What to Pack for Your Hurghada Adventure (Summer vs. Winter Guide)

Hurghada is a top travel destination on the Red Sea, known for endless sunshine, golden beaches, and fantastic underwater adventures. But your packing list will look different depending on whether you visit for sizzling summer snorkeling or a mild winter break.

Planning ahead with the right essentials means you’ll be comfortable and ready for anything, from lazy pool days to desert explorations and city strolls.

Understanding the Weather in Hurghada

The city enjoys a hot desert climate: summers can be extremely warm and dry with daytime highs soaring above 35°C (95°F), while winters bring pleasantly mild days around 20–22°C (68–72°F) with cooler breezes at night.

Rain is rare, and humidity stays low year-round, making both seasons perfect for outdoor fun if you dress wisely.

Summer Packing Guide

During summer, light and breathable attire is your best friend. Choose clothing made of cotton or linen to help your skin breathe in the dry heat. Don’t forget sun protection, UV rays are very strong, and it’s easy to get sunburned even if you’re only outside for a short time.

Consider packing:

• Lightweight short-sleeve shirts and shorts

• Summer dresses or skirts

• Multiple swimsuits for the pool and sea

• Flip-flops, sandals, and water shoes for rocky beaches

• A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunblock

• A rash guard or UV-protection shirt for snorkeling trips

• A scarf or light cover-up for added sun protection and modesty

• A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated

• A waterproof phone pouch for boat or beach trips

It’s wise to avoid heavy jackets, dark colors, or thick denim, these trap heat and become uncomfortable fast.

Winter Packing Guide

Though Hurghada’s winters are never cold compared to Europe, layering helps you adjust easily from sunny afternoons to breezier, cooler evenings.

Bring along:

• T-shirts, long-sleeved tops, and a light sweater or jacket for sunset and early mornings

• Comfortable pants or jeans

• One or two swimsuits (many hotels heat their pools)

• Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes

• A scarf or shawl for wind and day trips

• Moisturizer and lip balm for the drier air

• Sun hat and sunglasses (the sun is gentle, but still bright!)

There’s no need to pack thick coats or winter boots. Instead, focus on flexible clothing you can wear in layers and remove as the day warms up.

Year-Round Essentials Every Traveler Should Pack

Some must-have items are useful no matter when you visit Hurghada:

• Passport, visa, and travel insurance documentation

• Reef-safe sunscreen and aftersun lotion

• Sunglasses and a travel hat

• Universal power adapter (type C/F) and a portable phone charger

• Small backpack or tote for day excursions

• Essential medications and a simple first-aid kit

• Personal hygiene products

Pro Traveler Tips

• Choose modest outfits when exploring town, especially for visiting mosques or traditional spots, shoulders and knees covered is a safe bet.

• Don’t underestimate Hurghada’s sun. Even in winter, UV rays are strong enough for sunburn, so sunscreen is always a must.

• Pack quick-dry fabrics if you plan to spend lots of time swimming or doing water sports.

• If you love snorkeling, bring your own mask for comfort, though most tours provide gear.

Conclusion

Packing smart for your Hurghada adventure is simple: think light, comfortable, and sun-safe for summer, and opt for easy-to-layer clothes in winter.

With a suitcase loaded with the right essentials, you’ll spend more time enjoying beautiful beaches and vibrant city life, and less time worrying about what to wear.

Happy travels to Hurghada!