If you’re enjoying these travel on a budget posts I keep making, then let me know.
I might just turn this into a regular series of posts.

Ok without further ado, let’s get into traveling to Egypt, the broke edition 😀

1 – Plan your trip during the off-peak season

Namely anytime other than the winter months of November-February. This is when most people in cold winter countries plan their trips to escape the frozen Winterland of their own country. Choosing the right time is key in saving money as you could literally shave off up to 1/3rd of the flight cost by avoiding the peak season.

2 – Take advantage of the currency exchange rate

On average, most travelers to Egypt can have a great time exploring and eating spending no more than 400 Egyptian Pounds a day, which works out to roughly $25 per day. Of that $25, if you spend $6-$7 on the food you can eat to your heart’s content every day. For foreigners, the price of eating high-quality (and quantity) is so low you won’t ever have to worry about being hungry.

Also, if you’re planning on staying in hotels then you’re also in luck. For about $25 you can stay in the best hotels in Cairo for a couple of days, which is unheard of where I’m from. $25 wouldn’t get me a room in a rundown motel in my area, so staying at the Marriot for a few days for only $25 is a sweeeeet deal.

3- Learn to haggle

Unlike most western countries, you can haggle about the price of anything in Egypt. Literally anything!

If you really want to save money, then you’re going to have to become a cutthroat haggler, and don’t feel bad because everyone jacks up the price when they see foreigners. In fact, even if you’re not a foreigner they’ll jack up the price on you. It’s pretty much a regular part of doing business in Egypt, you must haggle.

Some vendors will take offense if you don’t try to haggle back and forth with them, it’s very strange but at the same time they’ll treat you to tea and snacks as you guys shop and figure out a reasonable price.

Don’t be shy! If they tell you something costs 100 Egyptian Pounds, then you can offer them anywhere from 10-20 pounds. The rule of thumb is cut 60-80% off the stated price and start haggling from there.

4 – Only take the white taxis

The white taxies tend to be the ones with a functioning meter making it very difficult for the driver to rip you off on the cost of the trip.

Always ask if the meter is working before the trip!
If you’re forced to ride one with a broken meter then agree on the destination and price before getting in the cab.