Choosing what to wear in Egypt as a woman can be, well, intimidating. After all, though they are no stranger to tourists, Egypt is still a Muslim country. Luckily, this women’s packing list for Egypt will set you up for success! Combining comfort and modesty, this includes everything I would suggest for an Egypt packing list.
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Egypt is beyond fascinating. Home to one of the original 7 Wonders of the World, this is likely a place you’ve studied or dreamed of visiting since elementary school.
However, visiting as a female – whether you are solo traveling Egypt or traveling with friends or family – does carry a few extra considerations that our male counterparts don’t need to worry about. Story of our lives, amiright?
One of the biggest hurdles to tackle for females is often what to wear in Egypt that won’t attract unwanted attention. That is exactly why I created this packing list for women, discussing what to wear around Egypt for comfort and safety.
Pro Tip: Be sure to check out my top travel safety items and gear. This list covers everything from pickpocket-proof gear, personal safety, and health and wellness.
One disclaimer, for those embarking on a seaside resort vacation in Hurghada or the like, you will have a bit more leeway. Resorts in Egypt are no strangers to western wardrobes.
But, this list is exactly what I wore throughout the country, while actively meeting locals and going it alone. Plus, I fit all of this is one single carry on bag.
So, if that sounds like you, let me help you out! Here is exactly what to wear in Egypt as a woman traveler.
What To Wear in Egypt: A Packing List for Women
The first thing to note – that I’m willing to bet you are already aware of – is that the citizens of Middle Eastern countries tend to dress more conservatively than in the west.
So while you may be able to get away with tiny bikinis and revealing clothing in the seaside resorts, I would strongly discourage it elsewhere. Egypt has Muslim roots regardless of the frequent tourists, and I always consider it best to respect the local customs. After all, you are a guest in their country!
Below I have listed items that I personally recommend and traveled with myself. These are the tried and true items that I find to be the perfect balance between comfort and modesty. And, bonus, most of these same items have traveled with me to Dubai, Oman, Jordan, and more.
Here is exactly what to pack for Egypt as a woman!
You May Also Like: Egypt Travel Tips
1. Long Pants
For the first item on your Egypt packing list, I recommend three pairs of long pants. One is for on the plane, to be washed and reused, and two fresh pairs for arrival. The perfect trifecta consists of comfy sweats, fitted leggings, and flowy pants.
Comfy Sweats
The first set to bring is some comfy sweats for the flight. On long-haul overnight flights, it can get very cold up in the sky – trust me, you’ll thank me later.
In the hot summer months, these can be reused in the cold air-conditioning of your hotel room. In winter, especially if you plan to travel to the Egyptian desert, these will come in handy for the chilly overnight air.
Fitted Leggings
The second pair pants that I highly recommend (and the ones I wear most often) is a pair of thick black leggings. These leggings are soft yet sturdy, with a thick high waistband and no see-through fabric.
My rule of thumb for wearing tight leggings in any conservative country: pair them with a long and loose top that covers your hips and curves (more details on these shirts later). I love to pack leggings because I can double-dip by using these as workout pants for the hotel gym, or doing yoga outdoors.
Palazzo Pants
The third and last pair of pants I packed for Egypt was a pair of long and flowy palazzo pants. This type of pant is great for visiting mosques, or for hot and sweaty summer days, or when you just want to be more modest in public. Win, win, win.
2. Tank Top and Kimono Combo
It can definitely get hot in Egypt, so loose and flowy clothing is key. One thing I have worn in every single Middle Eastern country I’ve visited is a kimono layered over a tank top. No women’s packing list for Egypt is complete without this combo, in my opinion! It will keep you modestly dressed but cool and comfortable.
A Flowy Kimono
For the kimono, I highly recommend a long and loose fabric like the one linked. Choosing one that is not too transparent is key.
If your kimono is long enough, this is a great top to pair with the tighter leggings, as it will cover your hips and butt in loose fabric. Simultaneously, it will keep you cool and comfortable.
Tank Top
The tank top can be any one that you already own. However, something like this simple option has a not-too-low neckline. Bonus, it comes in loads of colors and is also nice and loose.
This combo is essential for any women’s packing list for Egypt!
3. Long Maxi Skirt
Another item that women should pack for Egypt is a long flowy maxi skirt. Again, the theme here is a balance of comfort and modesty. Locals will treat you with respect rather than with stares.
Flowy Maxi Skirt
Skirts like this one are perfect for exploring mosques and museums, or even for walking around Cairo outdoors.
Long loose fabrics keep you cool and covered! It’s a perfect option for Egypt.
4. Loose Short Sleeve T-Shirts
Since showing your shoulders is often a “no” in the Middle East – and since you will likely want to switch up your kimono outfit during the week – a couple of comfortable t-shifts are a great wardrobe option.
Cute Colorblocks
A t-shirt like this one is a great choice. Though simple and comfortable, the pattern offers something a little bit more exciting than a plain shirt. It is intentionally loose but also something that you could wear back home, as well.
Simple Basics
Alternately, you could choose a shirt like this that is solid and simple. This is ideal for under another sweater or the kimono, as the solid color won’t contrast patterns.
The above shirts (or any other that you already own) are good options to pair with your wide leg palazzo pants or leggings.
5. A Bathing Suit
Though you probably picture “desert” and “pyramids” when you think about Egypt, the country does border quite a bit of water! The Mediterranean Sea sits to the north and the Red Sea to the east, with popular seaside towns like Hurghada sprinkled in.
Not to mention, plenty of hotels around Cairo have swimming pools that you will be grateful for after a full day of exploring. Having a pool is a real luxury in the summer heat. So, in my opinion, a bathing suit is a must.
A Cute One Piece
I find that in hotel swimming pools, bikinis are fairly common. But on public beaches, you may be more comfortable in a one-piece bathing suit. It’s up to you, but know that you may get some unwanted attention depending on where you are.
This one if my current favorite.
6. Lightweight Long Sleeve Options
I always pack some long sleeve tops, even in the summer. Though it may seem counterintuitive, oftentimes long sleeves help to keep you cooler due to physically blocking the sun from your skin.
A Lightweight Blouse
A long sleeve shirt like this one is perfect for exploring the cities and museums of Egypt. While I don’t recommend this for the desert or outdoor activities, it is perfect for perusing the spice-filled souks and mummy-filled museums.
A Loose Cardigan
In cooler months, or if you expect to be in air-conditioning a lot, then you should add a loose cardigan to your Egypt packing list.
You will thank me for this one if you are wondering what to pack for Egypt in the winter!
7. Scarves- Lots of Them!
Both at home and abroad, scarves are a true staple in my wardrobe. They can add warmth, or modesty, or a pop of color to any outfit.
While in Egypt, scarves are so useful for both everyday wear around your neck, or for draping over your head to enter the mosques.
A Sheer Scarf
I personally love the sheer lightweight scarves like this for the Middle East, as they are not so hot and heavy on your skin. In fact, I have this one in several colors and love it!
A Heavier Scarf
If visiting in the colder months, add a heavier scarf to your Egypt packing list. This scarf comes in several colors and is warmer than the sheer option above.
I usually bring two scarves for my trips, so that I can switch my outfits up and so that photos don’t get too repetitive. Any woman wondering what to wear in Egypt should pack this without a doubt.
If you don’t already own one, you can plan to buy a scarf in Egypt – there are plenty of beautiful options to choose from.
8. Flip Flops and Sandals
Everyone is a little bit different in their preferences, but I always opt for open shoes and sandals when possible. Here are my top sandal suggestions and exactly why you might need each. Note – I do not recommend packing all of the shoes listed below! Just the ones that match your trip’s planned activities.
Flip Flop Style
I always bring a pair of flip flops for the flights (ugh, overnight flights – amiright?) and also use them for the pool or beach. If you have accommodations with shared bathrooms, you will want these for the shower, too.
These ones are made from yoga mat material and are oh-so-comfy.
Strappy Flats
These type of sandals are great because they can be paired with a t-shirt and leggings or can be paired with a skirt and blouse. Versatility is the name of the game!
Trekking Sandals
Additionally, if you planning for any desert visits or rugged terrain, you may even want to pack a pair of trekking sandals. These exact shoes have gotten me across several continents and countless countries, and are still going strong!
9. Closed Toe Shoes
You should consider adding a pair of closed toe shoes to your women’s packing list for Egypt. The style will depend on your travel preferences. For example, maybe tennis shoes if you are likely to work out or hike, or ankle booties for the fashionable.
Ankle Booties
These ankle boots are great for walking around Cairo and beyond. These are for the traveler who wants to be fashionable, but is visiting in colder months when sandals wouldn’t be appropriate.
Casual Walking Sneakers
These casual sneakers are perfect for anyone who plans to walk the city or who just prefers more casual attire on the day to day. They are made from one of my favorite high quality brands.
Remember: I typically pack carry-on only, so space is a valuable commodity and I choose my items wisely. Depending on the season, and the activities I plan to do, only some of these shoes will make the cut.= – not all.
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10. Sunglasses and Hat
One of the things you will constantly wear in Egypt is a pair of sunglasses due to the bright sun. And, for my fair-skinned friends, you should probably opt for a hat like I always do.
A Wide Brim Fedora
I wear this exact hat when I go on trips that won’t involve beach or sand. It’s a bit more stylish than some of my others but fits super well. It is super sturdy and is a fax wool type of texture.
Foldable Panama Hat
I own this hat and it is one of my top picks for any trip. I always get loads of compliments! It provides tons of shade and is foldable for packing. Just be sure to un-crush it as soon as you arrive. Don’t leave it folded in your suitcase for days.
Stylish Sunglasses
You probably already own sunglasses, but if not, consider these. I love sunglasses with plastic rims like these because I find them more comfortable for all-day wear than the aviator style.
Your eyes and skin will both thank me for this reminder – the desert sun is no joke.
What To Pack for Women in Egypt: Extras
First and foremost, be sure to read up on the best travel safety gear for women. Many of the items on this list will keep you safe in terms of pickpockets, health, and personal safety.
Here are some additional items that you might want to consider packing for your trip. These are accessories and extras that will make your trip a breeze!
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And there you have it! These are my top items for women wondering what to pack and wear in Egypt. These items will have you feeling comfortable, prepared, and not without options.
Having made countless trips to the Middle East in the past decade, I can confidently say that these items will get you through your trip. The bottom line: light, loose clothing that is both modest and comfortable will work for everyone!
For more on Egypt, check out the following posts:
- Visiting the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt
- Best Things to Do in Cairo
- What to Wear in Egypt: A Packing List for Women
- Solo Female Travel in Egypt: What it’s REALLY Like
- Is Egypt Expensive To Visit?
- Visiting the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
- Egypt Travel Tips
- White Desert National Park in Egypt
- What NOT To Do in Egypt
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