What’s the best currency to take to Egypt from the UK?

Getting ready for a trip to Egypt? Whether you’ll be admiring the pyramids or cruising the beautiful Nile river, you’re probably planning out the details of your travel budget as well.

In this guide, we’ll let you know what is the best currency to take to Egypt from the UK. We’ve included information about the accepted payment methods in Egypt and which one you should rely on.

We’ll also show you a handy alternative to cash, the Wise debit card from the money services provider Wise. It’s designed for low-cost spending around the world in 150+ countries, automatically converting your pound sterlings to Egyptian pounds at the mid-market exchange rate, only adding a small, transparent currency conversion fee. Or it’s free if you already have the foreign currency in your Wise account.

What’s the best currency to take to Egypt?

Whenever you travel abroad, Egypt included, it’s best to pay in the country’s official currency. This will help you avoid unfair exchange fees and any unnecessary charges. Egypt’s official currency is the Egyptian pound and each pound is divided into 100 piastre.

If you see that some Egyptian businesses accept other currencies as well, know that a markup is probably included in their prices. Although paying in pounds sterling can seem appealing and easy, we recommend always choosing to pay in Egyptian pounds.

Should you exchange money before travelling to Egypt?

You don’t need to exchange currency prior to your arrival in Egypt, especially if you have a Wise debit card. You’ll be able to find plenty of exchange offices and ATMs in all tourist areas. If you want, you could bring a small amount of Egyptian pounds with you to get you through the first day.

We advise against exchanging currency at the airport unless you have to for some reason. Airports are known for having unfavourable exchange rates and high markups.

How much Egyptian pounds should you take to Egypt?¹

Wondering how much money you need to bring on your trip to Egypt? Your travel budget can depend on multiple factors, such as your own spending habits and where exactly in Egypt you’ll be visiting. But, since consumer prices are nearly 70% lower than in the UK, you’ll surely be able to make the most out of your money.

On average, the price of a three-course meal for two in Egypt is around £13.5, which is nearly E£800. Eating in a less expensive restaurant will set you back approximately £3 or around E£180. When it comes to transportation, both public transport and taxis are cheap compared to the UK. A local transport ticket is only £0.17 on average, which is around E£10.²

Depending on your travel preferences, your daily expenses can range from E£1,400 to over E£18,000, including accommodation. Your own spending habits will determine your final budget, but this might be a good starting point.³

📚 Read more: Best ways to spend money while travelling abroad

How to pay in Egypt – which payment methods are accepted?⁴

You’ll most likely be able to use the majority of commonly accepted payment methods in Egypt. This includes credit cards, debit cards and cash. However, mobile payments might require having a local phone number.

Cash is accepted everywhere and it’s the most popular payment method. Credit and debit cards are used in larger shops, restaurants and hotels. Visa and Mastercard cards are widely used, but it’s still best to check whether your network is accepted in Egypt before your trip.

Is it better to use debit and credit cards, travel cards or cash in Egypt?

If you’re wondering whether you should bring cash or cards to Egypt, the answer is - both, but primarily cash.

Although debit cards and credit cards are accepted in many tourist spots, that might not be the case in more rural areas. Also, besides being the main means of payment, cash is essential for tipping and bargaining.

But, using a travel card or a debit card is a good way to stay on budget. Some cards, like the Wise card, can convert your pounds sterling to Egyptian pounds automatically, with only a small conversion fee, so you don’t have to worry about it in advance.

Sign up with Wise today 💰

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Sources used:

1. Numbeo - Cost of living in the UK compared to Egypt
2. Wise - Currency converter (GBP to EGP)
3. Crown Currency Exchange - Is Egypt cheap or expensive? Spending money guide 2024
4. Hurghadian Tours - How to pay in Egypt?

Sources last checked on date: 13-May-2024