Egypt is the pyramids, a night on a felucca on the Nile, Nubian villages, desert lakes and the Red Sea. It’s also hot, dusty and more conservative than people expect.
So this is a pack-modest-and-breathable trip: loose clothes that cover, something warm for desert nights and a swimsuit for Dahab.
We built this list for our Egypt trip, but it works for any trip to Egypt.
Egypt weather: what to expect
Egypt is sunny and dry almost all year, but the season changes what you pack.
Winter (December to February) is the most comfortable time to go. Days are in the 60s to 70s °F (high teens to 20s °C), and nights get cold, especially in the desert and on the Nile.
Spring and fall are warm to hot, often in the 80s to 90s °F (30s °C), with warm nights. Summer is very hot.
Translation: breathable clothes that cover, a warm layer for nights and lots of sun protection.
What to wear
For cities and sites
Egypt is conservative. Loose clothes that cover your shoulders and knees help you feel more comfortable and get less attention.
- Loose, breathable pants
- Midi or maxi skirts and dresses with sleeves
- Tops that cover your shoulders
- A lightweight button-down shirt to throw over anything
- A big scarf
- A hat and sunglasses
For mosques
Cover your arms, legs and hair. Bring your scarf, and wear something easy since you’ll take your shoes off at the door.
For the desert and the felucca night
Fayoum’s desert and a night sleeping on a felucca on the Nile are highlights, and nights can be cold, especially in winter.
- A warm fleece or sweater
- A warm jacket in winter
- Comfy clothes to sleep in
- A buff or scarf for sand and wind
For Dahab and the Red Sea
Dahab is relaxed and beachy. Bring a swimsuit, a cover-up and something to snorkel in. Cover up again when you leave the beach.
Shoes: bring three pairs
- Everyday: comfortable sneakers or walking shoes for sites, sand and uneven ground.
- Easy on, easy off: sandals or slip-ons for mosques, boats and hot days.
- Water: water shoes or sport sandals for the Red Sea.
Make sure everything is broken in before you go.
Health and toiletries
- High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Stomach meds and rehydration salts
- Moisturizer and eye drops (dry air and dust)
- Pain relievers, band-aids and blister care
- Hand sanitizer, wet wipes and toilet paper
- Your preferred period products
- Prescription meds in their original packaging, plus extra days
Travel insurance is required for this trip.
Electronics, documents and money
- Universal adapter (Egypt uses European Type C and F plugs, 220V)
- A power bank, especially for the felucca night
- A headlamp
- Extra storage for photos
Most nationalities need a visa for Egypt, either an e-visa or a visa on arrival. Check what applies to you before you go, and bring your passport with at least six months of validity.
Cards work in hotels and bigger shops, but cash in Egyptian pounds runs everything else, and tipping is part of daily life. Bring a debit card for ATMs, a backup card stored separately and plenty of small bills.
What to leave at home
- Shorts, tank tops and anything tight or short (outside the beach)
- Heels
- Too many outfits (you will rotate the same 4 or 5)
- A hair dryer (hotels have them)
FAQ: packing for Egypt
How modest do I need to dress?
Cover your shoulders and knees and keep things loose. Cover your hair in mosques. Dahab is more relaxed, but cover up off the beach.
How cold does it get at night?
In winter, desert nights and the felucca can get properly cold. Bring a warm layer and a jacket.
Do I need hiking boots?
No. Comfortable sneakers and a pair of sandals cover everything.
Should I bring snorkel gear?
It’s not necessary, but bring a swimsuit, water shoes and reef-safe sunscreen.
What luggage should I bring?
A rolling suitcase or a soft duffel both work, plus a daypack. For the felucca night, you’ll want a small overnight bag.
Is laundry available?
Yes, at most hotels. Plan it for places where you stay two nights.
The bottom line
Pack loose layers that cover, a scarf, something warm for the night and a swimsuit. Egypt will do the rest.
Want to go? See our Egypt trip, or browse all our upcoming trips.
