Heading to Egypt for kitesurfing for the first time and not sure what to pack? Good news right away: the most important thing – kite equipment – you don’t need to bring at all.
Equipment? Leave It at Home
If you’re coming for a course, all equipment is included. Kites, boards, harnesses, wetsuits, vests – everything is available right at the school. We have over 250 Flysurfer kites in all sizes, so we’ll always find the right one for you.
And even if you’re coming as an experienced kiter who just wants to ride – our rental has a full selection of current equipment. The Kitepass costs €10 per day and includes spot access, rescue boat, and storage.
Why It’s Not Worth Bringing Your Own Kite
Simple math: a kite bag costs around €80 per flight with most airlines. That’s €160 round trip. For that amount, you can rent equipment for an entire week at our rental – and you don’t have to worry about excess baggage, transport damage, or whether your sizes will match the local conditions.
Exception: if you’re coming for an extended stay (a month or more) and have your own gear, it may be worth bringing it. We offer storage for €13 per day or long-term storage up to €900 per year.
What to Actually Pack
Must-Haves
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ – The Egyptian sun is brutal. Even when it’s cloudy. Buy quality waterproof sunscreen before you leave – the selection in Egypt is worse and more expensive.
- Water shoes (neoprene) – The lagoon has a sandy bottom, but you’ll appreciate protection on the beach and when entering the water. Light neoprene booties will do.
- Sunglasses with a strap – You can’t be on the water without them. And without a strap, you’ll lose them on your first fall. Don’t buy expensive ones – buy functional ones with UV protection and a strap.
- Cap/hat – On the beach, at the restaurant, on excursions. The sun shines all day here.
- Light clothing – Shorts, t-shirt, dress. From March to November, summer clothes are all you need. Cotton or linen – synthetics aren’t pleasant in the heat.
Wetsuit
Depends on the season:
- December–February: Full wetsuit 4/3 or 3/2 mm. Water is 20-21 °C and mornings feel cold.
- March, November: Shorty or full 2 mm. Depends on your cold tolerance.
- April–October: Board shorts/bikini. Water is 24-28 °C.
You can also rent a wetsuit from us – but if you have your own, it takes up minimal space in your suitcase and always fits better.
Documents and Practical Items
- Passport – Valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Egypt.
- Visa – At the airport in Hurghada (HRG). For EU citizens, it costs 25 USD, payable in cash or by card. No queues, no paperwork in advance.
- Travel insurance – Recommended. Coverage for sports activities including kitesurfing. Healthcare in Egypt is accessible, but you pay out of pocket without insurance.
- Cash in EUR or USD – For the visa and currency exchange. ATMs work in El Gouna and most places accept cards, but a bit of cash is handy for tips.
What to Leave at Home
- Warm clothing (you won’t need it, even in winter it’s 20+ °C)
- Your own kite gear (unless you’re going for a month+)
- Expensive jewelry and electronics (unnecessary risk)
- Stress (doesn’t work in El Gouna)
What to Buy on the Spot
In El Gouna, you can get basic essentials – sunscreen, clothing, souvenirs. Hurghada has a wider selection of shops. But specific items like quality water shoes or sunglass straps are better bought before you leave.
At our shop at the center, you’ll find Flysurfer and Levitaz clothing and accessories. And if after a course you decide you want your own equipment – we offer a 15% discount on new Flysurfer kites for our students.
Summary
Pack a light suitcase with summer clothes, sunscreen, water shoes, and sunglasses. Leave the kite gear to us. And if you’re not sure – write to us and we’ll advise you based on the exact season you’re traveling.
Wondering when to go? Read our month-by-month guide.