What To Wear in Egypt: The Ultimate Packing List
What To Wear in Egypt:
The Ultimate Packing List
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When prepping for Egypt, packing proved to be much trickier than I could have ever imagined. As a conservative country, Egypt is much more strict in its cultural and societal expectations of women than most western countries. And as a solo traveler, I wanted to be as respectful as possible, dressing modestly not only to avoid causing offense but also to steer clear of any unwanted attention.
From a general standpoint, I found it’s best to cover your knees and shoulders, or at least have items in your suitcase that can help switch up your outfit at moment’s notice. And while not necessary for most tourist spots, it’s still a good idea to bring a scarf or piece of fabric that you can drape over your head and shoulders or use to cover your legs while out adventuring.
So here’s What to Wear in Egypt: The Ultimate Packing List.
what to wear in egypt
Day Looks
3-4 Button Down Shirts <> This was my favorite accessory while traveling through Egypt. Not only as a must wear to be respectful while visiting for Cairo’s many mosques, but also to help shelter my scalp and hair from the strong Egyptian sun.
2-3 Linen Shirts <> Plan to bring a few lightweight neutral options that you can switch out with different bottoms for more usability.
2-3 Midi/Maxi Skirts <> Midi and Maxi Skirts were my absolute favorite to wear around Egypt! They’re comfortable in the hot sun, easy to explore in and can create a fashionable, vintage feel when worn with button-down shirts.
Secret Tip
Have a skirt with a slit? Pack a handful of safety pins in your checked luggage. Use these to keep the slit together if heading to a religious site or more conservative area.
2-3 Linen Pants <> Skirts not your thing? Sub out those options for some breezy, loose pants to keep you covered while helping you withstand the heat.
2-3 Midi or Maxi Day Dresses <> Pack 2-3 loose midi or maxi dresses that cover your shoulders, elbows and knees. Additionally, make sure the dress isn’t too low-cut or otherwise revealing.
2-3 Sandals and Mules <> Egypt is a destination where you’ll spend lots of time walking the sights so breathable and fashionable shoes are a must!
what to wear in egypt
Night Looks
3 Evening Dresses <> There’s so many wonderful dinner spots throughout Egypt so forget to pack a few dresses to wear once the sun has set. And if you venture outside a resort, the length of your dress is something to keep in mind. Your safest bet is to pack midi and maxi length options that can cover your knees.
1 Sweater or Light Jacket <> While you probably won’t need one during the day, desert temperatures dip quite substantially at night, especially near the breezy Nile.
1 Pair Natural Heels or Wedges <> This is up to you and your comfort level, but I liked having the option of dressing up a bit around my resorts at night. If you’re planning to visit the famous 1902 restaurant at the Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan, you’ll definitely want a pair to help you fit into the more formal dress code.
what to wear in egypt
Swimwear
2-3 Bathing Suits <> When most people picture Egypt, they typically think endless desert and ancient ruins. However, many overlook that it’s a country bordering two seas and with countless resort pools and spas. Pack at least 2-3 bathing suits for two weeks in the country. 1-2 of these should be more conservative, if you decide to go to a swimming spot outside of a resort.
2 Cover-Ups <> Plan to bring at least 2 cover-ups to don when on the move. One of these should more conservative, if possible. Think a long, loose dress with a linen scarf to cover your shoulders or a breezy long sleeve linen top and pants.
1 Pair of Sandals <> Whether you’re boating around the Red Sea or enjoying a luxury resort pool, comfortable sandals are a must so you don’t burn the bottoms of your feet!
what to wear in egypt
Accessories
2-3 Light Scarves <> A must have to show respect while visiting Cairo’s many mosques and to protect your scalp and hair from the strong Egyptian sun.
1-2 Sun Hats <> When a scarf just wasn’t enough for the desert heat, a sun hat was my next best go-to for both the pool and temple hopping.
Sunglasses <> Protect your eyes from the sun and aggressive bartering! My Luxor Egyptologist shared this secret tip early into my trip. By wearing sunglasses around pushy salesmen, I was hassled much less than the average tourist.
Safety Pins <> Many of the skirts and dresses that I brought to Egypt came with slits, making them slightly more revealing than I would have liked. While this was actually alright at a lot of sights, I still traveled with a few safety pins so I could alter my outfit if I ever felt uncomfortable and/or was in a situation that warranted a more conservative look.
Day Bag <> I love traveling with large zippable bags that can keep my camera gear and daily essentials safer in the crowds.
Faux Ring <> As a frequent solo female traveler, I’ve found that wearing a faux engagement and/or wedding ring can help deter unwanted attention.
what to wear in egypt
Toiletries
Face and Body Sunscreen // Something I’d recommend bringing anywhere, sunscreen is especially necessary under the hot Egyptian sun.
Rehydrating Skincare <> The desert is no joke – keep your skin healthy by packing products with rehydration properties.
Deodorant <> Save heavier makeup looks for home and pack options that have a better chance at withstanding sweat and heat.
Lightweight Cosmetics <> Save heavier makeup looks for home and pack options that have a better chance at withstanding sweat and heat.
Nourishing Hair Care <> Like your skin, lookout for your hair and pack nourishing shampoo, conditioner and hair masks.
Feminine Hygiene Products <> While you can certainly buy pads at pharmacies, tampons are impossible to come by. If you think you might need some, plan ahead!
what to wear in egypt
Tech & Miscellaneous
Passport & Visa <> Of course, your passport is a must, but make sure to check if you need a Visa as well. (If you’re a U.S. citizen, you do!). This can be bought online ahead of time, or rather simply, at one of the Cairo airport kiosks before heading through customs.
Cellphone* <> Buy a local SIM card or activate an international cellphone plan with your carrier before leaving home.
Cards & Local Currency <> While you’re probably still want to bring a credit card, Egypt has a large tipping culture (more on that HERE). Egyptian pounds are quite necessary for everyday interactions and spots where credit card machines aren’t as readily available. I recommend smaller bills and coins over large ones whenever possible!
Camera and Lenses <> Bring a camera to capture the jaw-dropping ancient temples, the Pyramids and the beautiful Nile river.
A Good Book <> Whether you’re taking the train to Aswan or laying out by the pool, you’ll probably have some downtime in between all the ancient sights. My recommendation is Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile.
Pre-Bought Tickets and Printouts of Reservations <> Purchasing tours or guides ahead of time? Don’t fall victim to spotty WiFi in certain areas – carry a hard copy of your tickets and reservations with you.
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