Are you planning a trip to Egypt and trying to figure out what to wear and the basic items you should carry? Well, look no more. I will provide you a basic guide of what you should pack for your next vacation to Egypt.
This packing guide for Egypt includes items I packed and wore during our 3 day vacation in Cairo. You should also check out my travel guide here.
Weather in Egypt
When considering what to add to your packing list for Egypt, consider that the Egyptian summer is hot and dry in most of the country, but in Cairo it can get quite humid. Winters are usually mild with some rain but in the day it’s sunny with colder nights (remember, this is the desert). Furthermore, the climate in Egypt is characterized by a hot season from May to October (“summer”) and a cool season from October to May (“winter”). We visited Egypt in May and for the most part, the weather was very pleasant. There were cooler nights which we enjoyed especially during the Nile River Dinner Cruise.
Be mindful that if you are visiting Egypt, especially during the summer, the most important item to pack is sun screen. I cannot stress this enough. No matter how dark your skin is, you will need sun screen. So protecting your skin is extremely important.
Packing Guide: Basic essentials
Most of these are items you would typically pack for a vacation anyway, so you might already have everything listed here. The basic essentials include:
- Sun screen
- Water bottle
- Back pack
- Scarf or Sunhat (Pure cotton is best)
- Sunglasses
- Rolls of toilet paper and wet wipes
- A very good body moisturizer
- Hand sanitizer (I personally use Grove Hydrating Hand Sanitizer)
- Travel First aid kit
- Pepto Bismol or Imodium (I personally use the Pepto Bismol tablets)
- Cash (I noticed Egyptians like the US Dollar over the Egyptian Pound)
Sunscreen
First, like I mentioned earlier, sunscreen is important. Aveeno has a sunscreen that’s great for sensitive skin. I personally have used Cetaphil on a daily basis since it doubles as a daily moisturizer and sunscreen. I’m currently using Kara Gran Essential SP 28. These are all TSA friendly travel size bottles.
Water bottle
Next, be sure to drink plenty of water. I always regret not bringing my own water bottle when on vacation, so an easy way to remember is to have one that is designated for travel only. If you want to carry a water bottle with you on this trip, the Collapsible Foldable Water Bottle – BPA Free FDA Approved Portable Reusable is really convenient. It also doesn’t take up a lot of space which is what I really like about it.
Backpack
Third, carrying a back pack instead of a purse is just better. You can pack your essentials and if you purchase small souvenirs while out, this is an easy way to store them. Lug has a nice 3 in 1 bag option (you can wear it multiple ways) that has a number of compartments for your cell phone and wallet and roomy enough for all of your essentials. I also like the KJARAKÄR Backpack as a cheaper option.
Scarf and Sunglasses
Fourth, a scarf is a great way to cover up from the sun. Tapp has a head/neck scarf at Amazon that works perfectly.
Last, sunglasses, of course! Here are a few of my favorite sunglasses I usually carry with me on vacation: CELINE 57mm Round sunglasses (I have these in black), Ray-ban Clubmaster (I have these in black as well), and Ray-ban Aviator in brown. Also, Warby Parker has a great sunglass selection.
Packing Guide for Egypt: Wardrobe Essentials
So with the hot temperatures and conservative culture, you might wonder what’s appropriate to wear during your visit to Egypt. In this packing guide, I am providing you a few selections that I currently own that’s great for Egypt. Remember, the basic clothing essentials for your trip to Egypt includes:
- 100% Cotton Clothing (light and comfortable)
- Dependable shoes (preferably tan or grey)
Think of the 3Cs while shopping for wardrobe essentials for Egypt…Cotton, Comfort, and Conservative. I found it quite easy to find a few looks that cover shoulders and knees. As mentioned before, material is really important as the weather can get pretty hot. Everlane is my go-to for all things comfortable and classic. I really love this store and I also have to say that I think their prices are exceptional for the quality.
Pants, Tees, and Shoes
What do you wear when the day includes touring the Pyramids of Giza and/or the Museum of Cairo? If deciding to wear pants, stick with light weight, cotton basics. Chinos fit this criteria! They are perfect for summers in Egypt. Everlane has the perfect selection of chinos here, here, and here. A selection of Everlane women’s tees here and here works perfectly with a pair of chinos.
Their tees are really comfortable, especially the oversized crew tee. So when it comes to shoes, you have to ensure they are comfortable especially when touring the pyramids. I also prefer lighter and more neutral tones such as tan and grey because the dirt/dust didn’t show up as much. But if you wear darker shoes at the pyramids, the dirt/dust will definitely show. Toms were perfect for touring the pyramids. I wore these.
For cooler evenings, a summer sweater is perfect. Check out this Shimmer Open Knit sweater from the Loft.
Packing Guide: A Night Out in Cairo
While in Cairo, we took a Nile River Dinner Cruise mentioned here. The dress code is a little more relaxed and not as conservative. In my opinion, smart casual is the way to go. I wore a strapless dress but made sure to bring a sweater to cover up if I needed to.
Here are a few looks that will be perfect for the cruise, keeping in mind that I have included conservative pieces as well. The Japanese GoWeave Short-Sleeve Jumpsuit at Everlane is super comfortable. Check out the dress selection from Mango; one of my favorite stores to shop for dresses (Black halter dress, White constrast button dress, Textured midi dress). Everlane wedges and sandals would go great with either of these looks.
One more thing…Don’t forget to have fun!!!!
