blogWhat to Wear in Egypt: Packing for Egypt can feel like a riddle. You need to stay cool in the desert heat, respect conservative local customs, and look good for those bucket-list photos at the Pyramids. The good news? You don’t need a whole new wardrobe. With the right fabrics and a few strategic layers, you can be comfortable, respectful, and stylish.
Whether you are exploring the chaos of Cairo or lounging by the Red Sea, this guide covers exactly what to pack (and what to leave behind).
The Golden Rules of Egyptian Dress Code
Before you zip your suitcase, keep these three principles in mind:
- Modesty is Power: Egypt is a conservative country. While foreign women are not expected to cover their hair (except in mosques), dressing modestly signals respect. It also drastically reduces unwanted attention and catcalling.
- The Standard: Cover your shoulders, cleavage, and knees.
- Fabric is Everything: Synthetic fabrics (polyester, nylon) are your enemy in the desert. They trap heat and sweat.
- The Fix: Pack 100% cotton, linen, or rayon. These breathable fabrics let the breeze through and dry quickly.
- The “Resort Bubble” Exception: Inside beach resorts in Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh, anything goes. Bikinis, shorts, and tank tops are completely normal. The advice below applies to cities, temples, and local transit.
The Essential Packing List: Women
1. Tops: Loose & Light
- 3-4 Linen or Cotton Button-Downs: These are the MVPs of Egypt travel. They protect your arms from the sun, are breathable, and look chic.
- T-Shirts (Not Tank Tops): Bring t-shirts with a modest neckline. Avoid spaghetti straps or low-cut tops unless you plan to layer them.
- 1 Tunic or Kaftan: Perfect for throwing over leggings or jeans.
2. Bottoms: Flowy & Functional
- 2 Maxi Skirts or Dresses: A long, flowy skirt keeps your legs cool while covering them completely. It’s also perfect for “twirling” photos at temples.
- 2 Pairs of Loose Trousers: Think “Aladdin” pants, linen joggers, or wide-leg culottes.
- 1 Pair of Jeans: Only if traveling in winter (Dec–Feb). In summer, denim is too heavy and hot.
3. The “Must-Have” Accessories
- The Magic Scarf:Never leave your hotel without a lightweight scarf. It works as:
- A head covering for impromptu mosque visits.
- A dust mask during a sandy breeze.
- Sun protection for your neck.
- Wide-Brimmed Hat: The sun at the Valley of the Kings is relentless. A baseball cap is okay, but a wide brim is better.
- Sunglasses: Polarized lenses are best to cut the glare from the white limestone and sand.
The Essential Packing List: Men
Men have it slightly easier, but there are still rules.
- Pants vs. Shorts: In Cairo and religious sites, Egyptian men almost exclusively wear long pants. You can wear knee-length shorts, but you will instantly look like a tourist. Lightweight chinos or linen trousers are the best choice for blending in.
- Shirts: Polo shirts and cotton t-shirts are standard. Avoid sleeveless muscle tanks in cities (save them for the beach).
Footwear: The “Broken Ankle” Prevention Plan
Egypt is not the place for high heels or flimsy flip-flops. The streets of Cairo are uneven, and temple floors are covered in sand and rocks.
- Primary Shoe: Closed-Toe Walking Shoes or Sneakers. You need protection from dust, dirt, and stray rocks. Your feet will get dirty; don’t bring your pristine white sneakers.
- Secondary Shoe: Sturdy Sandals. Brands like Teva, Chaco, or Birkenstock are great for hot days. Ensure they have a back strap so they don’t slide off.
- Beach Shoe: Flip-flops (only for the hotel pool or Red Sea beach).
Seasonal Adjustments
Summer (May – September)
- Focus: Sun protection.
- Add: A UV-protective umbrella (highly recommended for midday temple tours) and a handheld fan.
- Drop: Jeans and heavy jackets.
Winter (October – April)
- Focus: Layers.
- Add: A fleece jacket, a denim jacket, or a warm cardigan.
- Reality Check: Desert nights are cold (50°F / 10°C). You will see locals wearing puffer jackets in January!
FAQ: Questions Travelers Often Ask
Do I need to wear a Hijab? No. Foreign women are not expected to cover their hair in public. The only exception is when entering a mosque, where a simple scarf draped loosely over your head is required.
Can I wear leggings? Yes, but treat them as an under-layer. Leggings are tight-fitting, so it is best to wear a long tunic or shirt that covers your bum.
What about swimsuits? Bikinis are fine at hotel pools and Red Sea beaches. If you swim in a local spring (like at Siwa Oasis) or a public beach, wear a t-shirt and shorts over your swimsuit to respect local modesty.
Final Tip: The “Laundry Strategy”
You don’t need to pack for every single day. Laundry service in Egypt is incredibly cheap (often $1 per item at local shops, or reasonable at hotels). Pack for 5 days and wash halfway through.
