What to Wear in Egypt

Packing the right clothes for Egypt is key to having a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Egypt’s climate and cultural customs play a big role in how you should dress, especially if you want to feel comfortable and show respect for local traditions. Let’s break down what you need to know when deciding what to wear in Egypt, no matter the season or the destination.

General Guidelines

While Egypt is relatively relaxed compared to some other countries in the region, it’s still a conservative country. This means it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. For both men and women, covering your shoulders and knees is considered respectful and will help you avoid unwanted attention.

Women: Opt for loose-fitting clothing like long skirts, dresses, or lightweight pants paired with tops that cover your shoulders. Not only does this show respect for local customs, but it’s also the best way to stay cool in the heat.
Men: Stick to long pants or knee-length shorts with t-shirts or lightweight button-up shirts. Sleeveless shirts are fine for beach resorts but less common in cities or religious sites.

Pro Tip: Egyptians are friendly and welcoming, and while tourists aren’t expected to dress exactly like locals, respecting the cultural norms will go a long way in ensuring a smooth experience.

What to Wear by Season

Since Egypt’s temperatures can vary quite a bit depending on when and where you visit, here’s a breakdown of what to pack for different seasons.

Winter (December to February)

The winter months in Egypt are mild, with cooler evenings and mornings. In cities like Cairo, temperatures can dip as low as 10°C (50°F) at night, while daytime temps range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

What to Pack: You’ll want to bring layers! A light jacket or sweater is ideal for mornings and evenings, while long-sleeved shirts and light pants are perfect for daytime exploring. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes for navigating ancient sites and city streets.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to visit the Western Desert or camp in the desert overnight, pack a warmer jacket as the temperature can drop significantly after sunset.

Spring and Fall (March to May, September to November)

These are the most comfortable times to visit Egypt, with pleasant temperatures that typically range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).

What to Pack: This is when lightweight clothing shines. Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are your best friends for staying cool while keeping covered. A scarf or shawl is handy for sun protection during the day and can be used to cover your head when visiting mosques or religious sites.
Pro Tip: Spring can bring the Khamsin winds, which are dry, dusty, and can get pretty intense. Pack sunglasses and a light scarf to protect yourself from dust during windy days.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Egypt can be scorching hot, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F) in places like Luxor and Aswan. Cairo and the northern coast tend to be slightly cooler, but it’s still very warm.

What to Pack: Go for loose, breathable clothing that keeps you covered but doesn’t trap heat. Long, flowy skirts or linen pants paired with airy tops are ideal. Men should also stick to loose, light clothing. Avoid synthetic fabrics—they don’t breathe and will make the heat feel even more intense.
Pro Tip: A wide-brimmed hat or cap is a must to protect yourself from the strong sun. Also, make sure to wear sunscreen and sunglasses to shield your skin and eyes.

What to Wear for Different Activities

Egypt is home to a variety of activities, from temple-hopping in the desert to snorkeling in the Red Sea, so your wardrobe might need a little versatility.

Exploring Historic Sites

Walking around sites like the Pyramids of Giza, Karnak Temple, or the Valley of the Kings can be hot and dusty, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking!

What to Wear: Comfortable, breathable clothing that covers your skin to protect from the sun. Don’t forget sturdy, comfortable walking shoes—you’ll be climbing over ancient stones, so sandals may not cut it.
Pro Tip: A hat and sunglasses are your best friends for sun protection. Always bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Visiting Mosques or Religious Sites

When visiting Egypt’s beautiful mosques, like the Al-Azhar Mosque or the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, dressing modestly is essential.

What to Wear: Women should bring a light scarf to cover their heads, and everyone should wear clothing that covers their arms and legs. Long skirts or pants and loose-fitting tops are ideal. Men should avoid shorts or sleeveless shirts.
Pro Tip: Some mosques will provide robes for visitors if you’re not dressed appropriately, but it’s always good to be prepared with your own clothing.

Beach Resorts and the Red Sea

If you’re heading to Egypt’s stunning Red Sea coast or Sinai Peninsula for some sun, sand, and snorkeling, the dress code is more relaxed.

What to Wear: Feel free to wear swimsuits at the beach or by the pool, but keep in mind that covering up is still important when you’re not swimming. A beach cover-up or sarong is great for transitioning from the beach to walking around the resort.
Pro Tip: Outside of beach areas, it’s best to revert to more modest clothing, especially in smaller towns or when interacting with locals.

Packing Essentials

Here are a few must-have items for your Egypt wardrobe:

Lightweight scarf: A versatile piece that can be used for sun protection, as a cover-up for mosques, or even as a light wrap for cool evenings.
Comfortable walking shoes: Egypt’s streets and historic sites can be uneven, so sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must.
Sunscreen and sunglasses: The sun is strong, even in winter, so protecting your skin and eyes is essential.
Hat: A wide-brimmed hat or cap to keep the sun off your face during outdoor adventures.

In Summary

When it comes to what to wear in Egypt, it’s all about finding the balance between comfort, practicality, and respect for the local culture. Loose, breathable fabrics will keep you cool, while modest clothing helps you blend in and show respect in this wonderfully rich and historic land. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, lounging on the Red Sea, or wandering the bustling streets of Cairo, dressing appropriately will enhance your experience and make your trip to Egypt even more enjoyable!