What to Pack for Egypt Trip

It is a good idea to make a list of the things you plan to pack for your trip to Egypt. That way you can be sure that you will not miss out bringing along things that you will need on your Egypt tour. Although Egypt is a modern country, and you will be able to find almost everything you need from sunglasses, sunblock to adapters, you might want to take along your favorite brands (that you may not find in Egypt.

In any case, we have compiled a list of important items that you might want to consider packing for your Egypt trip.

Sunglasses
Even if you are traveling to Egypt during the winter months, there is still bright sunny skies in Egypt at that time. Sunglasses will come in handy when visiting the pyramids and temples in the vast expanse of the dessert. And if you do not want to go hunting for a perfect pair of sunglasses to help with the sunny glare, then do not forget this essential piece of item when packing!

Hat
A hat will come in handy to block off the sun's rays. A large brimmed hat will do the trick.

Shawl or Scarf
If you plan to visit mosques or churches, then please note that women will be more acceptable if they are wearing some sort of head covering. In addition, scarves or other apparel should be taken along to cover shoulders and arms, and again, or not only important for visiting religious sites, but also to keep the sun off during treks. In very hot weather, a cloth hat or scarf that can be soaked will also help keep your head cool. So pack that shawl or scarf, and carry it in your handbag or backpack when sight-seeing.

Sun block
While sun blocks may be purchased in Egypt, you might prefer to bring your own favorite brand, but do bring it. We have often, and I wish to emphasis, very often, seen tourists with painful sunburns after a days worth of sightseeing.

Water Bottle
Bring a large water bottle that you can carry around in your backpack or handbag. You can fill it with water (bottled water) in your hotel room before you start your day of sight-seeing. Tourists spots do sell water, but at exorbitant prices. So don't forget your water bottle.

Shoes
Pack closed-toes comfortable walking shoes. You will be walking a lot in Egypt so comfortable shoes are essential. And covered-toes shoes are best in keeping your feet from being covered in dust and sand!Tennis shoes or other sporting type of shoes are good for this.

Power Adapters
Power Adapters come in two different varieties. Some electronic equipment have switches to allow you to change the power input type. For these, a simple wall adapter is all that is required. However, other electronic devices do not have such switches and in this case, you not only need a wall adapter, but also a power converter. Egypt uses 220 volt and plugs are two prong rounded.

Antibacterial Hand Wash or Sanitizer Gel
What with the buzz about H1N1 the last few months, it makes sense to pack this into your backpack.

Warm clothes
If you are traveling in the winter months, do not underestimate how cool Egypt can get outside of the summer months, especially in the desert and along the coastline. During this period it’s a good idea to bring a warm fleece, scarf and maybe even a hat.

Diarrhoea Medication
The chances of catching diarrhoea are better than average in Egypt. But don’t let that put you off. It’s worth every stomach rumble. So pack your medication - Imodium or the like.

Cash
It’s best to bring a mix so that you are never caught short. Cash (local currency & one other major currency), traveler's checks, and an ATM card. If possible, it is recommended that you have some small denominations of notes kept aside for tipping.

Travel Insurance Documents
Make sure you carry your proof of coverage and 24 hour emergency phone number close by you at all times. The first thing any doctor will ask for is travel insurance; either that or enough cash upfront to take care of you.