[Egypt Pre-trip Preparation] The Ultimate Checklist for Travelers: Visas, Money & Packing
Congratulations! You are about to embark on a dream journey to the land of ancient civilizations. But amidst the excitement, are you feeling a bit overwhelmed by the logistics of visas, flights, currency exchange, and packing? It is now November 2025, the perfect season for travel. A perfect trip to Egypt begins with thorough Egypt Pre-trip Preparation.
This ultimate guide is the “peace of mind” we have written for travelers. Follow our checklist step-by-step, pack up your excitement, and get ready to head to the land of the pyramids with confidence. Let’s get started!
Part 1: Documents, Money & Connectivity
1. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Travelers holding eligible passports (such as Taiwan, US, UK, EU) can obtain a Visa on Arrival. Please prepare the following before departure:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months.
- 2 colored 2-inch passport photos (as a backup).
- $25 USD in Cash (Must be crisp, clean bills without folds or marks).
2. Prepare Cash & Credit Cards
It is recommended to exchange enough “new” US Dollars in your home country first. You can then exchange them for Egyptian Pounds (EGP) at reputable exchange offices at the airport or in the city for better rates. Credit cards are accepted in large hotels and restaurants, but cash is still king in small shops and markets.
3. Purchase Travel Insurance
This is an essential investment for your protection! Be sure to purchase adequate “Travel Inconvenience Insurance” and “Overseas Medical Insurance.”
4. Prepare an Egypt SIM Card
You can buy a SIM card from local telecom providers (like Orange, Vodafone) after arriving at Cairo Airport, or purchase an eSIM in advance for convenience so you are connected the moment you land.
5. Download Useful Apps
Pre-download Uber / Careem (for ride-hailing), Google Maps (download offline maps), and Google Translate.
Part 2: The Art of Packing
The golden rules of packing are “onion-style layering” and “sun protection.” Egypt’s climate is dry with large temperature differences between day and night, and the roads can be uneven and dusty.
| Category | Essential Items | Pro Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Documents | Passport (original/copy), E-ticket, Visa fee (USD), Photos | Keep copies and originals separate. |
| Clothing | Breathable long sleeves/pants, Warm jacket, Scarf/Shawl, Swimwear | Nights get cold; a jacket is a must. A scarf is versatile for sun, sand, and mosques. |
| Shoes | Comfortable walking shoes/sneakers, Sandals/Flip-flops | You will be walking a lot. Good shoes are critical! |
| Sun Protection | High SPF sunscreen, Sunglasses, Sun hat | The Egyptian sun is intense; physical protection is more effective. |
| Medicine | Stomach meds, Painkillers, Band-aids, Repellent, Personal prescriptions | Water/food adjustments happen; stomach medicine is a must! |
| Electronics | Phone, Camera, Power bank, Adapter (Type C/F) | |
| Toiletries | Toothbrush/paste, Cleanser, Moisturizer, Wet wipes, Hand sanitizer | Most local hotels do not provide toothbrushes. |
| 🌟 Key Items 🌟 | Durable Hard-shell Suitcase, Anti-theft Money Belt, Face Masks | Egypt’s roads are uneven and dusty. A sturdy suitcase makes the trip much easier! |
Part 3: Health & Safety Precautions
6. Dietary Precautions
- Drink ONLY bottled water: Never drink tap water; it is recommended to use bottled water for brushing teeth as well.
- Avoid raw foods: Try to choose fully cooked meals.
- Be cautious with street food: Ensure hygiene standards.
7. Understand Tipping (Baksheesh)
In Egypt, tipping (Baksheesh) is both politeness and a custom, acting as a “lubricant” for services. You will need it for restrooms, hotel porters, drivers, etc. It is recommended to keep plenty of small denomination Egyptian Pounds (e.g., 5, 10, 20 EGP).
8. Beware of Common Tourist Scams
Maintain a healthy skepticism of overly “enthusiastic” strangers, especially in tourist areas. Remember, there is no such thing as a free lunch. We have another article, [Egypt Anti-Scam Guide], which we suggest you read in detail.
Common Questions FAQ
Q1: What are the voltage and plug specifications in Egypt?
The voltage in Egypt is 220V, and the sockets are European standard two-pin round (Type C / F). Most electronics from Taiwan/US (like phones, laptops) support international voltage, but you will need a plug adapter.
Q2: Do I need any vaccinations for Egypt?
Currently (2025), there are no “mandatory” vaccinations required for travelers from Taiwan/most countries entering Egypt. However, it is recommended to check the latest travel health advice on the Taiwan CDC website or your local health authority one month before departure and consult a doctor.
Q3: Is there a time difference between Taiwan and Egypt?
Yes. Egypt uses the UTC+2 time zone, while Taiwan uses UTC+8. Therefore, Egypt is 6 hours behind Taiwan. For example, when it is 4:00 PM in Taiwan, it is 10:00 AM in Egypt.
Conclusion
Thorough preparation is the cornerstone of a perfect trip to Egypt. This checklist covers all the critical details from departure to return, hoping to eliminate your anxiety so you can focus on experiencing the majesty of the pyramids, the grandeur of the temples, and the gentleness of the Nile. Now, save this checklist and start the final countdown to your dream journey!
Read More 👉 [2025 Update] Egypt Visa on Arrival Made Easy! 5 Steps to Get Your Visa Fast!