What to Wear in Egypt: Essential Clothing Tips for Tourists
Stephanie Patterson
Table of Contents
Planning a trip to Egypt can be exciting, but deciding what to wear can be daunting. As someone who has traveled to Egypt, I understand the importance of dressing appropriately for the culture and climate.
Egypt is a conservative country, and it is essential to respect the local customs and traditions. Therefore, it is crucial to pack the right clothes to ensure a comfortable and respectful trip.
When it comes to what to wear in Egypt, it is essential to consider the hot and dry climate. Egypt is known for its scorching temperatures, particularly during the summer months.
Therefore, it is crucial to pack lightweight and breathable clothing that will keep you cool and comfortable.
At the same time, it is important to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, and avoiding tight or revealing clothing.
While packing for Egypt, it is also important to consider the activities you plan to do. If you plan to visit archaeological sites, it is advisable to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes that can handle the dusty and rocky terrain.
Additionally, it is essential to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong sun rays. With these considerations in mind, you can pack a suitable wardrobe that will help you navigate Egypt’s culture and climate with ease.
Egyptian Clothing Culture
As a traveler, it’s important to respect the local culture and customs of the country you’re visiting. Egypt is no exception.
The clothing culture in Egypt is heavily influenced by the Islamic faith, and it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Local women in Egypt typically wear loose-fitted clothing that covers their knees and shoulders, and many also wear the hijab or niqab.
Men in Egypt commonly wear Western-style clothing such as trousers, shirts, and suits for work, but still wear traditional garments on certain occasions.
When visiting Egypt, it’s best to dress conservatively and avoid wearing revealing clothing. This means covering your shoulders and knees, and avoiding tight-fitting clothing.
Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen to stay cool in the hot Egyptian climate.
It’s also important to note that Egypt is a conservative country, and public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.
Avoid wearing clothing with offensive language or graphics, and be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
Weather and Climate
As someone who has traveled to Egypt, I can tell you that the weather can vary depending on the season. Generally, Egypt has a desert climate, which means it’s dry and hot.
However, there are some variations throughout the year that you should be aware of when packing.
If you’re planning a trip during the summer months, which run from May to October, you can expect temperatures to be hot and often exceed 100°F (38°C).
It’s important to pack lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton or linen to stay cool. Loose-fitting clothing is also recommended to help you stay comfortable in the heat.
Keep in mind that during the hottest months, it’s best to avoid being outside during the middle of the day when the sun is at its strongest.
If you’re planning a trip during the cooler months, which run from November to April, you can expect temperatures to be milder, but still warm.
During the day, temperatures can range from the mid-60s°F (18°C) to the mid-80s°F (29°C). However, it can get cooler at night, so it’s a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater.
It’s also worth noting that Egypt can experience sandstorms, which are common during the spring months.
If you’re traveling during this time, it’s a good idea to pack a scarf or bandana to cover your nose and mouth, as well as protective eyewear to keep sand out of your eyes.
Appropriate Clothing for Men
When it comes to dressing in Egypt, men should keep in mind the conservative nature of the country. In urban areas like Cairo, it is preferable for men to wear long trousers and a shirt or T-shirt.
It is also important to note that shorts are generally not acceptable in public places outside of beach resorts. For those planning to visit religious sites, it is essential to dress appropriately.
Men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves that cover the shoulders. It is also recommended to avoid wearing hats inside mosques and other religious buildings.
In addition to the conservative dress code, it is important to dress for the heat and dust. Loose and breathable fabrics like linen and cotton are highly recommended.
It is also a good idea to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect against the sun and sand. When it comes to footwear, comfortable and sturdy shoes are a must. Sandals or flip-flops are not recommended for walking around in the cities or visiting historical sites.
Overall, men should aim for modest and comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the weather and cultural norms of Egypt. By following these guidelines, visitors can ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience in this fascinating country.
Appropriate Clothing for Women
As a woman traveling to Egypt, it is important to be mindful of the country’s conservative culture and dress appropriately. Generally, women in Egypt wear long-sleeved shirts and pants or long skirts.
However, the clothing you choose to wear will depend on your destination within Egypt. In the big cities, such as Cairo and Alexandria, the dress code is more modern, and you can wear Western-style clothing.
However, it is still advisable to cover your shoulders and knees. Wearing tight or revealing clothing is not recommended, as it may attract unwanted attention.
If you are traveling to smaller cities, towns, or villages, it is best to dress more conservatively. Women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders, chest, and knees.
Long skirts or loose pants are ideal, and it is recommended to wear a scarf or shawl to cover your head when visiting mosques or other religious sites. It is also important to note that Egypt can get very hot, especially during the summer months.
Choosing lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen can help you stay cool and comfortable while still dressing appropriately. Overall, it is important to be respectful of Egypt’s culture and customs when choosing what to wear.
By dressing modestly and appropriately, you can enjoy your travels while showing respect for the local culture.
Accessories and Footwear
When it comes to accessories and footwear, it’s important to strike a balance between comfort and style. The weather in Egypt can be quite hot, so it’s important to wear breathable and lightweight footwear.
For women, a pair of comfortable sandals or flats will do the trick. If you plan on visiting any religious sites, it’s important to bring a pair of socks to wear inside.
This is because you’ll need to remove your shoes before entering, and the ground can be quite hot. For men, a pair of closed-toe shoes such as loafers or sneakers will work well.
It’s also a good idea to bring a pair of socks for visiting religious sites. In terms of accessories, a hat or cap is a must-have item to protect your head from the sun.
Sunglasses are also essential to protect your eyes from the bright sunlight. A small backpack or cross-body bag is a great accessory to bring along when exploring Egypt.
It’s important to keep your belongings close to you at all times, and a bag will help you do just that. Just make sure to keep your valuables in a secure compartment.
Overall, when it comes to accessories and footwear, comfort and practicality should be your top priorities. With the right items, you’ll be able to explore Egypt in style and comfort.
What Not to Wear in Egypt
When traveling to Egypt, it is important to dress appropriately to show respect for the local culture and customs. As a woman, I have found that there are certain clothing items that are best avoided to avoid unwanted attention and to fit in with the local dress code.
Here are some things not to wear in Egypt:
Mini Skirts and Shorts: It is best to avoid wearing mini skirts and shorts in Egypt, as they are not culturally appropriate. Women should consider wearing long pants or trousers instead.
Tight Clothing: Tight clothing can also attract unwanted attention, so it is best to avoid it. Loose-fitting clothing is more appropriate and comfortable in the hot climate.
Revealing Clothing: Revealing clothing, such as low-cut tops and crop tops, should be avoided in Egypt. It is best to wear clothing that covers the chest and shoulders.
Jewelry: Wearing too much jewelry can also attract unwanted attention. It is best to keep it simple and avoid wearing expensive or flashy pieces.
Political Clothing: It is important to avoid wearing clothing with political slogans or emblems, as this can be seen as disrespectful or offensive.
Swimwear: Swimwear should only be worn at the beach or pool. It is not appropriate to wear swimwear in public places.
In summary, when traveling to Egypt, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully to fit in with the local culture and customs.
By avoiding certain clothing items, such as mini skirts, tight clothing, revealing clothing, excessive jewelry, political clothing, and swimwear in public places, travelers can show respect for the local culture and avoid unwanted attention.
Conclusion
Overall, when it comes to what to wear in Egypt, it is important to prioritize comfort and modesty. The hot and dusty climate means that lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural materials like cotton or linen is ideal.
Loose-fitting clothes will help keep you cool and covered, while closed-toe shoes will protect your feet from dust and debris.
It is also important to be respectful of the local culture and dress modestly, covering your shoulders and cleavage and avoiding having your back exposed. This is particularly important when visiting religious sites.
While it may be tempting to wear shorts and tank tops to stay cool, it is best to opt for longer, looser clothing that covers more skin. This will not only help you stay comfortable in the heat, but it will also show respect for the local customs and culture.
Finally, don’t forget to pack a few essential items like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sun. And if you plan on swimming, make sure to bring appropriate swimwear that covers your body.
