**What is the Best Money to Take to Egypt from UK?**
If you are planning a trip to Egypt from the UK, you might be wondering what the best option is for bringing money with you. The most practical way to manage your spending in Egypt is through a combination of cash and credit or debit cards. The local currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP), and it’s recommended to exchange some pounds sterling (GBP) into EGP before leaving the UK. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, cash is still the preferred method of payment in smaller towns and rural areas.
When exchanging money, it’s a good idea to compare rates at different currency exchange providers to get the best deal. Additionally, it’s important to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with using your cards abroad. For added security, consider carrying a small amount of US dollars in case of emergencies, as they are widely accepted in Egypt and can be easily exchanged for EGP at banks and currency exchange offices.
**FAQs**
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Contents
- What is the exchange rate between GBP and EGP?
- Is it better to use cash or cards in Egypt?
- Can I use my UK credit or debit card in Egypt?
- Are there ATMs in Egypt?
- Should I exchange money at the airport or in the UK?
- What types of currency are accepted in Egypt?
- Are there any restrictions on the amount of currency I can bring into Egypt?
- What is the tipping culture in Egypt?
- Is it safe to carry large amounts of cash in Egypt?
- Can I use traveler’s checks in Egypt?
- What fees should I be aware of when using my cards in Egypt?
- Should I bring a mixture of small and large denominations of cash?
What is the exchange rate between GBP and EGP?
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The exchange rate between GBP and EGP varies, so it’s best to check with currency exchange providers or your bank for the most up-to-date rates. Keep in mind that currency exchange offices in airports or tourist areas may offer less favorable rates compared to banks or local exchange offices.
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Is it better to use cash or cards in Egypt?
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While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, cash is still the preferred method of payment in smaller towns and rural areas. It’s recommended to carry a combination of both for convenience.
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Can I use my UK credit or debit card in Egypt?
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Yes, most UK credit and debit cards are accepted in Egypt. However, it’s important to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with using your cards abroad. Some banks may also charge foreign transaction fees, so it’s best to check with your bank beforehand.
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Are there ATMs in Egypt?
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Yes, ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas in Egypt. However, it’s recommended to withdraw cash from ATMs at banks for added security.
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Should I exchange money at the airport or in the UK?
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It’s generally better to exchange a small amount of GBP into EGP before leaving the UK to cover immediate expenses upon arrival in Egypt. However, it’s advisable to compare rates at different currency exchange providers to get the best deal.
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What types of currency are accepted in Egypt?
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The official currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP). However, US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas and can be easily exchanged for EGP at banks and currency exchange offices.
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Are there any restrictions on the amount of currency I can bring into Egypt?
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There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency that tourists can bring into Egypt. However, it’s advisable to declare amounts exceeding $10,000 or its equivalent in other currencies.
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What is the tipping culture in Egypt?
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Tipping is a common practice in Egypt, especially in the service industry. It’s customary to tip hotel staff, restaurant servers, tour guides, and drivers. In most cases, a tip of 5-10% of the total bill is considered appropriate.
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Is it safe to carry large amounts of cash in Egypt?
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While Egypt is generally safe for tourists, it’s recommended to exercise caution when carrying large amounts of cash. It’s best to use hotel safes or secure money belts to store excess cash and valuables.
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Can I use traveler’s checks in Egypt?
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Traveler’s checks are no longer widely accepted in Egypt, and it can be challenging to find banks or exchange offices that will cash them. It’s best to rely on a combination of cash and cards for convenience.
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What fees should I be aware of when using my cards in Egypt?
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Some UK banks may charge foreign transaction fees for using credit or debit cards abroad. It’s advisable to check with your bank for their fee structure and policies regarding international transactions.
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Should I bring a mixture of small and large denominations of cash?
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Yes, it’s a good idea to carry a mixture of small and large denominations of EGP to avoid any issues with making exact change, especially in markets and smaller shops. It’s also helpful for tipping and public transportation fares.
