Egypt in Late Autumn: What to Pack and Wear is all about balancing warm, sunny days with cooler mornings and evenings, planning for respectful dress at sacred sites, and staying comfortable through long walks across ancient stone. For a quick climate check before you build your suitcase, see Weather in Egypt in November.
Egypt in Late Autumn: What to Pack and Wear — Weather Snapshot
Late autumn in Egypt (roughly November into early December) is the sweet spot: high-season sights with milder heat, clearer air, and excellent Red Sea conditions. You’ll still feel the sun at midday, but you’ll want layers at dawn, on the Nile, and after sunset.
By the numbers (typical ranges):
- Cairo/Giza: highs 22–26°C (72–79°F), lows 12–15°C (54–59°F); low rain, cool evenings; UV moderate–high at midday.
- Luxor/Aswan: highs 27–31°C (81–88°F), lows 13–17°C (55–63°F); desert-dry, big day–night swings.
- Red Sea (Hurghada/Sharm): highs 24–27°C (75–81°F), sea temps ~24–26°C (75–79°F); breezy evenings.
- Alexandria/Coast: highs 21–24°C (70–75°F), chance of showers; wind chill near the Corniche.
- Daylight: ~10–11 hours; earliest dusk can make evenings feel cooler.
- Wind: noticeable on boats and open plazas; pack a light shell.
“Dress for the day you’ll live: sun-safe by noon, layered by night. Egypt in late autumn rewards breathable fabrics and a smart, modest silhouette.”
Core Principles for Egypt in Late Autumn: What to Pack and Wear
- Layering is king: Start with a breathable base (cotton/linen), add a light mid-layer, and carry a compact jacket for evenings and boat rides.
- Respectful silhouettes: Shoulders and knees covered at religious sites; looser cuts keep you cooler and culturally appropriate.
- Sun-first materials: UPF fabrics, wide-brim hats, polarized sunglasses, and high-SPF mineral sunscreen.
- Dust-ready colors: Stone, sand, olive, and tan hide dust and photograph beautifully against temples.
- Walkability: Cobblestones and uneven stone require cushioned, closed-toe shoes; sandals for resorts.
Egypt in Late Autumn: What to Pack and Wear — Capsule Wardrobe
Women’s capsule (10–12 pieces)
- 2–3 breathable tops (long or elbow sleeves; cotton/linen/viscose)
- 2 lightweight blouses or tunics (hip-length for coverage)
- 2 pairs loose trousers (linen/cotton/tech-blend; ankle-length)
- 1 maxi or midi dress (with sleeves or layered with a light scarf)
- 1 lightweight skirt (midi; pair with leggings if breezy)
- 1 thin cardigan or cotton knit
- 1 packable windproof jacket or light fleece
- 1 scarf/pashmina (doubles for modesty and warmth)
- 1–2 swimsuits (plus a modest cover-up for resort-to-lobby walks)
- Undergarments, sleepwear, and breathable socks
Men’s capsule (9–11 pieces)
- 3 breathable shirts (linen/cotton; at least one long sleeve)
- 2 polo/tech tees (shoulders covered for sites)
- 2 pairs lightweight trousers (chinos/linen)
- 1 pair travel jeans or tech pants for flights/evenings
- 1 thin sweater or overshirt
- 1 packable windproof jacket or light fleece
- 1 modest swim trunk (knee‑length is widely accepted outside resorts)