Egypt is a destination that requires some of the most careful packing of any destination in the world. You’ll visit ancient temples and mosques (requiring modest dress), trek across desert landscapes (requiring sun protection and comfortable shoes), and potentially dive world-class Red Sea reefs (requiring swimwear and reef gear) — all in one trip. This Egypt packing list for women covers all of it.
Egypt Dress Code for Women
Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country and modest dress is important, especially in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and at religious sites. Beach resorts on the Red Sea (Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh) are significantly more relaxed.
- Cover shoulders and knees in cities, markets, and temples
- Loose, breathable clothing is both modest and practical in the heat
- A large scarf is invaluable — use it to cover your head when entering mosques
- At Red Sea beach resorts, swimwear is completely acceptable at the beach and pool
Egypt Packing List: Clothing
- 4–5 lightweight, loose tops with sleeves (linen or cotton)
- 2–3 maxi dresses or long skirts
- 2 pairs of lightweight, loose trousers
- A long cardigan or light jacket for air-conditioned museums and cool desert nights
- 2–3 swimsuits for Red Sea beach days
- A beach cover-up or sarong
Egypt Packing List: Footwear
- Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes — temple sites involve a lot of walking on uneven ancient stone
- Sandals for beach and resort days
- Slip-on shoes for mosques (easy removal)
Egypt Packing List: Sun & Desert Essentials
- SPF 50+ sunscreen — Egypt’s desert sun is intense year-round
- A wide-brim hat or cap
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- A large scarf or pashmina (sun protection, mosque cover, cold desert nights)
- A reusable water bottle — stay constantly hydrated
- Lip balm with SPF
Egypt Packing List: Health Essentials
- Stomach medication (traveller’s diarrhea is common — be cautious with tap water and raw foods)
- Hand sanitizer
- Antihistamine
- Water purification tablets or filtered bottle
- Any prescription medications in original packaging
Egypt Practical Essentials
- Cash in Egyptian Pounds — many sites, guides, and local restaurants prefer cash
- Travel insurance
- Type C/G power adapter
- Portable charger — long temple days away from outlets
- Small denominations for tipping (tipping culture is strong in Egypt)
What NOT to Pack for Egypt
- Shorts or sleeveless tops for city days — Save them for the beach resort.
- Expensive jewelry — Keep it simple, especially in Cairo markets.
- Very light-colored clothing for Luxor and Aswan — Dust and sand gets everywhere. Stick to mid-tones.
For detailed outfit ideas for every Egyptian destination, read our full What to Wear in Egypt guide.
