First Time in Egypt? 12 Practical Tips That Make the Trip Easier

Published October 14, 2026

Egypt is welcoming, easy to love and, for a first visit, occasionally a little overwhelming. Most of the small frustrations travellers mention come down to the same handful of things. Here is what to know before you go.

1. Carry cash, in small notes

Hotels, larger restaurants and shops take cards, but taxis, markets, small cafés and tips are paid in cash. ATMs are common in towns and resorts. Keep a stack of small notes in Egyptian pounds — breaking a large note is often harder than finding one.

2. Tipping is part of daily life

Tipping, often called baksheesh, is expected for many small services: hotel staff, drivers, guides, boat crews, toilet attendants, someone who helps with luggage. It is normal, not a scam. Small amounts are fine; for guides and drivers on a full day, a more generous tip at the end is customary.

3. Dress for respect, and for the sun

In resorts, beachwear is normal at the hotel and beach. In towns, and especially at mosques and churches, cover shoulders and knees; women may be asked to cover their hair inside mosques. Light, loose, long clothing is also the best protection from the sun.

4. Take the sun seriously

The sun is strong all year, even in winter, and stronger still on the water. Use high-factor sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses, drink plenty of water and plan sightseeing for the morning.

5. Drink bottled water

Drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water, and use it for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach. Bottled water is cheap and sold everywhere.

6. Agree the price before you ride

In taxis without a meter, agree the price before you get in. In Cairo, ride-hailing apps are widely used and remove the negotiation entirely. For excursions, a tour with hotel pickup is usually the simplest way to travel.

7. Haggling is expected in markets

In bazaars and souvenir shops, the first price is the start of a conversation. Stay friendly, smile, decide what something is worth to you, and be ready to walk away. Fixed-price shops and supermarkets do not haggle.

8. "No, thank you" works

Vendors and touts can be persistent at the big sites. A calm, polite "no, thank you" — la, shukran in Arabic — and walking on is all it takes.

9. Ask before photographing people

Most people are happy to be photographed if you ask first. Some may ask for a small tip. Photography rules inside tombs and museums vary, and some areas need an extra photo ticket.

10. Stay connected

Mobile data makes everything easier — maps, ride apps, messaging your guide. Buy a local SIM at the airport, or set up an eSIM before you travel so you are online the moment you land.

11. Respect the rhythm of the week

Friday is the main day of prayer, and some shops and offices open later. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during daylight is best avoided out of respect, though hotels and tourist restaurants continue as normal.

12. Book the big experiences ahead

Nile cruises, the Luxor balloon, Abu Simbel and popular boat trips fill up in high season. Booking a few days ahead — with free cancellation where possible — keeps your plans flexible.

Plan your first trip

Pick a city and compare the best-rated tours, day trips and experiences across Egypt, all with real traveller reviews. New to Egypt and staying on the Red Sea? Our guide to Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh helps you choose.

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