What to Pack for Hurghada? The “Don’t Forget” List (From a Local)

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So, you booked your ticket. Mabrouk! (Congratulations!). Now you are standing in front of your empty suitcase wondering: “Do I just bring a bikini and hope for the best?”

I see it every day. Tourists arriving with three pairs of high heels (you won’t use them, the streets are bumpy) but forgetting the one thing that will save their stomach: Antinal. Or paying 50 Euros for sunscreen that costs 10 Euros back home.

I want you to save your money for diving and nice dinners, not overpriced pharmacy runs. Here is the real packing list for Hurghada, from a local who actually lives here.

🎒 The “Don’t Forget” Essentials (3 Things Everyone Forgets)

☀️ Strong Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

Why? Sunscreen in Hurghada is considered a “luxury import” and taxed heavily. A bottle that is €10 in Germany can be €35 here. Pack two bottles.

💊 Stomach Meds (Antinal)

Why? “Pharaoh’s Revenge” is real. If you can’t buy Antinal at home, bring Imodium. But honestly? Buying Antinal here is cheap and effective.

🔌 Power Strip / Adapter

Why? We use Type C and F plugs (European style). Hotel rooms never have enough outlets. Bring a small power strip for phone/camera/drone.

👗 Is there a Dress Code in Hurghada?

This is the #1 question I get. Short answer: No, but be respectful.

Inside the Hotel/Resort: Wear whatever you want. Bikini, shorts, tank tops. It’s Europe inside the walls.
In the City (Sheraton/Mamsha/Marina): Shorts and t-shirts are totally fine for men and women. Just avoid bikini tops or walking shirtless on the street.
Mosques/Religious Sites: You must cover shoulders and knees. Ladies need a scarf for their head.

🌤️ Packing by Season

☀️ Summer (May – Sept)	❄️ Winter (Nov – March)
Light fabrics: Cotton & Linen only. Polyester will kill you. Hat: A real hat, not a baseball cap. The sun hits your neck hard. Water Shoes: For coral beaches. Aloe Vera: For when you inevitably burn.	The “Magic” Hoodie: You will sweat at 2 PM and freeze at 8 PM. Bring layers. Closed Shoes: Sneakers for evening walks. Sandals are too cold at night. Windbreaker: If you go on a boat trip, the wind is freezing. Jeans: Yes, bring one pair of jeans.

📄 Boring But Important (Documents)

Printed Flight Ticket: Egyptians love paper. Sometimes digital isn’t enough to enter the airport building.
Cash (USD or Euro): For the Visa on Arrival ($25). They don’t always like cards.
Travel Insurance: Don’t dive without it.

✈️ Smart Travel Tip

Packing is easier when you know exactly how you are getting there.

For flights, I always check Aviasales because they show Charter flights (TUI, Condor) that regular sites miss.

And please, don’t drag your heavy suitcase into a random street taxi. Book a KiwiTaxi transfer. It’s cleaner, safer, and fixed price.

🏆 Final Verdict from Salem

“Better to have it and not need it, than need it and have to haggle for it.”

Bring your sunscreen, bring your hoodie (in winter), and bring your smile. Hurghada will take care of the rest.

Start packing, habibi! See you soon! ✈️