The idea behind this list
Most Hajj packing lists put everything into one long column. Pilgrims arrive with everything they need, but cannot find it when they need it. It is easier to think in terms of three bags: your hand luggage, which stays with you on the plane and until you reach the hotel; your main suitcase, which stays at the hotel; and a small backpack you carry during the days in Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah. Once you know where each item will live, packing becomes simpler and lighter.
Bag one: hand luggage (the flight and arrival)
- Documents: passport, visa or Hajj permit, and digital copies on your phone and in your email.
- Ihram clothing: because you will usually enter ihram when the plane passes the miqat, keep it within reach or change before take-off.
- Daily medication with your prescription. Never put it in checked luggage.
- Phone, charger and power bank.
- A little cash in riyals for the first expenses.
- Pickup details: your driver's or transport provider's number and your hotel name written in Arabic.
Scissors and razors are not allowed in cabin baggage; pack them in your checked suitcase for after the rites.
Bag two: the main suitcase (the hotel)
For men
- At least one spare set of ihram, ideally in an absorbent cotton fabric.
- An ihram belt with pockets for cash and phone.
- Comfortable sandals you have already worn in. Sandals for a man in ihram should leave the ankles uncovered.
- A few sets of light everyday clothes for after you exit ihram.
For women
- Loose, modest clothing in light, breathable fabrics. There is no special colour required for women in ihram.
- Comfortable headscarves that stay in place, and cotton socks.
- Remember that a woman in ihram does not wear a face veil (niqab) or gloves.
For everyone
- Unscented soap, shampoo and deodorant to use while in ihram.
- Anti-chafing cream, moisturiser and unscented sunscreen.
- A first-aid kit: blister plasters, antiseptic, painkillers and oral rehydration salts.
- Face masks and hand sanitiser, since colds spread quickly in dense crowds.
Bag three: the backpack for the holy sites
In Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah your big suitcase will not be with you, so carry a light backpack containing:
- A light-coloured umbrella for shade.
- A refillable water bottle.
- A thin foldable prayer mat, plus a light mat or inflatable pillow for the night in Muzdalifah.
- A small pouch for the Jamarat pebbles.
- A large power bank, because charging points in the camps are limited.
- A card with your name, your group leader's number and your hotel address.
- Sealed snacks such as dates and nuts.
Keep the backpack genuinely light. You will carry it for long distances on foot, often in the heat, and every extra item is felt by the second day.
Extras for older pilgrims and chronic conditions
- Medication for several days longer than the trip, split between hand luggage and backpack so it cannot all be lost at once.
- A short medical summary of the condition and medicines, in Arabic or English.
- A glucose or blood-pressure monitor if one is normally used.
- A folding wheelchair or walking stick, or enquire in advance about wheelchair services.
- Comfortable orthopaedic shoes, worn in well before departure.
Before you zip up
- Check the current health and vaccination requirements for Hajj on the official source; they can change from year to year.
- Install the official apps your Hajj provider requires, such as Nusuk, and make sure you can log in.
- Leave space in the main suitcase for gifts and for Zamzam water, following your airline's rules.
- Pack clothes for only a few days. Makkah has plenty of laundries, and light fabrics dry fast.
Getting around before and after Hajj
The days at the holy sites have their own organised transport, usually through your Hajj group. Before and after, though, you will need a car: from the airport to Makkah, perhaps on to Madinah once the rites are complete, and back to the airport to fly home. These are our fixed fares per car:
| Route | Sedan | Family SUV / van | VIP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeddah Airport to Makkah | 200 SAR | 350 SAR | 500 SAR |
| Makkah to Madinah | 400 SAR | 600 SAR | 1000 SAR |
| Makkah to Jeddah Airport | 190 SAR | 300 SAR | 500 SAR |
You pay on arrival. The season is extremely busy, so book early. See Makkah taxi and our taxi fare guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a sleeping bag?
It is not essential, but a light mat or inflatable pillow makes the night in Muzdalifah far more comfortable.
How many sets of ihram should I bring?
At least two, so you have a clean spare if one gets dirty.
Should I buy a SIM card before travelling?
You can buy one in the arrivals hall with your passport, or set up an eSIM in advance if your phone supports it.
How do I book a car from the airport?
Message us on +966582918075 with your flight number and the number of passengers and bags, or use the booking page.