Summer is here, and it’s time to prepare for those perfect days along the beach. Whether you’re planning a luxurious getaway or a budget-friendly beach trip, we’ve curated the essential items you’ll need, from premium splurges to wallet-friendly finds, whether you’re looking for sun protection, hair care, or beach gear.

But before you jump into the water, check out our in-depth swimwear guide to find your favorite beach- or pool-side fit.

SPF STANDS FOR SUN PROTECTION FIRST-

Your skin’s health should be your top priority. Proper sun protection prevents painful burns and long-term damage, making sure you can enjoy every moment under the sun.

#1- TREAT YOURSELF: Korean skincare has earned its reputation for sophisticated formulas and exceptional results. Here’s are our picks for facial protection products:

  • Beauty of Joseon Rice + Probiotics Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++: Lightweight and non-sticky formula
  • COSRX Ultra-Light Invisible Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++: High hydration without the heavy, oily residue
  • COSRX Aloe 54.2 Aqua Tone-Up Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++: Perfect for a subtle glow

IMPORTANT NOTE: Korean sunscreens typically focus only on facial protection. Pair them with a full-body sunscreen for complete coverage.

PRICE RANGE: EGP 1k+

WHERE TO FIND IT: Breadfast app, Instashop app, Talabat Mart, and Source Beauty. Availability varies by location.

#2- TRUSTED CLASSICS: For reliable, full-body protection and tanning products that won’t break the bank.

  • Nivea Protect & Moisture Moisture Lock SPF50+ Sunscreen: Available with lower SPF ranges
  • Nivea Protect & Dry Touch Refreshing Mist: Mess-free application

If you want to go back to Cairo with evidence of a beachside vacay, here are the products most likely to give you a sun-kissed look without compromising on protection:

  • Carroten Intense Tan Oil Spray: A summer favorite among those looking for a perfect golden glow
  • Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel: An oil-free alternative with the same results
  • Carroten Protect & Care Suncare Milk Spray SPF30: Great for mixing with tanning products for all the beauty and none of the pain.

PRICE RANGE: You can find Nivea’s products for EGP 600+, and Carroten products for a maximum of EGP 700, with a closer range of EGP 400.

WHERE TO FIND IT:Nivea’s sunscreens are available in most pharmacies, both in-store and online. Carotten’s products are available at Bloom Pharmacy and some in-store pharmacies as well.

#3- LOCAL HEROES: There has been a surge of Egyptian skincare brands delivering quality products at unbeatable prices. Our picks are:

  • Kolagra Roll-On Sunscreen: Kid-friendly but suitable for all ages, with convenient application
  • Bobana Sunscreen Gel: Fast-absorbing and water-resistant
  • Dermactive Acti-Solaire SPF 50+ Ultra Fluid: Budget-friendly facial protection

PRICE RANGE: Kolagra’s roll-on sunscreen stands at EGP 170, Bobana’s can be found for LE 80-200, depending on the size and seller, and Dermactive’s sunscreens start at EGP 279.

WHERE TO FIND IT:Kolagra, Bobana and Dermactive’s products are available on their official websites, and local in-store pharmacies.

HAIR CARE FOR BEACH-READY LOCKS-

Embrace those effortless beach waves while protecting your hair from saltwater and sun damage.

#1- TREAT YOURSELF: The Revlon Uniq One Hair Treatment is the go-to for those invested in protecting the hair and quickly conditioning after a dip in the salty water. We recommend the coconut scent to round out the summer vibe.

PRICE RANGE:Depending on the seller, the product is usually available for EGP 1.2k.

WHERE TO FIND IT:Available in most in-store pharmacies, also available for delivery from Bloom Pharmacy.

#2- TRUSTED CLASSICS: For curly hair, we’d recommend:

  • The Hair Addict Swim-Proof Recipe: Made with a jojoba oil, orange extract, and distilled water formula to tame even the wildest frizz
  • OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Weightless Healing Dry Oil: Anti-frizz protection that doesn’t compromise on volume

For perfect beach waves:

  • Eva Professional’s Vitamin Recharge Beach Hair Spray: A sea salt spray for authentic beachy texture, achievable from the comfort of your own home in Cairo

PRICE RANGE:Hair Addict’s oil stands at EGP 320, OGX’s at EGP 445, and Eva Professional’s spray at EGP 550.

WHERE TO FIND IT:Hair Addict’s products are available on their website, while Eva Professional and OGX can be found on their website or at Bloom Pharmacy online or in-store.

#3- LOCAL HEROES: Budget-friendly products that provide the same benefits.

  • The Hair Addict Frizz Off Leave-In Conditioner: Anti-frizz solution
  • Joviality Salt Breeze Hair Mist: Beach wave activator
  • Bubblz Beach Coconut Hair Perfume: A fresh, summer scent

PRICE: You can find The Hair Addict’s conditioner for EGP 278, Joviality’s hair mist for EGP 220, and Bubblz’ hair perfume stands for EGP 190.

WHERE TO FIND IT:You can find the products on The Hair Addict’s website, Joviality’s website, Bubblz’ website, or at their mall kiosks.

FOOTWEAR FOR YOUR SOLE-

#1- TREAT YOURSELF: Havaianas is this summer’s trendy flip-flop, available in countless colors and designs.

PRICE RANGE:Prices range from USD 16 for kids flip-flops to USD 88.

WHERE TO FIND IT:You can order internationally from their official website.

#2- TRUSTED CLASSICS: For some local flair, try In Your Shoe ’s Purple Slyds — colorful, youthful designs perfect for playful summer outfits.

PRICE RANGE:You can find a pair of Purple Slyds for EGP 499 (when they’re back in stock).

WHERE TO FIND IT:You can order from IYS’s website or visit their stores.

#3- LOCAL HEROES: Zee offers trendy designs in vibrant colors made of durable rubber materials.

PRICE RANGE:You can find yourself a pair from EGP 299 to EGP 2.4k.

WHERE TO FIND IT:You can find your pick on Zee’s website.

SUNGLASSES-

#1- TREAT YOURSELF: Miu Miu ’s eyewear collection plays with avant-garde silhouettes, blending vintage inspiration with contemporary shapes — making it a perfect fit for those looking to make a bold, fashion-forward statement this summer.

PRICE RANGE:You can find yours for EGP 12.9k to EGP 26.6k.

WHERE TO FIND IT:You can shop for Miu Miu’s latest designs at Magrabi and Baraka. Watch for seasonal discounts.

#2- TRUSTED CLASSICS: Parfois offers its own trendy designs at accessible prices for fashion-conscious shoppers.

PRICE RANGE:You can find sunglasses for EGP 799 and EGP 1.4k.

WHERE TO FIND IT:You can order from their website, or visit their stores.

#3- LOCAL HEROES: Budget-friendly options for thrifters or lovers of vintage vibes:

  • Retro Hunts: This online vintage marketplace offers a limited but cool and affordable collection of vintage sunglasses
  • Souq Diana Flea Market: Saturday treasure hunts for unique finds
  • Bab El Louq Downtown: Year-round shopping for trendy, non-branded designs

PRICE RANGE:Prices at Retro Hunts and the flea markets depend on the collection available, but can start below EGP 100.

WHERE TO FIND IT:You shop on Retro Hunt’s website, visit Souq Diana on Saturday mornings to the late afternoon, and head to Bab El Louq any day of the week.

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