What to pack for Egypt travel, Packing for Egypt can be surprisingly tricky. The country offers a wide range of climates, landscapes, and activities — from scorching deserts and breezy boat decks to ancient temples, bustling markets, and crystal-clear Red Sea waters. Whether you’re traveling to Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Sharm El Sheikh, or Cairo, your luggage should be carefully planned to match the excursions you’ll experience.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to pack for Egypt, including clothing for different excursions, essential travel items, Red Sea snorkeling gear, safety items, personal care products, and smart extras that will make your trip more comfortable. If you’ve ever wondered what to pack for Egypt, what to wear in Hurghada, or how to prepare for desert safaris, this guide covers it all.

Why Packing Smart Matters in Egypt

Egypt’s weather, sun exposure, cultural norms, and activity types make thoughtful packing essential. You need protection from desert winds, sunburn, and dehydration, as well as comfort for long trips and appropriate attire for historical sites.

Proper packing also saves money because many items — especially sun protection, beach gear, and medical supplies — are more expensive in Egyptian resorts. Bringing the right items ensures a safe, smooth, and enjoyable experience on every excursion, from city touring to snorkeling in the Red Sea.

General Packing Tips for Egypt

Before diving into activity-specific lists, here are universal Egypt packing guidelines:

1. Prioritize lightweight, breathable clothing

Egypt is hot most of the year. Choose:

  • cotton,
  • linen,
  • dry-fit materials,
  • moisture-wicking fabrics.

Avoid heavy synthetics that trap heat.

2. Bring sun protection for every excursion

The Egyptian sun is intense even in winter.

3. Pack modest clothing for city and cultural tours

For visiting mosques or old towns:

  • cover shoulders,
  • avoid very short skirts or shorts,
  • bring a light shawl.

4. Use a backpack for day trips

A small, comfortable backpack is ideal for water, snacks, documents, and essentials.

5. Prepare for sand, wind, and water

Deserts bring fine dust; boats bring splashes; the sea has salt and coral. Each environment requires appropriate gear.

General Essentials Every Traveler Should Bring

Regardless of your specific excursions, these items are must-haves for Egypt:

Travel documents

  • Passport
  • Copies of passport (digital + paper)
  • Hotel details and reservation confirmations
  • Travel insurance
  • Emergency contact list

Money & payments

  • Cash in small USD/EUR/GBP bills
  • Credit/debit card
  • Waterproof wallet (for boat trips)

Electronics

  • Powerbank
  • Universal plug adapter
  • Phone waterproof case
  • Camera or GoPro
  • Charging cables
  • Extra memory card

Health & hygiene

  • Basic first aid kit
  • Electrolyte sachets
  • Antibacterial gel
  • Tissues and wet wipes
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Aloe vera gel
  • Motion sickness tablets (for boats)
  • Painkillers

What to Pack for Boat Trips & Snorkeling in the Red Sea

Snorkeling is one of the top attractions in Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, and Marsa Alam. The waters are warm, calm, and full of life — but the sun and salt can be harsh without proper preparation. Here is the complete list of must-have items for full-day or half-day boat trips.

1. Swimwear & Protective Clothing

  • long-sleeve rashguard or UV shirt
    Protects from sunburn while snorkeling.
  • swim shorts or swimsuit
  • lightweight beach cover-up
  • hat with strap (windproof)

2. Snorkeling Gear

Most boats provide equipment, but you may prefer your own for comfort and hygiene:

  • mask and snorkel
  • fins (optional)
  • anti-fog spray
  • water shoes (for shallow reefs)
  • snorkeling vest for children

3. Sun Protection

Absolutely essential:

  • SPF 50+ sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)
  • lip balm with SPF
  • sunglasses with UV protection
  • after-sun lotion or aloe gel

4. Personal Items

  • towel (quick-dry microfiber works best)
  • waterproof phone case
  • dry bag for electronics
  • hydration flask or bottle
  • motion-sickness medication
  • snacks for kids (boats offer lunch, but children often need extras)

5. Clothing for the Boat

Even when it’s hot, wind on the open sea can feel cool:

  • light hoodie or thin jacket
  • flip flops for walking on deck
  • change of dry clothes

6. Safety Essentials

  • coral-safe shoes
  • small waterproof first aid pouch
  • disinfectant for small cuts

7. Optional but Helpful Extras

  • GoPro with floaty handle
  • snorkeling gloves (if sensitive skin)
  • travel pillow for napping on the deck

Packing correctly ensures you can enjoy the Red Sea comfortably, avoid sunburn, and capture beautiful memories underwater.

What to Pack for Desert Trips: Safari, Quad Tours & Camel Rides

Desert excursions are among the most exciting Egypt experiences, but they require specific clothing and protection due to heat, dust, and wind. Whether you’re joining a quad tour in Hurghada, a Jeep safari, or a Bedouin dinner at sunset, here is what you absolutely need to bring.

1. Clothing for Desert Conditions

  • breathable t-shirt or long-sleeve top
  • long trousers or leggings
    Protect legs from heat and sand.
  • sports shoes or hiking shoes
    Never wear sandals on quads.
  • scarf/shemagh (to cover face from dust)
  • sunglasses (desert wind is strong)
  • hat or cap
  • thin jacket for evening trips (deserts cool quickly)

2. Safety & Comfort Items

  • dust mask or face covering
  • closed shoes (mandatory for ATVs)
  • gloves (optional but helpful on quads)
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • electrolytes or rehydration sachets

3. Practical Accessories

  • small backpack
  • wet wipes (sand gets everywhere)
  • tissues
  • reusable water bottle
  • headlamp or mini flashlight (for sunset safaris)
  • powerbank

4. Photography Gear

Desert scenery is stunning:

  • camera with lens protection
  • GoPro for action footage
  • dust-proof pouch for electronics

5. Evening Safari Extras

If your tour includes a Bedouin dinner:

  • light sweater
  • extra water
  • hand sanitizer

Proper clothing keeps sand out of your eyes, mouth, and clothes while ensuring comfort during long rides.

What to Pack for City Tours: Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada Downtown & Local Markets

Visiting ancient temples or busy markets requires different preparation than boat or desert excursions. You’ll be walking a lot, often in high temperatures, so comfort and practicality matter most.

1. Clothing for City Touring

  • lightweight breathable outfit
  • comfortable walking shoes (essential)
  • hat or cap
  • light scarf for sun or modesty
  • sunglasses
  • optional: compression socks for long bus/flight travel

2. Must-Have Items for Historical Sites

  • refillable water bottle
  • tissues
  • sunscreen
  • hand sanitizer
  • camera with strap
  • small umbrella or sunshade (useful in Luxor where shade is limited)

3. Cultural Respect Items

For mosques or traditional areas:

  • scarf or shawl
  • covered shoulders
  • longer skirt or trousers

4. Safety & Comfort Essentials

  • anti-heat cooling towel
  • mini fan (battery or USB)
  • snacks for long transfers
  • passport or ID
  • copies of important documents

5. Money & Shopping Essentials

  • small wallet
  • coins and small bills for tipping
  • reusable shopping bag

6. For Long Tours (Cairo/Luxor)

These excursions often last 15–20 hours:

  • travel pillow
  • hoodie or shawl for air-conditioned buses
  • powerbank
  • motion sickness medication if needed

7. Optional Items

  • notebook for historical notes
  • binoculars (great for desert viewpoints)

Packing wisely ensures comfort on long days, especially when visiting Egypt’s major landmarks.

What to Pack for Relaxation Days: Beaches, Pools & Resorts

Many travelers spend several days simply relaxing. Here’s what to include for comfortable downtime.

1. Beach Gear

  • swimwear
  • flip flops
  • beach bag
  • sunglasses
  • sunblock
  • beach toys for kids
  • snorkeling mask (even for shallow swimming)

2. Sun Safety

  • waterproof sunblock
  • UV protection shirts
  • after-sun lotion

3. Personal Items

  • hairbrush
  • detangling spray (saltwater can tangle hair badly)
  • hydrating lip balm
  • reusable water bottle

4. Extras

  • e-reader or book
  • portable speaker (low volume)
  • beach towel

Toiletries & Health Items You Should Bring

Many items are more expensive or harder to find in Egypt. Bring your own supply of:

Toiletries

  • shampoo, conditioner, body wash
  • razor and shaving items
  • deodorant
  • dental kit
  • hair ties and clips
  • travel-size perfume or body spray
  • face cleanser

Medical Essentials

  • pain relievers
  • antihistamines
  • motion sickness tablets
  • diarrhea tablets (important)
  • electrolyte packets
  • antiseptic cream
  • plasters and bandages
  • tweezers
  • personal medications

These items are essential for avoiding common travel issues such as dehydration, stomach sensitivity, and sunburn.

Electronics & Useful Travel Gadgets

Technology can make your trip easier and more enjoyable.

Must-Have Electronics

  • phone + charger
  • powerbank (very important)
  • universal adapter
  • waterproof phone pouch
  • camera/GoPro

Useful Extras

  • mini USB fan
  • portable Wi-Fi device (optional)
  • spare memory card
  • noise-canceling earphones (great for long transfers)

Packing for Families & Children

If traveling with kids, prepare extra items to keep them comfortable and safe.

Clothing

  • UV shirts
  • hats
  • comfortable sandals for hotel
  • lightweight trainers for tours

Snacks & Hydration

  • juice boxes
  • crackers or snacks
  • reusable bottle

Entertainment

  • coloring book
  • small toys or cards
  • tablet with downloaded movies

Health & Safety

  • child-friendly sunscreen
  • motion sickness medicine
  • hydration sachets

Baby Supplies (if needed)

  • diapers
  • wet wipes
  • baby rash cream
  • baby food or formula
  • portable stroller (lightweight)

Complete Packing Checklist (Master List)

This all-in-one list covers everything you might need for your Egypt holiday:

Clothing

  • t-shirts and breathable tops
  • long-sleeve UV shirts
  • shorts
  • long trousers or leggings
  • swimwear
  • light jacket
  • scarf/shemagh
  • hat or cap
  • sports shoes + flip flops

For Snorkeling Trips

  • mask and snorkel
  • fins
  • water shoes
  • waterproof bag
  • towel
  • sunscreen

For Desert Tours

  • scarf/shemagh
  • sunglasses
  • closed shoes
  • reusable water bottle
  • gloves (optional)
  • long trousers

And City Tours

  • modest clothing
  • comfortable shoes
  • backpack
  • sun protection
  • travel pillow

Toiletries

  • shampoo, conditioner
  • sunblock
  • after-sun
  • deodorant
  • face wash
  • dental kit

Medical Items

  • painkillers
  • anti-diarrheal tablets
  • antihistamines
  • electrolyte powders
  • antiseptic cream
  • plasters
  • motion sickness tablets

Electronics

  • phone
  • chargers
  • powerbank
  • waterproof case
  • GoPro
  • universal adapter

Documents

  • passport
  • printed confirmations
  • travel insurance
  • emergency contacts

Miscellaneous

  • snack bars
  • reusable bottle
  • notepad
  • sunglasses
  • beach bag

Final Packing Tips for Egypt

1. Pack light but smart

You don’t need a huge suitcase — only what’s practical and necessary.

2. Protect yourself from the sun

Even cloudy days can cause sunburn.

3. Bring comfortable shoes

Walking in markets, desert areas, and historical sites requires proper footwear.

4. Have backup hydration and electrolytes

The heat can drain your energy quickly.

5. Use a waterproof bag on any boat trip

Saltwater can easily ruin electronics.

6. Plan your outfits based on excursions

Organizing clothes by activity makes mornings easier.

Conclusion

Egypt offers unforgettable experiences: colorful coral reefs, majestic deserts, ancient temples, and lively markets. To fully enjoy these excursions, packing properly is essential. The combination of sun, wind, sand, and sea requires a thoughtful approach — but with the checklist above, you’re fully prepared for every adventure.

Whether you’re wondering what to pack for Egypt, what to bring on a Hurghada snorkeling tour, or how to get ready for a desert safari, this comprehensive guide ensures comfort, safety, and a stress-free holiday. With the right gear, your Egyptian journey will be more enjoyable, easier to navigate, and filled with lasting memories.