What Should I Wear to Egypt? Checklist Made Simple

Beyond Pyramids: Crafting the Perfect Egypt Packing Plan

Are you on a journey to Egypt? It is an exciting prospect, filled with the promise of ancient wonders and cultural exploration. As I prepared for my trip, I couldn’t help but notice the plethora of blogs offering advice on what to pack, I was overwhelmed. I aim to contribute my perspective, shaped by a conscientious mindset and a lifestyle influenced by vacation travels and a year of work as a contractor in Kuwait. My experience has given me unique insights into packing for diverse environments. So, join me as I share my comprehensive packing list for Egypt, along with reflections on what I wish I had brought based on my mindset and lifestyle choices.

Packing List:

Mindful Clothing Choices:
- Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics to navigate Egypt’s warm climate comfortably.
- Pack modest attire, respecting both cultural norms and practicality, especially when visiting historical sites.
Footwear for Exploration:
- Choose comfortable shoes for walking, essential when exploring archaeological wonders like the Pyramids of Giza.
- Include sandals for more relaxed outings.
Sun and Bug Protection:
- Prioritize high SPF sunscreen for sun protection.
- Bug repellent can be crucial, particularly for outdoor activities in the evening.
Adaptable Electronics:
- A universal travel adapter caters to Egypt’s Type C and Type F electrical outlets.
- Don’t forget extra memory cards and batteries for your camera. I brought my Canon EOS RP and packed two SD cards.
Hydration Essentials:
- Carry a reusable water bottle for hydration. I did this and never used the reusable water bottle. Water bottles were provided.
- Consider electrolyte packets, especially during prolonged outdoor activities. I did not take electrolytes and I wish I had. Luckily one of the travelers shared hers with me. Its worth packing.
Organized Backpack:
- A well-designed backpack is essential for day trips and carrying your essentials.
- I packed a tote, I took the tote with me to all the temples. the back pack was too heavy and bulky
Essential Documents and Currency:
- Ensure you have your passport, visa (if required), and copies of important documents.
- Carry some local currency for small purchases.
Health and Safety Items:
- A compact first aid kit with basic medications and bandages.
- Any necessary prescription medications.
- Tweezers are for splinters not just for brows

Lessons Learned:

Portable Power:
- A power bank would have been invaluable for keeping devices charged, especially during long days of exploration.
Weather-Adaptable Clothing:
- Include a light jacket or scarf for cooler evenings, even in warmer months.
Personal Comfort:
- Consider packing a portable fan for relief from the heat during crowded market visits. This depends on when you travel, I went o Egypt in October and a scarf with sunglasses was good.
Language Preparation:
- A phrasebook or language app could enhance your experience, especially if you venture into less touristy areas.
Snack Stash:
- Non-perishable snacks would have been handy for sustenance during extended excursions. Like when we visited the temples or had a long day of activities planned.
- Electrolytes in powder form

Strategic Packing Insights about Luggage:

When preparing for international travel, the choices you make about your luggage can significantly shape your journey. During my recent trip to Egypt, I deliberated over whether to pack efficiently with a carry-on and backpack or choose a checked-in bag with a single carry-on. Influenced by a conscious lifestyle and practical considerations from my work in Kuwait, I opted for a mix—traveling with one carry-on backpack and checking in both a carry-on and a medium-sized suitcase. A crucial takeaway was the wisdom of stashing clothing essentials in the carry-on, ensuring I had necessities even if my larger suitcase encountered issues. Enhancing my strategy, I invested in an AirTag for real-time luggage tracking, offering peace of mind. Looking back, a streamlined approach with one large suitcase for check-in and a backpack for essentials would have been more efficient. Always check airline baggage policies to strike the right balance between convenience and adherence to regulations, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Clothing Packing List: (I spent 2 weeks in Egypt) Condense or expand this list as you see fit

2- 5 below knee/midi length dresses and or skirts
1 Pair of Jeans
1-2 Bath Towel
2-3 wash clothes for face and body
2-3 Sets of Pajamas
3 pair of shoes
2-3 Palazzo Style pants
2-4 Scarves ( I bought more scarves at the Egyptian market)
1 pair of jogger pants with a pullover that doubled as my travel day outfit
2-3 Tank Tops Basic for mix and match
3-5 Basic t shirts with sleeves
Stone Jewelry that has significance to take to the temples and accessorize
2-3 Blouses/ tunics
2 leggings
Light Jacket/hoodie
Take a bathing suit in case you take a dip in the Nile or the hotel pool

Check out my Airport checklist for more

Currency Considerations

When it comes to currency for your Egyptian adventure, the amount you’ll need depends on your spending habits and whether your trip is all-inclusive. Here are some valuable tips to ensure you have the financial flexibility you need:

Assess Your Spending Style:

Calculate your daily expenses based on planned activities, meals, and souvenirs.
Consider if your accommodations cover meals and activities or if you’ll be exploring independently.

Currency Exchange Options:

Airport Exchange: Convenient, but rates may not be as favorable. Exchange a small amount for immediate needs.
Banks: Typically offer competitive rates. Plan ahead and visit your local bank for currency exchange.
Reputable Exchange Houses: Explore options with established businesses for competitive rates and reliable service.

Cash and Cards:

Cash: Carry a reasonable amount of local currency for small purchases and areas with limited card acceptance.
Credit Cards: Ensure your major credit cards are accepted in Egypt. Inform your bank about travel dates to avoid card issues. Make sure you have a working pin number for your credit card transactions. Some shops will not let you spend beyond a certain dollar amount in Egyptian pounds with using a pin number.

Communication with Financial Institutions:

Inform Your Bank: Call your bank and credit card companies to notify them of your travel dates. This prevents unexpected card declines due to international transactions.

Remember, having a mix of cash and cards provides flexibility. Tailor your approach based on your spending habits and the nature of your trip. Safe and seamless travels!

Stay Connected in Egypt with WhatsApp:

Download WhatsApp as well as your loved ones for seamless communication during your Egyptian adventure:

Cost-Efficient Messaging:

Send free texts, photos, and videos over Wi-Fi, avoiding international SMS charges.

International Calls and Coordination:

Make free international calls and video chats, perfect for coordinating plans with fellow travelers.

Regular Updates with Less Data Usage:

Provide regular updates to loved ones with minimal data usage. Connect to Wi-Fi to control costs.

Cell Phone Connectivity and Sim Card Options:

Understanding the cell phone landscape can make a significant difference. If you have a prepaid plan in the United States, here’s a guide to navigating cell phone connectivity in Egypt:

International Roaming vs. Local Sim Card:

International Roaming: Check with your U.S. provider about international roaming options and associated costs. This can be convenient but may incur higher charges.
Local Sim Card: For a more cost-effective solution, consider purchasing a local Egyptian sim card. These are readily available at airports and in city centers.

Airport and City Options:

Airport Convenience: Airports in Egypt often have kiosks offering sim cards with various data and call packages. This allows you to get connected right upon arrival.
City Accessibility: Explore local shops and providers in city centers for sim card options. Prices may vary, so compare offerings to find the best fit for your needs.

Plan Variety and Cost Savings:

Diverse Plans: Local sim cards provide a range of data and call plans at more affordable rates than international roaming. Choose a plan based on your anticipated usage, whether it’s for navigation, social media updates, or staying in touch with loved ones.
Flexibility: The flexibility of local sim cards allows you to tailor your plan duration and data limits, giving you control over your expenses.

Unlocking Your Phone:

Check Compatibility: Ensure your phone is unlocked before inserting a new sim card. Contact your U.S. carrier to confirm and request unlocking if necessary.

Stay Connected Economically:

Maximize Savings: Opting for a local sim card can be a budget-friendly choice, allowing you to stay connected economically throughout your Egyptian adventure.

Choose the option that aligns best with your communication needs while exploring the wonders of Egypt. Safe travels and happy connecting!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Click here for Egypt Tourism Authority

In wrapping up, remember that my checklist is not inherently minimalist, but rather a versatile guide adaptable to your preferences. Whether you lean towards a minimalist approach or seek to maximize your travel options, use these insights as a foundation for a tailored and enriching Egyptian adventure. Safe travels, and may your journey be as unique as your own wanderlust!