Exchanging money before traveling to Egypt is a prudent decision for several reasons, although it's not strictly necessary.
Convenience: Having Egyptian Pounds (EGP) on hand upon arrival can save time and hassle, especially if you're arriving late at night or on a weekend when banks and currency exchange offices might be closed. It allows you to cover immediate expenses like transportation and meals without needing to search for an exchange bureau.
Avoiding Exchange Rate Fluctuations: By exchanging money before your trip, you can lock in a favorable exchange rate, shielding yourself from potential fluctuations that may occur while traveling. This ensures you get the most value for your currency.
Emergency Funds: Carrying some local currency provides a financial safety net in case of unexpected circumstances, such as card payment issues or ATMs not accepting your card. Having cash on hand can be essential in remote areas or during emergencies.
Avoiding High Fees: While withdrawing cash from ATMs abroad is convenient, it often comes with fees from both your home bank and the ATM provider. Exchanging money before traveling can help you avoid these additional charges.
Ultimately, whether to exchange money before traveling to Egypt depends on your preferences, travel itinerary, and comfort level with managing finances while abroad. If you choose not to exchange beforehand, ensure you have a plan for accessing funds upon arrival, such as using ATMs or currency exchange services at airports or hotels.