Essential Egypt Travel Tips

No, you should never drink tap water directly in Egypt. Tap water is treated for basic sanitation but contains different mineral balances and micro-organisms that can upset an unaccustomed stomach. Always drink bottled, purified, or securely filtered water, and use bottled water when brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach. High-end hotels, Nile cruises, and established tourist restaurants use filtered ice, which is generally safe.

The easiest and most reliable way to stay connected is to purchase a local tourist SIM card or activate an eSIM immediately upon landing at the airport (Cairo, Hurghada, or Sharm El Sheikh). Major Egyptian telecom providers—including Vodafone, Orange, e& (Etisalat), and WE—have 24/7 service kiosks located in the baggage claim or arrivals halls offering affordable high-speed data packages tailored for tourists.

Egypt is a conservative country, and dressing modestly shows respect for local traditions:

• Historical Monuments & Cities: Lightweight, breathable clothing that covers shoulders, chest, and knees is recommended for both men and women (linen shirts, lightweight trousers, and maxi skirts are ideal).

• Mosques: Strict coverage is mandatory; women must cover their hair with a scarf and wear ankle-length skirts or loose trousers, and shoes must be removed at the door.

• Resorts & Cruise Decks: Standard Western swimwear, shorts, and tank tops are completely acceptable around hotel pools, private Red Sea beaches, and cruise sundecks.

Tipping, locally known as Baksheesh, is a widespread cultural norm and an essential part of the service economy in Egypt. Modest tips are customary for small services—such as luggage handling, restroom attendants, drivers, tour guides, and Nile cruise crews. Keep a supply of small banknotes (in Egyptian Pounds or US Dollars) easily accessible in your pocket to tip without having to open your wallet in crowded public areas.

ou will need a combination of both:

• Credit/Debit Cards: Mandatory for purchasing entrance tickets at major archaeological sites (most monument ticket windows are strictly cashless) and widely accepted at 4- and 5-star hotels, high-end restaurants, and supermarkets.

• Cash (EGP): Essential for tipping, paying local market vendors at bazaars like Khan el-Khalili, buying street food, and taking local taxis. ATMs are widely available across all cities and tourist hubs.

No, camera drones are strictly illegal in Egypt. Unauthorized importation, possession, or operation of drones without explicit prior clearance from the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority and military is prohibited. Attempting to bring a drone through airport customs will result in its immediate confiscation, fines, and potential legal complications. Leave your drone at home and rely on handheld cameras and smartphones instead.

Street vendors around popular monuments and market stalls can be quite assertive. The best approach is to remain calm, avoid engaging if you are not interested, smile, and politely say "La, Shukran" (Arabic for "No, thank you") while keeping up your walking pace. To avoid common scams, always book official camel/horse rides through your guide, buy monument tickets only at official ticket offices, and confirm taxi fares or use ride-hailing apps in advance.

Egypt operates on a 220V supply voltage at 50Hz. The standard electrical outlets accommodate Plug Types C and F (the standard European two-round-pin plugs). If you are traveling from North America or the UK, you will need a universal plug adapter, and you should ensure your electronic devices or hair styling tools support dual voltage (110V–240V).

For a comfortable day of temple and pyramid exploration, your daypack should always contain:

• High-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, and polarized sunglasses.

• A wide-brimmed sun hat or lightweight breathable scarf for dust and sun protection.

• An insulated reusable water bottle and electrolyte powder packets.

• Pocket packs of tissue paper and alcohol-based hand sanitizer (essential for public restroom stops).

• A small stash of Egyptian Pound cash for restroom tips and small vendor purchases.

• A portable power bank to keep your smartphone and camera charged throughout long excursion days.