Oh, Egypt! The land of pyramids, pharaohs, and seriously Insta-worthy moments. From the towering Pyramids of Giza to the calming waters of the Nile, Egypt is a dream destination for those seeking history, culture, and adventure. But before you start imagining yourself cruising the Nile or riding camels through the desert, let’s make sure you avoid these common travel mishaps. Trust us, your future self will thank you!
1. Not Booking in Advance
Let’s face it, the Egypt of your dreams is popular. From stunning resorts along the Red Sea to the awe-inspiring tombs in Luxor, spots fill up quickly. Don’t wait until the last minute to secure your accommodations or tours, or you’ll find yourself missing out on the good stuff. Plan ahead to ensure a smooth, stress-free vacation (and maybe get those sweet room upgrades while you’re at it!).
2. Forgetting Your Visa
We love a spontaneous trip, but Egypt requires a visa for most travelers, and you can’t just show up and hope for the best. Make sure you have your visa in hand before arriving. The last thing you want is to be stuck in the airport wishing you’d thought ahead. Pro tip: You can apply for an e-Visa online—easy peasy!
3. Not Dressing for the Climate (or the Culture)
Egypt is HOT! And not the fun, beachy kind of hot… more like the “I’m melting in this desert sun” kind of hot. Be sure to dress for the heat with lightweight, breathable fabrics. But also, Egypt is a very conservative country, so be mindful of covering your shoulders and knees—respect the local culture while staying cool.
4. Skipping the Local Etiquette
While it’s tempting to act like the Pharaohs on vacation, it’s important to be respectful of Egypt’s rich culture. Tipping (or “baksheesh”) is customary, so don’t be caught off guard when someone holds the door open for you or helps you with your bags. A little extra in the pocket never hurt anyone. And when you’re visiting religious sites, it’s all about respectful behavior, which means no loud voices or revealing outfits.
5. Getting Too Comfortable with Street Food
We know it’s tempting, but don’t dive into street food without caution. Some of those yummy-looking snacks might be a little too exotic for your stomach. Stick to places where you can guarantee the food is prepared fresh and hygienically. And always drink bottled water—no one wants to go home with more than just souvenirs!
6. Ignoring the Importance of Hydration
With the desert sun beating down, dehydration is no joke. Drink plenty of water and bring a refillable bottle (just make sure it’s sealed!). You’ll be doing a lot of sightseeing, so hydrate like your skin depends on it—because it does!
7. Underestimating the Scale of the Pyramids
Don’t get fooled by those selfies—it’s easy to think the pyramids are right there, just waiting for you to pose in front of them. But let’s get real—they’re massive. Be prepared for a little walking (or a camel ride!) to get that perfect shot.
8. Overpacking (You’re Not Moving In!)
It’s tempting to pack everything in your closet, but you’re going to be doing a lot of walking and moving around. Pack light and stick to the essentials—trust us, you won’t need that extra pair of heels. And hey, save some room for those souvenirs!
9. Not Bargaining (or Failing to Bargain Well)
Egyptian markets are filled with incredible treasures, from jewelry to spices to textiles. But be warned: haggling is part of the fun! Don’t settle for the first price you hear. Start low, have a little fun with the process, and maybe you’ll walk away with a bargain that’s just too good to pass up.
10. Not Joining Our Travel Community (Just Kidding… or Am I?)
Now, we aren’t trying to sell you anything here, but… if you want to stay up-to-date with all things travel and get insider tips (hello, Egypt!), join the KNB for the Melanin in Me community. We promise you’ll never have to travel alone again, and you’ll always know where to find the best experiences and hidden gems!
With these common mistakes out of the way, you’re ready to conquer Egypt like the savvy traveler you are! Ready to get started?
