We often get asked advice about Hajj and Umrah, and as a result of this, we have compiled the following handy tips to help you make the most out of your trip:

1.Pack two sets of Ihram clothes so that if one gets dirty or starts to smell, you can change it.

2.Depending on the season, take warm clothes, as the nights often get cold.

3.Take some basic medication such as paracetamol, plasters for blisters on the feet and diarrhoea medication.

4.Take an umbrella to shade yourself from the sun, and sunglasses.

5.Pack a light prayer matt as the floor in the Haram is marble and may be uncomfortable to pray on; also, if you suffer with your feet, take padded socks or slippers so that you don’t feel pain from the hard floor.

6.Take a light weight cotton or plastic bag to put your shoes in so they don’t let lost amongst everyone else’s.

7.Photocopy your official documents, including your passport, and leave one behind and take one with you in case you lose your originals.

8.Educate yourself about Hajj and Umrah before you go and familiarise yourself with a plan so you know where you are going and what to do. Read a good book on Hajj, such as Getting the Best Out Of Hajj by Abu Muneer Ismail Davids, which explains every step of the Hajj.

9.Memorise duas that are important to you before you go and make a list of what you want to make dua for at crucial times such as at Arafat or on Safa and Marwa.

10.Wear comfortable, durable sandals or shoes as you will be doing a LOT of walking, and take Vaseline to stop your upper thighs from getting sore from rubbing due to the walking.

11.Women: take a pair of scissors so that it is easy to cut your hair at the end of Hajj or Umrah.

12.If a lot of people are forming rows for prayer outside the mosque, still check inside as there is usually still space inside (some people just like to pray outside so that it’s easier to leave).

13.Do not push or be concerned about reaching the Zamzam after Tawaf- there are Zamzam reserves everywhere so look for another one.

14.If you are in a group, arrange a common meeting place for in case anyone gets lost.

15.Pick up extra stones for stoning the Jamarat, as someone is likely to have forgotten or dropped theirs and you will get extra reward for helping them.   

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