Hajj Pilgrimage is a very sacred journey for Muslims and thus needs to be treated with much respect and dedication. Undoubtedly, to be able to perform hajj is dream come true for believers. Every year, hajj rituals are observed during the month of Dhu-al-Hijjah for which millions of pilgrims arrive with their hajj tour package. Performance of the Hajj pilgrimage holds great rewards for pilgrims. Thus, it remains significantly essential to ensure that you are fully prepared for it.
When preparing for the holy trip, one of the most common mistakes that pilgrims commit is overpacking. It’s advised to travel light for your hajj journey because it minimizes the hassles of baggage handling as well as keeps you better organized during your international stay. A pilgrim must only carry only its travel essentials because everything else that he/she may need, can be found there easily.
Here’s a small guide to help you pack intelligently for your harr travel trip.
Toiletries for personal and oral hygiene.
• When you are in the state of Ihram taking care of your oral and personal hygiene is of much importance. In fact, there’s a very common misbelief that a person can only remove ihram clothes after the hajj rituals are complete. The reality is that if your Ihram gets dirty, it’s permissible in Shariah to change your ihram clothing.
• Always carry a separate toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, etc. i.e., avoid sharing such things with your fellow pilgrims because individual health and safety must remain your priority.
• You are also allowed to use shampoo and shower gel so that you can properly clean yourself (as per the need) but keep in mind that all of these toiletries should be unscented. Scented products are forbidden to be used in the state of Ihram (during the holy rituals). Hence, make sure that whatever toiletries you are using, should have no scent.
Money Bag/Pouch.
A ‘money pouch’ or a ‘money belt’ remains a great tool to carry when you are traveling because it keeps all of your documents, credit/debit cards as well as cash well organized and safely stored. Even if you’ve hired an all-inclusive travel package and have no such need to spend money while you are away, it is useful to have it along to aid in case of an emergency. For example, you may always need some extra money for local transportation there, buying snacks and other things of the sort.
Clothing and Footwear.
• Every pilgrim must carry at least two sets of Ihram clothes; in case one of them gets dirty during the holy rituals you have an extra one to use.
• Carry 2-3 sets of your ordinary clothes i.e., to be worn after the holy rituals are complete and the state of ihram is denounced. You may need them for visiting Ziyarath places; traveling to Madinah and for everyday use as well.
• Makkah is a hot desert city, so make sure that your clothing fabric is a cotton blended one. It would help you stay cool and airy and thus avoiding skin rashes and sunburns.
These are some of the necessary things you need to pack for your hajj trip.
