What to wear on a Nile cruise: dress code and packing list
Updated on: 14/10/2026On a Nile cruise there is no dress code on board: you can wear what you like, swimwear included. When visiting temples and sites, dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees, out of respect for local customs and to avoid unwanted stares. Choose light, loose-fitting clothes in cotton or linen, and pack a warm layer for winter evenings. This advice applies to the Nile cruises offered by Filovent, whether on a dahabieh or a cruise ship.
Is there a dress code on a Nile cruise?
- Wear what you like day and night, whether you sail on a dahabieh or a felucca, with no need for smart clothes at dinner.
- Swimwear is handy: the boat may have a pool or a hot tub, and some itineraries include a swimming stop in areas chosen by the crew; the Nile’s fresh water carries a risk of bilharzia, so only swim where the crew tells you it is safe.
- Sandals or light shoes are enough on deck.
- A jumper or light jacket for evenings on deck from October to March.
What to wear to visit temples in Egypt
Cover your shoulders and knees at all the sites visited on a Nile cruise: Karnak, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae in Aswan and, as an excursion, Abu Simbel.
| Who | Best choices | Avoid |
| Women | Long dress, below-the-knee skirt, loose trousers, top with sleeves | Shorts, vest tops, backless tops, see-through fabrics |
| Men | Light trousers, knee-length shorts, shirt or T-shirt | Short shorts, sleeveless vests |
| Everyone | Closed shoes, hat, sunglasses | Flip-flops, heels |
Women do not need to cover their hair on excursions. A light scarf is still useful: it protects you from the sun, covers your shoulders and lets you cover your hair when you visit a mosque.
What to wear by season?
| Season | Climate | Recommended clothing |
| October to November | Hot by day, mild in the evening | Light clothes, a jacket for the evening |
| December to February | Pleasant by day (around 23 °C in Luxor), cool at night (7 to 8 °C) | Layers, jumper or fleece, windproof jacket |
| March to April | Hot, khamsin (sand wind) possible | Light clothes, scarf, sunglasses |
| May to September | Very hot and dry (over 40 °C in Luxor in summer) | Loose linen and cotton, wide-brimmed hat |
Excursions often start early in the morning to avoid the heat: in winter, a warm layer is essential when setting off, especially for a hot-air balloon ride at dawn.
What to pack for a Nile cruise?
- Clothes: light long trousers and skirts, tops with sleeves, T-shirts, a jumper or fleece, a light jacket.
- On board: swimwear, casual clothes, sandals.
- Footwear: one pair of comfortable closed shoes for walking on sand and stones.
- Protection: hat, sunglasses, sun cream, scarf.
- Health: insect repellent and a small first-aid kit. Check the vaccinations for a cruise to Egypt before you travel.
- Practical: small rucksack, water bottle, wet wipes.
Frequently asked questions
Can you wear shorts in Egypt?
Yes, on board you can wear what you like. For excursions and walks in town, light trousers or knee-length shorts are a better choice.
Do you need to cover your hair in Egypt?
No, except when entering a mosque. A scarf in your bag is enough.
Can you swim on a Nile cruise?
Yes, in the pool or hot tub if the boat has one, or during a swimming stop chosen by the crew. Facilities vary depending on whether you choose a Nile cruise on a dahabieh or a cruise ship. Keep your swimwear in your hand luggage: suitcases sometimes reach the cabin after boarding.
Do you need evening wear for dinner on board?
No. The atmosphere is relaxed and you don’t need smart clothes at dinner, whatever your meal plan among the services included in a Nile cruise.
