Budget travelers are often amazed by the affordability of exploring Egypt. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a truly thrilling experience here. With some planning and research, you can maximize both your finances and your time. When you are planning a trip with Egyptair, make sure to search for offers and deals in order to find the most affordable tickets.
By choosing to enjoy local cuisine and embracing the hostel lifestyle, you can explore a significant portion of Egypt without breaking the bank, while still treating yourself to occasional affordable luxuries.
Fly into Egypt using airports in cities other than Cairo
Securing an affordable flight is the key to having a cost-effective trip. If you have additional destinations on your itinerary in Egypt, apart from Cairo (which you should!), you can save a significant amount of money by reserving a flight to one of the numerous international airports in the country. There are other cheaper alternative entry points to Egypt outside Cairo, including Marsa Alam, Luxor, Hurghada, Sharm el Sheikh, Aswan, and Alexandria.
Dine as the locals do
Food holds a significant place in Egyptian culture, and there is no better way to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle than by indulging in Egypt’s delicious street food offerings. In Egypt, the cost of Egyptian cuisine is generally lower compared to international food, and you will discover a wide variety of delectable, affordable, and diverse choices. There are numerous street food vendors, particularly in Cairo, that provide a wide variety of delicious foods for you to select from, including options suitable for vegetarians and vegans. If your lodgings include a kitchen, buy fresh produce from the numerous vendors along the streets to prepare dinner.
Learn how to navigate public transportation effectively
In the larger cities of Egypt, the cost of public transportation is significantly lower compared to hiring an individual to drive. Utilizing public buses, trams, and Cairo’s Metro can also prove to be more convenient compared to haggling over taxi fares. Cairo is home to numerous companies that operate public bus services, but Mwasalat Misr stands out as the most dependable, cost-effective, and user-friendly option. When it comes to domestic travel, buses, and trains are a more cost-effective option compared to flying. If you are planning to take a trip to Sinai, Siwa, or other destinations that are not connected by train, there are numerous bus travel companies available for you to choose from. If you are traveling between Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan and want to save even more money, consider taking the sleeping train or a nighttime bus ride. This way, you can save on accommodation costs for one night.
If you are in Cairo, it is recommended to stay in the central part of the city
Cairo is a city that can be overwhelming to the senses, as there is an abundance of sights, culinary delights, and experiences to be had. In order to make the most of your time in Cairo without losing a whole day in the city’s infamous traffic, it is advisable to reserve a room in the central area. This will allow for easier access to all the attractions. Downtown Cairo provides a wide range of affordable lodging options, such as boutique hotels, hostels. These accommodations are conveniently located near the Egyptian Museum and the Nile, making them easily accessible by foot.
Master the skill of negotiation
You notice a souvenir that you would really like to bring back with you, but the seller has just quoted you an exorbitantly high price. Do not give up; this is a normal part of the process. Street vendors often increase prices for foreigners, but if you engage in respectful bargaining, you may be able to secure a favorable deal. Confidently counter with a price that is slightly less than half of the quoted amount. You will probably engage in a tennis match with the seller, where they will gradually raise the price and you will gradually lower it, until both parties eventually reach a compromise in the middle. Do not accept the initial price you are offered; instead, be wise in your transactions and demonstrate your negotiation skills.