travel wardrobe egypt

What to Wear in Egypt & 11 Egypt Packing List Essentials (2024)

Wondering what to wear in Egypt ? You’ve come to the right place! In addition to a complete Egypt packing list, there are also guidelines for everything you will need to pack for a trip to Egypt.

We’ll cover appropriate attire for women in Egypt (men too) , the Cairo dress code and 10 essential items you may be forgetting on your Egypt Packing list.

We found Egypt to be modern, yet conservative. What to wear in Egypt is pretty straightforward but definitely different for men and women. Just follow these few key packing tips you’ll be visiting Egypt with confidence.

You will also find a comprehensive Egypt packing checklist at the bottom, including travel gear and which items to leave at home.

This site uses affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. You can read our full disclosure policy  here .

Table of Contents

Weather and the Best Time to Go to Egypt

The weather in Egypt is something you will want to consider although the majority of the year has pretty high temperatures.

High season – the most popular time to visit, is the winter. December through February has warm daytime temperatures and cool weather by night.

Shoulder season – occurs from October-November and March-April. This time of year is very hot during the day, and so it is best to plan activities for the morning and evening. Book a hotel with a pool to be comfortable mid-day.

Low Season – May through September temperatures can be excruciatingly hot, so I don’t recommend visiting during those months.

What to Wear in Egypt for Women & Men

There are two things people are typically thinking of when trying to figure out what to wear in Egypt. The first is the temperature. Egypt is a desert which means most of the things on your packing list will be for warm, dry weather.

The second and bigger consideration, is the type of clothing that is appropriate for a conservative country like Egypt . The good news is that modest clothing for Egypt doesn’t mean that you have to be fully covered all the time.

Since the sun can be very strong, sunscreen and a hat is essential. Closed toe shoes work the best when you are out touring dusty monuments. A mask will protect you from germs and also help with the dust.

Typically this is a trip where you move around a lot so it will make your life easier if you can pack everything for Egypt in a carry-on suitcase .

Since all your clothing will be lightweight, it will be easy to pack in a smaller bag. Compression packing cubes can help you fit everything into a smaller suitcase as well.

What Men Should Wear in Egypt

In Egypt, men dress smartly. They wear pants and a short sleeve or long sleeve shirt. Some wear the more traditional abaya, which they jokingly refer to as Egyptian air conditioning.

My husband wore shorts and he was assured by people that it was okay but no Egyptian men wore shorts. Men can generally wear what they want in Egypt.

What to Wear in Egypt for Women: Egyptian Outfit

The Egyptian dress code for women is conservative but a little more modern in Cairo than other parts of the country.

• Choose lightweight and airy clothes that don’t expose a lot of skin.
• Outside of beach resorts, crop tops or anything showing your stomach is a hard no.
• Shorts are typically for resorts or cruises. You can wear them in a big tour group but choose shorts that are long enough to cover your butt. If you’re NOT in a big tour group, don’t wear shorts anywhere you wouldn’t wear a bathing suit.

I wore shorts to the train station in Luxor, attracting unwanted attention and almost died of embarrassment. You can see the video that shows it all here.

My Egyptian outfit consisted of a midi or maxi dresses that were short sleeved or sleeveless. Then I added a long sleeved button up shirt and/or scarf when necessary and I wore sneakers.

Many taxis don’t have air conditioning, so being able to get rid of sleeves will be a godsend. You can also wear t-shirts with pants or long skirts. Just make sure they aren’t low cut showing cleavage. You can also pack this Mini Fan .

The Cairo Dress Code

What you wear in Cairo might be different than other parts of your trip. Cairo is a big city with great restaurants and nightlife. You can wear what you would typically wear for a night out as long as it is conservative. There is no dress code per se in Egypt.

Egyptian women wear the same things we do including fitted clothing like skinny jeans and leggings.

They typically wear loose, long sleeved tops with high necklines (no cleavage showing). They don’t wear tank tops, anything with their stomach showing or mini skirts.

For the Pyramids of Giza, you will need modest clothing that offers sun protection. Again, I recommend a sleeveless dress and carrying something to put on top when necessary. It is very hot and there’s no place to get out of the sun.

Mosques in Cairo require women to have shoulders covered, long skirts or pants and head covering. They will typically have you remove your shoes.

10 Things You Will Want to Pack for Egypt

If you are wondering what the best clothing to wear in Egypt is, check out these 10 essential you will want for your Egypt trip..

1. When Packing for Egypt a Scarf Should be #1 on Your List

Something that most people don’t think to pack for warm weather is a scarf but you will wear it often in Egypt. Bring one like this lightweight linen beach gauze shawl that can also cover your shoulders. It is necessary to have your head covered in a mosque.

I brought a scarf but forgot to take it with me when we were going shopping in Cairo. We happened upon a beautiful mosque and they wouldn’t let me in without putting on this borrowed, unfortunately smelly, abaya.

The moral to this story is to pack a light-weight scarf or two in your bag AND it carry with you.

2. Hat to Block the Sun is an Essential Part of Your Egypt Outfit

The sun can be brutal and you’ll find many times when you can’t find a shady spot. You will wear a hat constantly in Egypt. A wide brim straw hat is the best to block the sun.

I like to take an inexpensive packable hat with me that I don’t mind losing or damaging. Other people prefer a designe r packable hat that you can put in your suitcase.

I also brought a fedora hat to change up the look a bit. Two hats are easily packable to if they fit inside each other.

3. A Sun Umbrella is Also a Great Idea for Your Egypt Packing List

The inexpensive 50+ UV protection sun umbrella I packed for Egypt was a lifesaver at the Pyramids of Giza. We were out in the sun for hours with no shade protection and it cut down the amount of heat, which made all the difference.

It comes in 5 different color combinations. We tested umbrellas with white and black underneath. The black underneath was definitely cooler and cut down glare.

To take it up another notch, this double sun umbrella will provide even better protection. The umbrella is so compact that it’s easy to pack in your suitcase or daypack.

4. A Power Bank to Keep Your Phone Charged

A typical day trip in Egypt means that you’ll be using your phone for navigation, photos, videos, getting an Uber and staying in touch. Often that means being out all day or hours traveling between cities. You need to charge your phone on the go .

One of the most important items on your packing list for Egypt is a portable power bank that can charge up to 3 devices simultaneously. You can easily keep it in your pocket or purse all day long and get 3 full charges out of it.

5. Step Down Power Converter and Plug Adapter for Egypt

When you get back at night and are ready to charge your electronics, you need an Egypt plug adapter and a step down voltage converter .

• An international power adapter will work for your phone, computer and dual voltage appliances. Anything that’s NOT dual voltage needs a step down voltage converter.
• Our favorite step down voltage converter has traveled with us all over the world since 2018. This converts the power from 220 volts to 110 volts so you don’t burn out your USA appliances. It has 2 110V outlets and 4 USB ports to charge everything at once.

The voltage converter can take the place of the power adapter if you don’t need more outlets.

Since you can’t buy a step down voltage converter overseas, it’s one of the most important items for your Egypt packing list.

6. Long Sleeve Button-Down Shirt

While Egypt is a more progressive middle eastern country, it is still important to be respectful of the culture and religious beliefs of its people. Furthermore, Egypt is hot.

To stay as cool as possible and protected from the sun while sightseeing, yet still maintain a respectful demeanor, a basic button-down shirt is a must for your Egypt packing list.

Not only is it a versatile piece of clothing for Egypt, but you will wear it during the day or out at night.

7. Wear Comfortable Shoes for Sightseeing in Egypt

There are endless sights to see throughout Egypt, many of which require walking on paths and often through dirt. Since you’ll be doing a lot of walking, your shoes need to be comfortable and protective.

My favorite sneakers to wear on vacation are super comfortable, inexpensive, easy to clean off and they get replaced when necessary. They were perfect to wear in Egypt for almost everything. Don’t bring sneakers you can’t get dirty.

Beyond having regular walking shoes, when going into town to shop for food or trinkets, or even just lounging around the hotel, it’s always nice to have a pair of open, breathable sandals to throw on when you aren’t doing anything too strenuous.

6. Dresses for Egypt

When people ask me what to wear in Egypt, my first answer is a lightweight maxi dress. I found this super soft, lightweight jersey fabric, cami maxi dress that doesn’t wrinkle, comes in 22 colors and is the best deal.

The other dress I found and love is this button up, short sleeve maxi dress that comes in tons of prints and colors. It’s also a great deal and the flowy skirt looks amazing for an Instagram post .

You could pack 2 of each of these dresses to your list for Egypt and barely use any of your packing space. That’s how lightweight and perfect they are.

With a long sleeve shirt to go on top, you would have 8 outfits. You might also consider a lightweight maxi skirt for more versatility.

9. An Anti-Theft Purse or Anti-Theft Backpack Will Keep Your Items Safe in Egypt

An anti-theft travel purse or safe backpack is a must at tourist sights in Egypt since pickpocketing is an issue.

You will find people trying to sell you scarves or things they can use to cover your bag while they grab something. Anti-theft bags have locking zippers, slash-proof straps, and an RFID pocket to protect your passport and credit cards.

Protect yourself with a secure cross-body bag or safe travel backpack that zips up and locks.

ANTI THEFT PURSE OR CROSS-BODY BAG

This anti-theft cross body bag has a locking main compartment, slash-resistant straps, and RFID-blocking slots for credit cards and passports. It also has plenty of room for your phone, a charger, makeup, and an AirTag if lost or stolen.

For Egypt, I wore a small cross body travel wallet that held my credit cards, passport, phone, lip gloss, and hand sanitizer.

The cross body strap held it in front of me and I kept my hands on it when walking through a crowd. The other reason I like it is because it easily fits in my travel backpack without being an extra item for carry on.

READ NEXT: 10 BEST ANTI-THEFT PURSES & CROSS BODY BAGS FOR TRAVEL

ANTI THEFT BACKPACK OR SLING BAG

Men and women love this anti-theft backpack that’s the perfect size to hold everything you need for the day and has a water bottle pocket.

If you prefer, a backpack with a cross body fit, this is the most popular anti-theft sling bag with a hidden pocket on the back and a locking zipper.

My husband carries this roll-top camera backpack . The roll top is impossible for a pickpocket and the part that opens the side of the bag is against your back. There is a padded grid inside to protect your camera and lenses.

They now make an 11-liter camera backpack for women and men that works great for a day pack.

READ NEXT: 9 BEST ANTI-THEFT TRAVEL BACKPACKS FOR MEN & WOMEN

If you don’t have an anti-theft bag, you can get a cable lock to keep the front compartments of your backpack secure.

ANTI THEFT NECK WALLET

Another option is to keep your valuables concealed completely. This top-selling anti-theft neck wallet will hold your phone, cash, credit cards, passport, and keys where no thief can access it.

It’s lightweight and also keeps your hands free, which is perfect if you are out shopping.

10. A Bag Tracking Device

When we became full time travelers in 2023, our Apple AirTags became an essential part of our gear. I can’t even imagine traveling without a bag tracking device anymore.

This is one of the most cost effective items to give you peace of mind while traveling.

Buy an AirTag for each one of your bags so you know where they are at all times. You can buy a single AirTag or save money with an AirTag 4 Pack .

• There should be an AirTag in each checked bag so you know where your bags are even if the airline doesn’t.
• Put one in your backpack or purse and you will get a notification if you ever leave your bag behind.
• If someone steals your bag, you can track it immediately.
• Buy an AirTag holder for your wallet or an AirTag keychain holder to securely attach it to your keys or bag
• We also keep an AirTag on our escape artist of a dog that has paid off multiple times

11. Pack a Mini Fan & Sunscreen to Beat the Heat in Egypt

Rechargable Mini Fan

One of my favorite travel accessories for warm destinations is this Mini Fan . It fits in your pocket and has 3 functions.

Use it as a handheld electric fan or fold it and set it on a desk in your hotel room. It also doubles as a flashlight!

The fan operates for up to 20 hours on one charge. Then just plug it in to a USB charger.

For such an inexpensive item that takes no space in your bag, it’s a game changer when you have to beat the heat!

As we all know, most of Egypt is desert land. In addition to hats and sun umbrellas, you really need high SPF sunscreen that you apply throughout the day.

If you are just staying in cities, use a weightless, clear 30 SPF sunscreen that also works as a makeup primer. It’s my go to everyday sunscreen and it’s perfect travel size will last you for the whole trip.

If you are heading to the Red Sea for water sports and active pursuits, use a broad spectrum reef friendly SPF 50 sunscreen .

READ NEXT : The Best Egypt Itinerary 7 Days in Cairo, Luxor and Aswan

Packing List for Egypt Checklist

• Passport with at least 6 months of validity
• Credit cards, ATM Card and some cash including $25 for visa on arrival
• Driver’s License and insurance card if you plan to rent a car
• A hardcopy of your Travel Insurance policy
• Secure Anti-theft purse
• Camera backpack
• Step Down Voltage Converter
• Egypt plug adapter
• Charging cords
• Compression Packing Cubes
• Comfortable sandals
• Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
• Lightweight maxi skirt
• Loose fitting wide-leg pants
• Button down shirt
• A lightweight sweater or light jacket
• Lightweight scarf
• Compression socks
• Bathing suit
• Packable hat
• Sun umbrella
• Collapsible Water bottle

Things to Leave off Your Egypt Packing List

• Shorts – Although we typically wear shorts in high temperatures, Egypt is extremely conservative. It is best to not show much skin unless you are on a specific tour or Nile river cruise where shorts are allowed.
• Tank tops and crop tops – Unless you are by the pool or beach, these shouldn’t be worn.
• Heavy jackets – you will rarely ever need any heavy clothing in Egypt. To cover up, a light cardigan or button-down shirt is perfect.
• Valuables – It’s important to leave as many valuables as possible behind. Tourists are very easily targeted, especially in popular destinations, so make sure to keep your essential valuables close to you.
• Drone – we were stopped each time at the airport with our camera equipment. You cannot use a drone so don’t bring it.

Practical Information for Egypt

Egyptian Visa & Money

In Egypt, Visas are offered upon arrival. This means that when land in Cairo, you can enter the country by purchasing a visa. In this case, make sure you bring along 25 USD exactly and purchase your visa before entering customs.

We had no problem with this, although we arrived very early in the morning. You can purchase your Egypt visa in advance here , or if you are on a tour, they will likely coordinate the visa process with you.

The currency in Egypt is Egyptian pounds. Cash is necessary and there are many ATMs available throughout the country. However, there is a limit as to how much you can withdraw so be aware of that.

Safety in Egypt

Even though this is definitely not something you would typically find in a packing guide, many people worry about safety in Egypt. There are some things you can do to plan ahead.

Start by looking up the Egypt Travel Advisory to be aware of any current issues. Since things are constantly changing in the world, we highly recommend travel protection.

There are 2 ways we protect ourselves. We book our tickets with our  Chase Sapphire Preferred  that has built in travel protection and we use  SafetyWing travel insurance . If we ever need to cancel a trip, we are totally covered.

One last note regarding safety: always be aware of your surroundings. No matter where in the world you travel, even if it is within your own country, be alert. Tourists are always a target. The less touristy you look, the better.

As mentioned above use a secure travel purse or secure backpack to protect yourself from petty theft . For more information read our Egypt Travel Tips .

Planning Your Trip to Egypt Last Minute?

Here is a quick reference guide to the tours and hotels we recommend.

• Cairo Private Tour to Pyramids, Sakkara & Memphis with Lunch
• Full or Half-Day East and West Bank Luxor Tours
• 3-Night All-Inclusive Nile Cruise From Luxor to Aswan & Hot Air Balloon
• The St. Regis Cairo – CAIRO
• Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor – LUXOR
• Benben by Dhara Hotels – ASWAN 

You can also get more detailed information on our 7 Day Egypt Itinerary and 15 Things to Know Before Traveling to Egypt for important Egypt travel tips. Lastly, there are short videos for Aswan , Luxor and Cairo on our YouTube channel.

Want to Save What to Wear in Egypt or this Egypt Packing List for later? Pin It!

Other Posts You Might Like:

• JORDAN: 9 Best Wadi Rum Bubble Hotels
• TURKEY: The Ultimate 7 Day Turkey Itinerary
• GREECE: 3 Days in Santorini Itinerary
• PORTUGAL: How to Spend a Perfect 2 Days in Lisbon
• TRAVEL: The Best Places to Travel in November

About Jenifer

You might also like....

What to Wear in Jordan – 10 Things You’re Forgetting to Pack

Packing List for Belize: 10 Important Things You Can’t Forget

Cute Sneakers for Spring

29 comments, jasmine a owens.

Thank you all for the great tips on dressing. My plans are for the end of Sept 2023. You all have been helpful!

Have a great trip!

Hi, tips re egypt is a 3/4 sleeve maxi just as Ok to take than a shirt sleeve with shirt over the top of it? I read wearwhite isn’t appealing as the colour of the desert sand quickly dirties it. Was this your experience too? Thanks 😊

Hi Jo! 3/4 sleeve maxi is fine. The reason I did a shirt on top was to be able to take it off in the taxi where there was often no A/C. I don’t have a good tolerance for excessive heat, but a lot of people are fine with it. I love white and did not have a problem keeping things white other than my white leather sneakers that I just cleaned at the end of the day with a little water and a towel. Hope you have the best trip!

Jan Schmidt

I’m going to Egypt in October 2023. I was recommended to spray my clothes with Permethrin insect repellent, is this necessary??

We didn’t need to do that and we went in October. I guess you should see if you are going somewhere they expect bugs that were not places on our Egypt itinerary – Aswan, Luxor, Cairo, Giza.

Why do you need a step down power converter ? I already have a plug adapter

A plug adapter is fine for any dual voltage appliances which includes things like an iPhone. But anything that is not dual voltage, needs a step down converter to change the voltage to 110, assuming you are coming from the US. My curling iron starting smoking once when I didn’t have a step down converter.

I’m at the end of day one and want to say thank you for this blog! The Amazon maxi dresses and button down shirts have been lifesavers!

That’s so great to hear. You totally made my day. Thanks for taking the time to tell me. Have the best trip!

Thanks so much for this! We are leaving Tuesday and thankfully, Amazon Prime can get your recommendations delivered by then!

Gotta love Amazon Prime quick delivery!

Hello, one of the things that was ask of me as a requirement for my trio to Egypt was 75€, for tips, and that money was to be given to my Guide and he would negotiate the tips for me, Is that a normal thing to happen|? I have travel to many places and of course we tip but to be a mandatory thing and to have to give the money to the guided never happened before

We didn’t take a tour so I don’t know but Egyptians can be quite persistent trying to get money from tourists. You might try telling him that it isn’t possible for you to tip ahead but that you will do it along the way as services are provided.

We just went to Egypt in January 2022. I did not have to cover my head in the various Mosques as we are not Muslim. Visitors are not expected to per our guide. There were lots of other visitors that did not need to cover. This is cultural and not Islamic/Muslim.

Thanks for sharing. One of the benefits of having a guide is definitely knowing the ins and outs. Another benefit – especially in Egypt is that you are left alone. I was instructed in multiple mosques to wear a covering in addition to being prohibited from carrying a small tripod. When a guide was with us, no one said anything.

This is so great, thank you! I”m planning for my LONG awaited trip coming up this May and while I have travelled enough to know this stuff it’s nice to confirm my ideas and to see a few *specific* suggestions for dresses that have been tested, hats, etc.

TIP for others: I’m bringing an umbrella as well, to help stop the sun too, esp as I’ll be in Jordan in end of May or even June. ~ AdventuressAli

Definitely agree – there’s a great sun umbrella in the list and it’s a lifesaver. We just added a post with great bubble hotels in Jordan if you get to Wadi Rum.

Thank you very much for the great tips and wardrobe links! I’d love a couple of the button down shirts you suggested but they are no longer available. Can you offer suggest a substitute? Going to Egypt in October 2021!

White button down shirt is updated and all other links are being checked now. Thanks for letting me know. Hope you have an amazing trip!

Thanks for these wonderful tips. It’s really helpful. Following your blog since a very long time and I am pretty happy from the insights I am getting via it.

I’m planning to go to Egypt this year. God willing. Where did you get that red skirt? It’s beautiful!

Hope you are able to go. It’s the trip of a lifetime! Here’s a link for the dress but it may be sold out. https://bit.ly/3cbOVqT

Mark Burnett

Yes, I agreed! The best time to visit Egypt is in December, I had visited therein in 2018 and it was a great time there. Thanks for sharing this such a great article,

Avis Lawton

I have visited Egypt last year, before corona and I can agree with this that Egypt is modern but conservative. I am going to visit it next year again just when the covid-19 gets into normal and thanks for this Closed-toe shoe idea.

Such a breathtaking place indeed. Happy New Year dear!

I’d love to visit Egypt one day! This is such a helpful guide, thank you! You took so many beautiful photos while you were there as well. I wear a lot of maxi skirts and dresses so it’s good I could just rewear my regular wardrobe there!

Hope you had a merry Christmas 🙂 We had a great time with family and so much good food! Have a happy new year 🙂

Your current wardrobe sounds perfect for a trip to Egypt. We can all reduce our carbon footprint by loving the clothes that are already in our closets. Happy New Year!

I would love to go to Egypt!

Jennifer Effortlessly Sophisticated

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Copyright 2024 - The Evolista | All Rights Reserved | Disclosure

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products

Moving to Egypt Transformed My Travel Wardrobe — Here Are 13 Comfy Essentials I Now Swear by, From $26

From white linen pants to breezy maxi dresses, these are the versatile clothes I wear on repeat in Cairo.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

I recently moved to Cairo, Egypt’s capital and a desert city that experiences a range of temperatures in a single day. I learned quickly that I’d need looks that would keep me cool in the sun yet warm on chilly nights and be modest enough to fit right in. So I added a few key items to my travel wardrobe, from white linen pants to apparel with built-in UPF sun protection to a light denim jacket I can layer on top at night.   

If you’re packing for your own Egypt trip, maybe you can benefit from a few key things I’ve learned along the way. First, classic, elegant silhouettes on the more modest side go far; generally speaking, covering from your shoulders to your knees is acceptable here. You don’t want to attract unwanted attention when you’re sightseeing. And second, whether you’re headed to the pyramids, climbing Mount Sinai, or taking the metro to avoid Cairo traffic, comfortable, close-toed shoes are also essential.

Since it’s the desert, sand and dust are all around, but you shouldn’t let this stop you from wearing white. Just keep a reliable stain remover in your suitcase. Depending on your style, you can stick to bold prints or minimalist neutrals that hide anything that gets on your outfit. All in all, you can’t go wrong with stylish and functional staples, so scroll on for my ultimate guide to what to wear to Egypt .

Quince White Linen Pants

It’s no secret that linen is the way to go in any warm weather climate, but sometimes the fabric can get quite expensive. I’ve turned to Quince’s deals and sales for my linen sets complete with pants, a matching tank , and a short or long-sleeve shirt . I recommend buying all the various lengths because I tend to switch between the three of them throughout the day. 

Plus, a coordinated look is an excellent hack to looking put together in a flash. Given the packed itinerary you’ll likely have in Egypt, nothing beats a quick and simple ensemble. Quince has linen in all kinds of colors and pinstripe, too, so do yourself a favor and stock up.

Rothy’s The Casual Clog

Rothy's

Clogs are my go-to in Cairo as the open back keeps my feet cool while a closed toe keeps them from getting dusty. And these Rothy’s in particular are a winning travel shoe because you never have to worry about getting them dirty — they’re machine washable . Any time I get a stain on them, I simply pop the shoes into the washing machine. 

It’s a low-maintenance setup, and the plush footbed with arch support makes them a joy to walk around in. The only thing to remember is that Rothy’s can’t take excessive heat from a dryer, so you always have to let them air dry. Looking for this style for less? This similar Amazon pair is only $39 (though not as conveniently machine washable).

Nordstrom Long Sleeve Shirt Dress

Similar to my linen sets, I have a rack of maxi shirt dresses ready to go for any occasion. They’re stylish yet conservative enough, appropriate for being out about about, and will keep you cool. 

As someone who’s petite, I opt for vertical stripes to flatter and elongate my figure, and I find the pattern a fun way to show off my style personality. Did I mention this style has pockets? I may not put valuables in them to deter pickpockets, but it’s great for having items like lip gloss with SPF handy. 

Khaki Baseball Cap

Even with slightly cooler temperatures during the earlier months of the year, the sun is still strong in the desert. In addition to a pair of sunglasses , I rock a baseball cap anywhere I go. 

It’s a practical accessory that will protect you from the sun, and it makes a subtle style statement. I keep it right by the door, so I can finish any outfit with it on my way out, especially when I want to cover up a bad hair day. Again, to match the desert, I have a khaki color that pairs well with anything. 

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

A small, on-the-go bag that can fit your hotel key, credit cards, cash, and phone is a must-have. Lululemon’s belt bag is an affordable solution that has gotten me through many days and nights out in Cairo along with other trips beyond the city. 

I prefer to clip it over my chest for a more fashion-forward style and the bonus of easier access to my essentials. And unlike most fanny packs, there’s a separate interior pocket that will help keep all your stuff organized. 

Madewell The Jean Jacket

Like New York, Cairo is another city that never sleeps, so you’ll need some form of outerwear for the colder nights in the desert. You’ll find the streets filled with people at all hours of the night. 

Whether I’m going to a late dinner or a nightcap at a coffee shop, my denim jacket always comes with me. Not only does it keep me cozy, but I can also wear it with everything from a dressier slip dress to denim jeans or long skirts in similar washes. 

Hill House Home The Ellie Nap Dress

Hill House Home

If you ask me, Hill House’s popular Nap Dress isn’t for snoozing. In fact, it’s what I like to wear on activity, photo-filled days. Similar to my cropped pants, it looks good on anyone and the site offers a range of colors, prints, and sizes. 

It’s casual enough that it works for a laid-back lunch or food tour. Then again, I’ve thrown it on with heels before for a fancy night out. I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to have versatile pieces when traveling, and this one fits the bill as it covers the knees and shoulders. 

Everlane The Day Mary Jane

I’m a fan of athleisure, but I don’t like my closet to be lined with sneakers or uncomfortable sandals. I chose these durable Mary Janes from Everlane made out of soft leather in the Blush Tan because they fit perfectly and match the sand on the roads so I don’t have to worry about cleaning them. 

What makes them even better for travel? The shoes can be effortlessly dressed up or down. I’ve worn them to an elegant Iftar meal at the historic Qubba Palace or on a stroll in Old Cairo’s pottery village where I buy affordable handmade goods and take classes. 

Lululemon Softstreme High-Rise Midi Skirt

An underrated, modest article of clothing is a midi skirt. Lululemon has a quality, super soft option that’s attainable quiet luxury at its finest. I like to pair it with a relaxed tee to balance out the skirt’s structure. Recently, I dressed up a midi with a tank and a blazer (so that it wasn’t too revealing) for a Suhoor — the second pre-fasting meal during Ramadan — at the Abdeen Palace. 

Akk Memory Foam Lightweight Tennis Shoes

Comfy, tan sneakers were a priority on my Egypt packing list. I got a couple of inexpensive pairs at Amazon because I wanted to be able to get rid of them if they got too worn down. I’ve been here since February and my initial pair is still going strong. 

Of course, beige was the clear color of choice and I often wear them with matching socks to combat the dusty terrain. I also love that they’re lightweight and a breeze to walk in.  

Viodia Women's UPF 50+ Golf Shirt

There’s so much to do in Cairo, and I’ve been picking up tons of new hobbies, including golf. This is because many of the luxury hotels and resorts have golf courses . 

I have a drawer full of polo shirts with both long and short sleeves that I wear with longer-length matching golf skorts . To mix things up, I also have a few golf dresses . (At the courses and resorts, in general, I’ve found that it’s more acceptable to wear shorter bottoms.) This shirt is great whether on the course or not as it has UPF 50+ sun protection built in, a necessity in these parts.

Banana Republic Ultra High-Rise Wide-Leg Crop Jean

Banana Republic

Wide-legged crops or culottes are my preferred pants. They’re flattering, breathable, and add shape to any look. If you’re coming to the desert, I say leave your skinnies at home. 

I take things to another level with ultra-high rises. This silhouette, courtesy of Banana Republic, has a relaxed fit that complements any figure. Thankfully, the brand has a petite section , so I didn’t have to worry about hemming or getting the jeans tailored. 

Blundstone High-Top Boots

Even though this is the desert, there are hiking trails in Cairo, and since the paths are filled with sand, you should wear high-top boots. I’ve been all about my pair of sturdy, shock-absorbing Blundstone boots.

Moreover, the boots look even better if they’re down making them ideal for walking around or strolling from one pyramid to another. It’s clear that when it comes to footwear, the less hassle, the better. They come in black and several shades of brown giving you plenty of options, too. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

See More T+L Shopping Deals

What to Wear in Egypt (+ A Practical Egypt Packing List)

Gearing up for a travel adventure and no idea what to wear in Egypt? This ultimate Egypt packing list walks you through everything you need to know. 

Egypt is world-renowned for its iconic ancient civilisation, desert-towering pyramids, and  incredible contemporary culture – so it’s no surprise that you’re planning your trip. 

I’ve just returned from spending some time in Egypt and it was every bit as wonderful as it promised to be. 

Unlike other destinations where packing is simply a matter of throwing whatever into a bag, understanding how to dress in Egypt and therefore what to pack, requires a little more consideration. 

Egypt’s desert climate and conservative Muslim society play a large role in what you should wear in the country. Don’t stress, packing for an Egyptian holiday is easier than you think. 

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top things you need to consider when thinking about what to wear in Egypt, as well as outline a practical, step-by-step packing list to help you pack for your trip. 

What to Wear in Egypt: Top Tips

As I mentioned above, Egypt is quite a conservative country and you should dress in a way that respects that. It’s also incredibly hot, particularly in the summer months. It might sound like a difficult combination but it’s not. 

Here are my top packing tips for visiting Egypt.

• Pack summer clothing made with light fabric — Egypt is dry, hot, and crowded with lots of desert.
• Loose long-sleeved shirts and dresses are your best friend — cultural norms prescribe that women dress in this fashion.
• Bring closed-toe but comfortable shoes — nothing is more annoying than getting sand in your shoes but you’ll be doing a lot of walking so they need to be comfy or you will regret it. 
• Pack a sun hat, sunglasses and a decent amount of high-factor sunscreen.
• Always carry a scarf — You never know when you might need it.

What to Wear in Egypt – In More Detail

What to wear in egypt as a woman.

So what do women wear in Egypt? 

Local women in Egypt wear loosely-fitted clothing, covering their knees and shoulders, and the hijab, or niqab. The reasons they choose to do so are varied, and not solely religious. The hijab or “headscarf” is not obligatory – it can also serve to protect a woman’s modesty and privacy from unrelated men.

Female tourists do not have to wear a headscarf – most do not. However, women must cover their hair when entering sacred or holy sanctuaries like mosques. 

Aside from the headscarf, follow the example set by the locals – wear loose-fitting trousers / long skirts and modest tops that cover your shoulders, stomach and cleavage. Maxi dresses are a great option too. 

Personally I spent most of my time alternating between wearing harem pants, a loose-fitting top and lightweight kimono and wearing a maxi dress paired with a kimono.

This kept me nice and cool – or as cool as I could be in the 40-degree heat – and meant I could create a number of different outfits with a small number of pieces, because I’m just not the gal for lugging around a gigantic suitcase when I’m changing hotels every 1-3 nights. 

Two Egypt Packing Hacks for Women to Make An Existing Wardrobe More Appropriate 

If you read through the section above and felt a bit alarmed because you don’t have clothing that quite fits the bill, there are a few staple items that can help to make your existing wardrobe more appropriate. 

The first is a pashmina / large cotton scarf. Not only can you use a pashmina as a headcovering if you’re going into a mosque, if you wrap it in the right way, it can cover your shoulders and cleavage for a top or dress that doesn’t quite do the trick. 

The second is a lightweight kimono. As you can see from lots of my Egypt photos, I wore two kimonos pretty much constantly during my Egypt trip. Most of my dresses and tops are short-sleeved so I wouldn’t have felt comfortable wearing them solo on the trip – but they were totally fine when I paired them with a kimono. 

I really do recommend following these guidelines – not only to respect the country you are travelling in, but also to avoid getting unwanted attention. 

Some female travellers have encountered heckling and even harassment when wearing what the locals would class as immodest clothing. Respect the local culture. 

What to Wear in Egypt as a Man 

It will come as a surprise to noone that this section is much shorter than the women’s one. 

Egyptian men also dress conservatively. While the rules for male tourists are much looser, a classic lightweight shirt and loose trouser combo works well. 

Firstly, it’s more culturally appropriate than shorts and a t-shirt, and secondly, it’s more climate-appropriate – trust me when I say that you will be glad for as much protection from the sun as possible.

Egypt Packing List

Travel to Egypt Checklist: Luggage

You may think it’s as simple as piling things into a carry-on bag , but it’s more complex than that. If you’re planning an extended vacation, you’ll need to cover a few different bases throughout your trip. 

Rolling Suitcase

A rolling suitcase isn’t only slick and stylish and very convenient. The 360-degree spinner wheels make your journey smooth. I recommend the Samsonite Flux Spinner – a lightweight but durable plastic suitcase that’s ideal for moving between destinations and keeping your belongings safe in transit. 

Packing Cubes

Travelling with just one bag? You can use packing cubes to separate and organise your luggage. These cubes help keep your clothes wrinkle-free and are waterproof. I recommend the eBags Classic Packing Cubes 3-piece Set .

A daypack is an ideal tool to carry lightweight essentials when going on an excursion. Relatively smaller than regular backpacks, daypacks work brilliantly for going on active day trips like hiking and sightseeing. I love my Osprey Daylite 25 – it even has a handy pouch for a water bladder (very useful when you’re out all day in the heat). 

Handbags are ideal for walking tours, eating out, or beach trips. I recommend the Women’s Fashion Handbag Set . This four-piece arrangement includes a wallet, a tote, shoulder bag, and satchel.

Reusable Canvas Bag

Canvas is an ideal storage material; the plain-woven fabric is flexible and fits most travel essentials. I recommend the TOPDesign Economical Cotton Tote Bag . The simple, durable design offers excellent flexibility and carries various items.

What to Pack for Egypt: Clothes

Clothing is a critical element of your luggage. So it would help if you covered all the essentials, especially when travelling to a culturally-sensitive nation like Egypt. Firstly, consider the scorching hot weather. Next is the traditional way of life that most Egyptians uphold.

Tops  

Pack loosely-fitted unrevealing tops with lightweight and breathable material. This helps you stay cool throughout the day. My top suggestions for a perfect Egyptian getaway are tunic tops and casual blouses .

The ideal style for women visiting Egypt is long and classy. Skirts must be loose-fitted and go below the knees. Pack light and comfy skirts made from chiffon, silk, or cotton. These fabrics are fluid and drapey, giving you maximum ventilation.

Pack lengthy dresses that cover both your shoulders and knees. Light fabrics are always a winner, but avoid anything sheer or see-through. Bring a few textured maxi dresses instead.

Pashmina / Scarf

Pashminas are generally larger than scarves, making them ideal for covering your face and hair. Bring along several pashmina shawls and wraps ; this will work in your favour when visiting religious sites.

Trousers and Pants

Unlike in some Islamic nations, women in Egypt can wear pants or trousers. You can go for a classy, elegant look with casual palazzo pants or a more easy-going look with elastic waist cropped pants . Whichever style you pick, ensure that you’re packing lightweight clothing that’s comfortable and culturally appropriate.

Kimono 

I already talked about why kimonos are great when you’re looking at what to wear in Egypt as a woman. Trust me – so many items in your wardrobe will be transformed into something appropriate by simply adding a lightweight, long-sleeved kimono – Anthropologie always has a great selection. 

Jackets work well for sun protection and layering on rainy days (although Egypt experiences minimal rainfall). They come in all fabrics, so bring a lightweight jacket and something cosier like a hoodie or windbreaker . This adequately prepares you for whatever weather awaits you at your destination.

Serving as more than just sun protection, hats are fashionable and complementary to the Mediterranean dress code. You can wear sun hats for casual walkabouts, pyramid excursions, or on the beach.

Tourists can wear bikinis at hotel poolsides. At public beaches, women (including tourists)  are encouraged to cover up to avoid a rude awakening. You can use a kaftan to cover up; local women usually wear a burkini , covering their bodies from wrists to ankles.

Travel Socks

Socks are essential no matter where you’re going. Pack several pairs of travel socks with circulation design , comfortable material, and durable for long day trips and expeditions.

Sports underwear like the Reebok Women’s Seamless Hipster Briefs work best for action-packed tours. These quick-drying briefs have a nylon and spandex fabric blend ideal for training and intense workouts.

Egypt Travel Packing List: Footwear

You cannot plan a trip without the destination’s terrain in mind. Most attractions in Egypt are in the sandy desert plains. But your shoes must be durable and adaptable to multiple geographies.

Comfortable Travel Shoes

It would be best if you had shoes that could take on any terrain and still be comfortable. Lightweight trainers with breathable material and cushioned soles are ideal for a trip to Egypt. I recommend Tropicfeel’s all-terrain sneakers . They are water-friendly, sturdy, and slip-resistant.

Stylish Travel Shoes

With so many upmarket cities and lavish resort towns like Hurghada, you’ll need a fancy pair of shoes to blend in. The Adidas Women’s Grand Court Sneaker has extra cushioning, durable rubber soles, and a classic design that’s recognisable anywhere.

Packing a pair of sandals is crucial. You’ll be comfortable exploring the vibrant city streets, shopping at the bazaar, or taking a long stroll to the beach. I recommend a pair of Birkenstock Arizona sandals — they’re classy, stylish, and provide ultimate comfort.

Useful Items for Your Egypt Packing List 

While clothing and shoes are both crucial elements of your packing list, don’t forget items that will maximise your convenience. An excellent tip to remember these valuable items is planning your Egypt itinerary and listing everything you’ll need for each excursion.

Travel Towel

Towels are helpful in many situations. Whether you’re going to the beach, lying at the hotel pool, or jumping out of the shower, a towel will always come in handy. I recommend Dock & Bay travel towels . They’re both compact and stylish.

Earplugs and Eye Mask

Earplugs and a sleep mask are ideal for overnight travel. They make it easy to rest on your journey, blocking background noises and unwanted light sources. Get a pair of ultra-soft foam earplugs and a set of 3D contoured sleep masks , and never struggle with sleeping or napping during long trips.

Torch 

Power blackouts are more common than you’d think. A torch is also useful for camping in the desert. Get an LED tactical flashlight with bright and zoom features.

Refillable Water Bottle

A refillable water bottle will definitely come in handy during your desert excursions. Avoid dehydration by packing one or two leakproof refillable water bottles with a straw feature for easy drinking.

A money belt is great for storing your essential documents, cash, and small electronics when going on an adventure. The ideal money belt for travel has hidden compartments and an RFID theft protection system.

Packing List for Egypt: Gadgets + Electronics

Having the right gadgets and electronics will ensure you savour picturesque views and sentimental moments. Make these permanent by taking lots of photos and videos.

A camera is a great tool to snapshot memories. A durable camera with a good lens will do. Canon’s R mirrorless camera produces high-quality footage. It has dual memory card slots, so don’t worry about running out of space. Bring backup batteries and a compatible battery charger .

Memory Cards

Without these, you won’t have space to store the highlights of your trip. The Sandisk 128GB card is water and temperature-proof and has a transfer speed of up to 170MB/s, ideal for shooting videos in 4K.

Spare Batteries

Most electronics use battery power to function. Having spare batteries combats running out of energy and your electronics being obsolete. Energizer Batteries offer long-lasting power for most gadgets.

Travel Adapter

Western nations predominantly use type A and B, but Egypt uses type C, E/F outlets. A multiway international adapter is essential when travelling abroad. It allows you to plug in and use your electronics from anywhere in the world.

External Power Pack

Since it’s nearly impossible to find a plug in the desert or in unfamiliar cities, you should pack an external power pack . It is a portable power supply that is compact, lightweight, and convenient for charging mobile devices.

Due to different markets, you may not easily find your favourite toothpaste in Egypt. Bring travel-size toiletries, as they require less space and don’t add too much weight to your luggage.

Bring them all. From your toothbrush and toothpaste to deodorant and body lotion—pack hair and skin essentials like shampoo, conditioner, and SPF-infused lip balm . I also highly encourage female travellers to bring their feminine hygiene products from home.

You may not be able to get your prescription or OTC meds at local pharmacies due to restrictions or regulations, so it’s best to bring an adequate supply. Check online or contact relevant authorities to ensure you don’t bring anything illegal. 

Also, pack a first-aid kit that’s small enough to bring along on tours and expeditions. This way, you’ll be ready for a medical emergency.

With temperatures in Egypt tethering around 30 degrees Celsius, I highly recommend you pack loads of sunscreen. Any SPF sunscreen of 30 or above will be enough to protect your skin against sunburn.

Packing checklist

Don’t Forget These Egypt Travel Essentials Either!

You may leave some key travel elements unchecked, especially when you’re beaming with excitement for the journey ahead. However, forgetting these essentials may leave you stranded.

Passport / Visas

Visitors require a passport valid for no less than six months and a Visa to enter Egypt. Travellers of more than 70 nationalities can get an Egyptian Visa online . The digital process is effective and highly convenient.

Travel Insurance

Protect yourself and your belongings by acquiring travel insurance that covers you against theft, delayed luggage, and provides medical assistance. 

Cash / Credit Cards

Inform your bank about your trip. This will keep them from flagging card transactions or cash withdrawals overseas as fraud. 

Tickets and Reservations

Always confirm your flight reservations / check in  days or even a week before your travel date. This keeps you informed about any changes or flight delays and cancellations.

Emergency Contacts + Addresses

Save emergency contacts and addresses on your mobile devices or notebook—the most vital being the nearest police station, embassy, and hospital.

Copies of Important Documents to Keep Separate from Wallet

Keep your most important documents like your passport, identity document, and flight tickets separate from your wallet. This helps immensely if your wallet is stolen. 

Get a guidebook like this Lonely Planet Egypt   to help you orientate yourself while in the country. You’ll get an all-encompassing and authentic Egyptian trip without being limited to places like the ancient pyramids and the Nile. 

Are guidebooks as good as a local guide? No. Are they still helpful? Absolutely yes. 

Travel to Egypt Checklist: Key Takeaways 

• Pack lightweight, culturally-sensitive clothing and sturdy shoes.
• Bring a couple of pashminas / kimono.
• Remember to bring your refillable water bottle.
• Protect yourself by getting travel insurance.

Travel to Egypt Checklist: Read Next

• How to Spend 10 Days in Egypt – A Culture-Filled Itinerary 
• Top Things to do in Egypt
• The Ultimate Egypt Travel Guide
• The Best Things to do in Cairo
• 20+ Egypt Travel Tips
• Incredible Things to do in Luxor

Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

Taking a Nile River Cruise in Egypt: What You Need to Know and Where to Book

Visiting The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor: A Practical Guide

The Best Things to do in Egypt: 25 Amazing Sights & Attractions

Visiting the Tomb of Tutankhamun in Luxor: A Practical Guide

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

What to Wear in Egypt: Packing Tips for Female Travellers

Planning on what to wear in Egypt was not easy. In fact, after I got over the initial excitement of booking the trip, the proper dress code was something I spent a long time worrying about. I scoured the internet for helpful tips and advice, but to be honest it just left me even more confused. Some articles indicated I should cover up as much as possible and consider even getting a hijab or at least bring a scarf to cover my hair during my stay. Others said it wasn’t really a big deal, and I could wear pretty much whatever I wanted. In the end I took a more conservative approach and just hoped for the best.

Thankfully, I chose wisely, but not everyone else did. While I wasn’t as covered up as the local women, I was significantly more modest than a few other tourists I came across along the way. Tiny jean shorts, cropped tops, and even some mini-skirts seemed to pop up at the pyramids and all of the major temples I visited. I cringed inwardly as I watched these young women walk by, especially as I noticed the looks that they received from the Egyptians; both men and women.

Curious, I ended up asking my favourite tour guide, Abdul, how he felt as a local man to see women dressing provocatively.

“Honestly?” he told me, “Sure, go ahead. We don’t get to see that so it’s nice to look”. I had to laugh a little with him about that. After spending five days in his company and seeing him interact with both local women and tourists, I knew Abdul was a good one. He was kind, respectful, and not at all threatening. Despite passing several scantily dressed women, he never leered or lingered; he was a gentleman. However, he did admit that some women took it too far and that bothered him, especially at the ancient temples which, while no longer used for religion, are still sacred sites.

While Abdul may have been more progressive in his thoughts, not everyone was. In Cairo my brother and I had coffee with a couple of local men, one of which was quick to share his distaste for local women embracing more modern styles. He sneered as he spoke about them wearing jeans and makeup, unhappily claiming that Egypt has changed too much in the past five years. I have to admit, his anger made me uncomfortable, and if he was that put off by the local women in Cairo wearing eyeliner and jeans, I can’t imagine how he would treat the women dressed in more revealing outfits.

Needless to say, I felt good about my decision to go with a more conservative wardrobe for my visit. I didn’t end up covering my hair, but I never felt uncomfortable and even had a few positive comments from locals on my outfits. So, for any other women looking for inspiration on what to wear in Egypt to feel both comfortable and respectful, here’s what I recommend.

What to Wear in Egypt as a Woman: Summary

If you are just looking for the quick-and-dirty on Egypt packing tips there here are my top tips on how to dress in Egypt:

• You do not have to cover your hair in Egypt
• Capris and skirts that show your ankles are ok in Egypt
• You do not have to wear baggy clothing in Egypt, but balance things out. If you wear skinny jeans or tighter pants, pair them with a looser (long) top.
• Layers will help in the evening, but lightweight and breathable clothing is best for the daytime.
• Be careful with flowy skirts and dresses- it gets very windy in the desert! Go for maxi lengths.
• Don’t show your cleavage. Try to cover shoulders as much as possible as well in Egypt.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes. The sand is hot and difficult to walk in sandals or flip-flops.

Looking for some Egypt outfit inspiration based on my experiences? Read on for more on my thoughts of what to wear in Egypt as a woman.

What to Pack for Egypt: T-Shirts over Tank Tops

Egypt can be really hot, especially as you go further south to places like Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel. These places, however, are even more traditional than Cairo so skip the tank tops and wear a light t-shirt instead. You don’t need long sleeves, just make sure your shoulders are covered and that it’s not low cut; cleavage is a big no-no. ( My favourite travel t-shirt is the evolve top by encircled which washes and wears amazingly and can be styled in different ways.)

If you do wear a tank top (I brought two with me) wear something over it. A light sweater will do the trick (though it’s probably cooler just to wear the t-shirt, trust me) or a gauzy wrap to keep your shoulders covered.

One of my favourite tops for this trip was the Butterfly Wrap by Diane Kroe in the chiffon material. It was loose, light, and airy and kept me cool while exploring ruins in the hot summer sun. It also worked perfectly when I hit the beach in Dahab as a cover-up.

*Save $10 off your Diane Kroe order with promo code HANNAH10

What to Wear in Egypt? Sundresses with Leggings or Maxi Dresses

Sundresses are pretty common on women’s packing list, and there’s no reason why you can’t bring your favourite cute dress with you to Egypt; as long as you make it appropriate. Again, remember that your knees, shoulders, and chest need to be covered. This might mean wearing a light pair of leggings under your dress or adding a lightweight sweater, jacket, or scarf to cover your shoulders.

I got a ton of compliments on my Marie Dress (jet set print) from  Cherry Velvet. The zipped front meant I could have a higher neckline and the t-shirt style meant my shoulders were covered. I just wore a pair of black leggings underneath and voila! I was comfortable, cool, and appropriately covered. I even got a couple compliments from Egyptian women about how much they loved my outfit.

Maxi dresses and skirts are a good idea too, and may be cooler than pairing shorter dresses with leggings. Look for styles with ankle-length skirts and t-shirt type tops to be appropriately covered ( something like this one ). You could also do maxi skirts like this or, if you want something dressier (especially if you plan on taking a lot of photos) you might like something long and flowy like this one.

Bonus tip: Egypt can be quite breezy, especially out in the desert so be careful about shorter flowy skirts and dresses. Even mine blew up a few times making me extra grateful for my leggings underneath.

What to Wear in Egypt: Loose Pants

When it came to bottoms, I alternated between two pairs of loose pants. One of which was the baggy elephant style pant that’s so popular in Southeast Asia, the other just a wide leg black pant. Again, they were light and airy, didn’t hug my curves, and were super comfortable. If you don’t have a pair, you can order some elephant style ones online here  or some wide-leg pants here.

I should also point out that neither quite covered my ankles (hooray for being tall) but that was never an issue. A couple times I even hiked the elephant pants, which had elasticized hems, up to just under my knees to make them more of a capri style rather than full long pants, it was not an issue. I think as long as your knees are covered and the focus isn’t on your booty, you will be fine.

What to Wear in Egypt: Jeans & Tighter Pants

Since we spent a day exploring Toronto before flying to Egypt, I did end up bringing a pair of skinny jeans with me. Though, to be honest, I didn’t expect I would wear them; assuming they would be too tight and show off my ‘assets’ too much to be considered appropriate. However, I quickly found out that jeans, even skinny jeans, are ok in Egypt; so long as you have a longer top to pair with them, like this one . Many of the young local girls paired their skinny jeans with longer sleeved tunic-type tops that covered their bums. I made sure to follow in their lead, pairing my jeans with longer, loose tops, and felt totally comfortable walking around. That being said, I saved them for the evening when it was cooler because it was way too hot for me to even consider jeans during the day.

If you plan on being active, I suggest lululemon leggings . My absolute favourite leggings are the invigorate tights or Wunder Train which don’t slide down and they aren’t see through. Since this is Egypt, wear a longer shirt so that covers your bum. But these are my go-to travel leggings and I recommend them to everyone.

For more of my favourite clothing brands as a curvy traveller check out this post.

Do I Have to Cover my Hair in Egypt?

This was another question I really worried about but the answer is no. Female visitors are not expected to cover their hair. That being said, if you want to, you can. Just make sure to do it in a respectful way, not just to be fashionable.

Personally, I chose not to cover my hair in Egypt and had no major issues. After all, hiding my light hair isn’t going to camouflage the fact that I am clearly a tourist. I did make sure to keep my hair up though either in a ponytail, bun, or braid rather than wearing it down. Might be just me, but I thought that was a little more respectful.

I do want to mention that I did meet a couple women who were very blonde which got them a lot of extra unwanted attention to the point where a few people just reached out to touch their hair. If this is the case, you may want to cover your hair for your own comfort.

What to Wear in Egypt: Helpful Accessories

While not necessary, I do recommend adding a couple of these accessories to your Egypt packing list to make travelling through Egypt a bit easier and to make you feel a little more comfortable and conservative in your dress.

• Lightweight travel scarf with pocket – covers cleavage/shoulders, especially if you go to a mosque. Also ideal for storing some money etc. Especially great for travel days.
• Rashguard– if you are going to be hitting up Egypt’s beaches, rashguards are a great pick to not only help ward off the sun (nobody wants to burn on vacation!) but also to cover up a bit more. Check my list of inclusive swimwear brands that I love.
• Reef safe Sunscreen: Egypt has some gorgeous coral reefs so if you plan on being in the water please use a reef safe sunscreen to help protect the reefs and marine life.
• Anti-chafing balm : For those of us who suffer from the dreaded chub rub!
• Sunglasses: Not only to protect your eyes but dark sunglasses can also be helpful in avoiding unwanted attention. 
• I also recommend packing a few different type of shoes. Sandals or flip-flops area great at the beach but you will want closed toe shoes for the desert!
• Towel: Especially if you have a visit to the beach planned. I recommend these quick-dry ones for travel.

Final Considerations for Your Egypt Packing List

Having travelled to Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan, and Dahab, I felt like the clothing differed in each area, and what I wore depended on what I was doing. Being with a tour guide at the temples or on the Nile River cruise which was filled with other tourists was a bit less stressful than walking around local streets and neighbourhoods. I felt more conscious of being covered up during these times and though I didn’t bring any really tight clothing, I chose the loosest of my tops for the times I spent exploring the cities.

Dahab; a laid-back beach town on the Red Sea, was by far the most liberal when it came to deciding what to wear. Since I went for scuba diving, I always had a swimsuit on but I wouldn’t dream about walking around in that alone, and nor did anyone else. That being said I, and many others, wore shorts and tank tops over their swimwear while going to the beach, or walking along the main areas. While at the beach, bikinis were fine; though I did notice many women throwing a sundress or cover-up on over them once out of the water. Perhaps not necessary, but definitely a more comfortable option. If you are staying at one of Egypts seaside resorts, it’s more common to just walk around the pool area in your swimwear.

Finally, I feel like it’s important to note that I did travel with a man. I’ve heard mixed reviews on solo female travel in Egypt and while I had an amazing time, I know the fact that I had my brother with me did play a role. However, at the end of the day, whether you are travelling alone, with a man, or with other women, the most important thing to remember is to be respectful the local culture (it is a conservative country) and mindful of your own personal comfort level when considering what to wear in Egypt.

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

53 Comments

Love this! Hopefully going there this year and was actually worrying about this exact thing!

Haha I totally understand! I’m glad this helps though!

[…] and my knees are covered but you can see my ankles. I try to think back to everything I read about how to dress in Egypt, were ankles ok? Unsure, I tug my pants a bit lower on my hips to add a little length. It will have […]

[…] Travellers to Egypt need to pack smart, especially the women. Egypt is hot, and can be roasting during the day. But, you also need to be respectful and cover up.  I wrote a packing guide to Egypt for women with suggestions on what to bring based on what worked we… […]

When you went to Egypt, did you go with a tour group or did you plan the trip yourself? My husband and I are thinking of going and a lot of people suggest booking the trip with a tour group. We’ve traveled all over the world and we think we’ll be able to plan the trip and go just us two. What do you think? Thanks!

I planned our trip myself 🙂 I have a blog post on our itinerary and what we did if you check through my other Egypt content. It was easy enough! I do recommend a Nile River cruise though- it was the highlight.

Thank you so much my husband and I are going to Egypt for our honeymoon and I was worried about this exact issue! Super helpful!!!

yay! so glad to help. Have an amazing honeymoon!!

Heading to Egypt in January and thinking about wardrobe. We are traveling in cooler weather so am planning loose pants and tunics that cover my bum. I had read that it was also good to cover elbows so have been looking for 3/4 sleeves but notice that you are often showing yours. Not an issue?

Nope! T-shirts were fine. As I say, I don’t recommend tank tops since shoulders should be covered but I had no issues with t-shirt length sleeves

How did you find your tour guide? I am traveling to Egypt with a group of people (men and women) but have read so many blogs where people recommend getting a tour guide to lessen harassment,

I used a few different guides. All were good, some better than others. I definitely agree that when we did have a guide, the locals didn’t try to sell us as much and, obviously, didn’t offer their guiding services. I recommend Get Your Guide if you are looking- that’s what I used to book in advance to make sure I got a REAL guide. Quite affordable too!

Okay, awesome! I will definitely look into that. Thank you for the quick reply 🙂

Thank you so much this is extremely helpful! Thanks for putting in all the links too. A scarf with a pocket?! That is something I would’ve NEVER thought of!

It was definitely something I stressed over before I went so I’m glad other people are finding it helpful!

Thank you so much, I read various tripadvisor / lonely planet guides on what to wear as a woman and still had questions like ‘Are t-shirts long sleeved enough? Can I show my ankles by wearing cropped trousers? Will jeans be okay?’ and this answered all of them! This is the difference of getting real advice from a woman who was personally been, lived and seen. Thank you! Feeling much more relaxed about my trip and like I can at least leave the tags on some of the more conservative items I purchased just-in-case. Thanks!

Ugh I get you, girl, I had the exact same questions before I went. I’m so glad I helped you too!

I’ll be visiting Egypt, in the late Spring, with my Egyptian boyfriend. We’re planning to visit his parents & family, as well as doing some sightseeing.

I’d rather err on the conservative side, although they appear to be very laidback.

Could you please advise me re: clothing and polite behavior? I’m not certain of the customs in Egypt, and don’t want to offend anyone. I also don’t speak any Arabic.

Should I offer with cooking, cleaning, and other household chores? I know, of course, that we will be staying in separate bedrooms. Is hugging or holding hands considered inappropriate at all time?

Any advice that you can give me would be greatly appreciated!

Sincerely, Anne

Hi Anne, I think if you follow the tips in this post in terms of clothing you’ll be good. As for behaviour- all I can say is public displays of attention seem to be a no-no. I didn’t see any among the local while I was there- not even hand holding. As for the rest I’m not sure- you’re best to ask your boyfriend for some tips on local customs.

[…] to have longer tops that covered past my elbows for certain places. Thanks to last year’s trip to Egypt, I knew how to dress conservatively but that was only for a part of Israel. The rest of Israel was […]

Just wondering about colors to wear. I had read that they prefer you not to wear too many bright colors together ? Obviously it was not an issue with your beautiful wrap.

I had no problems wearing colours!

These are fantastic tips! Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I will be traveling with my husband in a few months – since you traveled with your brother, any tips on what to pack for men? What was comfortable for him to wear both from a cultural and weather perspective? Appreciate any insight you can share!

Hey Samantha, My brother wore cargo shorts and tshirts/polo shirts most of the trip. He did bring jeans for evening while it was cooler, then wore board shorts at the beach. I think the guys have it easier than women!

Ok, good to know! Thank you for the quick reply. I know what I pack is going to take a little more thought, but he seems pretty happy to know he doesn’t need to buy anything special. Great content on your sight – appreciate you sharing! Samantha

Thanks Samantha! I hope you have an amazing trip!

Thank you for these amazing tips. I’ll be headed to Egypt next month and have repacked numerous times to ensure I’m mindful of the culture. Your tips have really helped me narrow down my things to pack.

glad to help!

Any issues with showing painted toenails from a modesty perspective? I’ve heard that dirt and dust is a concern, but I can’t find any mentions about bare toes offending anyone’s dress code expectations.

I had a pedicure and no problem. But I only wore flipflops on the ship and by the beach- not in the city so I’m no expert on that.

Can you tell me how cold it gets at night? I’m travelling in May this year and wonder if I should bring a jumper with me? Thanks for the other suggestions, I was a bit concerned about Capri pants, but you’ve sorted that for me.

It depends on the season. I was there in November which is winter so it was a little cooler at night so I brought a sweater with me- nothing too heavy though.

Any tips for 4 70 something women on how to dress, colors, sleeve lengths, skirts (over the knee?), pants? Are Capris okay?

All my tips in this post apply to any age 🙂

Hey Hannah, thank you so much for the invaluable info – you answered a lot of questions that I have! I am traveling to Egypt 10-26-19 thru 11-04-19 – what dates were you there in November and what was the high temperature during the day (sorry if you already answered)? I am sure that I will have more questions as it gets closer to departure and will definitely use you as a resource! Have a great day beautiful!?

Glad to help! I was there mid November for 2 weeks. Temperature really depended on where we were but it did get quite warm in most places 25C+ – Abu Simbel was REALLY Hot. Nights were cooler though so you will want a light sweater.

I am leaving in 1 week for 2 months in Europe and 1 month in Egypt and living out of a bag for that amount of time means you really have to choose wisely. Coming from Australia with a German background means I am used to a very different level of what is accepted and what is not. When I think about it there isn’t really anything that is not accepted where I come from. Your post has helped me so much as a young blonde woman travelling to Egypt and all the sceptical and positive comments and blogs you can read about Egypt can just leave you confused. This is truly the best insight I have had and matches my thoughts exactly where you need to be cautious but not to extreme lengths where you still can’t look nice in your travel memories! Thank you so much!!

You are going to have THE BEST time!! Im so excited for you and glad I could help!

[…] I’d already been to Egypt and Jordan, which are also Muslim countries, and was comfortable with my clothing choices there so […]

This is very helpful, thank you! Next week I’m traveling with a group to spend 3 days in Cairo then diving the Red Sea.

I have been concerned about being respectful in my attire, although, as a 61 year old woman I have left very short skirts and shorts in the past. Did you happen to notice if there were different expectations of older women such as head coverings at most times, dresses/skirts vs. pants. Etc.

Any thoughts you might have would be appreciated. Thank you

Glad to help 🙂 More tourists dressed the same- very few tourists covered their heads with anything other than a hat in the desert to protect against the sun. Keep your shoulders/chest/knees covered and you will be just fine 🙂

This was very helpful. I’m going next week. I have three questions.

1) Did all the places expect you to use mostly cash or could you use a credit card? 2) Did you have any stomach issues? Sorry if that is too personal. One or two people mentioned issues with diarrhea. 3) The hotel I’m staying in has a swimming pool. How did they feel about women being there in swimsuits?

Hi! So you will definitely need cash. Credit card is not accepted anywhere. USD dollars are accepted or Egyptian pounds. I did have stomach issues at the end. I drank a frozen drink and I think it wasn’t filtered water for the ice cubes. I was fine with the actual food. If your hotel has a pool, you should be fine in a swim suit! It’s geared towards tourists and there for you to use 🙂

Oh no! I hope your stomach issues weren’t too bad. I’m vegetarian so I think my stomach is a little more sensitive. I will definitely watch what I eat and drink and bring some backup meds. Thank you. 4 days to go!

I’ve been sicker, and it was at the end so didn’t ruin the trip (just an unhappy flight home). Just avoid ice cubes, haha. I hope you have the BEST time!

thank you for the great pictures and the information.. good travels to you

Hope they came in handy!

Hi, Hannah. Thank You so very much for this information…GREAT stuff!!! Thanx also for the travel insurance recommendation. I just signed up for it, only $45.60. WOW. Bless Your Heart. I’m so glad I came across Your information. Blessings Flow ~

Glad to help 🙂

Is leggings okay to wear with long loose t-shirts? Im not sure if I missed the info, but just wondering since it seems cooler than jeans to wear in the heat

If it comes down to like mid-thigh I would say yes. Like a tunic-type spot. But if your butt is pretty visible in tight leggings you will most likely get some unwanted attention. If you are worried about heat, look for some loose, light-weight pants.

Hi. I enjoyed reading all about this trip. We are grandparents and are taking our grandson to Egypt with us this June. Can you advise on the best insurance for expensive flights? Thank you in advance.

Hi Lisa, So I’m not sure where you are located to offer insurance advise. I personally use Safety Wing which I link to in many of my blog posts, they best suit my needs and lifestyle. However, for flights specifically you might also want to look into some travel credit cards as many of them offer coverage for flights as long as you buy the flight with the credit card. Worth looking into.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

By leaving a comment you agree with the storage and handling of your name and email address by Eat Sleep Breathe Travel. *

Dreaming of Adventure?

Sign up to the Eat Sleep Breathe Travel mail list and stay up to date with all the latest travel tips and stories.

What to Pack for Egypt + Tips on What to Wear in Egypt

• Facebook 95

So you’re planning a vacation in Egypt – woohoo! It’s an amazing, challenging, and beautiful country and it will be an experience of a lifetime. You’ll encounter incredibly hot days, a few chilly evenings, dusty and uneven roads, and a few other surprises along the way.

You’ll want to be prepared for a variety of weather and terrain conditions. And you’ll want to think about what to wear in Egypt – following the local customs and dressing conservatively. And, of course, you’ll want to shop!

I was able to spend 30 amazing days in Egypt and have compiled an Egypt packing list of the most essential things to take with you on your trip to Egypt. Enjoy!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: What to Pack for Egypt

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Tips on What to Wear in Egypt

What to wear in egypt.

The official religion of Egypt is Islam and 90% of those are Sunni Muslims. This means that most Egyptian women are dressed very modestly. They cover their shoulders, knees, and often their hair. This isn’t always the case, however, and some more upscale Cairo neighborhoods tend to have more progressive views on attire.

As a western woman traveling to Egypt, you will undoubtedly get a lot of attention from men. And if you choose not to cover up, you can expect a plethora of stares and catcalls. I would highly recommend that you leave the tank tops and shorts at home and opt to follow the local customs and cover-up as well.

Remember, you’re not here to change the culture, you’re here to experience a new one. 

TIP: If you are staying in a resort on the beach the rules do not apply. Foreigners often lounge in swimsuits and summer dresses in hotels and resorts around Sharm El-Sheikh, Hurghada , and all the coastal resort towns of Egypt.

Weather in Egypt

Egypt is considered to have a hot desert climate. Depending on where you go there will be variations but you can generally expect temperatures in the winter months to range from 60-72°F and those can climb well over 100°F in the summer months.

The sun can be absolutely sweltering in the summertime, so if you visit during this time you will want to be near air conditioning or a pool. But you’ll find that tourist sites are less crowded and prices are generally lower as it is the off-season.

October until April is considered the high season in Egypt as the weather is more bearable. While the temperatures are more manageable during the day, the evenings can get quite cold. You’ll want to be sure to pack a sweater and possibly a raincoat.

Check the dates of Ramadan prior to planning your trip to Egypt. Ramadan takes place in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. During that month Muslims fast from dawn until dusk so it is considered very rude for foreigners to be seen eating or drinking in public. Many restaurants and shops close during that time and others operate on a reduced schedule. As a foreigner, it may not be the ideal time to travel to a Muslim-majority country.

Be sure to read about the things I wish I’d known prior to visiting Egypt to prepare for your trip!

Egypt Visa and Passport Requirements

Many countries are eligible to obtain a visa on arrival at Egyptian ports of entry, including the US, the UK, EU Nationals, Australia, Canada, Croatia, Croatia, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Macedonia, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Serbia, and Ukraine.

Your visa will cost $25.00 USD per person and will need to be purchased in cash. Specifically in US dollars. If you don’t have US dollars for the visa, you can exchange your currency at the same counter.

Make sure that the expiration date on your passport is at least six months from your date of entry to Egypt, otherwise, you may be denied entry.

What to Pack for Egypt

Luggage to pack for egypt, travel luggage.

Choose luggage for your trip to Egypt that is easy to recognize on the luggage belt and also incredibly secure. This model by Coolife is durable, brightly colored, and super durable to survive those baggage handlers. Plus, it has a 2-year warranty!

Compression Packing Cubes

Whey packing for Egypt, keep your suitcase neat and organized with these compression packing cubes by LeanTravel . Not only will they keep your things separated but you can also compress each cube down for extra space in your suitcase. And you’ll definitely want more room in your suitcase so you can shop for Egyptian souvenirs!

Carry-On Bag

If you choose to check your luggage (which we would recommend due to TSA liquid restrictions ), you’ll want a carry-on bag to have a few essentials on the plane with you.

This one by Pincnel has anti-theft protections, has lots of compartments for holding all of your important goodies, and can be worn as either a purse or a backpack. It is also small enough to be considered a “personal item” if you choose not to check your luggage when flying to Egypt.

Extra Duffel Bag

The shopping in Egypt is amazing and it is impossible to visit the country without grabbing a few souvenirs to take home with you. Ensure you have ample storage for all of your new treasures by investing in this “just in case” duffel bag by Bago . It’s super lightweight and folds up to take up minimal space in your bag. And it’s durable so you can cram it full of your new Egyptian souvenirs.

Travel Pillow

Unless you’re flying to Egypt in business class, you’ll probably have a difficult time getting any shut-eye during your flight. Keep yourself from dozing off on your neighbor’s shoulder with this compact, lightweight, but incredibly comfortable travel pillow .

Jewelry Organizer

There’s nothing worse than trying to untangle a bunch of bracelets and necklaces that you’ve piled together in your suitcase. Keep all of your pieces neat and organized in this compact travel jewelry organizer by Bagsmart. But leave your expensive jewelry at home, just in case.

Electronics to Pack for Egypt

There are so many amazing ancient ruins to capture in Egypt, you’d be doing yourself a disservice by sticking to your cellphone camera alone. Invest in a high-quality camera that is small enough to fit in your purse and that won’t break the bank.

The Sony DSCHX80/B has a 30x optical zoom range, a pop-up OLED Tru-Finder, which displays exactly what you’re recording, and a rotating LCD display to make snapping selfies easier than ever!  

Universal Travel Adapter

If you’re traveling to Egypt from the United States, you won’t be able to charge your electronics without a converter. Invest in a universal adapter with multiple USB ports so you can use it in most countries and charge multiple gadgets at once.

You’ll likely be using Google maps on your phone constantly throughout the day to find your way around Egypt. And nothing drains your battery as quickly as your GPS. Make sure your phone stays charged all day with a power bank. This one by Anker is super small and lightweight – it’s easy to toss it in your purse before you head out the door.

Earbuds sure have come a long way! You can now purchase Bluetooth wireless earbuds for the same price you would pay for any other earphones. So why would you choose to deal with those pesky wires if you don’t have to?

This set by Focuspower is super small and comfortable, fast-charging, and can connect to two mobile devices at once! They are perfect to pack for that long flight to Egypt.

Travel Gear Organizer

Keep all of your chargers, cables, earbuds, and everything else that you’ve packed for Egypt all in one place with a gear organizer . Keep it in your carry-on so you have easy access to entertainment on the plane!

Entertainment for the Flight to Egypt

• Don’t forget to download offline maps of the cities you’ll be visiting in Egypt!
• Download a few of our favorite podcasts  to keep up with the news or for background noise while you gaze out the window of the plane.
• Get a subscription to Amazon Audible for access to a huge selection of audiobooks in case in-flight movies aren’t available.
• Bring a few Egypt travel guides and a highlighter on the plane to plan your must-see sites!

Toiletries to Pack for Egypt

Containers for liquids.

These leak-proof travel bottles are the TSA-approved size to carry with you on the plane. If you choose not to check a bag you’ll need to transfer all of your toiletries into travel-sized bottles. And even if you do check a bag, it’s nice to have a few things in your carry-on to freshen up during a long flight.

Egypt has plenty of pharmacies in pretty much every city so don’t fret if you forget to pack something. But here are a few health and beauty products that you’ll want to put on your packing list for Egypt:

• Face and body lotion
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss
• Feminine hygiene products
• Any medications
• Hairbrush and hair ties
• Travel hairdryer
• 2 in 1 travel curling iron and straightener

Clothing to Pack for Egypt

Temperatures in Egypt can reach well over 100°F in the summertime and the sun is relentless for much of the year in the desert. Long, loose-fitting dresses will keep you cool while also keeping you covered up. KOH KOH has several pretty dresses and jumpsuits that are modest but flattering and won’t break the bank.

Pack at least four different comfortable, loose-fitting dresses so that you don’t have to worry about finding a laundry service during your vacation. Keep in mind that the men in Egypt are VERY forward so you’re best off not showing a lot of skin.

Don’t forget a pair of nylons to keep your legs warm if you want to wear a dress out in the evenings.

Warm Sweater

No matter what time of year you visit Egypt, you’ll want to pack a sweater, just in case. Either for chilly evenings or extra cover, you’re bound to use it during your trip. Choose one that is modest, lightweight, and not super bulky as it will take up a lot of room in your bag.

This one by Alexander + David is perfect to throw on over anything that you’ve packed for Egypt!

While temperatures are generally incredibly hot during the day in Egypt, they can drop pretty quickly after the sun goes down. Be sure to pack a couple of pairs of pants so you don’t freeze when you venture out in the evenings. Lee has a great pair that are boyfriend cut and roomy enough to be comfortable on your long plane journey.

And bring at least one more pair that are stretchy and comfortable and can either be dressed up or down depending on your activities for the day. This corduroy pair by Joe’s can be worn with tennis shoes and a tee for daytime exploring as well as boots and a dressy top for a fancy evening meal.

Comfortable Tops

Loose-fitting shirts that cover your shoulders and cleavage are best if you want to avoid the attention of Egyptian men. Bring at least one button-down shirt  to throw on with jeans in the evenings around sunset when it’s too hot for a sweater but too cold for a tee.

Bring a few modest blouses like this one which is perfect for going to dinner and drinks in the city. Finally, pack at least 4 breathable t-shirts for days when the sun is unrelenting. Bare arms are okay in Egypt as long as your shoulders are covered.

Comfortable Closed-Toe Flats

The streets of Egypt can be incredibly uneven and dusty, so if you wear flip-flops you’re likely to have very dirty feet at the end of the day. And you’ll want to pack a few pairs of shoes for Egypt because you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

These Sorels are awesome because they are super durable, incredibly comfortable, and look great with everything in your suitcase. I’ve been traveling with this exact pair for years and cannot recommend them enough!

Pack one pair of boots to wear with dresses and one pair of casual shoes for days of long walking. Better to stay away from white shoes because it’s pretty dusty in Egypt so they won’t be the same when you get back home.

Other Clothing Essentials to Pack for Egypt

• Swimsuit and a cover-up if your hotel has a pool or if you are going to a beach
• Flip flops for the beach or pool
• Gym clothes and shoes if your hotel has an exercise facility
• One pair of underwear per day
• One pair of socks per day

Accessories for Egypt

Cross-body bag.

While Egypt is an incredibly safe country, it is always a good idea to keep a close eye on your things in big cities. A cross-body bag with zip closures will allow you to keep your cash and credit cards close to your body and difficult to get to. Not only is this one  a vibrant color but it also has 3 zipper compartments to help you stay organized.

Being that the predominant religion is Muslim, you’ll encounter many beautiful mosques during your stay. Be sure to have a scarf tucked in your purse at all times so you can cover your head before you enter. You may also want to throw it on if you are wearing a low-cut shirt or dress to cover your chest if you feel like you’re being stared at.

When you’re wandering around the Pyramids of Giza during the heat of the day, you will need a hat and sunscreen. The sun in Egypt is intense and you should do what you can to shield yourself. This straw hat by JOYEBUY is foldable so it will keep its shape even after it’s been squished in your suitcase.

Speaking of sun protection, don’t forget to pack your sunglasses! Pick a polarized pair with UV protection to keep your eyes shielded from the rays. Don’t forget a sturdy case to keep them safe in your carry-on.

Don’t Forget to Pack

• Your passport!
• To call your credit card company and release your card for use in Egypt
• Better yet, sign up for a credit card with no international transaction fees !
• A backup credit card in case you have any issues with your primary
• Upgrade to an international cell plan during the month that you’ll be gone

Things to Leave at Home

• Knee-length dresses
• Midriff-baring shirts
• Expensive jewelry
• A lot of cash. There are plenty of ATMs in the airport and all over Egypt.

And of course, the most important items to pack for Egypt… a positive attitude and an adventurous spirit! Have a wonderful trip! 

Share this on pinterest.

About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

View all posts

Related Posts

Morocco Packing List: What to Pack for Morocco

Complete Guide to Visit The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt (2022)

Vietnam Packing List: What to Pack for Vietnam

6 thoughts on “what to pack for egypt + tips on what to wear in egypt”.

Thank you so so much for all of your Egypt posts! We’re heading there in 2 weeks and I was totally lost as to what to pack. What did your boyfriend/husband wear while you were there? Were shorts acceptable for men?

Hey Nichole! So glad that you found our post helpful!

Nick (my husband) wore pants for most of the trip. While it is perfectly acceptable to wear shorts – except when visiting a mosque – it seemed like almost all the locals wear pants. So if you want to stay cool wear shorts, but if you want to blend in wear pants. Nick likes ABC Pants from lululemon – they’re very comfortable even in hot weather.

Also, we were there in December so it was not nearly as hot as it will be when you visit – we actually found it to be rather chilly a few evenings after the sun set. And if you’re visiting the coastal resort towns like Sharm El Sheikh or Hughada you’ll find it much more common to dress as you would in Europe or the USA.

Hi, Thanks for sharing! You mentioned leaving your tank tops at home but in your photos youre wearing a tank top dress. Were there any issues (unwanted attention)? You must have felt comfortable exposing your shoulders and arms? TIA!

Hey Reanna… Thanks for reading! Val only uncovered her arms for a quick photo, she always wore a scarf over her sleeveless dresses. She wouldn’t have shown her shoulders in public, or she definitely would’ve gotten some unwanted attention from Egyptian men.

Thanks for all this helpful information! You mentioned leaving your laptop at home. Is there a specific reason for that or was it just easier to not have to account for the space it takes up when packing?

Hey Jon – I’d say it’s a combination of space in the bag, the potential of something happening to your laptop in transit, and general safety of having it on your person or in your hotel room. After a few years of travel we generally utilize the hotel room safe (just in case) and often laptops won’t fit inside. And, unless you’re working, do you REALLY need to bring it?

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The Ultimate Women’s Packing List for Egypt with Culturally Appropriate Things to Pack!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: August 18, 2023

Categories EGYPT , PACKING GUIDES

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

If you’re a woman planning a trip and need a detailed, culturally appropriate, packing list for Egypt – this will be it!

A lot of the packing lists I read before my travels were about safety with female travel and not the important items I needed to pack in my suitcase (although don’t worry, I will go through safety too!).

So, I decided to create one of my own and let you guys in on everything that I packed for Egypt and what I wouldn’t pack again so you don’t have to.

Recently in October, I went to Egypt for a total of 5 weeks, completely solo . I didn’t opt for a tour, or a guide, I was on my own. So, I knew I needed to be savvy with my luggage and be wary of what I wore to be culturally sensitive.

So, I’ll go through the following with you in this packing guide:

• Things to know and you need before you go including an understanding of the culture
• If Egypt is safe to travel for a woman
• Clothes, shoes, toiletries, electronics and medical things to pack

Other items to consider

• What not to pack for Egypt

Okay, so let’s get this packing list for Egypt on the road. Yalla Habibi!

Climate in Egypt, seasons and the different regions

It’s probably obvious, but Egypt is a desert country. That means the climate will be dry, sandy and hot!

I started my travels in Egypt at the beginning of October and it was scorching in the day but nice and cool in the evenings. By mid-November, it was warm in the day (around 20 degrees celsius, I’m talking warm for a Brit!) and then freezing at night. So, come prepared!

There are two seasons in Egypt:

• Hot Summer: May – October  the temperatures will be unbearable, especially near Aswan in the south. Most tour groups will visit temples latest 5 am to beat the heat. But, you’ll still need to cover up, so bring lots of light cotton clothing.
• Mild Winter: November – April  the temperatures drop significantly and it’s pleasantly warm. These are also the most popular months of travel, so expect lots of tourists. Bring a warm jacket as evening temperatures are really cold. I regretted not bringing one.

Popular tourist places in Egypt and the climate for them:

• Alexandria – A business hub and famous port based on the coast of Egypt, this is a windy city! So, expect to be blown away. The temperatures are much cooler here, especially in winter, so bring some warm clothing.
• Cairo – Overly polluted and Egypt’s bustling capital city. Although it’s cooler in the north, the heat seems so much hotter here and almost muggy. By November, it was very cold in the evenings, so bring a jacket!

The South East

• Aswan – as you head further south to Nubia, things start to heat up. Aswan is close to the border of Sudan. But the breeze from the Nile and High Dam is refreshing. Temple hopping with the crowds can be sweltering, but luckily most provide shade.
• Abu Simbel  – the furthest south you’ll probably go. It’s a three or four hour stretch from Aswan along a desert road. Most tourists go by air conditioned bus or car. You’ll be roasting at the temple however!
• Luxor –   Still hot, especially on the West bank. I felt like I was cooking at the Valley of the kings and the temple of Hatshepsut! Karnak and Luxor temples aren’t so bad due to shade on the East side. A cooling falucca ride on the Nile is a must.
• Hurghada –  a resort town on the coast of the stunningly blue Red Sea. Great as a treat after all that sight seeing. The breeze here is amazing and so you can tolerate the heat a lot more. Unlike the rest of Egypt, the dress code is quite relaxed.

The Far East

• Sinai Peninsula (Sharm El Sheikh/Dahab) – Lot’s of security this way due to political turmoil, but is for the most part safe if you want to head to the tourist areas. I was stopped 8 times on my way down by bus for checks. But, the views are so worth it when you’re here! Similar to Hurghada; it’s a beautiful breeze, cocktails and palm trees! Again, dress code here is quite relaxed and in the resorts, anything goes.
• Bahariya Oasis, West Desert, Siwa – Not somewhere you’d attempt without a guide, the West desert is an incredible part of Egypt to explore and one I’d urge you to see if you have more time. As it’s in the open, it’s blistering hot in the day and freezing at night in Winter. sand storms are common, so come prepared!

Essential things to know and prepare before you visit Egypt

• Visa process – You will need a VISA for Egypt. This can be acquired beforehand or at the border for $25USD for single trip. I’ve written out a lengthy post about how to get a VISA for UK citizens here , but it applies for most countries on Visa2Egypt.
• Get Travel Insurance – In Egypt it’s very easy to get sick (I got a severe chest infection) and I was so happy I was covered or it would have been costly. I always choose World Nomad’s as they have good offers and policies.
• Islamic culture –  Over 90% of the Egyptian population practice Islam, making it a conservative country. Women should cover up their shoulders and knees where possible and men should avoid wearing shorts.

• Transport – There are many ways to get around Egypt. Internal flights with Egypt Air are pretty reasonable. You can get the overnight trains from Cairo to Luxor/Aswan but these are usually the same price as a flight. I had a nightmare with the online booking site. Most backpackers use buses as they’re safe and cheap, I recommend GoBus. They have an excellent app to book bus places online.
• Tour companies – You will be a minority in Egypt if you’re not travelling in a tour group. But I recommend companies like Memphis Tours who customise tours for you. I went with them for four days on my Nile cruise and it made sure all my activities were included, it can be costly otherwise.
• Currency – Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound. As a Brit this would constantly confuse and shock me, especially when they told me it cost £180 to get into the pyramids! Don’t worry one British pound equals around £22 Egyptian pounds.
• Tips – when budgeting for Egypt, always include lot’s of tip money. People expect a tip for everything here! For using the loo, for cleaning your hotel room, for helping with your cases, serving your food and even offering to take your photo! Sometimes I had no idea what I was tipping for lol. I’d also tip just for people to go away and leave me alone. Keep lots of small notes handy.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe for women to travel to Egypt? I think the term safe can mean different things to different people. One person could find it safe and another could find it difficult. But, for the most part, YES! Egypt is safe for women to travel. But, expect a lot of hassle and catcalling.

Do I have to cover my head or wear a local dress? No. The people of Egypt are well aware that not all people travelling are Muslim, so you don’t have to cover your head. But being culturally sensitive by covering up is expected and respectful.

Is it better to go solo/as a couple or on a tour?  There are pros and cons to both. I personally wanted to go solo to experience it for myself.  I also wanted to take photos which meant beating the crowds. Travelling by yourself could prove more expensive due to arranging your own transport, but tours mean you’re on their schedule and you could feel rushed. So, you need to decide based on your preferences.

Personally, I went solo the whole time apart from about four days when I went with Mayfair Cruises and Memphis Tours for my Nile cruise. Arranging a Nile cruise through a tour company was cheaper and made sure all my sightseeing and transport was included.

You can just go on the train between Luxor and Aswan (First Class is about £4!) and there are stops for Kom Ombo and Edfu temples but cruising down the Nile was a dream of mine!

Essential items for Egypt – Don’t leave without packing these

Suncream  – Even the most sunkissed of us will suffer from the sun here. I always take Riemann factor 50 . It’s waterproof and lasts forever (10 hours). This suncream also comes in hand luggage size (100ml)

Hat and Sunglasses – Very important. The sun can be blinding most days, especially in the desert. These are some of my favourites:

Imodium – You never know! Food poisoning is the most common sickness tourists get in Egypt.

Scarf – A pashmina is an ultimate weapon in case of sand storms or if you need to cover your shoulders, enter mosques etc.

Adaptor  – The Power sockets are type C and F. Type C is two round pins and type F has Earth clips. The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. This global adapter is perfect .

US Dollars – I didn’t personally find it necessary but you can use these to buy a Visa at the border if you didn’t acquire one beforehand. You can pay in Egyptian Pounds all over but they also take USD.

Hand Sanitiser – Egypt is not the cleanest of places, hand sanitiser is a must to ensure you stop yourself from getting sick. Also handy when toilets don’t have soap (which is most of the time in public loos).

Tissues and  wipes – Always handy for toilet situations, most public toilets don’t provide toilet roll or you have to pay a ‘bucksheesh’ (tip) for it.

What luggage to use for Egypt

This depends, Egypt is not necessarily somewhere I would class a ‘backpacking country’ (unless you’re heading on elsewhere of course).

It’s perfectly fine to just bring a suitcase. You won’t really need to lug it around much and most hotels, taxis and even the train stations will have people on hand to help you in the hope of a ‘Bucksheesh’ (tip). A tip is always expected by the way, so keep hold of your five, ten and twenty EGP notes!

Backpack of choice – I used to take my Osprey Farpoint 40 Backpack with me on my travels if I was heading out long term. I don’t as much now. But, this is by far the best backpack I’ve used. I’m petite so I need a small frame and the small/medium size is perfect! I love it so much I wrote a post about it here. 

Luggage of choice – I used to just buy cheap luggage until my suitcase broke while I was travelling! Lesson learned; always invest in a good suitcase with a warranty. Recently, I splurged on a Samsonite which I’m in love with! It has a ten year, worldwide warranty so I can get it fixed wherever I am in the world.

Whether I’m travelling in a suitcase or backpack, I always use packing cubes to keep everything organised. eBags are my favourite brand and have never let me down.

I also packed a daypack by Osprey  as my carry on and a pretty over the shoulder bag for evenings out or dinners.

What clothes to pack for Egypt

As Egypt is a hot, conservative country, you’ll need lots of light and breathable clothing that can cover you up. Here are some packing suggestions based on what I took;

4 t-shirts – made of cotton, with sleeves and without these can be paired with a maxi skirt or trousers

4 jumpsuits – Jumpsuits were my ultimate conservative country weapon. Conservative but come in loads of colours!

3 maxi dresses – if they’re sleeveless bring shawls to cover, if low cleavage bring safety pins !

1 short dress – I wore this on it’s own Hurghada/Sharm El Shiekh but paired with leggings if not.

2 kominos  – these are like shawls to wear over strappy dresses or tops.

2 pairs of trousers – Make sure these are breathable, in winter a lot of people wear jeans but these are heavy and take up space!

2 pairs of leggings – I love to use these under short dresses to cover up my legs

14 pairs of knickers – lol I know, but I hate washing so often so I brought at lot

A couple of bralettes  – I hate wearing wired bras, especially in heat. I bought some from Urban Outfitters.

3 pairs of socks – I brought trainers but only wore them once the whole time so a waste of space lol. But a top tip is to tuck these into your shoes to save space.

1 nightie and 2 pairs of pyjamas – lol, I love my PJs haha. Even when travelling, so for me it’s a must. Hey, I was travelling for 6 weeks!

2 swimsuits – For hotel pools, the hot tub on the cruise and the resorts in Hurghada.

2 pashminas – I like to have a choice. One colourful, one black! These are a lifesaver.

1 cardigan/jacket – I brought one light cardigan with me to Egypt, what was I thinking?! I regretted it instantly with the cool breezes in the evening. I’d suggest packing a light fleece for winter months.

1 dirty clothes bag – to separate things needing a wash.

What shoes to wear in Egypt

Some people will suggest closed-toe shoes, but I was fine in my Birkenstocks the whole time. They’re comfy, breathable and I’d rather have dirty sandy feet over being sweaty and get blisters!

That being said, the floors in Egypt are really dirty, so if you would freak out about having dirty feet all day I’d go for light breathable trainers or closed-toe shoes.

Make sure these are comfy and easy to walk in, a lot of temples are thousands of years old and have stood the test of time. So, they have uneven surfaces.

Comfortable sandals – I always wear Birkenstocks when I travel. I just find them so comfy! They’re perfect for hot countries as they breathe but also have a thick sole around them to help protect your feet from dirt. They’re also stylish and go with any outfit.

Sports sandals – When I first went backpacking I brought a pair of Teva’s. These are washable and are secured on your feet with velcro straps. These are great sports sandals for travelling and have made a comeback with being fashionable!

Close toe shoes  – If you’re going to go with this option there’s plenty of choice. I hate the look of close toe sandals (sorry guys!). The Dr. Martens ones are pretty cool, pity they’ll take a decade to break in. Alternatively, Sketchers are a great choice, they’re super comfy and breathable.

What toiletries and beauty products to bring for Egypt

Your makeup – I always bring mine, plus my Double Wear foundation has SPF in it. But, I have to admit having waterproof mascara and eyeliner helps with the heat. You don’t want to be Alice Cooper!

Lip balm – it’s so dry and it’s easy to become dehydrated. I always like Burt’s Bees.

Hand Sanitiser   – A must. You really don’t know what you’re touching!

Tissues – For toilet situations, your brow etc.

Tampons  or Diva cup – Tampons are not widely sold here, so stock up. Bathrooms are quite dirty, so the diva cup may be a bit risky.

Toothbrush – I love my new Oral-B electronic toothbrush. It’s rose gold and has a nifty travel case. But I also have these Eco friendly Bamboo brushes.

Toothpaste  and Mouthwash – All the big brands can be found here too if you run out!

Suncream – It’s expensive in Egypt and you don’t want to be scammed. Buy some before.

Aftersun – it’s so easy to burn here!

Deodrant – you will not believe how much you sweat here! One word; dripping!

Moisturiser – your skin can get so easily dry from the climate.

Shampoo & conditioner – most hotels provide them but my hair is fussy. Also conditioner is a lifesaver for the dry heat.

Shaver    – I love Venus’ snap travel size one, it comes with a nifty case for travel!

Hair ties – Nice to let that neck breath

Brush – I love a detangler like Tangle Teezer , perfect travel size and great for keeping your mane at bay.

What should be in your medical kit for Egypt

I’ll only be touching on over the counter, non-prescription meds you can bring with you for your ‘first aid kit’ here. Of course, there are numerous pharmacies over Egypt, but it’s always worth bringing some of your own just in case.

Always have a doctors note from your GP for bringing prescribed medications into Egypt, check before you go as  some have restrictions  (i.e. Methadone) which could mean you face jail time.

Imodium – vital to have on hand in case of any unfortunate events!

Paracetamol/Ibuprofen – These are fine, but  codeine is not . Always check with your GP first.

Cough sweets – I always bring these on every trip now. In Egypt I had a terrible chest infection and coughed a lot due to the sand and dryness everywhere.

Plasters – For blisters, or for any cuts. It can be dirty and you don’t want them to become infected.

Mosquito repellent  – I was bitten A LOT in Egypt. Not just by mosquitos. Sandflies, ants and even a camel I rode had fleas! Bring mosquito spray or patches or bands and apply daily.

DO NOT forget travel insurance for Egypt

I always choose World Nomad’s as their standard plans cover most adventure activities (i.e. Camel rides)

Don’t forget your electronics

Camera – Pics or it didn’t happen!

iPhone with an Otterbox case for complete phone protection

Power bank –  My Anker powerbank can do up to four phone charges!

iPod – Perfect for travelling long distances

Headphones – I always go for over ear instead of in ear.

Adaptor – this global adapter works wonders and works in Egypt!

A Mummy Liner –  perfect for when travelling on the cheap, in hostels or on trains. Bed bugs are real guys! This makes me feel a little cleaner.

Sleeping Mask – Perfect for overnight travel and hostel situations.

Ear Plugs  – Most of the cities (especially Cairo/Giza) arenoisy.These are perfect and healthy for your ears.

TSA Luggage Locks – These aren’t always necessary but as I carry a lot of expensive electronics it gave me peace of mind. I keep one on my daypack.

Trtl Travel Pillow – Perfect for the plane journey, train travel and long bus journey’s. Weighs nothing and packs up small. This is my favourite travel pillow and I wrote a post about it here .

Microfibre towel – Most hotels will have towels but if you’re backpacking in budget places, I’d get one of these over a bulky fluffy towel!

What not to pack for Egypt

Shorts – If you’re only heading to Hurghada/Sharm El Sheikh take them. But, I wouldn’t for the rest of Egypt. Over the knee capri’s are fine however 

Short skirts/ dresses – will attract unwanted attention. Alternatively, pair these up with a shawl, scarf, or leggings

Jeans –  In summer it’s fatal. In winter these could be okay but they’re always so bulky.

A hairdryer – The air is as hot as a hairdryer and most hotels have them!

Your drone –  If you have one. They’re illegal in Egypt, will be confiscated at security and if you’re caught comes with a hefty fine. Although I did see one flying at a wedding in the Mena House in Cairo lol.

So, that ends the ultimate women’s packing list for Egypt!

Well done if you made it this far!

Now, depending on what type of traveller you are, you may think that it’s far too much or not enough. That’s cool, tailor it to the length of your trip and bring what you’re comfortable with.

Egypt is one of the most fascinating countries I’ve ever visited in my life and was happy I came prepared for all eventualities. You just never know when you may need something.

Make sure you get organised for your trip – it will be one wild ride!

So, over to you. Have I missed anything? What are the most important things you like to pack on your trips? Let me know in the comment below.

Read more of my Egypt articles

My perfect 2 week Egypt Itinerary

My top travel tips for Egypt

The most Instagrammable places in Egypt

My guide to the Valley of the Kings

Things to do in Luxor

The ultimate 4-day Nile Cruise

Things to do in Aswan

Top places to visit in Luxor at night

The perfect guide for Abu Simbel

My survival guide for the pyramids

Top things to do in Cairo

Why you NEED to visit Alexandria

Top tips for riding a hot air balloon in Luxor

Like it? Pin it!

Wednesday 25th of January 2023

Sophie, Terrific guide. I have already purchased the adaptor you recommended! Also, using Memphis Tours for the bulk of stay in Egypt. Good hint about having physician send along a note about current prescriptions....thanks again....Jeff

Sunday 12th of February 2023

@Sophie Pearce, Thank you for all the tips heading to Cairo this week .

@Sophie Pearce,

Sophie Pearce

Hi Jeff, that's wonderful to hear! I hope you have an amazing time! Egypt is such an incredible country and Memphis Tours were great! Thanks, Sophie x

Tuesday 18th of October 2022

I'm off to Egypt this weekend and it'll be the trip of a lifetime for me as I've always wanted to go. This is a fantastic guide, Sophie. I've printed it out for reference. I'm going to check of your taking solo pictures guide. Dawn

Saturday 22nd of October 2022

Hi Dawn, oh I'm so happy for you! Have an incredible time in Egypt. It was an experience of a lifetime for me :) Sophie x

Wednesday 21st of September 2022

Thanks for this. We are planning to travel in 2024 to Egypt and Memphis Travel have been helping me with a tailor made tour. You have increased my confidence in what I have planned and I am grateful.

Monday 26th of September 2022

Hi Margaret, Memphis Travel were great and their guides are experts. You'll be in good hands :) Sophie x

Wednesday 12th of January 2022

I'm going to Egypt next month & I have been searching what to pack. I have to say I found your packing list to be the best because it includes quantity of items to pack.

Thursday 13th of January 2022

Ah amazing! You'll love Egypt. I'm glad my packing list could help you :) Have an amazing time! Sophie x

Catherine heaton

Thursday 28th of October 2021

Thanks for all your advice. I am thinking in going to Egypt in Jan 2022. The packing advice was detailed and exactly what I needed to know. Many thanks .

Wednesday 10th of November 2021

Hi Catherine, no worries at all - enjoy Egypt! Sophie x

• Skip to main content
• Skip to after header navigation
• Skip to site footer

EgyptTravelBlog.com

This form is for demo purposes only. Use whatever form/email/optin plugin you’d like.

* We don’t do spam, just the latest news. Sign up today and get our top stories delivered straight to your inbox.

Egypt Packing & Clothing Recommendations

A trip to Egypt is a big undertaking, and many people are nervous – or at least curious – about what and how to pack for such an adventure. The main considerations when packing for a trip to Egypt are climate, culture, and local conveniences. Here we go into each of these topics more in depth to help guide your packing routine for this trip of a lifetime.

Egypt’s Climate

Egypt’s climate ranges from warm to hot during the day and from warm to chilly at night for most of the year. Many people are surprised to find some nights cold in Egypt during the winter. While you’ll see Egyptians break out heavy jackets then, that’s more of just a fashion statement. Egypt’s coldest nights never require more than just a light jacket, a sweater, or a windbreaker.

However, more than just the temperature should be considered when packing and preparing for a trip to Egypt. While the country’s latitude is roughly equivalent to that of the state of Florida in the United States, the lack of humidity in much of the country can make the heat during the day feel much more intense on your skin.

As a result of this combination of atmospheric conditions, planning for protecting yourself from sun exposure should take precedence over worries about the temperature.

Temperatures

Clothing Recommendations

When packing for a trip to Egypt, feel free to choose clothing in which you would feel comfortable doing outdoor activities at home such as going on a long walk around a city. While you don’t need athletic clothing, you do want to be comfortable while walking over sand and rocks at some points, such as on the Giza Plateau and in the Valley of the Kings in Luxor. You don’t need a track suit, but you don’t want to wear a ball gown or suit either. That’s why we like to invoke analogies of clothing suitable for walking comfortably around an urban area.

Additional Considerations

Many of the pros in Egypt wear long sleeves, collared shirts, and long pants for maximum protection from the sun. Even a light scarf for both men and women is a good idea. You’ll notice that traditional local attire includes these themes for very good reason.

While Egypt is very much a traditional Islamic country with conservative social norms, it is also very much a country that has thrived on tourism and foreign trade for thousands of years. So while most Egyptians tend to be conservative in their dress and appearance, they don’t expect foreign guests to do the same. This means that women do NOT need to cover their heads in public while in Egypt, as is the case in other countries in the region.

It is also unusual for men in Egypt to wear shorts. While it is ok for tourists to do so, especially at tourist sites, it is seen as a little odd for anyone to wear shorts while walking casually around a city in Egypt, although no one would ever comment on this to a tourist.

Leave Behinds

Cairo is one  of the largest cities in the world, so although Egypt is still very much a developing country, Cairo and even Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria, and the Red Sea resorts still have everything you could possibly want or need to survive on a trip to Egypt.

If you’re the type of traveler who absolutely needs your specific type of shampoo or soap, then by all means you should feel free to bring those. However, Egypt’s five-star hotels often have better quality shampoo and soap than many of us use back home on a regular basis. Also things like hand sanitizer and sunscreen can easily be purchased locally in Egypt rather than wasting luggage space.

A good travel tip is to plan time for a pharmacy or mini-market run once you get to Egypt to pick up some essentials such as these so that you don’t have to bother bringing them from home. However, if you have the extra luggage room, feel free to bring the kitchen sink.

You May Also Like…

Everything You NEED to Know About Visiting the Pyramids & Sphinx

How Long Should You Stay In Egypt?

Getting from the Airport to Your Hotel in Cairo

What to See & Do in Luxor

• By Destination
• By Trip Type
• Luggage Expertise
• Packing Tips

The Ultimate Cairo Packing List

Cairo is one of the more difficult places to pack for, as it's a desert metropolis where covering up is part of the culture. If your warm-weather wardrobe is missing maxi skirts, loose fitting pants, and tunics, it's time to go shopping. One of the handiest items you'll want to include is a linen or lightweight cotton long-sleeve button-down, which can be layered over a T-shirt and looks cute knotted at the waist. It's fun to buy colorful scarves at the city's markets, but do pick one up before your trip to have on hand. There's a lot more to know for navigating how to dress in Cairo , so read on for our best advice on pulling together a fail-safe Cairo travel wardrobe, plus travel tips and an essential packing list. Selfie in front of the pyramids, here you come!

See recent posts by Rachel Klein

YOUR SUITCASE PACKING CHECKLIST 

*Keep these items in your carry-on

Clothes to Pack

• Bras/camis/undershirts
• Socks/tights
• Pull-on/button-up shirts
• Jeans/pants
• Leggings/yoga pants
• Dresses/suits
• Sweaters/sweatshirts

Shoes to Pack

• Walking shoes
• Heels/dress shoes
• Sandals/flip-flops

Accessories to Pack

• Sunglasses/glasses
• Fold-down tote

Toiletries to Pack

• Dental floss
• Body wash/soap
• Face wash/makeup remover
• Sunscreen *
• Moisturizer
• Contact lenses/solution
• Razor/shaving cream
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Earplugs/ eye mask *
• Hair-dryer/styling tools
• Hair elastics/hair accessories
• Tampons/pads*
• Birth control/condoms*
• Hand sanitizer*
• First-aid ointment
• Medications/vitamins*
• Pain relievers *
• Stain remover

Tech to Pack

• Phone/charger*
• Portable battery charger
• Earbuds/headphones *
• Laptop/tablet/e-reader*
• Device chargers*
• Power adapter (international travel)
• Camera/video camera*
• Memory card/film*

Other Essentials to Pack

• Wallet (credit/debit cards/ID/cash)*
• Passport/visa*
• Medical insurance card*
• Snacks/gum*
• Water bottle (empty)*
• Books/magazines/guidebook*
• Travel pillow /blanket/wrap*
• Laundry bag

Helpful Printouts to Pack

• Emergency contacts*
• Boarding pass/hotel and car rental reservations*
• Maps/directions*
• Bank/credit card contact info*
• Copies of passport/ID*

THE PERFECT LUGGAGE

While this carry-on piece from eBags is constructed from Makrolon Polycarbonate, its ribbed mirror finish and high-end Hinomoto spinner wheels make it look like a pricey aluminum suitcase. If you need a little more packing room and don’t mind checking luggage, the sleek Samsonite Englewood hardside is an excellent choice. It’s made from lightweight polycarbonate, and has spinner wheels and a TSA-approved lock, plus it expands up to 1.5 inches (perfect if you plan on coming home with souvenirs). For a longer trip, we love Away’s Large suitcase , which comes with a lifetime warranty and is available in nine attractive colors. It has an interior compression system along with a zippered mesh section and a hidden laundry bag that’s super useful if traveling for more than a week.

THE 3 PAIRS OF SHOES YOU’LL NEED FOR EXPLORING CAIRO

The streets of Cairo are dusty, so wearing lightweight, closed-toe shoes is the way to go—flip-flops are not. Bring sandals that are comfortable enough to switch out with your city walking shoes, such as flat espadrilles with a rubber sole or a pair of stylish sneakers. Sporty sandals are good for more active pursuits, like for a side-trip to see the pyramids. Gladiator sandals work at the hotel pool by day and just as well in the evening with a maxi dress. Guys can opt for huaraches to check the same dual-purpose box, and add something comfortable and casual, such as slip-on canvas shoes, which are extremely versatile.

Women’s Shoes

Men’s Shoes

STYLE FOR CAIRO

Style in Cairo is influenced by Muslim observances with regards to dressing—especially for women. Headscarves and modest clothing that cover arms and legs, like jeans, lightweight pants, or a long skirt with a tunic or caftan, is the go-to for casual wear. In winter, blazers, open cardigans, and denim jackets are added. Ladies often throw on heels for a night out and accessorize with earrings, bangles, and sparkly necklaces. Men in Cairo are smartly dressed, typically in trousers, a button-down shirt, and polished dress shoes. Jeans are neat, worn with fitted t-shirts, polo shirts, and blazers. While tourists won’t be held to the exact same standards as locals (Western women don’t need to cover their heads unless they’re visiting a mosque), Egypt is a conservative country and visitors should dress modestly.

Women’s Street Style for Cairo

Shop the look.

Tangier Caftan

Beek Palila Slide Sandals

Polarized Retro Square Sunglasses

Transport Tote

Men’s street style for cairo.

Linen Shirt

The Air Chino

Aviator Classic

Herschel Supply Co. Seventeen

Twin Gore Canvas Slip-Ons

Five foolproof outfits for your trip to cairo, 1. what to wear to shop khan el-khalili market.

Wandering through bustling Khan El-Khalili Market is a must on a first trip (or a fifth trip) to Cairo. Go for an outfit that’s comfortable, washes easily, and dries quickly, such as this brilliant jersey skirt from Lands’ End paired with a loose-fitting cotton top. Lightweight linen pants work just as well for men. Sandals are fine, but lightweight closed-toe shoes are a better choice.

Women’s Khan El-Khalili Market Outfit

Lightweight Linen Shirt

Striped Maxi Skirt

Costello Rectangle Sunglasses

Crossbody Saddle Bag

Keds Bryn Twill

Men’s khan el-khalili market outfit.

Herman Thin Square Sunglasses

Canvas Tote

George Classic Boat Shoes

2. what to wear to tour the giza pyramids.

For most of the year the sun is brutal in the Sahara Desert, and while it may seem counterintuitive, covering up with ultra-lightweight cotton or linen will keep you coolest. Wide-leg pants with a linen shirt are the perfect combo. Strap on chunky sandals that won’t flop off your feet in the sand and are rugged enough for climbing. A sun hat is an absolute must for blocking rays and whipping sand.

Women’s Giza Pyramids Outfit

Wide-Leg Pants

Global Adventure Hat

Fjallraven Kanken Mini Backpack

Teva Midform Universal Leather

Men’s giza pyramids outfit.

Linen Button-Down

Tropic-Weight Cargo Pants

Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap

Milano Soft Sandals

3. what to wear to visit the cairo citadel.

The Citadel is one of Cairo’s top sights. Its grand rooms and expansive courtyards call for an outfit that’s polished but comfortable, since you’ll likely spend the better part of a day touring. An easy-to-wear skirt and lightweight top fits the bill. Guys can opt for cotton trousers and a polo shirt.

Women’s Cairo Citadel Outfit

Zaley Blouse

Paperbag Midi Skirt

Aubrey Sunglasses

Veronica Woven Drawstring Backpack

Men’s Cairo Citadel Outfit

Linen Cropped Pants

Straw Trilby Hat

Clifton Leather Heritage Wallet

Huarache Sandal

4. what to wear for a hookah lounge crawl.

Cairo’s shisha (hookah) joints range from causal tea-sipping cafes to sceney bars with dim, sexy lighting. Wear jeans, rather than a dress or skirt, to comfortably relax on low seating. White denim always looks sharp, and works well with a striped tunic top. Slim-fit dark jeans, a black button-down, and a belt with a brushed sliver buckle is standard for guys.

Women’s Hookah Lounge Crawl Outfit

Jacquard Striped Blouse

Shaping Skinny Jeans

Chiquita Silk Hair Scarf

Small Love Leather Crossbody Bag

Franco Sarto Sandals

Men’s hookah lounge crawl outfit.

Black Stretch Skinny Oxford Shirt

Slimmy Slim Straight in Dark And Clean

Tumi Delta ID Lock Billfold

Leather Belt

Base London Soprano Loafers

5. what to wear on a nile cruise.

To cruise down the Nile in style, pack a nice outfit for evening, as people tend to get dressed up for dinner. A maxi dress in a summery fabric worn with strappy sandals is a no-fail option. Ditto for a pair of tailored linen pants and a button down. You’ll also need tourist essentials of sunglasses and a camera bag.

Women’s Nile Cruise Outfit

Pom Pom Hat

Gideon Tekka Caftan

53mm Round Sunglasses

Pebbled Leather Camera Bag

Yarin Strappy Sandals

Men’s nile cruise outfit.

Cotton Linen Trousers

Outback Hat

Circle Sunglasses - C9 Champion® Brown

Nydiniel Espadrilles

What  not to pack for cairo.

Weather conditions in Cairo rarely call for anything heavier than a denim jacket or trench coat with maybe a scarf. You probably won’t need an umbrella for rain, but it’s useful if you want shade while sightseeing. If you do bring one, choose a light color that you won’t bake standing under. Men and women should leave any clothing that’s too revealing at home. That means no tank tops, cropped shirts, or too-short shorts. Don’t bring flimsy footwear that easily flops off your feet, as the streets are dusty and uneven. If your night out won’t include taking a taxi or Uber, skip the high heels.

THE *ONE THING* WTP EDITORS ALWAYS PACK FOR CAIRO

Okay, we know this is technically labeled as a Turkish towel, but hear us out. These lightweight towels make excellent travel wraps. Don’t think of it as a towel (though you could certainly dry yourself off with this after swimming) just think of it as your high quality, lightweight, and lovely travel shawl. Throw it in your bag for an easy head or shoulder cover at a mosque or on the street—or use it to battle air-conditioning drafts during a dinner of chicken sharkaseya at Le Pacha 1901 . The wrap comes in 21 pretty colors, but we like a simple blue with white fringe to match most outfits. Sure, you’ll probably pick up several scarves and shawls while shopping at Khan El Khalili in Cairo, but we promise that this Turkish towel wrap will be your go-to travel companion through all of Cairo and on multiple trips to come.

$22 at Amazon

CAIRO’S WEATHER AND SEASONS

The sun is brutally hot year-round in Cairo, with very dry conditions and almost no rain. The good news is that even in the height of summer, when the thermometer soars past 90 degrees midday, it cools off significantly at night. Temps can drop more than 20 degrees, and it’s pleasant to dine outside on balmy evenings. December and January are the coldest months—and a comfortable time of year to travel—but it can be breezy, and evenings are often chilly, dipping below 40 degrees. March and April are also windy, and with spring comes the occasional sandstorm. Expect highs in the mid-70s and low 80s during the day.

Note: This data comes from our friends at Weather.com . We recommend using this together with a traditional forecast as you get closer to your departure date.

JANUARY 

• Plan for day temps between 49 and 65
• Expect 0.2 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Cairo in January: January is Cairo’s coldest month, so be sure to bring a lightweight jacket and a pair of jeans. As for footwear, a pair of boots or lace-up shoes will keep your feet warm.

Recommendations: Wide-leg women’s jeans , women’s utility jacket , black ankle boots

• Plan for day temps between 50 and 68

What to Wear in Cairo in February: February is only slightly warmer than January. You may not need a jacket if sitting outside midday at a cafe, but it gets too cold after the sun goes down to be without one. Pack a few pairs of tights to wear underneath skirts, plus a few long sleeve t-shirts.

Recommendations: Striped maxi skirt , chunky clogs , pullover women’s sweater

• Plan for day temps between 54 and 73
• Expect 0.1 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Cairo in March: Weather warms up in March, but spring is windy and can bring the occasional sandstorm. Pants and a button-down with roll-up sleeves is a smart choice, and won’t get caught in the breeze like a skirt or dress.

Recommendations: Men’s linen pants , women’s chambray shirt , men’s linen shirt

• Plan for day temps between 59 and 82

What to Wear in Cairo in April: Windy conditions continue through April, but it’s also the first truly warm month of the year, when the thermometer hits 80. Opt for lightweight, comfortable fabrics, like tissue-thin tees and maxi skirts.

Recommendations: Jersey maxi skirt , women’s 3/4 tee-shirt , men’s long-sleeved tee

• Plan for day temps between 64 and 89
• Expect 0 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Cairo in May: Summer is in full swing in May. Wide-leg cotton pants are just as comfortable as a long skirt and look great with a tunic. Invest in stylish, practical comfort sandals for your trip—and a pair of high-quality polarized sunglasses.

Recommendations: Women’s wide-leg pants , fitted boyfriend shirt , women’s Sorel sandals

• Plan for day temps between 70 and 93

What to Wear in Cairo in June: Staying cool can be a challenge in June, when temps start to soar past 90 degrees. Stick to loose-fitting items and don’t forget a wide-brim hat to keep the sun off your face.

Recommendations: Women’s floppy straw hat , mustard midi dress , baseball cap

• Plan for day temps between 72 and 93

What to Wear in Cairo in July:  July is Cairo’s hottest month, and lightweight items that offer coverage are key. Don’t expect to find AC wherever you go, but you’ll appreciate long sleeves and ankle-length skirts in a chilly hotel or restaurant.

Recommendations: Linen relaxed shirt , knit maxi skirt , Madewell lace-up sandals

• Plan for day temps between 72 and 92

What to Wear in Cairo in August: August is more or less the same is July. Bring all the linen in your closet, plus a pair of strappy sandals.

Recommendations: Women’s linen tie front shirt , women’s linen matching pants , strappy sandals

• Plan for day temps between 69 and 90

What to Wear in Cairo in September: September is a little cooler than August, but not by much. The sun is just as brutal, so plan midday indoor activities, like visiting churches and museums. You can’t go wrong with a breezy cotton  skirt, tie-front top, and a pair of Keds.

Recommendations: Patchwork skirt , scoop neck blouse , Keds sneakers

• Plan for day temps between 65 and 85

What to Wear in Cairo in October: October brings the first hint of relief from the heat, but clothes should still be lightweight and easy to wear. A large bandana can keep things conservative and fashionable.

Recommendations: Men’s collarless button-down , tiger bandana , women’s linen trousers

• Plan for day temps between 58 and 75

What to Wear in Cairo in November:  A welcome blast of cooler weather comes in November, one of the most pleasant months to visit Cairo. Swap the super-summery clothing for denim and heavier-knit shirts.

Recommendations: Lucky women’s white jeans , striped boatneck top , black espadrilles 

• Plan for day temps between 51 and 67

What to Wear in Cairo in December: It can be downright chilly in December, but getting dressed is effortless in comparison to summer, when figuring out how to cover up without sweltering can be a challenge. Throw on jeans, a relaxed sweater, and boots.

Recommendations: Frayed skinny jeans , men’s soft cotton jeans , men’s boots

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CAIRO

Is cairo, egypt safe in 2019.

As of this writing, the U.S. State Department advises exercising “increased caution” due to terrorism. Traveling to the Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of travel to Sharm El-Sheikh, by air), the Western Desert, and the Egyptian border areas are off limits. That said, tourism in Cairo has made a significant rebound since 2016 following years of political turmoil. There are no warnings for major tourist areas in and outside of Cairo, but it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the news and check government websites just prior to travel.

What are some lesser-known sights to see when visiting Cairo?

For a less crowded pyramid experience, head to the Pyramid of Djoser (aka the “Step Pyramid”), located in Saqqara, about an hour outside Cairo. Al Manial Palace on Roda Island on the Nile and the rococo Aisha Fahmy Palace, which reopened in 2017 as an arts center, are both well-worth including on your itinerary. Art and design enthusiasts may want to check out Museo Mevlevi and the Gayer-Anderson Museum. Don’t miss the Monastery of Saint Simon, an impressive church that occupies a cave in southeastern Cairo. For a break from the city’s hectic streets, take respite at Al-Andalus Garden.

Do I have to dress modestly in Cairo?

Dressing modestly isn’t required by law, but it shows respect and good manners, which is even more important if visiting during holy periods such as Ramadan. It also can open doors, often leading to deeper, more authentic travel experiences, like getting invited into someone’s home or participating in local customs or events. When visiting a mosque, absolutely cover your head and shoulders. Be prepared by keeping a headscarf and lightweight shawl in your bag. You’ll certainly see tourists in shorts and t-shirts, and while that’s acceptable—as long as they aren’t too skimpy—do consider wearing wrist- and ankle-length clothing. Even at hotel pools that cater to Westerners, you may be more comfortable swimming in a cover-up. Better yet, bring a rashguard, which serves two purposes (sun protection and modesty). Traveling here can be hard enough—particularly for women—so the more you blend in, the better. With wide-leg pants, tunics, and maxi skirts in style, it’s easy to make the effort. We recommend it.

Is sexual harassment an issue in Cairo?

Crime against women is an issue in Cairo, and the majority of female visitors experience some sort of sexual harassment on the street. Unwanted attention or assault is never the victim’s fault, but minding a few best practices will increase the chances of staying safe. Making eye contact with men is considered flirting and may lead to unwanted encounters. Sunglasses with dark or mirrored lenses are a smart workaround. If you’re a woman traveling solo, slipping a simple wedding band on your ring finger isn’t a bad idea if you aren’t already wearing one. Sadly, being accompanied by a man is perhaps your best defense again harassment. Be extra street-savvy, too, and avoid walking around at night alone, particularly in desolate areas

What is the fastest way to get around Cairo?

There’s a lot of traffic congestion in Cairo, and so for convenience and cost-effectiveness, you’ll want to take the metro. It’s well maintained, inexpensive, and easy to navigate. Plus, the stations have artful murals and replicas of museum masterpieces. Three lines meet in the city center (Line 1 is Marg to Helwan; Line 2 is Shubra to Giza; and Line 3 is Attaba to Korba). There are women-only cars on each train. Uber is surprisingly affordable and a viable option for destinations beyond the reach of the metro. Taxis have metered fares. Skip taking the buses and microbuses, which tend to idle in never ending traffic.

Related Stories

• The 10 Key Items to Pack for International Travel
• Packing Tips for Female Travelers in Conservative Countries

All products have been hand-picked by our writers and editors. Items purchased through links may earn us a commission.

Related Tags

Explore more.

The Ultimate Mexico City Packing List

The Ultimate Guide to Return and Exchange Policies From 79 of Your Favorite Stores

The Ultimate Charleston Packing List

The Ultimate Ibiza Packing List

What to Wear in Egypt

Top style tips for egypt.

• What you wear will depend a little on whether you are staying solely in the tourist beach resorts, or exploring the wider country. However always remember it is a Muslim country so you should respect their conservative values at all times.
• Local people like to dress up in the evening , so if you're going out to dinner it's a great opportunity to dress with more care than usual.
• Also on cruise boats it's nice to have something smart to wear in the evening.
• It is a good idea to pack a lightweight travel jacket, particularly if traveling to Egypt in January, February, November or December, as the weather can cool down significantly during these months. We recommend the  SCOTTeVEST  travel jacket as it has excellent storage pockets, removable sleeves and the option of RFID security to protect against identity theft.
• It is inadvisable to wear army/combat type clothing or print.
• Wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection), sunglasses and a sunhat, and remember your insect/mosquito repellent .

Shoes to pack for Egypt

• Take comfy flat shoes for exploring , and the streets can be dusty so you may prefer closed-in styles. We love Hotter shoes for travel, they're very light and comfy and look great too.

Clothing tips for women

• Egypt is a Muslim country, and although its cities are modern and local women may wear make-up now, they always dress conservatively .
• Egyptians find it very inappropriate to reveal even the slightest amount of stomach or hips , so short tops, short skirts or shorts, or tight clothes should be avoided completely when away from tourist hotels.
• Cotton or other natural fibre long-sleeved shirts or t-shirts, worn with long trousers or ankle length skirts are a good choice, and keep your shoulders covered too. Keep clothing loose – it will keep you cooler and you'll get less unwanted attention.
• Although the dress code is more relaxed in hotels and tourist resorts like Sharm el Sheikh, you will find that you will get more respect if you dress modestly – a pashmina or wrap can be useful for times when you need to cover up.
• Keep your swimwear for the beach or pool only, and cover up with a kaftan or sarong when walking around the hotel. Definitely avoid topless sunbathing – the locals really do not like it.
• If you're going to visit any religious sites then use your pashmina or sarong to cover your shoulders, stomach and bare legs.
• And a pashmina will always add a bit of ‘glam' if you need it too.

Clothing tips for men

• If you're looking for versatile and stylish beachwear , try the Madda Fella range of shirts, shorts, polos and swimwear.
• But keep your shorts for the beach and resort areas. Elsewhere, long trousers and a shirt are best.
• Cotton or other natural fibre long-sleeved shirts or t-shirts will keep you cooler.

Pack for the weather

• In the summer it can be as hot as a furnace , so light, natural breathable fabrics are best.
• In the winter (roughly December, January and February) days can be chilly and sometimes cloudy. You may need a light pullover or pashmina during the day, and a warmer coat at night. Choose layers that can be taken off during the day and put back on for cooler evenings.
• We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android

Community photos of Egypt

Regions of Egypt

• In Cairo in December, January or February be prepared for some rain – pack a lightweight raincoat. The rest of the year is almost always entirely dry.
• At the Taba Heights resort a chill breeze quite frequently blows off the sea during the day throughout March. A light wrap, jumper or kaftan is useful for those times when you're not flat out on your sun bed.
• Also at Taba, if you're booked with a package tour operator you may be offered excursions to Petra in Jordan . In February this can be colder than you might expect… perhaps even with snow so be prepared.

Other things to pack

• Officially the tap water is safe to drink, however it is highly chlorinated so may not be what you are used to. Most visitors buy bottled water.
• If you're planning to travel around the country, a soft-sided rucksack is more practical than a hard suitcase – it's easier to fit into transfer vehicles. Using packing cubes can help to keep your belongings tidy whilst compressing the volume too.
• A lightweight day sack will be handy for sightseeing trips .
• To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug , and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for the local voltage (220V) .
• Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Alabaster vases are popular in Luxor, gold jewellery is a good buy, and if you really want to do the touristy thing pick up a miniature pyramid or sand-filled camel !
• Egypt has a culture of tipping so we suggest you carry small denomination coins with you. It is difficult to get small notes outside of Egypt, so stop at the bank at the airport and ask for small bills. Tips in Euros or Dollars will be accepted and will smooth things along, but currencies are difficult to exchange for the locals and they would vastly prefer Egyptian Pounds.

© Copyright 2019 | What To Wear On Vacation | All Rights Reserved

What to Wear in Egypt – Dress Code guide for tourists

Egypt is no stranger to foreign tourists with more than thirteen million people visiting in 2019. Whilst in popular resorts such as Sharm El Sheikh, you will see people wearing all sorts of skimpy outfits, as Egypt is a Muslim country we would suggest dressing conservatively when outside of your resort hotel to avoid getting unwanted attention and offending local sensibilities.

It’s also important to dress for the weather and the activities that you will be undertaking whilst on your trip, a glamorous gown might be suitable for a cocktail party on a Nile Cruise , but when visiting Egypt’s many archaeological sites more robust clothing will be needed.

We’ve put together this list of frequently asked questions to guide you in what to, and what not to wear in Egypt. 

You can see our complete guide to planning a family holiday in Egypt here along with our suggested Egypt packing list that you can download

What do people wear in Egypt? 

Whilst ninety per cent of Egypt’s population are Muslim, there are no specific laws on how Egyptian women should dress. Most women do, however, dress modestly and cover their hair with a hijab (headscarf).  

Some women do wear a full length over coat known as an abaya over their regular clothes – whether these are jeans and a blouse, or a more traditional kaftan dress. Even if women choose not to wear an abaya , they still tend to cover as much skin as possible and favour loose fitting clothes that hide their body shape.  

Most men, tend to wear western style clothing, opting for trousers and short sleeved shirts rather than shorts and t-shirts. Some men will, however, wear a traditional djellaba and or kaftan especially on special occasions.

Children can also pick and choose what they wear. In general, they tend to wear western style clothing but may wear traditional clothing at parties, family gatherings and on other special occasions.  

What should women wear when visiting Egypt? 

Egypt is a hot and dusty country. In general, it is a good idea to wear loose fitting clothing made of natural materials like cotton or linen to help keep you cool. You should take care to cover your shoulders and cleavage and avoid having your back exposed. 

Tight-fitting clothes can be as poorly received as bare skin so be careful not to pack anything too skimpy. Long loose blouses or kaftans over Capri pants or linen trousers are an ideal choice as are longer dresses with shorts or leggings underneath. 

Maxi dresses can look very elegant for an evening out but are not very practical at the archaeological sites, which are very dusty and uneven.  

Whilst white clothes do reflect the heat of the sun, they can quickly get dirty and may appear transparent in the bright sunlight revealing your body shape, which is considered immodest. 

Do female visitors need to wear a headscarf in Egypt? 

Female visitors to Egypt do not need to cover their heads unless they are visiting a religious building but having a scarf handy is always a good idea. Scarves can be used to protect your head and face from the sun, or as a wrap if you feel like you’re getting unwanted attention because of your outfit.  

If you do want to visit a religious building you will also need to ensure that you are covered from wrist to ankle in a loose fitting garment like an abaya, a jalabiya or a kaftan as well as wearing a headscarf. 

Can I wear a bikini in Egypt? 

You can wear a bikini at a hotel pool and at beaches in resorts. Once you leave the poolside, it is polite to cover up with a kaftan or wrap and you should avoid walking around in just your bikini anywhere indoors.

It is prudent to avoid bikinis on public beaches outside of popular tourist resorts. Many local women wear a burkini – an all in one swimsuit which covers the head and the body from wrist to ankle. You do not need to wear one but they are available to buy locally if you would feel more comfortable wearing one. 

What should men wear when visiting Egypt?  

In urban areas, especially Cairo, it is preferable for men to wear long trousers and a shirt or T-Shirt.  Social etiquette is a bit more flexible at the beach resorts, although we still would not recommend speedos and vests. 

Walking trousers with detachable legs are particularly useful if you have varied day of sight-seeing and kind sleeved collared shirts are great at protecting you from the sun. Even on cooler days, the sun is still very powerful and you can get easily burnt. 

All visitors to Egypt should avoid T-Shirts, bags and sweaters with political slogans, emblems or potentially offensive language.  

What should children wear when on holiday in Egypt? 

Boys can wear shorts and T-shirts as can very young girls.

Girls under 12 can also wear sundresses but older girls should follow the advice given above for women, or at least wear leggings under any short dresses or skirts.

We recommend packing several wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses as well as UV suits for the beach and pool in order to protect your child’s young skin from the powerful Egyptian sun.  

We have a complete Egypt packing list for families here

Be mindful, Egypt in the middle of winter can be cold! Make sure you are not only packing sun protection but warmer layers if you are visiting over the cooler months – we have a complete guide to Egypt’s seasons and what to expect here.

What sort of bag should I carry in Egypt?  

Petty theft can occur in Egypt and we suggest keeping your valuables in the hotel safe. Only carry as much cash as you think you will need and keep it, along with any ID in a bum bag (fanny pack) or another close-fitting bag or pouch.

If you need to carry a larger bag for maps/nappies/snacks etc, a rucksack is recommended, although you may be asked to leave these at reception desks/lockers in museums.  

What sort of footwear should I wear in Egypt?  

Flip-flops are useful at the beach and by the poolside but shouldn’t been worn in urban areas. Pavements are uneven and sometimes non-existent. For this reason, we’d also warn against heels when out and about. 

The whole family should wear sturdy, breathable footwear when visiting archaeological sites. Cotton socks help to keep your feet feeling fresh and protect them from the dust and insect bites.  

Top Tip! Whilst it might not be a fashionable combination, we really do recommend cotton socks with walking sandals!  

Will I need an umbrella in Egypt?  

Whilst rainfall from April to October is low, there is always the chance of an unseasonal downpour. Having a small, microscopic umbrella with you ensures that a sudden shower won’t spoil your trip. An umbrella can also be used as a parasol to provide shade from the hot sun.

Do I need to take a jacket to Egypt?  

Whilst Summer temperatures can reach as high as 50 degrees, night-time can be chilly and carrying a lightweight jacket or fleece is highly recommended. 

On the coldest nights of winter, the temperature can drop to freezing so if you’re traveling between October and April, it’s a good idea to have some warmer clothing with you. 

A cardigan is also useful when visiting shopping centres and hotels with vicious AC throughout the year. 

Further information for planning a family trip to Egypt

Now we have your packing sorted, here’s some more planning resources for your trip to Egypt:

• Baksheesh! Baksheesh! Understanding the tipping culture in Egypt
• Plan a 7-day highlights tour of Egypt
• Egypt Travel Safety: Understand the issues that really matter

Travelling further around the Middle East

You may also like to see how dress code guidance changes as you travel across the Middle East, there are small and subtle differences you will want to observe, particulalry as you head to the Gulf countries.

• What to wear in Abu Dhabi
• Dress code guidance for Doha, Qatar
• What to wear visiting Oman
• A tourist guide to dressing for Jordan

Save this for later!

Bookmark this page in your browser or save this to your travel inspiration boards in Pinterest ready for planning your dream trip to Egypt.

Take me back to the Egypt with Kids Home Page

This post contains affiliate links that earn us a commission if a qualifying purchase is made. Our full disclosures, privacy policy and website terms of use can be found here .

The Family Travel in the Middle East team of travel writers are all parents based in the Middle East, sharing first hand experiences and reviews from across the region to help you plan your next family adventure.

Find me on: Web | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

You may also enjoy:

Incredible things to do in dahab and …, tips for driving in israel, the best time to visit oman – 2024 guide, dubai to muscat by road: essential planning ….

What to Wear in Egypt? 23 Best Travel Outfit Ideas for Egypt

What to wear in Egypt.  Sometimes you may be concerned about what to wear when you are visiting a foreign country. Especially when your intentions are to experience different ways of living and have fun there without disrespecting the land or offending anyone.

Have you ever wondered what are the essential things to include in your luggage when you are travelling to Egypt? Worried about what to wear there? Is it safe?   If Egypt is on your bucket list, here’s your guide on what to wear in Egypt depending on the Egyptian culture, various places, and the climate, and where to spend your time there.

What Outfits To Pack For Egypt

↓ 23 – What To Wear To The Pyramids?

Your decision of traveling to a foreign country that has diverse culture and history than yours is always competitive and making you uncertain. It’s worthwhile when you are visiting the world’s wonder there, The Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the oldest wonders built on earth which constructed between 2580-2560 BC. You can wear a soft turtleneck mix-stripe fluid ribbed-knit sweater and wide leg beige trousers for a subtle look. In order to prevent your hair from intertwining with the grains of sand in a windy day, make it into a bun. You can add to your outfit these flimsy hoop gold earrings, and this fancy belt. I guarantee you will take the most aesthetic pictures of yourself with your ancient fellow. If you’re a travel enthusiast, you might enjoy our earlier post on  27 Best Winter Travel Outfits for Women That Are Trending these Days.

↓ 22 – Can You Wear Crop Tops In Egypt?

Many people are curious about whether Egypt is safe after the Arab spring events and political propaganda. It’s completely normal to be concerned since the publicity of the issue given by the media convinced numerous people that the middle east is a dangerous place for decades. Egypt is safe, don’t let anything discourage you from visiting such a majestic place, but you better come with a tourist group. You can wear wide leg baggy print pants with a tank crop top. Yes, you can wear a crop top and it’s more acceptable to wear it in Hurghada and Sharm El-Shiekh.

↓ 21 – What To Wear In Egypt In December

One of the false beliefs some people hold is that Egypt is a large desert that has dust storms and intolerable temperature. The same view goes for the Arabian Gulf which is untrue, too. Egypt has many places to visit, not just the Pyramids. There are cities and civilized places for leisure activities. You can book a five-stars hotel room, shop in large chic malls or walk in downtown and Korba to witness the western architectures built back in the time of colonization. You can wear leather boots and a yellow top tucked into a high-waisted light wash jeans. A big yes to this brown cotton coat and delicate bronze watch, necklace and silver bracelet.

↓ 20 – For the Yacht Ride 

Are you planning for a yacht ride in Sharm El-Sheikh or Hurghada? You can chill out having a ride on the red sea, enjoying the strong smell of salty water and tidal surges. For lightweight and soft garments on your body, try on a slim-fit wide boat neck black cotton crop top that adds a hint of retro appeal. A high-waisted flared stripe paper bag pants with slippers would provide you an elegant look. Keep your hair loose to let the fresh air play with it. Here are  Women’s Outfits for Airport & 15 Ways to Travel Like a Celebrity.

↓ 19 – You Will Look Cute On The Beach.

Try wide waistband black pants with a tight crop white top and silver slippers. This exquisite outfit would fit on the beach when you head to the beach bar to drink juices and have your meal after changing your swimming suit.

↓ 18 – Elegant Outfit For Luxor Trip

You will miss out the most charming places in Egypt if you don’t have a tour in Luxor and Aswan where the major majestic archaeological sites of ancient Egypt exist. You have to moisturize your skin often with a suncream, wear your sunglass, and hat because Luxor turns like a furnace in summer. The old classic color of this wide-leg bold red jumpsuit would harmonize with the golden sunlight and sand, and the baby blue sky. This will provide you perfect bright lightning to your pictures with high quality. You can opt for the one made of lightweight cotton to make you less sweaty. Any sneakers are highly recommended instead of heels or sandals. 

↓ 17 – Stick To The Casual Look.

When you are in Egypt you get to wear casuals more often.  If you are wishing for spending your time to explore malls and stores to shop new stuff and gifts, you have to dress in casual. There are prevalent western branches of famous brands like Zara, H&M, Victoria Secrets etc. You can also find fashionable local stores with lower prices stuck on their clothing tags. A colorful turtleneck medium strip pullover folded into dark wash denim jeans is my favorite to suggest you since Egypt can be cold in December and January. You can substitute the ankle high-heel boots for sneakers to play the trampoline or walk for hours comfortably.

↓ 16 – What To Pack For Nile Cruise

You ain’t going nowhere out of Cairo or Aswan until you witness the magical beauty of the Nile river. You can have dinner by the river or you can take a felucca ride on the Nile while watching the sunset. Yellow is the color of this season, thus I am suggesting it frequently in my articles. You can wear such a simple outfit like these pairs of jeans with a Ceylon yellow sweater and sneakers. In case of a windy day, you have to loop around your neck a plaid black and white scarf. If your ride on the Nile is sailing from Luxor to Aswan, remember to immerse your hands into it to drink directly from its pure water.

↓ 15 – For An Evening Stroll

If you are partying with your mate at nightfall or you are having a leisurely walk, shove on this wide-leg flowers printed overall with high heels or flat gladiators sandals. You can wear them also on the beach in the summer.

↓ 14 – You Can Wear A Floral Dress.

You will look enchanting wearing this floral summer dress when you are visiting the most enormous temples and tombs.

↓ 13 – Wearing Shorts & Skirts In Egypt

Egyptians aren’t extremists and it has nothing to do with Islam, but they stick to their beliefs and traditions. If you are walking alone in shorts or skirt, expect to confront verbal sexual molestation, maybe physical harassment from some men there. Especially if you are walking in chaotic public streets where you can find all different classes, ideologies, and thoughts. I can never minimize the existence of discrimination ― I think it’s a global issue. Also generalizing everything is an action for spreading deception and misinformation. Not all Egyptian men will harm you, but some of them will also protect you. We shall throw blame on the lack of morals and education, not religions. It’s fine to wear them in malls, tourist regions, and restaurants. You will be safer if you have them on when you are touring with your group accompanied by a tour guide. The valley of the Kings is a very hot place, therefore you can wear a burgundy lightweight blouse tucked in a short or a denim jean skirt with a striped cardigan.

↓ 12 – Your Skin Will Be Happy Wearing This

I will always insist that skirts make us free and comfy. It allows all the air to flow in, unlike trousers. Achieve your bucket list contently wearing a maxi tiered white skirt and emerald green shirt with lace-up sandals.

↓ 11 – The BestDresss For The Nubian Village

The Nubian Village is the most magical and cherished site you would ever travel to. You won’t see anywhere such a colorful aesthetic place in Egypt. Moreover, the unconditional kindness of the Nubian people will leave you flabbergasted. You can wear a sleeves black top folded in a below knee yoke-waist skirt with a scarf and flat strappy sandals. You will look gorgeous.

↓ 10 –  T-shirts Are The Most Common.

You will find vast the majority of Muslims and Christians Egyptians are conservative and likely dressed modestly and smartly. T-shirts and Trousers are the most common dress, however, you will see abundantly both Muslim and Christian women veiled through wearing abayas. You may enjoy your free time reading Egyptian English magazines like Horse Time, Ancient Egypt M agazine during sipping your favorite coffee. You can have on a crew neck grey T-shirt tucked into high-waisted white pants. Be cautious about leaving your hotel not wearing white in a windy day filled with dusty air. Any color is preferable than white, especially for your footwear because it won’t last clean longer at some muddy places in Cairo. This cowboy hat will protect you from the burning sun and heat. Here are  20 Cute Summer Travelling Outfits for Women.

↓ 9 – Try On An Abaya When You Are Visiting A Mosque.

You need to visit barefoot a mosque once in your life to witness the great calmness and the majesty it has, and its incredible prominent Islamic architecture. Mosques in Egypt will give you goosebumps, chiefly, the old ones built back in the golden age of Islam like Mosque of Amr Ibn Al-As and Mosque of Muhammad Ali. They will mind you get in there unless you are dressed modestly and you aren’t showing much skin. What about trying something new? You can find this cheap cotton abaya and other styles in souvenir shops. Show respect through covering your hair with a scarf like how Princess Diana did when she visited Al-Azhar.

↓ 8 – Wear What An Egyptian Teenager Would

Female Egyptian Teenagers wear casuals, mostly jeans. Try a light brown T-shirt and black skinny pants with a jean jacket.

↓ 7 – What To Wear for Safari In Egypt

You can have an expeditious trip in Egypt driving a beach buggy and going wild through doing safari. Try on this black ripped pants, black shirt, and an olive quilted jacket. These colors wouldn’t make the dust on the garments observable. The fixed rule is to don’t wear anything other than sneakers, otherwise, you will stumble wearing heels or have the sand stuck to your toes through sandals.

↓ 6 – A Silk Dress

Feel free to knock around wearing a yellowish silk dress and wedge heel sandals with your partner to explore the crowded famous market.

↓ 5 – Dress Code In Egypt Hotels

There are many western cafes and restaurants in Egypt like Starbucks, Durkin’ Donuts, Paul, Panda express and Cinnabon etc. You will find also local cafes established on the Egyptian style. You can try some Egyptian courses like Koshary, stuffed squash, and Falafel. There are Asian restaurants where you can order Ramen, Sushi or Biriyani and more. T-shirts and blouses are very common to wear in summer. Try to respect the places and people through being sweet, polite and wearing modest clothes like a jean jacket or a cardigan over your cut top. In winter, you can wear a crew neck black pullover with these ripped jeans and a medium size crossbody bag. Don’t miss out these  15 Best Walking Shoes for Europe Trip & Travel Style shoes .

↓ 4 – A Nice And Appropriate Outfit for Riding A Camel

If you are planning for riding a camel or a horse, note that their back is stiff so wearing a skirt will be hella uncomfortable. Wear a white shirt with wide-leg cotton trousers.

↓ 3 – A Lovely Outfit To Wear When You Are Visiting Khan Al-Khalili

You have to wear simple clothes as much as possible and don’t exaggerate your look. You can wear a white T-shirt and flared pants with a cardigan.

↓ 2 – Best Time To Travel to Egypt & Best Outfit To Wear

If you can’t bear the heat, you better book your flying ticket from November-March when the temperature is cooler. It doesn’t rain frequently in Egypt, but the rain falls heavily when it’s the right time for the clouds to break their water. Cairo is more fun and joyous in winter while Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh in summer. I am assured you aren’t the only foreigner, but the majority visit Egypt to spend Christmas there. By that time you can wear this striped red and white shirt and dark wash denim jeans. Most of us forget or skip belts for their outfits, although wearing one adds an extra smart look. Bring your jacket because it gets cold more at night and a pastel pink satchel bag.

Take the experience of crossing the desert to witness the temple that got buried under the water but survived, Abu Simbel. You get to wear a high-low dotted dress with wedge sandals.

↓ 1 – What Shoes To Wear In Egypt

Now coming towards the shoes, you obviously need to pack at least one pair of sneakers for days when you’ll be walking a lot. We recommend some light and breathable sneakers like the Vivobarefoot Women’s Ultra 3 Watersports Walking Shoes that you can get here for as low as $ 60. Other than that, you should have some sandals (you could go with gold colored gladiator sandals if you want some Egyptian vibes) and lightweight flip flops for the beach.

Related Posts

21 Best Matching Sets Outfit Ideas and Styling Tips

What to Wear in London in Summer? 20 Outfits & Packing List

Gloves Outfits for Women: Types & 20 Tips to Wear Gloves

20 Best Pink Jumpsuit Outfit Ideas & Styling Tips

25 Gacha Life Outfit Ideas You Need to Try

23 Different Ways To Wear Long Shirts With Palazzo Pants

66 Cutest Polyvore Outfit Sets for Girls & Styling Tips

19 Best Summer Jeans Outfits for Girls to Stay Cool and Chic

23 Ways to Style Plus Size Off-the-Shoulder Tops for Women

R.H. Elias is a freelance writer, aspiring author, and freelance transcriptionist. She is a homebody all the way and loves curling up on a cold, rainy day with a good book and a warm cup of tea. Her favourite pastimes include reading, writing, and watching period films. She currently lives in Puerto Rico.

Add Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Essential Packing Tips for Women Exploring the Wonders of Egypt: A Comprehensive Guide

So you’ve made the decision to go to Egypt. You’ve set the dates and planned your flights. You’ve booked the best guided Egypt tours and arranged your private guides to Egypt’s most impressive sites and attractions . But now you need to pack.

This is usually where the panic sets in.

Packing for Egypt as a woman can be daunting when you want to make sure you can stay as cool as possible while still being respectful. A quick google search will give you one article that says to dress very conservatively and cover your head while the next one will tell you to wear whatever you are most comfortable in. Which means you are left trying to figure out what to bring, what not to bring, and if you even have appropriate clothing or need to go shopping and buy a whole new wardrobe for your Egypt tour .

Trust me, I get the stress. I’ve been there.

But, I’m here now to take away a lot of that anxiety and make it really easy for you. You don’t need to go shopping (so save that money for some great souvenirs or to put towards another tour), you just need to get a little bit creative with what you have.

Here is my packing guide for women travelling to Egypt.

When it comes to tops, packing for Egypt is pretty easy. There are two main things to keep in mind; no cleavage and cover your shoulders and midriff. Chances are you have a selection of tops in your closet that follow these requirements. But, even if you own mostly sleeveless or low cut tops you can still make do with a couple of easy tricks and adjustments.

One of my favourite travel accessories to bring is a scarf. There are a million and one ways they can come in handy, especially for situations like this. Wear it wrapped loosely around your neck to cover lower necklines or, over your shoulders as a shawl to keep your shoulders covered. It’s lightweight to wear, pack, and carry. Not to mention a gauzy scarf is a much easier (and cooler!) solution than jackets or sweaters.

I also recommend bringing longer tops. Remember, you don’t want to be showing a lot of skin so refrain from packing any crop tops. Long tops that cover your bum also have the added benefit of being able to have a larger selection of bottoms to choose from as I will discuss in the next section.

Pants, Capris, Leggings, and Shorts

When it comes to bottoms, you have a lot of choices. Basically, as long as your knees are covered, you are good. So whether you choose pants or capris, you will feel comfortable and remain respectful. Local women wear long pants or skirts; however, I wore capris a couple of days with no issues.

The tricky bit comes to the tightness of the pants. In North America , women tend to wear very tight pants such as skinny jeans or leggings. While these aren’t necessarily inappropriate to wear in Egypt, you do need to consider how you wear them. For example; longer tunic-style tops over skinny jeans are fine. This style is a common fashion among the younger women, especially in Cairo. That being said, Egypt can be very hot so jeans may not be what you want to pack. Wide-leg, linen, or light cotton pants (think the elephant style pant that is so popular in Southeast Asia) will be more comfortable picks to help you keep cool in the hot weather.

Skirts and Dresses

Skirts and dresses are a favourite for women who travel because they can be both comfortable and stylish. I absolutely recommend bringing a couple or skirts or dresses with you for your Egypt vacation, but there are a few considerations you need to make when choosing which ones you pack or how you style them.

First off, the longer and looser the better. Short, tight skirts and dresses are not a smart choice for your Egypt tours . Instead, pick flowy styles that, at a minimum, cover your knees. Maxi dresses and skirts are obviously the best choices, but you can do a couple of quick style tricks to make your shorter dresses more appropriate as well.

One of the easiest things to do with shorter dresses that hit above the knee or just at the knee is to pair them with leggings. You still get the cute look of your dress, plus maintain the respectful aspect of not showing too much skin and keeping covered up. Plus, leggings aren’t too heavy either so you won’t get too hot.

As with tops, low necklines and bare shoulders should be avoided when possible. The same scarf tricks will for this or you can throw a t-shirt over your dress to make it more modest.

Another thing to keep in mind is that by the sea and in the desert, it can actually get pretty windy. While the breeze is nice, it can whip your skirt around. If you have a shorter, full skirt or dress this is definitely something to be cautious of- another reason why I like to recommend wearing a pair of light-weight leggings underneath.

Discover More

In terms of footwear, when packing for Egypt it is important to remember to be practical rather than stylish. As I’m sure you can figure out for yourself, high heeled shoes do not work very well in the sand-covered desert.

During your Egypt guided tours you will be doing a lot of walking, so choose something that is comfortable and you can spend all day in. A good, flat, shoe with support and stability is your best pick.

Flip-flops and sandals are ideal for the beach, or even just walking around your hotel, but not such a good choice for your Egypt guided tours. Firstly, they aren’t the best for walking, but more importantly, the sand gets really hot and can burn your feet. Protect them by wearing closed-toe shoes during your Egypt tours .

One of the most common questions that women ask when it comes to packing for Egypt is whether or not they need to cover their hair.

The majority of local women you meet in Egypt will be wearing a hijab covering their head and hair. It is also common to see local Egyptian wearing niqabs which cover the woman’s head, hair, and face except for the eyes. As a visitor, you are not required or pressured to wear either. If you would like to cover your head with a scarf, and some women do, that’s fine. However, you will not be judged or looked down upon for leaving your head uncovered during your Egypt tours .

Usually, the tourists who choose to cover their hair are the ones with very light blonde hair. As this is not a normal hair color in Egypt, blonde tourists do tend to get a lot of looks and attention. Sometimes, this extra attention can be a bit uncomfortable, so covering your hair with a scarf is an easy way to help avoid that.

Final Considerations

While many people believe it is important to dress conservatively and respectfully while touring Egypt, there will be those who disagree. No doubt you will notice female travelers dressed in more revealing clothing as you travel throughout the country. Chances are nobody will comment out loud on this. After all, Egypt is very safe and welcoming , but these women tend to get a lot of looks that will likely leave them feeling uncomfortable. I think that most of us can agree that being uncomfortable is not how you want to feel during your vacation.

Travelers should also note that there are some exceptions. In resort areas such as Sharm el Sheikh, Dahab, and Hurghada , which are known for their beaches and watersports, it’s ok to wear shorts or a tank top when down by the beaches and water. That being said, if you are walking around the cities and going out to dinner, you will probably feel more comfortable if you cover up a bit more.

If you are unsure of whether or not you are dressed appropriately, then consider this: would your outfit be allowed into a European church? How about in an Asian temple? If you can pass that test, then you are likely good to go. Remember, on top of the local Egyptian culture being more modest than that of North America, the historic sites and buildings you are visiting during your Egypt tours were, at times, very sacred places. Sure, these temples may be ancient; however, they were once important religious buildings, so please dress appropriately and be respectful of that.

Another thing to keep in mind is your comfort level. If you are more comfortable in full sleeves and long pants rather than t-shirts and capris, then go for it. Despite what the fashionistas of Instagram may have you believe, it’s more important for you to feel comfortable and reassured in your outfit than to be fashionable and trendy.

Packing for Egypt as a woman can be daunting, but it is easier than you think. With some smart clothing choices and a few easy tricks, it’s easy to create a travel wardrobe for your Egypt tours that will keep you cool and comfortable while still being culturally appropriate.

Ready to pack your bags and book your own  Egypt tour  to experience this incredible country for yourself? Take a look at  Osiris Tour’s   Egypt tour packages  offering  luxury private Egypt tours  to the best sites and attractions in Egypt .

Explore Further

Join / Log In

Egypt: What to Wear

In Egyp t , the religious atmosphere and desert climate call for a particular dress code. Visitors should allow for more conservative dress in Cairo and other cities, and especially in rural areas or when visiting mosques or other religious sites. Casual, loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that covers the knees and elbows is best.

Here, Indagare’s Egypt experts outline their top recommendations for what to wear in Egypt:

“Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect against the sun and sand,” advises Indagare founder Melissa Biggs Bradley . You can buy hats in Egypt, but they tend to be cheap and let the sun in, so it's better to pack your own.

2. Dress respectfully.

When you’re visiting religious sites, shoulders have to be covered, as well as legs (past the knee).

3. Go for casual comfort. For bottoms, we recommend bringing jeans, chinos and khakis, as well as clothing that you won’t worry about getting dusty. Bring light cotton shirts like tees or button-downs, in addition to a few sweaters that you can layer on and off throughout the day. 

4. Sturdy walking shoes are key.

“Comfortable shoes are so important,” says Indagare’s Ramona Bass. “You will spend a lot of time spent standing, and the ground is unpaved and uneven at many tourist sites.”

5. Layer. “The best piece of clothing I brought was a light Michael Kors down jacket,” says Indagare’s Ried Stelly . “ I also recommended a light scarf—not just for comfort, but to add some style to otherwise very casual attire.” 

Published on October 5, 2019

More Inspiration

Just Back: Egypt Eternal: Ancient Treasures & New Wonders

Indagare founder Melissa Biggs Bradley reports on her recent visit to Egypt while hosting an Insider Journey.

Top Tables Egypt

23 Trips of a Lifetime to Plan this Year

Where We're Scouting: Summer 2022 Travel Intel

Plan Your Trip With Us

We only feature hotels that we can vouch for first-hand. At many of them, Indagare members receive special amenities.

Welcome back, log in to Indagare

Not a member? Sign up

Forgot Password

Enter your email and we’ll send you a link to reset your password.

Type the first 3 letters to begin

The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: The Rule of 3

Capsule Travel Wardrobe , FASHION

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

For some travelers, packing light equates to a vacation of repeated outfits. Luckily, this doesn’t have to be true. By focusing on versatility, you can mix and match items to create countless outfits from just a few items. Keep reading to discover versatile packing at its finest and the importance of a travel capsule wardrobe.

The Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Written By: Maggie Fogg

As avid travelers, we firmly believe in packing light (as light as possible, in fact). Flying with just a carry-on and packing cubes can save tons of time and energy – and help you side-step some major headaches, including lost baggage and heavy suitcases you have to drag up a flight of stairs.

But when you only have a small suitcase, and as a result – only a few pieces to work with – figuring out what to pack and how to plan outfits can be tricky.

How do you keep your wardrobe incredibly limited without surrendering your style? How do you pack only a few key items, while maintaining versatility in your outfits?

Working from a capsule wardrobe is your best bet. Sticking with basic separates in neutral colors goes a long way for creating a variety of outfits with limited items.

If you are packing for a combination of business and pleasure in the same trip, it becomes all the more important to choose well-made styles that can be dressed up or dressed down with a few accessories.

How do you build a tight wardrobe without adding too many pieces? How do you keep your suitcase lean without choosing only safe, boring and basic options – and steering clear of going too far the other way, packing stylish pieces that you’ll only ever end up wearing once?

Let’s look at a few essential tips…

And don’t worry. A capsule wardrobe doesn’t need to be made of  dull all-black outfits . You can use the guidelines below to create a versatile travel wardrobe featuring a variety of clothing styles ( this  is how to mix and match prints).

Read this to learn how to pack light stylishly  for any destination!

The answer is to follow one simple rule – the rule of 3. This is more than wearing every piece you pack at least 3 times. Pack all items with the intention of wearing each item in a variety of outfits that work in at least three different occasion types.

This could be dressy, professional, and casual. Or it could be sexy, relaxed, and polished. It all depends on your lifestyle and the nature of your trip. When you consider using each piece with this kind of versatility, you’ll be able to build a stylish capsule wardrobe for any trip, and have tens of great outfits on-hand for any occasion.

Choose from one of eight  travel capsule wardrobes to help you plan for your trip!

OUTFIT 1: Necklace | Tank Top | Jeans | Bag | Sandals   OUTFIT 2: Hat | Necklace  |  Shorts | Sandals   OUTFIT 3: Blazer | Necklace | Pouch  | Skirt | Flats

The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: One Piece, 3 Ways

Take, for example, a pretty tank top like the wine-colored one shown above. It can be paired with a relaxed skirt and a blazer for a casual business event.

However, just as easily, it can be dressed up for an evening out on the town with a slim pair of jeans and a cool rocker-inspired choker and cross-body bag .

And third, the tank looks just as stylish with a beach babe pair of cut-off denim shorts, boho-inspired travel sandals and a straw hat – on point for a summer musical festival.

Take a look at this post to see how you can make 3 weeks worth of outfits with just eight pieces of clothing!

OUTFIT 1:   Earrings | Bag | Blouse | Sunglasses | Joggers | Flats   OUTFIT 2: Tank | Earrings | Lipstick | Bag | B o o t s OUTFIT 3:   Shirt | Tank | Necklace | Backpack | Shoes

The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Guidelines for 3 Uses

Now that you know how to use one piece in three different ways, follow these guidelines to make the most of your outfits.

Be Meticulous With Fit

Stick to flattering, figure-skimming silhouettes. Avoid anything with too tight of a fit, as it won’t appear relaxed or chic. Likewise, avoid anything with a loose fit since it can read as sloppy and unpolished. Don’t be afraid to tailor your clothing, especially when it’s something you absolutely love!

Stick to Classic Styles With a Hint of Trend

Choose fairly neutral colors and simple cuts and patterns for versatility and longevity, but look for unique twists that add visual interest. This could be lace detail, embroidery, funky zippers – anything that expresses your personality.

File Into 3 Occasion Buckets

When you’re shopping for new items or pulling items from your closet to pack, mentally file each item into its occasion bucket. Is it sexy, relaxed, and girly? Or is it business-casual, classic, and refined? Hint: this rule also works really well outside of travel packing for your everyday wardrobe, too.

Don’t Forget to Map Your Outfits

Particularly with separates, make sure you can pair each item with several other items you’ve packed. It doesn’t help you if you can wear a cute embroidered blouse to the museum, a nice dinner, and on the plane but haven’t any bottoms you can pair with the top.

Have Fun With Accessories

Follow the same rule of 3 with accessories, including bags, shoes, jackets, and jewelry. Shop for high-quality, versatile pieces that are fairly classic in design but have a fun flair. For shoes, all you need are three pairs: one for sightseeing, one for a special activity, and a bonus pair.

These are the most cute and comfortable shoes for travel !

OUTFIT 1: Blazer | Dress | Necklace | Crossbody | Flats   OUTFIT 2: Hat | Sunglasses | Handbag |  Shoes   OUTFIT 3: Jacket | Earrings | Lipstick | Pouch |  Sandals

For example, this black and white striped dress is modern and airy with a slightly French nod. It can be dressed up for a summer night with bold earrings and a trendy belt. It also pairs well with polished accessories – like a cream blazer and ballet flats – for a cultural outing. Or, pair the dress with white sneakers , a summer hat, and a super-cute canvas tote for a breezy look to wear when visiting a local farmers market.

Ultimately, the accessories help give this dress a different feel for each occasion, but the guidelines above are used for each outfit. Each of the accessories are basic in their feel, but they have a trendy or stylish twist and can be paired with other outfits for other occasions.

Check out our top choices for convertible travel dresses!

With this simple rule, you can streamline your travel packing, change the way you look at your everyday wardrobe, and transform how you shop in the future.

Need help creating a capsule wardrobe ?

Savvy travelers know that a capsule wardrobe is the secret to traveling carry-on only. Pack Light Stylishly  is our eBook that shows you exactly how to make a functional yet stylish capsule wardrobe for travel.

Learn more about Pack Light Stylishly  here !

What are your tips on versatile packing for travel? Do you follow a travel capsule wardrobe? Share in the comments below!

For more packing strategies, please read these posts:

• Building a Travel Wardrobe in 5 Simple Steps
• How to Fit Everything in a Carryon (Video Tutorial)
• Think Traveling Carry-on Only is Impossible? Read this.
• How to Choose the Best Shoes for Travel

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

I hope you liked this post on versatile packing at its finest and the power of a travel capsule wardobe. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio:  Maggie Fogg is a full-time traveler and writer. She left Toronto with a one-way ticket to Spain and has been making her way around the globe ever since. Currently, you can find her dancing and hiking her way around South America. Follow Maggie on  Instagram .

My dream of having a capsule wardrobe will come true soon. Thank you for your advice! I really like the post!

Thank you, so glad you found this helpful Eleonora!

I really like all of your articles concerning capsule wardrobes for travel and plan to incorporate these ideas in future trios, both domestic and abroad. The suggested items and related links are helpful as well. Thank you for the time you put into developing helpful content!

All the advice on this and other capsule wardrobe posts helped me travel to Europe for a week with carry on only.

I like to create a colour palette and stick to it. My next trip is neutrals with a splash of pink. Black pants, beige pants, white tops, a pink jumper and a black blazer/jacket and a gorgeous scarf with a pop of pink.

Love this mix of colors Jacki, sounds amazing!!

I love this article! I prefer a small wardrobe and will be using this article to assist me with starting a new one. Love the images of the outfit possiblities!

Thank you so much for sharing your feedback with us, so happy to hear you loved the post!!!! ?

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

12 Travel Garment Bags to Look Good Everywhere

Be wrinkle-free everywhere you go

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

But choosing the best travel garment bag for your needs can be a challenge. There are a lot of options on the market, so we asked an expert about how to find the right one. According to Tumi creative director Victor Sanz, “Your garment bag should be sturdy, functional, and sleek. If you’re frequently traveling by plane, a garment bag that folds to fit carry-on requirements is essential.” He adds, “You want to find the size that will fit all your clothes without having to overfold them and will allow you to reach your destination in style.”

Best Quilted Garment Bag

Mz wallace michael garment bag.

Best Luxury Garment Bag

Tumi alpha garment bag trifold carry-on.

Best Garment Duffel

Halfday the garment duffel.

Best Timeless Garment Bag

Longchamp boxford garment bag.

Best Packable Garment Bag

Calpak packable garment bag.

Best Affordable Garment Bag

Amazon basics premium garment bag.

Best Durable Garment Bag

Hartmann metropolitan two-garment sleeve.

Best Personalized Garment Bag

Mark & graham commuter 2-in-1 garment bag.

Best Expandable Garment Bag

Samsonite ascella 3.0 softside expandable luggage.

Best Water-Resistant Garment Bag

Stitch ultimate garment bag.

It’s also important to consider bonus features, like pockets and organizational compartments, and, as Sanz notes, “A crucial function is to ensure that you’re able to hang your garment bag when you arrive at your destination, so that you can prepare your outfits as easily as possible and to ensure that all your clothes are crisp.” Keeping all this in mind, we found the 12 best travel garment bags out there today. Once you start using one of these, you’re never going to go back.

MZ Wallace’s signature quilting isn’t limited to the brand’s totes, appearing here in garment bag form. The thin design is extremely lightweight, ideal for quick trips when you need to bring one to three outfits. There is even an exterior pocket for bonus storage.

Dimensions: 22" × 3" × 39"

Materials: Oxford, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I have been interested in a MZ Wallace garment bag for a while. It is perfect! Just right proportions and size. Thoughtful design and construction details.”

Tumi always delivers premium luggage that will last you over a decade, and this garment bag is no exception. Sanz says: “It’s foldable, with a sturdy handle for easy carrying, making it convenient and compact for every type of travel. I also love that it has several zipper pockets, so I can pack my toiletries and other travel essentials all in one bag. When I arrive at my destination, I hang it in the closet and I know that I will be ready to go.”

Dimensions: 15" x 22" x 6"

Materials: Ballistic nylon

What reviewers are saying: “This bag stores so much for a carry on. I was able to comfortably fit 2 suits and more for a destination wedding!”

This duffel has been receiving high praise ever since its release. A few of the reasons it’s so popular: The duffel is carry-on friendly, water-resistant, and has interior and exterior pockets. And those are only a few of its distinguishing features. Choose an original or compact size for the style that suits your needs.

Dimensions: 22" x 12" x 12"

Materials: Polyester

What reviewers are saying: “The Garment Duffel is a great purchase, especially for anyone in an industry that takes short frequent trips. I was actually able fit quite a bit more clothes than I had anticipated. Took the bag to work and my company bought 20 of them to give to customers. Great purchase.”

Longchamp’s iconic nylon and leather trim takes on a garment bag silhouette. The two-tone design exudes sophistication, with practical touches like a top carry handle, built-in hanger, and front zip pocket.

Dimensions: 23.25" x 41.25"

Materials: Nylon, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this as a gift for my boyfriend who travels a lot and needed a nice garment bag particularly for his suits. This bag is perfect! It fits his suit as well as a few extra shirts. The fabric is an amazing, durable quality, and the leather details make this product look incredible.”

This garment bag is actually designed to fit inside of your carry-on, rather than serving as a stand-alone piece. The water-resistant exterior protects against spills, and exterior zip pockets hold small accessories. It gets the job done, while taking up the least possible amount of space.

Dimensions: 40" x 19"

What reviewers are saying: “I use this bag when I need to workout at work. I go from a suit to athleticwear in minutes.”

Looking for an affordable option that is available ASAP? Amazon’s garment bag holds up to three suits or dresses and boasts multiple zipper compartments.

Dimensions: 40" x 4" x 20.5"

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this bag in 2019 and it has held up incredibly well since then, performs all functions advertised at a great price value. I have taken it on many flights, buses and train rides and have never had an issue with fitting it in the overhead bin on both longer-haul flights and short budget-airline carriers.”

Hartmann’s garment bag adds contemporary touches to an otherwise traditional design. The result? A chic, useful travel accessory that will stand the test of time. The padded shoulder strap and multiple interior pockets enhance the convenience of this style.

Materials: Nylon

What reviewers are saying: “Hartmann was an anniversary gift from my work place, and I am still proud to own it 35 years later.”

Mark & Graham Commuter 2-in-1 Garment Bag

Another convertible duffel, but this time with a personalized touch. That’s right—Mark & Graham lets you monogram your duffel. With a plethora of zippered and snap interior and exterior pockets, this bag gets creative with its storage solutions.

Dimensions: 22" x 10" x 10"

This spinner-style garment bag makes navigating a chaotic airport easy. The ergonomic design has expandable capabilities, as well as various compartments, a hanger bracket, and a pocket for liquids.

Dimensions: 20.5" x 24" x 9.5"

What reviewers are saying: “It’s easy to maneuver and overall great quality and very neat design (many compartments and zippered areas).”

For golfers and non-golfers alike, Stitch makes a duffel that is water- and stain-resistant, and includes a hanger hook, shoulder strap, elastic shoe pockets, and webbed handles. You can even get it customized with your initials.

Dimensions: 22.5" x 11.5" x 12"

What reviewers are saying: “Love it! Fits into the airplane overhead bin, no trouble bringing it along as a carry-on bag. Very sturdy, zippers are tough enough. Shoulder strap is removable. My suit arrived in top shape using this garment bag. Highly recommended.”

Ralph Lauren Leather-Trim Hybrid Garment Duffel

Ralph Lauren’s duffel design is the epitome of understated elegance. An accompanying shoulder strap makes it easy to carry around.

Dimensions: 15" x 21.5" x 9"

Materials: Polyester, leather

Gucci Savoy Garment Bag

Embrace the bold luxury aesthetic with a Gucci bag covered in the house’s monogram. Containing a big compartment with a hanger and two zip pockets, this garment bag will hold all your essentials.

Dimensions: 21.5" x 16.1" x 6.7"

Materials: Canvas, leather, cotton

.css-p3fpzg{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:-0.015rem;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-p3fpzg b,.css-p3fpzg strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-p3fpzg em,.css-p3fpzg i{font-style:normal;font-family:NewParisTextItalic,NewParisTextItalic-roboto,NewParisTextItalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;} Why trust Harper’s Bazaar ?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.

Gaby Keiderling is a freelance writer, working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features.

The Edit: Fashion

27 Excellent T-Shirts You Won’t Want to Take Off

12 Travel Pants for Women on Long Flights

24 Spring Sneakers to Shop for 2024

15 Lightweight Pants for Effortless Summer Outfits

Sandals That Feel as Breezy as Linen Pants

The 10 Best New Balance Shoes

21 Matching Workout Sets for Every Type of Workout

16 Comfortable Sneakers to Wear All Day, Every Day

12 Suit Sets That Aren’t Just for the Office

The 20 Best Designer Bucket Bags

7 Ways to Style Carhartt’s Classic $128 Work Pants