MileHacker Logo
Cairo Travel Checklist

Cairo Travel Checklist

Cairo Egypt Travel Guide

Planning Timeline

Organize your preparations chronologically.

Milestones

Follow this timeline for comprehensive readiness.

1

+ Months Before: Early Planning

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months beyond departure). Research visa requirements and apply for e-Visa, allowing ample time for processing.

Flights & Health

Book international flights, especially during high season. Consult doctor for recommended vaccinations and prescription medications.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

2

-2 Months Before: Mid-Term Arrangements

Accommodation & Itinerary

Book accommodation. Plan your itinerary, including significant landmarks and day trips.

Internal Travel

Book internal flights or train tickets. Research local transport choices (Uber/Careem, Metro).

Language Study

Begin learning basic Arabic phrases.

3

-4 Weeks Before: Near-Term Readiness

Confirmations

Confirm all bookings (flights, hotels, tours). Organize digital and physical copies of important documents.

Arrival Prep

Arrange airport transfers in Cairo. Begin packing essentials, considering climate and dress code.

Financial & Home

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel plans. Finalize packing and charge electronics.

Advance Bookings

Identify what to reserve early.

Mandatory Bookings

  • International flights are a must.
  • Hotels, especially those with specific vistas or high demand.
  • Nile cruises if you plan one.
  • Specific private tours, multi-day excursions, or overnight trains (e.g., to Luxor/Aswan).

Home & Research

Ensure your home is secure and deepen your knowledge.

Pre-Departure Home Actions

  • Secure your home (lock doors/windows, inform trusted neighbor).
  • Arrange for mail or newspaper collection.
  • Put lights on timers.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy.

Pre-Trip Research

Deepen your appreciation with knowledge and cultural insight.

History and Culture

  • Read up on Egyptian history.
  • Center on the pharaonic period and Islamic Cairo.
  • This assists you appreciate the sites more deeply.
  • Understand historical context.

Local Customs

  • Understand local customs.
  • Learn about etiquette.
  • Ensure respectful interactions.
  • Navigate social norms.

Advance Actions

  • Arrange for mail or newspaper collection.
  • Verify all your bookings.
  • Charge all electronics and power banks.
  • Obtain some local currency for initial expenses.

Timely Planning

Early arrangements prevent stress and secure your preferences, especially during peak travel periods.

Arrival & Departure

These steps assure a smooth journey on arriving in Cairo and efficient departure.

Smooth Arrival

  • 1
    Visa on Arrival:

    If eligible, purchase your visa sticker from bank kiosks before immigration control.

  • 2
    Immigration & Luggage:

    Clear immigration by presenting your passport and disembarkation card. Collect your luggage from baggage claim.

  • 3
    Connectivity & Currency:

    Purchase a getting A sim card upon arrival (if desired). Exchange some currency or use an ATM for Egyptian Pounds.

Orientation and Transport

  • Airport Transfer:

    Locate your pre-arranged transfer, or use Uber/Careem to get to your accommodation.

  • Neighborhood Familiarity:

    Once at your hotel, familiarize yourself with its immediate neighborhood, locating fundamental services.

  • Communication with Tour organizers:

    For specific mobility needs, communicate at your place of stay and tour operators in advance.

Departure Readiness

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure.

If shipping large items, arrange with a reputable courier company well in advance.

Departure Timing

Arrive at Cairo International Airport at least BE at the airport 3 hours before your international flight.

This allows ample time for check-in, security, and potential delays. Egypt does not have a general VAT refund system for tourists.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your return flight details and reconfirm your airport transfer.

Repack luggage carefully, ensuring no forbidden items are in your carry-on bag.

Affiliate Resource

Consider World Nomads for coverage while traveling. This protects your journey.

Packing & Essentials

Pack efficiently for varied conditions.

Clothing Considerations

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton, linen) for warm weather.
  • Sun hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are a must for archaeological sites.
  • Scarf or shawl for women for modesty at religious sites.

Health & Comfort

  • Basic first-aid kit, including pain relievers and band-aids.
  • Insect repellent, especially for evenings near water.
  • Reusable water bottle (fill with bottled water).
  • Lotion with sun protection factor high SPF.

Important Documents

Keep documents safe and accessible.

Required Documents

  • Passport:Original, physical.
  • Visa:Physical copy or e-Visa printout.
  • Itinerary:Flight and hotel confirmations.
  • Insurance:Your travel coverage information.

Electronics & Connectivity

  • Universal travel adapter (Egypt uses Type C and F outlets).
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Phone and camera for taking photos to remember.
  • Get offline maps and translation apps prior to travel.

Packing Efficiency

Products from Eagle Creek are designed for travel organization. They aid in maximizing space and keeping items accessible.

A well-organized bag makes transitions smoother.