Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light, sunblock during your time in Egypt in the summer and wear comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt.
Egypt is a Muslim country, and therefore, generally conservative. In most places, women will be covered from head to toe. In some progressive areas of Cairo, women may appear more westernized in their appearance. They might not wear abayas or hijabs, but that isn’t typical of Egyptians. Paying attention to wardrobe choices is an excellent way to tell the locals from visitors. Check out our women packing guide here.
While travelers won’t need to dress like Egyptians, all tourists should respect the country’s culture and dress appropriately. Clothing should be loose-fitting and modest. Leave the tank tops, mini-skirts, short shorts, body huggers, plunging necklines, and sheer clothing at home. Women should be prepared to cover their shoulders outside of resorts and beaches and cover their heads inside the mosques. Mosques should loan the necessary garb for women, but keep a pashmina in your bag just in case.
When you’re at the resort or on the beach, though, the modesty rules don’t apply. Bathing suits (even bikinis) are fine for a day of sunbathing, and strappy sundresses and cut-out pieces are acceptable while in the resort. Be prepared to change clothing for your adventures throughout Egypt, though. Even while you’re on an Egypt private tour, you should follow the dress code.
Basic shopping and packing tips for your Egypt trip
To stay cooler in hot months, stick with natural fibers and avoid synthetics. Light-weight, breathable cotton and cotton/linen blends will become your best friend in Egypt.
White or very light-colored garments will dirty easily because Egypt is in the desert and quite dusty. Stick with colors and medium-colored neutrals. In summer, avoid black or very dark colors, as those will attract heat, and could make you feel warmer.
Comfy flat walking sandals may be better than sneakers in the warmer months, allowing feet to breathe.
Forgo the high heels in Egypt. Old streets and walkways don’t lend themselves to skinny high heels. Stick with flats, low heels and wedges, if you must.
In winter months, you’ll need a sweater or jacket in the evenings when temperatures can be 50 degrees or below. Layering may work best.
If you booked a luxury Egypt tour package, some itineraries might include meals at fine dining restaurants. Select a few smart outfits for nighttime outings. Check out our guide about things to know before visiting Egypt.
Now let’s move on to the essentials to pack for Egypt. Below, a list of wardrobe basics for both women and men. Let’s start with women.
Women’s Clothing Essentials for Egypt
Maxi-skirts or skirts below the knee
Long, flowy dresses
Palazzo pants
Cropped pants
T-shirts
Three-quarter sleeve shirts
Button-up blouses
Pashmina or large scarf
Bathing suit and cover-up
Undergarments
Wide-brimmed straw hat
Comfortable, cool walking shoes
Flip-flops for the beach or pool
Breathable tennis shoes
Dressier shoes, flats, low heels or wedges for evenings out
Small cross-body purse for evenings
Sunglasses
Costume jewelry
Basic watch
Hair accessories to keep hair back on hot days
(If you plan to visit in cooler months, add a pair of jeans, cardigan sweater, warm scarf, beanie, and windbreaker type jacket.)
Workout clothing (in case you want to exercise in the hotel fitness center)
Tote or day bag
Now, on to the gentleman. You’ll see that packing for guys is a bit easier.
Men’s Clothing Essentials for Egypt
Khaki pants
Knee-length shorts
Breathable dress slacks
T-shirts
Golf shirts
Button-up shirts
Undergarments
Sandals
Breathable tennis shoes
Flip-flops for the beach or pool
Driving shoes of loafers for evenings out
Swim trunks
Sunglasses