Trip Planning
The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.
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Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.
Travel Essentials
Check your routine vaccinations like MMR and DTP. Consider getting Hepatitis A and Typhoid shots, as these are recommended for most travelers. If you’re planning to stay for an extended period or will be in rural areas, consider Hepatitis B, Rabies, and even Japanese Encephalitis, though the latter is less common. Always consult with a healthcare provider or travel clinic for the most up-to-date advice tailored to your itinerary.
vaccination requirementsWhen I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.
These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Egypt, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.
There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.
Get your e-sim for EgyptCulture & Customs
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas; women should cover shoulders and knees, and men should avoid shorts. Always remove shoes when entering mosques. Use your right hand for eating and greeting. Avoid public displays of affection.
For LGBTQ+ travelers, avoid public displays of affection as homosexuality is not widely accepted and can lead to legal issues. Women travelers should consider traveling in groups and be cautious in crowded areas to avoid harassment.
Haggling is expected in markets, so negotiate prices. Never criticize religion or politics. When invited to someone’s home, bring a small gift like sweets or pastries—avoid alcohol unless you’re sure it’s acceptable.
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Egypt.
- Koshari: This is the ultimate Egyptian comfort food. A mix of rice, lentils, chickpeas, and macaroni, topped with spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It’s a carb-lover’s dream and a staple of street food culture.
- Ful Medames: A traditional breakfast dish made from fava beans, seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. It’s simple but incredibly filling, and you’ll find it everywhere from street vendors to upscale restaurants.
- Ta’ameya: Egypt’s version of falafel, made with fava beans instead of chickpeas. Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, these are often eaten as a breakfast staple or quick snack.
- Molokhia: A green soup made from jute leaves, often flavored with garlic and coriander. It’s typically served over rice or with bread. It’s a bit of an acquired taste, but it’s a dish with deep roots in Egyptian history.
- Mahshi: Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat. It’s a dish that brings families together, often prepared for special occasions.
Locals in Egypt generally drink the tap water, but for tourists, it’s recommended to stick to bottled or filtered water due to different bacteria levels that might upset your stomach. Bottled water is cheap and available everywhere, so it’s a safe bet while traveling. If you have a portable filter, it might save you some cash and plastic waste.
The main language in Egypt is
Arabic. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Arabic skills have become a bit rusty.
Want to understand locals better?The complete Travel Guide for Egypt includes 52 essential words and phrases — greetings, thank-yous, ordering food, transport, numbers, and common local expressions you'll actually hear.
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Get the Travel Guide - In Egypt,
English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, major cities like Cairo and Alexandria, and among younger generations. Many Egyptians in the hospitality industry, such as hotel staff, tour guides, and restaurant employees, are proficient in English, making it relatively easy for travelers to communicate.
However, outside of tourist hotspots, English proficiency may diminish. In rural areas or among older populations, English speakers can be less common, and knowledge may be limited to basic phrases. It’s advisable for travelers to learn a few key Arabic phrases, as this can enhance interactions and show respect for the local culture.
Overall, while English is not the official language, its prevalence in urban settings and tourist destinations makes it accessible for most travelers.
Money & Payments
The local currency of Egypt is EGP (£).
In Egypt, cash is king, so always have some Egyptian Pounds (EGP) handy. ATMs are widely available in cities, but they can be a bit scarce in rural areas or smaller towns. It’s a good idea to withdraw enough cash before heading out of urban centers.
Carry a mix of small and large bills; it’ll make local transactions smoother. While cards are becoming more accepted in urban spots and tourist areas, many local businesses still prefer cash. Keep a backup stash of USD or Euros for emergencies or better exchange rates.
When exchanging money, stick to official exchange bureaus or banks to avoid scams. Hotels can exchange currency too, but rates might be less favorable. Always keep an eye on fees, especially when using ATMs or exchanging money at less official spots.
In Egypt, tipping, known as ”baksheesh,” is an expected practice and can apply to a wide range of services.
Always carry small bills, as tips are customary for everyone from hotel staff to market vendors. Generally, a 10-15% tip is appropriate in restaurants if the service charge isn’t already included.
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Best Backpacking
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Over the years, I've learned the importance of packing minimally. It's so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you're headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
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Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.