Hurghada does not need much, and the few things people forget cost them a day each time. This is what actually matters.
Sun protection first
This is the category that ruins holidays. The sun here is stronger than almost anywhere in Europe and the sea breeze hides it completely.
- High-factor sunscreen, and more than you think. Reef-safe if you are snorkeling.
- A wide-brimmed hat. A cap leaves your ears and neck exposed.
- Sunglasses with UV protection, and a strap if you are going on a boat.
- A rash vest or long-sleeved swim top. The single most useful item on this list — your back faces the sun for hours while you snorkel, and sunscreen washes off.
- After-sun or aloe, because someone always overdoes it.
Clothing
Light, loose and breathable. Cotton and linen over synthetics.
- Swimwear — two sets, because one is always wet.
- Shorts, t-shirts, light dresses for the resort.
- Something that covers shoulders and knees for the markets, mosques and churches. A light long-sleeved shirt and long trousers or a maxi skirt cover every situation.
- A scarf — head covering for mosques, sun protection in the desert, and a layer on a cold boat ride.
- A warm layer. Desert evenings drop sharply year round, and December and January nights on the coast are genuinely cool.
- Closed shoes for desert trips and temple visits. Sandals for everything else.
For the water
- Your own mask if you have one that fits. A mask that seals properly is the difference between a good day and a frustrating one.
- Water shoes if you plan to enter the sea from a beach rather than a boat ladder.
- A dry bag or waterproof phone pouch.
- Certified divers: your card and logbook. Nobody will take your word for it.
Medicines and health
- Any prescription medication, in its original packaging, with enough for the whole trip.
- Rehydration sachets — the most useful thing in the bag if anything goes wrong.
- Anti-diarrhoeal and indigestion tablets.
- Motion sickness tablets. Take them before boarding, not after.
- Antihistamines, plasters, antiseptic.
- Insect repellent, mainly for the evenings.
Documents and money
- Passport, plus a photo of it on your phone.
- Travel insurance details — and if you are diving, check the policy actually covers it.
- Cash in small notes for tips, markets and taxis.
- A universal adapter. Egypt uses European two-pin plugs, 220V.
What to leave at home
- Heavy walking boots — unnecessary unless you are climbing Mount Sinai.
- Large quantities of toiletries. Everything is available and cheaper here.
- Drone equipment — restricted in Egypt and likely to be confiscated at the airport.
- Anything valuable you would be upset to lose on a boat.
Seasonal note
November to March: add a proper jacket and a jumper for evenings. June to September: double the sun protection and add electrolyte tablets.
Booked a desert or diving trip and unsure what it needs? Each trip page lists it, or message us and we will tell you.
