Managing Money & Budgeting in Egypt: Exchange, ATMs & Tipping

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Stretch your travel budget with smart money management: currency exchange, ATM use, daily expense estimates and tipping customs.

1. Currency & Exchange

• Currency: Egyptian Pound (E£). Rate ~E£ 30 = \$1 USD.
• Exchanging: Use bank branches or licensed bureaus (avoid airport booths).
• Limits: Carry under E£ 10,000 cash when entering Egypt.

2. ATMs & Cards

• ATM Use: Visa/Mastercard widely accepted; withdraw in cities, avoid standalone ATMs.
• Fees: Expect E£ 20–50 ATM fee; withdraw larger amounts to minimize fees.
• Safety: Cover keypad, use ATMs inside banks or hotels.

3. Budgeting Daily Expenses

Average daily budget per person:

1. Accommodation: \$30–50 (budget hotel or Airbnb)
2. Food: \$10–20 (street food/local diners)
3. Transport: \$5–10 (metro, microbus, occasional taxi)
4. Attractions: \$10–30 (site entry fees vary)

4. Tipping & Service Charges

• Restaurants: 10–15% if service not included.
• Guides/Drivers: E£ 50–100 per day for guides, E£ 20–50 for drivers.
• Hotel Staff: E£ 5–10 per bag for bellhops; E£ 20 per day housekeeping.

Learn more: XE Currency – EGP