So you’re going to Egypt. You’ve booked your flights and planned the perfect itinerary. On to one of the most challenging parts: What to wear while in Egypt?
Packing for Egypt is a balance between dressing appropriately for your itinerary and the hot weather, while still respecting the country’s more conservative cultural norms. The keys when deciding what to wear in Egypt are loose and flowy, conservative, and comfortable.
Loose & Flowy
It’s no surprise that the weather in Egypt can get hot and the sun is brutal. Your best options to wear in Egypt are flowy, lightweight fabrics. Cotton and linen clothes are your best option for battling the heat compared to synthetic materials, which don’t breathe as easily.
Scarves, hats, and loose, long-sleeved shirts are great for protecting your skin if you’ve already gotten too much sun.
If you’re traveling to Egypt in winter, make sure to pack layers. Winters are typically still warm, but it can get chilly at night or during the occasional cold front. I was so thankful that I packed a couple light jackets and a sweater, especially during my Nile cruise.
Conservative
As a general rule, you should plan to show less skin in Egypt than you would at home, but the standards for tourists were definitely more relaxed than I expected.
At tourist sites, I felt fine with my shoulders exposed and didn’t attract any unwanted attention. Although they were in the minority, there were women with their knees showing. I was also surprised when visiting mosques – my guide said that as a tourist I didn’t need to cover my hair. While I still chose to cover my head with a scarf, a lot of non-Egyptian women did not and it didn’t seem to be an issue.
Comfortable
A trip to Egypt usually involves a lot of walking and being outdoors, so being comfortable is key. Make sure your shoes are broken in and that your clothes are good for walking or standing all day.
I spent a lot of time researching what to wear in Egypt leading up to my trip and nearly everything I came across recommended flowy skirts or dresses. However, I don’t wear skirts or dresses often when I’m not on vacation, and I know that I’m not comfortable in them all day. When packing for your trip to Egypt, think about what you’ll actually wear. If you don’t like something at home, you probably won’t like wearing it while abroad.
All this to say, pack what makes you feel comfortable and confident, and ignore outfit ideas that don’t suit you personally.
As you’re deciding what to wear in Egypt, consider the potential for hot temperatures, stay mindful of the culture, and pack comfortably, and you’ll be good to go.
Check out the essential packing list for two weeks in Egypt!
Are you planning a trip to Egypt? What outfits are on your must-pack list?
