Title image: ezhajjgroup.com

Written by: Atiya

The advent of the twelfth month in the Islamic calendar, Dhul Hajj, implies that the preparations for Hajj and Eid al Adha are at hand. Packing for travel is usually a hectic process, so in order to help you prepare for this beautiful and spiritual journey of hajj, here is a guide to make your experience more smooth and memorable.

1. Try to take luggage that has wheels (trolley bags) in order to easily carry them around. But the less luggage, the more comfortable it is for you to travel. But in case you intend to bring gifts for others, take a foldable bag with you.

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2. Keep your travel documents safe and avoid misplacing them during the pilgrimage. It sounds better to leave them with your belongings at the hotel you'll be staying in but you should always keep a small bag on you, where you can keep your personal items from being misplaced.

3. The primary way of purchasing anything in Makkah and Medina is with cash. So make sure to exchange your Qatari Riyals to Saudi Riyals before arriving. But if you forget to do so, don’t fret as any currency is usually accepted there for purchases. You can also exchange your money in Saudi Arabia through one of their currency exchange booths.

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4. During this long journey you may experience dry skin and broken skin on your legs. To take care of this problem, you always have hajj travel kits that are readily available. These kits contain moisturizing ointments, oils, shampoos and mini soaps from Beesline and Q.V., which are also scent free and compatible with all skin types. A single kit is usually suitable for all members of the family.

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5. Soap bars are usually difficult to dry immediately, so a better alternative is liquid body wash. They are easier to store, mess-free, and also portable. Liquid hand wash instead of regular soap to wash hands is also easier to carry. The most important thing to take with you on this journey is hand sanitizer and wet wipes, so definitely carry them on you and use them frequently.

6. If you are traveling by bus, instead of taking snacks such as chips, biscuits, etc, it’s better to take fruits as they have more water content and are more stomach filling, which also reduces your urge to repeatedly eat while traveling.

7. During hajj for the most part you won’t need to wear shoes, so it’s better to carry a pair of slippers with you, and leave your shoes behind in the hotel you’ll be staying in. But if you don’t find slippers on time you don’t have to worry as slippers are available in shops around Makkah and Medina.

8. As there are many people performing hajj, it is advisable to carry and wear a face mask to protect yourself from any seasonal flus.

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9. In order to recognize each other or not get separated from your family, it is advisable to wear similar clothing or similar colored abayas or head scarves in order to be recognized by family members even from a far distance. You can also decide where to meet up beforehand incase you split up during the hajj.

10. A camera and an alarm clock would be the least needed items to take with you in your hajj travels as your smart phone is already a great and efficient alternative.

Make a check list of all the items you need for a comfortable journey such as the ihram, a few bandages or a first aid kit, a few water bottles to keep yourself hydrated from time to time and a prayer mat also. Safe travels!

Are you planning on performing the pilgrimage? What's your efficient travel guide? Comment below!

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