🇪🇬 Egypt Packing List
Complete packing list for Egypt based on its desert climate.
Climate & weather
Egypt is hot desert most of the year. Best time: October-April (warm days 20-25°C, cool nights). Summer (May-September): extreme heat 35-45°C in interior, milder on Mediterranean coast. Sand storms (khamsin) March-May.
Must-have items for Egypt
Long lightweight clothing
Sun protection > exposure. Long sleeves + pants in light cotton/linen.
Modest clothing for sites
Cover shoulders + knees for temples and mosques. Women: head scarf for mosques.
Wide-brim hat + sunglasses
Sahara/Nile sun brutal. UV protection essential.
SPF 50 sunscreen
High UV index. Apply every 2 hours.
Comfortable closed shoes
Pyramid sand, dusty desert, temple floors. Open sandals get sand in.
Scarf/keffiyeh
Multi-use: sun shield, dust storm cover, mosque head cover.
Reusable water bottle
Carry 2L+ in summer. Drink twice as much as you think.
Hand sanitizer + tissues
Public restrooms basic. Egypt is a tipping culture — keep small bills.
Cash (small US dollar bills)
Baksheesh (tips) constant. $1-5 small bills appreciated.
Adapter (Type C)
Egypt uses EU-standard 2-prong. Universal adapter must include this.
Travel tips
- Negotiate every price. Start at 30-50% of asking, walk away if needed.
- Hire a licensed Egyptologist guide ($30-50/day) — turns ruins into stories.
- Don't drink tap water. Brush teeth with bottled water in some hotels.
- Tipping (baksheesh) is constant — $1-5 USD for bathroom attendants, photo permission, etc.
- Avoid Friday afternoon (prayer time) for sights — they'll be crowded with locals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for Egypt?
The essentials include long lightweight clothing, modest clothing for sites, and wide-brim hat + sunglasses. See the full list above.
What's the weather like in Egypt?
Egypt is hot desert most of the year. Best time: October-April (warm days 20-25°C, cool nights). Summer (May-September): extreme heat 35-45°C in interior, milder on Mediterranean coast. Sand storms (khamsin) March-May.
How heavy should my luggage be?
For a 7-14 day trip, a carry-on (22-23 kg / 50 lb) is sufficient. Check airline limits.