Buying sports and outdoor gear in Egypt
Fitness equipment, bikes and outdoor gear carry real value, and second-hand trading is common.
New items
- Article 17 of Consumer Protection Law No. 181 of 2018 gives the buyer 14 days from receipt to exchange or return goods without giving a reason. Exceptions include perishable goods, goods made to the buyer's own specification, goods damaged by the buyer, and books and software.
- The Consumer Protection Agency says defective goods can be exchanged or returned within 30 days of receipt.
- Durable goods carry a legal warranty against manufacturing defects of at least two years. Keep the invoice and the warranty card.
Second-hand gear
- Check a bike frame for cracks, test brakes and gears, and ask where it came from so you do not buy a stolen bike.
- Power up electric equipment such as treadmills, and ask whether the warranty can be transferred.
- Meet in daylight in a public place, ideally with someone who speaks Arabic.
- Do not transfer money or pay a deposit before you have seen the item.
- Ask for the seller's ID and write a short receipt with both names, the item, its serial number and the handover date.
Outdoor activities
- For desert or Red Sea trips, choose a licensed travel company or dive centre.
- Avoid second-hand diving or climbing gear of unknown history.
Official and public sources
Need an interpreter to come along, or want to post a real sale or rental?