A holiday in Sharm El Sheikh is usually about the beach, but it often includes a boat day, a desert evening and a visit to the Old Market too. Packing for all of these is easy once you know what to expect. Here is our practical list, based on what our guests ask us most.
Documents and money
- Passport valid for at least six months, plus a photo or copy on your phone
- Visa documents if required for your nationality — ask us if unsure
- Travel insurance details
- A bank card and some cash in small notes for tips and markets; many resorts accept cards
Beach and pool
- Two or three swimsuits, a beach cover-up and flip-flops
- Reef-safe sunscreen with high protection — the Egyptian sun is strong even in winter
- Sunglasses and a hat
- A light rash vest or UV shirt for long snorkelling sessions
Snorkelling and boat trips
Most boat trips provide masks, snorkels and fins, but many travellers prefer their own mask for a better fit. Add water shoes for rocky shores, a waterproof phone pouch and a small dry bag. In winter, a windproof jacket makes the ride back on deck much more comfortable.
Desert evenings
The desert is warm by day but can cool down quickly after sunset, especially from November to March. For a camel ride and Bedouin dinner or a quad safari, pack closed shoes, long trousers and a light sweater. A scarf helps against dust.
Town, mosques and evenings out
Resort wear is fine around the hotel and in places like Soho Square. When visiting the Old Market and Al Sahaba Mosque, clothing that covers shoulders and knees is respectful, and women entering a mosque cover their hair. A light scarf is a useful all-rounder.
Health and small essentials
- Any personal medication, with a prescription copy
- After-sun lotion and lip balm with SPF
- Motion-sickness tablets if you are sensitive on boats
- A universal plug adapter — Egypt uses European-style sockets (types C and F)
What you can leave at home
Bulky beach towels (resorts provide them), a hair dryer (usually in rooms) and heavy shoes. Leave space for souvenirs: spices, lanterns and cotton scarves from the market are favourites.
Have a question about your trip? Send us a message — we are happy to help you prepare.
Our team lives and works in Sharm El Sheikh and plans hotels, transfers and excursions for guests from Germany, France, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
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