Planning a trip to Egypt? Whether you’re exploring the ancient pyramids, cruising the Nile, or relaxing by the Red Sea, packing the right essentials can make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free. This guide offers packing tips for clothes, electronics, health essentials, and travel documents, with specific recommendations for travelers coming from Asia or Europe.

1. Clothing: Comfort and Modesty
   Egypt’s climate can be hot and dry, especially in the summer, so packing lightweight, breathable clothing is a must. However, it’s important to respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites or more conservative areas.

What to Pack:

Lightweight and breathable clothing: Cotton and linen fabrics are great for hot weather.

Modest attire: When visiting temples, mosques, or local markets, it’s respectful to cover your shoulders, arms, and knees. Women may also consider carrying a scarf to cover their heads when visiting mosques.

Comfortable shoes: You’ll likely be walking a lot, especially when exploring ancient sites like the Pyramids and Luxor, so pack sturdy walking shoes.

Hat and sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun, especially during the midday heat.

2. Electronics: Stay Connected and Capture Memories
   When traveling to Egypt, make sure you have the right electronics to stay connected and capture all the incredible moments. Whether you’re taking photos at the Great Pyramid of Giza or using your phone for directions, these items will come in handy.

What to Pack:

Smartphone and charger: Egypt has good mobile connectivity, and a smartphone is essential for navigation and staying in touch.

Portable power bank: You’ll want to ensure your devices stay charged while exploring the desert or on a Nile cruise.

Camera: Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture the stunning temples, landscapes, and daily life.

Universal adapter: Egypt uses 220V, 50Hz electricity with a type C or type F plug, so bring a suitable adapter.

Headphones or earphones: For downtime or long bus rides between destinations.

3. Travel Documents and Essentials
   Make sure you have all the essential travel documents before leaving for Egypt. Double-check that your passport, visa, and other documents are valid for entry.

What to Pack:

Passport and Visa: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. Most visitors to Egypt need a visa, which you can obtain either online (e-Visa) or upon arrival.

Travel Insurance: It’s always wise to travel with insurance that covers health, accidents, and lost luggage.

Flight and hotel confirmations: Have a printout or digital copy of your travel itinerary and hotel reservations.

Emergency contacts: Keep a list of important numbers, including your embassy, travel agency, and local emergency services.

4. Health and Hygiene Essentials
   Stay healthy while traveling through Egypt by packing health-related essentials. Whether it’s staying hydrated or dealing with the occasional stomach upset, here’s what you need.

What to Pack:

Medication: If you’re on any prescription medication, bring enough for the entire trip along with a doctor’s note for customs. Carry a basic first aid kit including pain relievers, band-aids, and antiseptic.

Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes: Public restrooms may not always have soap, so keep hand sanitizer on hand.

Water purification tablets: Tap water in Egypt isn’t always safe for drinking, so carrying water purification tablets can be a lifesaver.

Sunscreen: The Egyptian sun can be intense, so pack a high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin.

Insect repellent: Especially in more rural areas or near the Nile, repellent can protect you from mosquito bites.

5. Money and Currency
   Egypt’s currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), but many places also accept US dollars. To avoid hassles, it’s important to have some local currency on hand.

What to Pack:

Local currency (EGP): You can exchange money at airports or use ATMs in major cities like Cairo. Carry small bills for tips and local purchases.

Credit or debit cards: Widely accepted in larger cities and hotels, but make sure to inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid any issues.

Money belt: A small travel wallet or money belt is useful for keeping your cash, cards, and passport secure when exploring crowded areas.