Knowing how much cash to carry in Egypt can make your trip much easier and more comfortable. Although credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payment options are increasingly common in Egypt, cash is still important for everyday travel, particularly when visiting local markets, small shops, cafés, taxis, archaeological sites, and less touristy areas.
For most travelers, there is no need to carry a large amount of cash at once. A better strategy is to carry enough Egyptian pounds for the day and keep the rest of your money safely stored at your hotel or accommodation.
As a general guideline, many travelers can start with around EGP 1,000–2,500 per person per day for everyday cash expenses, excluding hotels, major tours, domestic flights, and other prepaid services. Your actual needs will depend heavily on your travel style.
Should I Carry US Dollars or Egyptian Pounds?
The Egyptian pound (EGP) is the main currency used for everyday purchases in Egypt. It is usually more convenient to have Egyptian pounds available for small expenses.
You may encounter businesses that quote prices in US dollars, euros, or British pounds, particularly for tourist services and higher-value purchases. However, for taxis, snacks, local restaurants, small shops, tips, and everyday purchases, Egyptian pounds are generally more useful.
Avoid carrying all your travel money in your wallet. Keep a small amount for immediate expenses and store additional cash securely.
How Much Cash Do I Need for a Day in Egypt?
Your daily cash requirement depends on your activities.
Budget Traveler
Approximately EGP 500–1,000 per day may cover basic local transportation, inexpensive meals, drinks, snacks, and small purchases.
Mid-Range Traveler
Approximately EGP 1,000–2,500 per day provides more flexibility for restaurants, transportation, shopping, entrance fees, and tips.
Luxury Traveler
You may need more, especially if you plan to shop, dine at upscale restaurants, use private transportation, or purchase additional experiences.
These figures are general cash-spending guidelines, not a complete Egypt vacation budget.
When Is Cash Especially Useful in Egypt?
Cash can be particularly helpful for:
Local taxis and small transportation services
Small cafés and restaurants
Local markets and bazaars
Street food and snacks
Tips and gratuities
Small souvenirs
Public toilets
Small shops
Local guides and service providers
Rural areas and smaller towns
In major tourist destinations such as Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, and Hurghada, many hotels and larger businesses accept international cards, but having cash available remains a good idea.
Can I Use Credit Cards in Egypt?
Yes. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at many hotels, major restaurants, shopping centers, tour companies, and larger businesses.
However, card acceptance is not universal. You should not rely entirely on your card, especially when exploring local neighborhoods or traveling outside major tourist establishments.
A practical approach is to use your card for larger purchases and keep Egyptian pounds for smaller daily expenses.
Should I Use ATMs in Egypt?
ATMs are available in major cities and tourist destinations, including Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, and Hurghada.
Using an ATM can be a convenient way to obtain Egyptian pounds during your trip. Before traveling, check with your bank about:
International withdrawal fees
Foreign transaction fees
Daily withdrawal limits
Whether your card works internationally
Whether you need to notify your bank about overseas travel
It is also wise to have more than one payment method in case your primary card doesn't work.
Don't Forget About Tipping
Tipping, commonly known as baksheesh, is part of everyday life in Egypt's tourism industry. You may want small Egyptian-pound notes available for appropriate tips to drivers, hotel staff, restaurant staff, bathroom attendants, guides, and other service providers.
Rather than carrying a large amount of cash, keep a selection of smaller notes so that you can tip conveniently when appropriate.
How Much Cash Should I Carry for a Nile Cruise?
If you are taking a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan, you probably don't need a large amount of cash onboard.
Your accommodation and meals may already be included in your cruise package. However, you may want Egyptian pounds for:
Tips
Drinks not included in your package
Souvenirs
Optional activities
Purchases during shore excursions
For a cruise, carrying a modest amount of cash and keeping a backup payment card is usually more practical than carrying your entire travel budget.
Money-Saving Tips for Travelers to Egypt
1. Carry only what you need for the day
There is little reason to walk around with your entire travel budget.
2. Keep emergency money separately
Keep a backup card and some emergency cash somewhere secure and separate from your wallet.
3. Carry small denominations
Smaller Egyptian-pound notes can be much more convenient for everyday purchases and tips.
4. Check prices before purchasing
At markets and tourist areas, confirm the price before agreeing to a purchase or service.
5. Keep receipts for larger purchases
Receipts can be useful when making higher-value purchases or resolving payment questions.
6. Be careful with exchange rates
When exchanging money or paying by card, understand the exchange rate and any additional fees.
Should I Exchange Money Before Arriving in Egypt?
You can arrive with some foreign currency and exchange it in Egypt through legitimate banks or authorized exchange providers. You can also use ATMs to withdraw Egyptian pounds, depending on your card and bank.
It is generally better to avoid exchanging a very large amount immediately unless you know you will need it. Your spending needs will become clearer after the first few days.
Final Advice: Carry Enough, But Don't Carry Too Much
So, how much cash should you carry in Egypt?
For many travelers, EGP 1,000–2,500 in accessible cash per person for a typical day is a reasonable starting point for everyday expenses, while keeping additional money securely stored and using cards for larger purchases.
If your hotel, tours, transportation, and major activities are already paid for, your daily cash requirement can be considerably lower.
The most important thing is not the exact amount—it is having a combination of Egyptian pounds, a reliable debit or credit card, and a secure backup payment method.
With a little preparation, managing money in Egypt is straightforward, allowing you to concentrate on enjoying the pyramids, temples, Nile River, bazaars, beaches, and the incredible history and culture of Egypt