This is a list suitable for someone staying in a tent or other non-hotel accommodations.
Please note: all items with an asterisk should be taken with you to Arafat.
- 2-3 Ihram outfits (if you choose to wear them)
- sheets
- body and hand towels
- comfortable scarf to wear indoors
- surgical masks to wear out in crowds - can be bought in the pharmacies in Saudi Arabia
- hair tie-backs
- coat hangers (also to use for drying washed clothes)
- tennis shoes
- socks
- pajamas
- robe
- broken-in rubber sandals
- Band-Aids
- tissues
- waterless hand wash liquid
- fanny pack
- non-scented soap
- washcloth in plastic bag
- pillow
- small bag or suitcase (for Arafat)
- umbrella (for sun!)
- prayer rug
- sunscreen (unscented)
- Quran
- Dua (suplication) and other Islamic books
- chapstick
- camp stool
- water bottle carrier and plastic cup
- battery-operated personal fan
- toothbrush and paste
- eye drops
Other notes:
The surest way to have a bad Hajj experience is to get sick. Alhamdu lillah, I was one of the very few who didn't. My recommendations are to wear surgical masks at all times when out in crowds, and most importantly, NEVER touch any part of your face without washing your hands first, either with soap and water, or, more practically, with the new waterless hand wash gel.
Also, at the first symptom of any illness, take echinacea, vitamin C, aspirin or whatever else is indicated. And, of course, drink plenty of water at all times.
Another important piece of advice is when you are out in crushing crowds to never, ever attempt to retrieve any dropped item. Shoes, fans, books can all be replaced, but there is a severe risk of being trampled should you try to stop or bend down. As several fatal stampedes have occurred at the stoning of the Jamarat, have a 'scout' from your group check the crowd situation before you attempt to go there.
Comments
Assalamu aleikumSome feedback on the comments: re alcohol in handwash, what is forbidden in Islam is the injestion of INTOXICANTS and not the chemical 'alcohol' of which there are many forms. The form used in waterless handwash is isopropyl alcohol which is not injested and does not intoxicate (however it is toxic if drunk).A 'fanny pack' is a belt-like strap-on bag which serves as a purse or recepticle for a number of small items while leaving your hands free. Men often secure their ihraam with such a belt/bag and they are much more practical and secure than a purse for women.As for the Q on what women should wear, my advice is long, loose, breezy light cotton dresses which can be worn with or without an abaya atop them. Try to get something that doesn't wrinkle too much and can be easily washed out. You might bring a pair or two of leggings (cotton or stretchy pants) to wear underneath if you find that more comfortable. As to where to stay, most people go to the best place they can afford through their hajj tour operator. I'm sure you can check out hotel ratings online if your operator gives you the names of possible choices they work with.Salaam, Brenda
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Very informative and practical information. Question regarding the waterless hand wash, one of the main ingredient is alchol, do you think that is permissable?
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thank s alot
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I am going to Hajj this February insha Allah. The tips are really great and useful, I was never sure what to bring, but one question : What's a "Fanny Pack" ???
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Salam I am going to Hajj very soon and this is great info.But i was wondering if you had more.Like what to wear and where to go and stay etc.Thanks so much
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I am planning to go for Hajj in February 2003 InshaAllah. I find these tips very useful and encouraging.
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