Egypt Travel Tips: Money, Safety, Etiquette & Scams to Avoid

Egypt is warm, generous and far easier to travel than its reputation suggests. A few habits make everything smoother.

Money & tipping (baksheesh)

• The currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP). Cards work in hotels and malls, but carry cash for markets, taxis and tips.
• Tipping is part of the culture. Keep a stash of small notes for porters, restroom attendants, drivers and guides. A little goes a long way and is genuinely expected.
• Withdraw from bank ATMs and keep some small change — breaking large notes can be a hassle.

What to wear

Egypt is conservative. You'll be most comfortable — and most respected — in loose, lightweight clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially at mosques and in smaller towns. Women should carry a scarf for mosque visits. At Red Sea resorts, normal beachwear is fine within the resort.

Staying safe

Tourist areas are well policed and most visits are trouble-free. Standard city sense applies: watch your bag in crowds, use Uber/Careem rather than hailing cabs, and agree prices before any ride or service.

Women travellers

Many women travel Egypt solo without issue, but expect some attention. Dressing modestly, projecting confidence, and a firm "la, shukran" (no, thank you) handle most situations.

Common scams (and how to dodge them)

1. "Free" gifts that suddenly aren't — decline anything pressed into your hand.
2. Camel/horse rides with a low quoted price that balloons; agree the total and the return up front, in writing.
3. "The site is closed, come to my shop" — usually untrue; check at the official gate.
4. Inflated taxi fares — use ride apps.

Practical bits

• SIM cards from Vodafone, Orange or Etisalat are cheap; buy at the airport or a branded shop with your passport.
• Tap water isn't for drinking — stick to sealed bottles.
• A few words of Arabic — shukran (thanks), salam (peace) — open doors and smiles.

None of this should put you off. Egyptians are famously hospitable, and the hassle fades fast against the wonder. Plan the big-ticket sights through a trusted operator — browse Egypt experiences — and keep the rest loose.