What to Pack for Marsa Alam: The Complete Checklist
Lena FischerTravel Writer & Trip Planner6 min read
Sun, sea and desert in one trip means packing smart. Here’s exactly what to bring to Marsa Alam — and the few things people always forget.
Marsa Alam packs desert and sea into one holiday, so your bag needs to cover both. Here’s the checklist we send guests before they arrive.
Sun protection (non-negotiable)
- Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 30+ (protects you and the coral)
- A wide-brimmed hat and good sunglasses
- A light long-sleeve rash guard for snorkeling
- After-sun or aloe vera
For the sea
- Swimwear (bring two sets)
- A quick-dry towel
- Water shoes for rocky entries
- Your own mask if you’re fussy about fit — gear is provided on tours
- A dry bag and waterproof phone case
For the desert
- Closed shoes for quad biking
- A scarf or buff for dust
- A light jacket — evenings get cold
- Comfortable trousers for camel riding
For day trips to Luxor and Aswan
- Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temples
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Passport or ID for road checkpoints
- Cash for tips and optional site fees
Most forgotten item
Reef-safe sunscreen. Standard sunscreens harm coral and many are effectively unavailable locally — bring it from home.
Frequently asked questions
No — clean, well-maintained masks, snorkels and fins are provided on all our sea trips. Bring your own only if you prefer a guaranteed personal fit.
At beach resorts, normal swimwear and summer clothing are fine. For day trips to temples and towns, pack clothing that covers shoulders and knees out of respect for local culture.
Yes, desert temperatures drop quickly after sunset even in summer. Always bring a light jacket or fleece for evening safaris.
Lena Fischer
Travel Writer & Trip Planner
Lena is a German travel writer who relocated to the Red Sea coast in 2016. She specialises in practical, honest travel guides for European visitors and has snorkeled, dived and safaried nearly every route Marsa Alam offers.
