After spending six years living in the Middle East, Egypt and Jordan remain two of my favourites. Packing for this region is about balance - practical for adventure, polished for cities, and respectful of local culture. These are my curated outfit picks for desert days, temple visits, and exploring old towns in style...
Sections
5
Clothing Essentials
Accessories
Footwear
Travel Days
Travel Guides & Tips
Clothing Essentials
Breathable, lightweight pieces I actually wear in Egypt and Jordan - easy to move in, good in heat, and still cute in photos.
Breathable and airy, these shirts keep you cool in the heat and are perfect for layering over dresses or thin-strapped tanks.
Linen Short Sleeve Shirt | Uniqlo
Lightweight, breathable trousers are easy to slip on and perfect for exploring temples, markets, and desert landscapes.
High-Waisted Utility Ankle Pants | Old Navy
I love the silhouette, and colour options of this short sleeve top.
Short-Sleeve Gauze Popover Top | Old Navy
The ultimate slip on and step out style. It's light, breezy, and feels amazing in the heat. Add sandals and a bit of jewellery and the outfit's done.
Organic Cotton Tiered Maxi Dress | Quince
A really good basic tee is perfect for layer on travel days.
Cotton Crew-Neck Tee (Anthropologie)
A lightweight maxi skirt is perfect - keeps you cool in the heat, and works well when you want a bit more coverage.
Lace-Trim Maxi Skirt | Old Navy
These versatile pants are built to last, with breathable, wrinkle-resistant fabric.
Brooklyn Mid Rise Ankle Pant (Athleta)
You can absolutely wear shorts in Jordan, especially for hiking in Petra and Wadi Rum. The cities tend to be more conservative, but in the main adventure hubs (Wadi Rum & Petra), lightweight shorts are practical and totally normal on hot days.
PACT Stretch Poplin Short
Soft poplin maxi dress in the prettiest ivory stripe.
Poplin Maxi Dress | Gap
A neutral staple
Linen Wide Leg Pants (Quince)
A classic one-piece is a great choice over anything too skimpy.
Aerie Ribbed One Piece Swimsuit
Accessories
These are the items that make outfits work for travel - practical, stylish, and perfect for long days exploring.
I love this woven straw hat - the brim gives plenty of shade while exploring.
Brixton Joanna Straw Hat | Nordstrom
I like to carry a few essentials close to me while travelling - a belt bag is a safe, hands-free way to protect your valuables while on the move.
Everywhere Belt Bag 2L | Lululemon
I always pack a lightweight linen scarf for the Middle East. It’s perfect for sun protection, modesty in mosques and old cities, and adding a little polish to simple outfits.
European Linen Scarf | Quince
I have the black but there are so many colours to choose from.
Round Shoulder Bag | Uniqlo
Quickly switch from backpack to crossbody bag.
Anti-Theft Convertible Backpack | Pacsafe
Footwear
Shoes I trust for full days on my feet - comfy, walkable, and cute enough for city wandering and dinners after.
You'll be walking a lot, whether that's at ancient sights or through souks - and these are the sandals I trust.
Teva Original Universal Sandals
I pack these when I know I’ll be doing serious walking and hiking. They’re perfect for places like Wadi Rum - super supportive, secure on your feet, and built for adventure days.
Teva Hurricane Sandals
These are my favourite sneakers. Super classic, easy to style, and perfect for long airport days.
Adidas SL 72 OG Maroon/Brown Sneakers (FARFETCH)
Travel Days
Soft, warm, and easy to throw on for early starts and chilly evenings.
Double Zip Sweatshirt (Vuori)
so light & breathable
Villa Wide-Leg Pants | Vuori
I like the minimalist, sport look - perfect for exploring.
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 Trainer
Travel Guides & Tips
All my best travel advice for Egypt and Jordan in one place. From packing tips to local favourites, these guides cover everything I’ve learned from years of living and travelling in the Middle East.
My Ultimate Cairo Itinerary for your first-time trip to Egypt.
Cairo Itinerary (3–5 Days) — Her Nomad Eyes
I mapped out my favourite Jordan adventures over 10 days - from Amman to Wadi Rum.
Ultimate 10 Day Jordan Itinerary — Her Nomad Eyes
My hotel recs for Cairo - from pyramid views to stylish downtown stays.
Cairo Hotel Guide — Her Nomad Eyes
Discover Luxor's incredible temples and tombs.
Luxor Travel Guide — Her Nomad Eyes
Skip the crowds and see Petra differently. I walk you through the back-door route and insider tips for an unforgettable hike.
Hiking the Back Door Trail to the Monastery, Petra — Her Nomad Eyes
The best experiences in Egypt beyond the pyramids (but just as incredible)!
Egypt Bucket List: Beyond the Pyramids — Her Nomad Eyes
