips
- Avoid Tap Water: Though tap water is generally safe for locals, it may upset the stomach for travelers. Always drink bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. Make sure the seal on bottled water is intact before opening.
- Public Transportation: Public transport, especially buses or trains, can be crowded and chaotic. If you are unfamiliar with local customs, taxis and ride-sharing apps (like Uber or Careem) are safer and more reliable, though it’s wise to agree on a fare beforehand.
- Avoiding Scams: Be cautious of street vendors or “guides” who offer unsolicited services. It’s common for them to ask for money or tips for their assistance. If you’re approached by someone offering help, politely decline if you’re not interested.
Touring Tips
- Early Start for Sightseeing: Due to the high temperatures during midday, it’s best to visit major tourist sites, like the Pyramids, in the early morning. Alternatively, plan to explore later in the afternoon when the sun starts to set, especially if you’re on a Nile cruise or taking a desert tour.
- Licensed Guides: If you’re visiting historical sites such as Luxor, the Egyptian Museum, or the Pyramids, it’s beneficial to hire a licensed guide. They offer valuable insights and ensure you don’t miss key details. Licensed guides are also helpful for navigating Egypt’s vast history and culture.
Packing Considerations
- Snacks: If you’re heading out on a long trip to remote areas like Abu Simbel or Siwa Oasis, bringing snacks like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit can be helpful. Local food may not be readily available in all areas, and snacks will come in handy when traveling.
- Backpack or Daypack: Carry a small backpack for daily excursions, where you can store essentials like water, sunscreen, snacks, and a camera. Make sure it’s comfortable, with padded straps and enough space for all the items you’ll need for a day out.
Other Essentials
- Travel Pillow & Eye Mask: Flights to and from Egypt or long road trips within the country can be exhausting. A neck pillow and an eye mask are helpful for catching some rest on long journeys.
- Offline Maps: Some areas may not have a reliable internet connection, so downloading offline maps or travel apps like Google Maps, Maps.me, or TripAdvisor can be invaluable. It also helps if you’re using a translation app for easier communication.
Tipping Culture
Tipping is an integral part of Egyptian culture, and workers in the service industry, such as drivers, tour guides, and hotel staff, typically expect tips for their services. As a general guideline, tipping 10-15% for services is appreciated. It’s also customary to tip small amounts for services such as a bellboy helping with luggage, or a restaurant waiter bringing extra drinks.
By following these packing tips and guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared for your Egyptian adventure, enjoying both its ancient history and vibrant culture with ease.
