What should I pack for حج?

Packing for حج requires balancing between having everything you need and keeping your luggage manageable, as you will be moving between multiple locations (مکہ مکرمہ, منیٰ, عرفات, مزدلفہ, and possibly مدینہ منورہ) and storage space in tents and shared rooms is limited. Start with the essentials: for men, pack at least two sets of احرام garments (two white unstitched sheets each — the izar and rida) so you have a clean set available; for women, comfortable modest clothing that covers appropriately. Both men and women should bring comfortable, durable sandals or open-toed shoes that are easy to slip on and off (you will remove them frequently at the مسجد), and consider bringing a second pair as backup.

Health and hygiene items are critical given the physical demands of حج and the extreme heat. Pack all prescription medications in their original packaging with a doctor's letter, plus a generous supply of over-the-counter essentials: pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, antihistamines, throat lozenges, band-aids and blister plasters, antiseptic cream, sunscreen (SPF 50+, unscented during احرام), lip balm with SPF, a small first aid kit, electrolyte sachets or rehydration salts (essential for heat management), and any personal medical devices. Toiletries should be unscented during احرام — bring unscented soap, shampoo, deodorant, and wet wipes. A small towel and a compact نماز rug are useful. Pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the حج.

For documents and valuables, bring your passport, visa documents, vaccination certificates, travel insurance papers, hotel booking confirmations, and ایمرجنسی contact information — make photocopies of everything and store them separately from the originals. A secure waist pouch or neck wallet is essential for keeping valuables safe in crowds. For electronics, bring your phone with a portable charger (10,000+ mAh مستحب), a universal power adapter (Saudi Arabia uses Type G plugs), and a small flashlight for مزدلفہ's nighttime activities. A lightweight backpack or shoulder bag for day-to-day movement between sites is invaluable. Finally, pack a small دعا book or download an offline دعا app like احرامOS before departure, as internet connectivity during حج days is unreliable.