What to Pack for Egypt | Essential Egypt Packing List
Egypt is full of some of the most famous landmarks in the world. In my opinion, this country really should be on everybody’s bucket list. It’s full of culture, history, and a beautiful coastline. You can check out my 12-day Egypt Itinerary here to help finish planning your trip.
If you’re on your way to Egypt, I’m jealous…I can’t wait to go back. But, you might need some help on what to pack for Egypt. Based on my June visit to this amazing country, here are my recommendations for a packing list for Egypt:
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1. Modest Clothing
As a solo female traveler in Egypt or any woman traveler in Egypt, dressing modestly will really help decrease some of the unwanted attention you may receive.
Plus, when visiting mosques, you need to have your knees and shoulders covered for entry. I picked up some light dresses, rompers, and breathable pants.
These rompers are great with a shirt under or some sort of cover-up like a button-down or scarf. I packed dresses like this in a couple different color options.
2. Breathable Clothing
If you can, try to have some breathable clothing so you can stay cool while being covered. Clothes made with cotton, bamboo, or linen are great options. Breathable button-downs would be a great addition to any outfit to help cover your shoulders.
3. Scarf
A scarf offers an easy way to cover your arms to protect you from the beating sun. If you plan on visiting any mosques as a woman, you will be required to also cover your hair.
I packed my own scarf ahead of time, here are some great scarves in neutral colors and breathable material. If you forget no worries there are plenty of vendors selling them. Just don’t forget to barter.
4. Hat
A hat offers great sun protection! I usually just wear my hat on a flight so I don’t have to worry about how to pack it. Plus, it’s also helpful if your hair is looking a little greasy that day. This is my favorite type of hat to pack when traveling.
5. Sunscreen
You literally cannot hide from the sun in Egypt, packing some sunscreen!
This mineral sunscreen is my favorite sunscreen for my face. I swear by it. Plus, it serves with some light coverage by being tinted. And this is a good reef-safe option if you’re planning on snorkeling or scuba diving.
6. Time of the month essentials
If you’re expecting the lovely Aunt Flow, be sure to pack these ahead of time. It will be much easier to ensure you have what you need versus trying to find it there.
7. Swimsuit
This feels weird, but the Red Sea is stunning and a must-see. Bring a bathing suit to cool off from the heat and enjoy the clear waters.
The towns by the Red Sea are a little less conservative. While there are many people covered at the beach, it’s also okay to wear a bikini or a bathing suit you are comfortable in.
This swimsuit is a great option– not too cheeky if you’re still looking for a little more coverage!
Egypt also has some great scuba diving and snorkeling, so don’t miss this area!
8. Portable Fan
In case you didn’t know, Egypt is hot…especially in the summer. A lot of the sites that you’ll visit don’t offer a lot of shade from the sun. Bring a fan because you will be doing a ton of walking. While in the winter, the temperatures are a little less milder and may be cooler at night.
I visited in June/July, and I was SO happy to have a fan. A fan like this one would be a good option because it’s rechargeable, small enough to fit in any bag, and also has a flashlight.
9. Comfortable Walking Shoes
Speaking of walking, you will be doing a lot of walking. Be sure to bring some good walking shoes. When it comes to extra support, I’m a big fan of these sneakers. I am a girl who mostly travelers with a good pair of Converse and sturdy sandals like Birkenstocks or Chacos. All of these are great options for Egypt.
10. Portable Charger
You will want to take pictures of everything, it’s helpful to have a portable charger just in case.
Now that you have a list of what to pack for Egypt. Here is a list of things you should not pack: a drone! They will take your drone at the airport, so just do yourself a favor and leave it elsewhere to be safe.
