When planning your trip to Egypt, one of the most common questions is:
“Do I need to carry cash, or can I use my card everywhere?”
The short answer: Yes, you will need some cash in Egypt, even though cards are widely accepted in many places. This guide explains when you need cash, how much to carry, and the safest way to handle money during your trip.https://www.nbe.com.eg/NBE/E/#/EN/ExchangeRatesAndCurrencyConverter
⸻
Do I need cash at restaurants and the market?
Yes. Egypt is still a partially cash-based society, especially in local markets, small shops, tips, and transportation. While hotels and major restaurants accept cards, many daily expenses are easier paid in Egyptian Pounds (EGP).
⸻
When You WILL Need Cash
Here are the situations where cash is essential:
1. Tips (Baksheesh)
Tipping is part of the culture in Egypt.
You’ll need small bills for:
• Hotel porters
• Drivers
• Porters
Tip: Keep a small amount of 5, 10, and 20 EGP notes with you.
⸻
2. Souks & Local Markets
Places like Khan El Khalili, Aswan Market, and Luxor Souk are mostly cash only, especially if you are bargaining.
⸻
3. Small Cafés, Street Food & Local Shops
Many traditional Egyptian places still don’t use card machines.
⸻
4. Taxis & Local Transportation
• Local taxis → cash only
• Uber & Careem → card or cash
• Metro & public transport → cash
⸻
5. Rural Areas & Small Towns
Outside Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, expect more cash usage.
⸻
When You Can Use Credit or Debit Cards
Cards are widely accepted here:
1. Hotels & Resorts
All major hotels accept Visa and Mastercard.
2. Upscale Restaurants & Cafés
Most tourist-friendly and modern places accept cards with no problem.
3. Tourist Attractions
Many entrance tickets — including GEM, Giza Pyramids, Luxor, Aswan temples — accept online payments or card machines.https://egymonuments.com/
4. Major Stores & Global Brands
Malls, supermarkets, and big shops accept cards.
⸻
Should You Bring USD, EUR, or EGP?
Best option: Egyptian Pounds (EGP)
For daily spending, EGP is the easiest.
USD and EUR also work
You can:
• Exchange them at official banks or airport exchange desks
• Use them for tipping in some cases (1 USD bills)
• Pay for visas and some touristic activities
But you will still need EGP for everyday expenses.
⸻
How Much Cash Should You Carry?
This depends on your travel style, but here is a good guideline:
• Solo traveler: 2,000–3,000 EGP for daily use
• Couple: 3,000–4,000 EGP
• Family: 4,000–6,000 EGP
This covers:
• Small meals
• Taxis
• Tips
• Markets
• Water/snacks
Larger expenses can be paid by card.
⸻
Where to Get Cash Safely
1. ATMs
Best exchange rate. Widely available in:
• Airports
• Hotels
• Malls
• Tourist areas
2. Banks
Safe and reliable, but not always fast.
3. Airport Exchange
Convenient but usually gives slightly lower rates.
Avoid: Street money changers.
⸻
Is Egypt Safe for Carrying Cash?
Yes — if you use basic precautions:
• Keep cash in a small wallet
• Don’t carry all your money at once
• Use hotel safes for storage
• Don’t flash big notes in markets
Egypt is generally safe, especially in tourist areas
