When preparing for a Nile River cruise, choosing the right clothes is essential for comfort and respect.

Pack lightweight, loose-fitting clothing for the hot Egyptian days, including long pants and long-sleeve shirts to protect from the sun.

A light jacket is recommended for cooler evenings. To respect local customs, dress modestly for excursions with long sleeves and pants or skirts.

Onboard, swimwear is fine by the pool, but use a cover-up when walking around the ship.

Lastly, remember to wear sun protection, such as hats and sunglasses, and stay hydrated with a refillable water bottle.

Follow these tips to ensure a stylish and comfortable Nile River adventure!

General Dress Code on a Nile River Cruise

There isn’t a strict dress code for most Nile cruises.

During the day, it’s totally fine to wear casual clothes like shorts and T-shirts. If you’re hanging out by the pool or on the deck, swimwear is fine, too.

But when dinner time comes, it’s a good idea to dress a bit nicer.

Think resort casual. For guys, this could be slacks and a polo shirt. And for women, a nice sundress or a casual maxi dress works well.

It doesn’t have to be fancy, but you’ll want to look neat.

Dressing for the Weather

Egypt has some pretty extreme weather, depending on the season, so you’ll want to pack smart.

Summer (June to August)

If you’re cruising the Nile during summer, get ready for some serious heat. That’s why lightweight, loose-fitting clothes are a must.

Long pants and long-sleeve shirts might sound like too much in the heat, but they actually help protect your skin from the sun. On the other hand, loose cotton shirts or maxi dresses are perfect for staying cool.

For shoes, sandals are great for relaxing on the boat. But when you’re exploring famous sites like Karnak Temple, you’ll want comfortable walking shoes.

Winter (December to February)

In winter, the weather tends to be mild and pleasant during the day, making it a great time to explore. However, the evenings can get quite chilly, with temperatures often dropping significantly.

For daytime, a light jacket or sweater should be sufficient to keep you comfortable.

As the evening approaches, though, you’ll want to layer up with a warmer jacket or coat to protect against the colder temperatures that can dip further into the night.

Always check specific local weather forecasts for more precise details, as conditions can vary depending on your location.

Spring and Fall (Shoulder Seasons)

During the spring and fall shoulder seasons, the weather tends to be more comfortable, offering a nice balance between the heat of summer and the chill of winter.

Days are typically mild and pleasant, making them great for outdoor activities. Loose, breathable clothes are ideal for daytime, keeping you cool while still offering comfort.

For cooler nights, it’s a good idea to bring along a light jacket or sweater. This will help keep you warm as temperatures can drop unexpectedly once the sun sets

What to Wear on Excursions

When you step off the boat to explore places like the Valley of the Kings, you’ll want to dress a bit more thoughtfully.

Egypt is a mostly Muslim country, and it’s important to dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Long-sleeve shirts and long pants are great for this. They’ll keep you protected from the sun and also show respect for local customs.

You might also want to bring a lightweight scarf to cover your shoulders when visiting religious sites.

For pants, avoid anything too tight or revealing. Loose-fitting linen pants or a flowing skirt will keep you cool and comfortable.

Swimwear and Relaxing on the Boat

When you’re relaxing on the boat, swimwear is a great choice for enjoying some pool time or soaking up the sun.

Feel free to lounge in your favorite swimsuit while you unwind. However, when you’re walking around the ship, it’s a good idea to wear a cover-up, such as a sarong or beach dress, for added comfort and modesty.

This helps you feel more at ease while exploring the ship’s various amenities and keeps you ready for any indoor activities as well.

Accessories

What you wear on a Nile River cruise is important, but so are the little things you pack.

The sun in Egypt is no joke, so make sure you bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

Sunscreen is a must, and you should get one with high SPF for the best protection.

Also, think about bringing a few extras, like a lightweight backpack, for your day trips. You’ll need a place to store your water bottle, camera, and maybe a light jacket.

Speaking of water bottles, it’s a good idea to bring a refillable one. Staying hydrated is really important, especially when you’re out exploring in the heat.

And don’t forget tissues or wet wipes for your day trips. Not all public restrooms in Egypt are stocked, so you’ll be glad you came prepared.

Image courtesy of Viking River Cruises

Ready to Book Your Nile River Cruise?

At Total Access Travel, we specialize in helping you plan the perfect getaway.

Whether you’re excited about exploring the ancient sites of Egypt or looking forward to relaxing on a beautiful river cruise, we’re here to help you get the most out of your trip.

With our personalized service, you can focus on enjoying your vacation while we take care of the details.

Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable Nile River cruise!