Planning your trip to Egypt and wondering what money to bring? Here’s a simple guide to help you avoid confusion and extra fees 👇
💵 The Official Currency
The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP).
You’ll use Egyptian pounds for:
-
Small shops
-
Local markets
-
Taxis
-
Tips
-
Street food
In cities like Cairo and resort areas such as Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, Egyptian pounds are widely accepted.
💲 Can You Bring US Dollars or Euros?
Yes — and it’s often a good idea.
US dollars (USD) and euros (EUR) are commonly accepted in:
-
Hotels
-
Excursion payments
-
Diving centers
-
Tourist shops
However:
-
Change may be given in Egyptian pounds
-
Exchange rates may vary from place to place
Small US dollar bills (5, 10, 20 USD) are very convenient.
🏧 Should You Exchange Money?
You have several options:
✔ Exchange at the airport
✔ Use official exchange offices
✔ Withdraw Egyptian pounds from ATMs
ATMs are widely available in tourist areas and usually offer competitive exchange rates.
💳 Can You Pay by Card?
Cards are accepted in:
-
Hotels
-
Large restaurants
-
Some excursion companies
-
Shopping malls
But for small purchases, cash is essential.
💡 Best Strategy
For a smooth trip:
-
Bring some USD or EUR in cash
-
Withdraw Egyptian pounds for daily expenses
-
Keep small bills for tips
Avoid exchanging large amounts at once unless necessary.
🧳 Final Advice
The safest and most flexible option is to combine:
💵 A small amount of USD or EUR
💷 Local Egyptian pounds for daily spending
💳 A bank card for larger payments
With the right mix of currency, your trip to Egypt will be easy and stress-free 🌴✨
Related Posts
Learn what items are prohibited or restricted when leaving Egypt, including coral, antiquities, and wildlife products, to avoid problems at customs.
Guide to internet and SIM cards in Egypt — where to buy, prices, best mobile networks, and tips for staying connected during your trip.
Do you need a visa for Sharm El Sheikh? Learn when the free Sinai stamp is enough and when a full Egyptian tourist visa is required.
From colorful coral reefs to ancient mountains and desert sunsets, explore the best attractions and unforgettable tours in Sharm El Sheikh.
Share This Post
Related Tours
Sharm el Sheikh
Cairo Pyramids Tour by Plane from Sharm El Sheikh – Grand Egyptian Museum$ 255
Explore Now
Sharm el Sheikh
Mount Sinai (Moses Mountain) Sunrise Tour & St. Catherine’s Monastery$ 30
Explore Now