Egypt Packing List: What to Wear and What to Bring (2026)

Egypt is hot, dusty and dry most of the year, with mosques and monuments where modest dress matters. Pack light, layered and modest, and you'll be comfortable everywhere from Cairo souks to Sinai reefs.

Clothing

• Loose, breathable long-sleeve shirts and long pants (sun and modesty).
• One long dress or skirt for women (useful in mosques).
• A light scarf — sun, dust, mosque head cover.
• Comfortable walking shoes — you'll walk more than you expect.
• Sandals for the beach or Nile cruise.
• One warm layer for cool desert nights and over-air-conditioned buses.
• Modest swimwear for hotel pools; regular swimwear fine at Red Sea resorts.

Sun protection

• Sunscreen SPF 50+ (much cheaper to bring than to buy).
• Sunglasses with UV protection.
• Wide-brimmed hat.
• Lip balm with SPF.

Medications & health

• Ibuprofen / paracetamol.
• Anti-diarrhea medication (Imodium).
• Rehydration salts.
• Hand sanitizer.
• Any prescription medication in original packaging.
• Insect repellent for evenings.

Electronics

• Universal travel adapter (Egypt uses European Type C/F plugs).
• Power bank — long days between charges.
• Phone with pre-installed Egypt eSIM.
• Small torch for tombs.

Money

Bring US$250–450 in mixed small bills for tips, the visa on arrival and emergencies. Cards work in restaurants and hotels but tipping and taxis are cash. ATMs are widely available.