Planning a trip to Hurghada can be one of the most exciting decisions you’ll ever make. With its crystal-clear waters, year-round sunshine, vibrant coral reefs, and mix of relaxation and adventure, Hurghada has become one of Egypt’s top holiday destinations. To help you prepare, here’s the ultimate Hurghada travel checklist, filled with essential packing advice, practical Hurghada travel tips, and a complete Red Sea packing guide so you know exactly what to expect before you arrive.

Whether you’re coming for snorkeling, luxury resorts, desert adventures, or family fun, this guide ensures you’re fully ready for your Red Sea getaway.

1. Understanding Hurghada: What to Expect Before You Arrive

Before diving into your packing list, it helps to know what Hurghada is really like. Located along Egypt’s Red Sea coast, Hurghada is famous for:

  • Warm, sunny weather most of the year
  • Calm turquoise waters
  • Vibrant coral reefs and marine life
  • Affordable resorts with all-inclusive options
  • Desert mountains and safari activities
  • European-friendly tourism atmosphere

Weather Expectations

Hurghada enjoys a desert climate:

  • Summer (June–September): Hot and dry, 33–42°C
  • Winter (December–February): Mild and sunny, 18–25°C
  • Spring & Autumn: Warm, pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities

This climate heavily influences your Red Sea packing guide—especially clothing, sun protection, and hydration.

Cultural Notes

Hurghada is tourist-friendly but culturally conservative:

  • Swimwear is acceptable at hotels, beaches, and boats
  • Outside tourist zones, modest clothing is recommended
  • Respect for local customs is highly appreciated

2. The Complete Red Sea Packing Guide

This is the heart of your Hurghada travel checklist—everything you should pack for a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable trip.

Clothing Essentials

Because of the climate, lightweight and breathable fabrics are key.

Daily Wear

  • Cotton or linen T-shirts
  • Light summer dresses
  • Shorts or light trousers
  • Sandals or easy slip-on shoes

Beach & Pool Gear

You will spend a lot of time near the water, so bring:

  • Swimwear (2–3 sets recommended)
  • Cover-ups or kaftans
  • Flip-flops
  • Quick-dry towel (if your hotel doesn’t provide beach towels)

For Evenings

Hurghada evenings are casual but can get breezy in winter:

  • Light jacket or cardigan (winter)
  • Casual evening outfits for Marina or resort dinners

For Snorkeling & Boat Trips

If you want extra comfort or protection:

  • UV-protective swim shirts
  • Water shoes
  • Rash guard
  • Snorkel mask (optional; most boats provide equipment)

These items are often highlighted in a proper Red Sea packing guide, especially for travelers with sensitive skin or children.

3. Sun Protection: A Non-Negotiable Part of Your Hurghada Travel Checklist

The Red Sea sun is strong—even in winter—so packing sun protection is essential.

Must-Have Items

  • High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended)
  • Aftersun cream or aloe gel
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Wide-brim hat or cap
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Cooling mist spray (optional but useful)

Sun protection is one of the top Hurghada travel tips, especially for travelers who plan to snorkel or take boat trips.

4. Health and Safety Items

Your Hurghada travel checklist should always include a small health and safety kit.

Medical & Hygiene Items

  • Rehydration salts
  • Motion sickness tablets (for boat trips)
  • Pain relievers
  • Band-aids and antiseptic wipes
  • Personal medications (bring prescription copies)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Travel tissues

Water Safety

Although tap water in hotels is safe for washing, drink only bottled water. Most all-inclusive resorts provide unlimited bottles.

5. Tech Essentials for Your Hurghada Trip

Hurghada is modern and well-connected, but some tech items make travel smoother.

What to Pack

  • Power bank
  • Universal adapter (Egypt uses type C & F plugs)
  • Underwater or action camera
  • Phone waterproof case
  • E-SIM or local SIM card (available at airport and malls)
  • Camera batteries & memory cards

Capturing Red Sea underwater life is one of the best experiences—this is why a Red Sea packing guide always includes waterproof tech accessories.

6. Travel Documents Checklist

Don’t leave without:

  • Passport (with 6-month validity)
  • Visa (buy on arrival or online beforehand)
  • Travel insurance
  • Hotel reservations
  • Emergency contacts
  • Flight confirmations
  • Copies of all important documents (digital + paper)

7. Money, Payments, and Budget Tips

One of the essential Hurghada travel tips is understanding how money works locally.

Currency

  • The currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP)
  • Euros, USD, and GBP are accepted for tipping and excursions

ATMs & Cards

  • Cards are accepted in hotels and big shops
  • Cash is needed in markets, taxis, and smaller cafes

Tipping

Tipping is common but not mandatory. Typical amounts:

  • Hotel staff: 20–50 EGP
  • Restaurant: 10%
  • Boat trips: 50–150 EGP
  • Taxi: Round up the fare

8. Safety Tips in Hurghada

Hurghada is one of Egypt’s safest tourist areas, welcoming millions of visitors yearly. Still, basic precautions ensure a smooth stay.

General Safety Advice

  • Stick to trusted tour companies
  • Avoid drinking tap water
  • Don’t leave valuables on the beach
  • Use hotel safes
  • Apply sunscreen frequently
  • Follow instructions during water and desert activities

Desert Safety (if doing quad or safari)

  • Wear closed shoes
  • Bring scarf for dust
  • Follow guide instructions
  • Wear goggles or sunglasses

9. What to Expect at Your Hurghada Hotel

Most hotels offer:

  • Beach access
  • Pools
  • Towels
  • WiFi
  • All-inclusive dining
  • Evening entertainment
  • Water sports
  • Marina shuttles (depending on resort)

What You May Want to Bring Anyway

  • Extra snacks
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Travel pillow
  • Coffee sachets if you prefer your own blend

10. Red Sea Activities: What to Prepare For

Hurghada isn’t just about beaches—it’s full of adventure. Your Hurghada travel checklist should change depending on the activities you plan.

For Snorkeling & Diving

  • Waterproof sunscreen
  • GoPro or underwater camera
  • Rash guard or UV top
  • Motion sickness tablets

For Desert Safari

  • Scarf (shemagh / kefiyeh)
  • Closed shoes
  • Sunglasses
  • Small backpack
  • Wet wipes

And For City Tours

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Lightweight clothes
  • Evening layer (winter)

11. What to Pack for Families With Children

If you’re traveling with kids, this Red Sea packing guide helps you avoid last-minute stress.

Family Essentials

  • Floaties or life jackets
  • Kids’ sunscreen
  • Hat with strap
  • Snacks
  • Baby-friendly water shoes
  • Light stroller (if needed)
  • Tablets with downloaded videos
  • Travel thermometer
  • Favorite toys
  • Rehydration salts for kids

12. Hurghada Weather Checklist: Month-by-Month Guide

Knowing what to expect will help you pack correctly.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

  • Light jacket
  • Long pants for evenings
  • Swimsuit (water may feel cool but still swimmable)

Spring (Mar–May)

  • Lightweight clothing
  • Strong sunscreen
  • Light scarf for wind

Summer (Jun–Sep)

  • Very light clothing
  • High-SPF sunscreen
  • Cooling towel or hydration spray

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

  • Perfect weather—bring swimwear and light layers
  • Good time for snorkeling and diving

13. Local Etiquette and Behavior Tips

While Hurghada is relaxed and open to tourists, it’s good to follow these Hurghada travel tips:

  • Dress modestly in Old Town or non-tourist areas
  • Ask before photographing people
  • Learn simple Arabic phrases:
    • Shukran = Thank you
    • Salam = Hello
  • Don’t engage with aggressive street sellers—politely say “no thank you”

14. Food and Water Tips

Hurghada has excellent cuisine, especially seafood. But to avoid stomach issues:

  • Eat at reputable places
  • Avoid raw or unwashed foods
  • Drink only bottled water
  • Don’t drink iced water unless in a trusted hotel
  • Keep hand sanitizer with you

15. Final Hurghada Travel Checklist Summary

Essentials

  • Passport + travel documents
  • Swimwear, light clothing
  • Sunscreen SPF 50+
  • Sunglasses, hat
  • Power bank, adapters
  • Cash + cards
  • Medications
  • Phone + waterproof case

For Activities

  • Water shoes
  • Rash guard
  • Snorkel mask (optional)
  • Scarf for desert
  • Comfortable shoes

For Comfort

  • Mini first aid kit
  • Rehydration salts
  • Snacks and water bottle

Your Hurghada travel checklist is now complete—no more confusion or overpacking.

16. Conclusion: Prepare Smart and Enjoy the Red Sea to the Fullest

With its warm climate, turquoise waters, desert adventures, and vibrant nightlife, Hurghada is a dream destination. Following this complete Hurghada travel checklist ensures you are fully prepared—from packing and safety to money, culture, and weather.

By using these Hurghada travel tips and following the complete Red Sea packing guide, you’ll:

  • Avoid unnecessary stress
  • Stay safe and comfortable
  • Enjoy every moment
  • Make the most of your excursions
  • Capture amazing memories

A well-prepared traveler is a relaxed traveler—and Hurghada is waiting with sunshine, adventure, and unforgettable beauty.