Hajj Packing List 2026: Everything You Need from the UK
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HajjTravelGuidePacking
Hajj Packing List 2026: Everything You Need from the UK
Performing Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for every Muslim who is physically and financially able. It's a journey of immense spiritual significance, but it also requires careful practical preparation. Knowing what to pack -- and what to leave behind -- can make the difference between a comfortable, focused pilgrimage and an unnecessarily stressful one.
This comprehensive packing list is designed specifically for UK-based pilgrims heading to Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2026. We've organised everything by category and included tips on what to buy before you leave and what's better purchased once you arrive.
When is Hajj 2026?
Hajj 2026 is expected to fall in late May to early June, based on the Islamic lunar calendar. The exact dates depend on the sighting of the moon for Dhul Hijjah. Check with your Hajj travel operator for confirmed dates.
Documents and Essentials
Before you pack a single item, make sure your paperwork is in order. Lost documents can derail your entire trip.
- Passport -- Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date. Keep a photocopy separate from the original.
- Hajj visa -- Arranged through your licensed Hajj operator. Keep printed and digital copies.
- Flight tickets -- Print confirmations and keep digital copies on your phone and email.
- Hotel booking confirmations -- For Makkah and Madinah.
- Travel insurance documents -- Comprehensive cover including medical evacuation.
- Vaccination records -- Meningitis ACWY vaccination is mandatory. COVID and seasonal flu vaccinations may also be required or recommended.
- Medical prescriptions -- If you take regular medication, bring a letter from your GP with details of your prescriptions.
- Emergency contact card -- A laminated card with your name, UK address, hotel in Saudi, group leader's phone number, blood type, and any allergies. Keep this on your person at all times.
- Photocopies of all documents -- Store separately from originals. Also save digital copies in your email or cloud storage.
- UK phone with roaming or Saudi SIM -- Ensure your phone works in Saudi Arabia. Many UK networks offer roaming packages, or you can buy a local SIM at the airport.
- Portable charger/power bank -- You'll be away from plug sockets for hours during the rites. A 10,000mAh+ power bank is essential.
- Saudi adapter plug -- Saudi Arabia uses Type G plugs (same as UK), so you may not need an adapter. However, some hotels have different socket types, so bring a universal adapter just in case.
- Small amount of Saudi Riyals -- Exchange some currency before leaving the UK. You'll need cash for small purchases, taxis, and tips.
- Debit/credit card -- Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid card blocks.
Ihram
The ihram garments are essential for the Hajj rites. For men, this means two unstitched white cloths. Women wear their normal modest clothing.
For Men
- Two ihram cloths -- One for the upper body (rida) and one for the lower body (izar). Buy at least two sets so you have a spare. Quality matters -- thicker, softer cotton is more comfortable and stays in place better than thin, slippery fabric.
- Ihram belt -- A money belt or waist pouch that holds your ihram in place while keeping your valuables secure. This is a must-have.
- Unstitched sandals/flip-flops -- Footwear that does not cover the ankle or the top of the foot. Comfortable, sturdy sandals with good grip are essential -- you'll walk miles in these.
For Women
- Modest, comfortable clothing -- Loose-fitting, full-coverage clothing in breathable fabrics. White is traditional but not required.
- Hijab/head covering -- Breathable cotton or jersey hijabs. Bring several so you can change daily.
- Comfortable shoes -- Closed or open, as long as they're comfortable for extensive walking. Broken-in trainers or supportive sandals are ideal.
Tips for Ihram Comfort
- Practice wearing ihram before you go -- Walk around the house in your ihram to get used to the feel and learn how to secure it properly.
- Use safety pins -- Large safety pins can help secure the upper cloth and prevent it from slipping.
- Wash before wearing -- New ihram cloths can be stiff. Wash and soften them before your trip.
Prayer Essentials
Your primary purpose is worship. Make sure you have everything you need for comfortable, focused prayer.
- Travel prayer mat -- A compact, foldable prayer mat is invaluable. You'll pray in many different locations, and having your own mat ensures cleanliness and comfort. Browse our prayer essentials.
- Pocket Quran -- A small mushaf that fits in your ihram belt or pocket. Choose one with clear print that's easy to read.
- Tasbih beads -- A compact 33-bead tasbih for dhikr during Hajj. You'll spend a lot of time in du'a and remembrance. Check our Accessories.
- Du'a book for Hajj -- A pocket-sized guide with the du'as for each stage of Hajj: Tawaf, Sa'i, Arafat, Muzdalifah, Mina, and Rami al-Jamarat.
- Digital tasbih counter -- A small, wearable counter for keeping track of dhikr, especially during the long hours at Arafat.
- Translation app or book -- If you don't read Arabic fluently, a Quran translation app or a pocket-sized translation can help you understand what you're reciting.
Clothing and Personal Items
Beyond ihram, you'll need regular clothing for the days when you're not in the state of ihram.
- Comfortable thobes -- 2-3 lightweight cotton thobes for wearing in Makkah and Madinah when not in ihram. White is traditional and practical in the heat. Browse our Thobes collection.
- Underwear -- Pack enough for the duration of your trip. Quick-dry fabric is ideal.
- Socks -- Lightweight, breathable socks. You'll take your shoes off frequently at mosques.
- Sleepwear -- Lightweight, comfortable clothes for sleeping.
- Light jacket or shawl -- Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi are air-conditioned and can feel cold. A light layer is useful.
- Sunglasses -- The Saudi sun is intense. Good UV protection is important.
- Hat or cap -- For sun protection when not in ihram. A wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap works.
Toiletries and Hygiene
Keep this minimal but comprehensive. Remember that while in ihram, you cannot use scented products.
- Unscented soap -- For use during ihram. You can use scented soap when not in ihram.
- Unscented shampoo -- For ihram days.
- Unscented deodorant -- Crystal deodorant or unscented roll-on for ihram.
- Miswak -- Sunnah and practical. No toothpaste needed, and it's allowed during ihram.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste -- For non-ihram days.
- Nail clippers -- Trim nails before entering ihram; you cannot trim them during ihram.
- Vaseline or anti-chafing cream -- Essential. Walking for hours in ihram and in the heat can cause serious chafing. Apply generously to inner thighs, underarms, and feet.
- Sunscreen -- High SPF, unscented for ihram use. The Saudi sun is brutal.
- Lip balm with SPF -- Your lips will dry out quickly in the heat.
- Wet wipes -- Incredibly useful for freshening up when you can't shower. Buy unscented packs.
- Small towel -- A quick-dry microfibre towel takes up minimal space.
- Tissues/toilet paper -- Not always available in public facilities. Keep a pack in your pocket.
Health and Medication
The physical demands of Hajj should not be underestimated. Prepare accordingly.
- Prescription medication -- Bring more than enough to cover your trip, plus extra in case of delays. Keep in original packaging with your GP's letter.
- Paracetamol and ibuprofen -- For headaches, muscle aches, and fever.
- Diarrhoea tablets (Imodium) -- Stomach upsets are common due to different food and water.
- Rehydration sachets (ORS) -- Dehydration is a real risk. These are lifesavers.
- Plasters and blister pads -- Your feet will thank you. Compeed blister plasters are highly recommended.
- Deep Heat or muscle rub -- For aching legs and backs after long days of walking.
- Throat lozenges -- The air conditioning and dust can irritate your throat.
- Hand sanitiser -- You'll be in massive crowds. Use frequently.
- Face masks -- Crowded conditions mean respiratory infections spread easily. N95 or surgical masks are wise.
- Electrolyte tablets -- For water bottles to maintain hydration.
- Small first aid kit -- Plasters, antiseptic cream, and bandages for minor injuries.
- Eye drops -- The dust and dry air can irritate your eyes.
Comfort and Practical Items
- Small backpack or waist bag -- For carrying essentials during the rites. A waist bag keeps your hands free and valuables secure.
- Collapsible water bottle -- Stay hydrated. Zamzam water is freely available, but having your own bottle is essential.
- Umbrella -- For shade during outdoor rites, especially at Arafat and during Rami al-Jamarat. A compact, foldable umbrella is ideal.
- Sleeping bag liner or thin sheet -- For Muzdalifah, where you sleep under the open sky. A sleeping bag liner provides a clean surface and minimal warmth.
- Inflatable travel pillow -- For sleeping at Muzdalifah and during long waits.
- Earplugs and eye mask -- Shared accommodation can be noisy. These help you rest.
- Zip-lock bags -- For keeping documents dry, separating clean and dirty clothes, and storing snacks.
- Notebook and pen -- For journaling your Hajj experience, noting du'as, and writing reflections.
- Snacks -- Energy bars, nuts, dates, and dried fruit. You may not always have access to meals during the rites.
- Portable fan -- A small, battery-operated handheld fan can be a lifesaver in the heat.
What to Buy in the UK vs Saudi Arabia
Buy in the UK Before You Go
- Ihram cloths (better quality and you can practice wearing them)
- All medication and health supplies
- Travel prayer mat, tasbih, and pocket Quran -- check our prayer essentials and accessories
- Comfortable broken-in footwear
- Electronics (power bank, adapter)
- Unscented toiletries for ihram
- Anti-chafing cream
Buy in Saudi Arabia
- Zamzam water containers -- Buy empty containers in Makkah to fill with Zamzam water for your return.
- Additional ihram cloths -- Widely available and often cheaper in Saudi.
- Dates -- Premium Madinah dates (Ajwa, Safawi) are fresher and cheaper bought locally.
- Attar and oud -- Makkah and Madinah have excellent perfume souks with authentic fragrances.
- Prayer beads -- Beautiful tasbih sets are available near the Haram.
- Gifts and souvenirs -- Zamzam water, prayer mats, dates, and Islamic books make wonderful gifts for family back home.
Packing Tips
- Pack light -- You'll be moving between locations frequently. A heavy suitcase is a burden.
- Use packing cubes -- Keep clothes organised and easy to find.
- Wear your heaviest items on the plane -- Save luggage space.
- Leave room for souvenirs -- You'll want to bring back Zamzam water, dates, and gifts.
- Label everything -- Thousands of pilgrims have similar luggage. Use distinctive tags and labels.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for Hajj is an act of worship in itself. The more organised you are practically, the more you can focus on the spiritual aspects of this incredible journey.
At Al Baraka Shop, we stock many of the essentials you'll need -- from prayer mats and tasbih beads to lightweight thobes and travel accessories. Order early to make sure everything arrives before your departure.
May Allah accept your Hajj, grant you ease in your journey, and bring you home safely. Hajj Mabroor!
Have questions about preparing for Hajj? Browse our full range of Hajj essentials at Al Baraka Shop or get in touch with our team for personalised recommendations.