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Marsa Alam Travel Checklist

Marsa Alam Travel Checklist

Marsa Alam Red Sea Coast, Egypt Travel Guide

Preparations

Strategic actions before your trip confirm a well-organized experience.

Chronological Planning Steps

Follow these steps for a structured approach to trip readiness.

1

+ Months Ahead

Passport Check

Ensure validity for at least six months beyond your departure date.

Flight & Accommodation

Research and book flights and lodging, especially for high season.

Visa Requirements

Research visa requirements and apply for an e-Visa if applicable.

2

Month Ahead

Finalize Plans

Finalize your itinerary and book any specific tours or dive packages.

Document Copies

Make digital and physical copies of passports, visas, insurance, bookings.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel plans.

3

Week Ahead

Packing Begins

Begin packing your bags for the trip.

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all bookings with airlines, hotels, and tour operators.

Offline Resources

Download offline maps and translation apps to your phone.

Required Bookings

Some reservations truly help a smoother trip.

Reservations

  • Flights and accommodation.
  • Multi-day dive packages.
  • Long-distance bus tickets (if applicable).
  • Airport transfers (Marsa Alam).

Home Preparation

Attend to home affairs for peace of mind.

Home Affairs Checklist

  • Secure your home before leaving.
  • Arrange for pet or plant care.
  • Pause mail or deliveries.
  • Set up out-of-office replies for email.

Pre-Trip Research

A bit of reading deepens your journey.

Knowledge Deepens Travel

  • Read about Egyptian culture.
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases.
  • Review current safety advisories from your government.
  • Explore local customs and traditions.

Essential Products

Skill Building

  • Use language learning apps like Babbel.
  • Explore photography courses on Skillshare.

Research Note

Pre-trip research can deepen your cultural appreciation and inform your journey.

Arrival Actions

The initial hours upon arrival can feel overwhelming.

First Steps

  • 1
    Visa on Arrival:

    Purchase sticker at bank kiosk before immigration.

  • 2
    Immigration:

    Get your passport stamped.

  • 3
    Baggage Claim:

    Collect your luggage.

Immediate Needs

  • SIM Card:

    Consider purchasing a local SIM card at the airport for connectivity.

  • Transfers:

    Locate your pre-arranged transfer or find a reputable taxi.

  • Resort Familiarization:

    Familiarize yourself with resort layout, dining, and beach access.

Initial Setup

Currency Exchange

Exchange currency or withdraw Egyptian Pounds from an airport ATM.

Connectivity

Purchase a local SIM card at the airport.

This provides immediate internet access for navigation and communication.

Resort Orientation

Upon arrival, ask reception for a local map or directions.

Arrival Tip

Upon arrival, take time to familiarize yourself with your resort's layout and amenities for a smoother start.

Departure Planning

Smooth departure means considering final details.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Pack items carefully; shipping larger purchases from Hurghada or Cairo is more likely than from Marsa Alam.

Shipping Insights

  • Pack souvenirs with care.
  • Research shipping options from Hurghada/Cairo.
  • Be aware of home country customs regulations.
  • VAT refund system generally does not apply in Egypt.

Final Checks

  • Allow 2-3 hours for airport transfer and check-in for international flights.
  • Confirm return flight details and onward connections.
  • Ensure all necessary documents for departure and re-entry are accessible.
  • Double-check your passport, visa, and boarding pass.

Departure Check

Confirm your return flight details and onward connections well in advance.

Ensure all necessary documents for departure are readily available.