Umrah Packing List: Essentials to Bring Along

Planning for Umrah? Here's a quick guide to ensure you're fully prepared:

• Documents: Passport (6+ months validity), Umrah visa, Saudi e-visa, vaccination records (e.g., meningitis, COVID-19), and insurance.
• Ihram & Clothing: Men need two white seamless cloths; women should pack loose abayas and headscarves. Include comfortable shoes for walking.
• Hygiene: Fragrance-free toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste), a medical kit (pain relief, plasters), and cleaning supplies like antibacterial wipes.
• Religious Items: Prayer mat, pocket Qur'an, prayer beads, and a du’a book.
• Travel Tools: Universal adapter, power bank, Saudi SIM card, and a compact bag for daily essentials.
• Money: Mix of SAR cash, cards, and a forex card. Expect costs like meals (10–50 SAR) and airport transfers (200–250 SAR).

Tip: Start packing 3–4 weeks in advance to avoid stress. Stay hydrated, keep items organised, and focus on the purpose of your journey.

Required Documents

Travel Documents

Before embarking on your journey, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date. It's a good idea to keep both digital and physical copies of your passport, stored in separate waterproof holders for added security.

If you're a British passport holder, you'll need the following:

• An Umrah visa: Obtain this through an authorised travel agency.
• A Saudi tourist e-visa: Costs £157 and is typically processed within 24 hours.
• An Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW).

Additionally, include a recent passport-sized photograph that meets Saudi visa requirements. Keep this in your waterproof holder as well.

With your travel documents sorted, it's time to organise your finances to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Money and Payments

Having a well-thought-out financial plan is essential. Use a mix of payment methods to cover your expenses:

For safety, record your card numbers and emergency bank contact information separately.

Here’s an idea of common costs you might encounter:

• Meals: 10–50 SAR
• Transport: 200–250 SAR for airport transfers
• Ziyarat tours: 100–300 SAR
• Obligatory sacrifice (Hady): 600–900 SAR

With your finances under control, you'll have one less thing to worry about and can focus on your spiritual journey. Next, make sure your health documentation is in order.

Medical Papers

Health-related documentation is equally important. Make sure to bring the following:

• Proof of Meningococcal Meningitis (ACYW135) vaccination, valid for three years and administered at least 10 days before arrival.
• Your COVID-19 vaccination record (check for current requirements).
• Yellow fever and polio certificates, if applicable.
• Insurance documents to cover medical emergencies.
• Certificates for any medical conditions, translated into both English and Arabic.
• A list of your prescriptions, also in English and Arabic.
• A blood type card with any chronic conditions noted in Arabic.

Keep all these documents in a clearly labelled, easily accessible folder to avoid any last-minute stress. With everything organised, you’ll be well-prepared for a smooth and meaningful journey.

Clothing and Ihram

Ihram Requirements

For men, the Ihram consists of two white, seamless cloths:

• Izar: A wrap worn around the waist, covering from the navel to the feet.
• Rida: Draped over the left shoulder, leaving the right shoulder exposed during Tawaf.

Women’s Ihram requirements are simpler and allow for flexibility:

Regular Clothes

Beyond the Ihram, it’s important to pack everyday clothing that suits the climate and adheres to local customs.

For men:

• Saudi thobe or jubbah
• Lightweight cotton outfits
• A light jumper for cooler months (November to February)

For women:

• 2-3 abayas
• Cotton headscarves
• A light cardigan for evening prayers

Shoes and Storage

Choosing the right footwear and having a plan for shoe storage can make your experience more comfortable and help you follow the rituals properly.

• Men’s Footwear: Sandals are the preferred choice, as they expose both the ankles and the instep.
• Women’s Footwear: Opt for comfortable shoes that are easy to slip off before prayers.

With the Haram lockers no longer available, here are some practical storage tips:

• Use a small drawstring bag for carrying your shoes.
• Place your shoes in a zip-lock bag before putting them in the drawstring bag.
• Consider using the SPL storage service available at train stations.

A compact drawstring bag is a convenient and reliable solution for keeping your footwear secure.

Hygiene and Health Items

Basic Toiletries

When preparing for Ihram, it's essential that all personal care items are fragrance-free to meet the requirements.

FEJ Gear's 'State of Ihram Hygiene Kit' is a convenient option, offering fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and halal-certified essentials. It includes natural deodorant, conditioning shampoo, hand and body wash, anti-chafing balm, SPF 30 mineral sunscreen, and alcohol-free hand sanitiser.

Additionally, a compact medical kit is a must-have to address any health concerns during your journey.

Medical Kit

A well-prepared medical kit can help manage common health issues that may arise.

Items to include:

• Pain relief: Paracetamol, ibuprofen
• Digestive aids: Anti-diarrhoeal tablets, rehydration sachets
• First aid essentials: Plasters, antiseptic wipes, bandages
• Prescribed medication: Keep in original packaging along with prescriptions
• Sun and insect protection: Fragrance-free SPF 30+ sunscreen, insect repellent

Proper preparation ensures you're ready for minor health concerns while staying within Ihram guidelines.

Cleaning Supplies

Considering the hot climate and physical demands, extra cleaning supplies are essential to maintain hygiene and comfort.

Pack these items:

• Large microfibre towel: Quick-drying and lightweight
• Small face towel: Handy for freshening up
• Refillable water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day
• Drawstring bags: Useful for storing soiled items
• Antibacterial wipes: For cleaning hands and surfaces

Frequent handwashing is vital to minimise the risk of illnesses caused by food or water contamination. Make sure to wash hands thoroughly before meals and after using the toilet.

With temperatures in Saudi Arabia often exceeding 30°C, even during winter, staying hydrated and maintaining cleanliness is crucial for a comfortable and healthy pilgrimage.

Religious Items

Prayer Items

Once you've taken care of your health and hygiene preparations, gather the key religious items you'll need to stay spiritually focused during your journey.

For instance, the UMMA ESSENTIALS Travel Prayer Mat (£7.15) is a practical choice, combining a waterproof surface with an integrated compass, making it perfect for Salah on the go. Keep your prayer items organised in a small drawstring bag so they remain accessible when needed.

Zamzam Storage

Zamzam Water Storage Tips:

• Airline Regulations: Most airlines allow passengers to carry one 5-litre bottle of Zamzam water in addition to their regular baggage allowance.
• Official Packaging: Always purchase pre-packaged Zamzam water from authorised vendors at the airport. Prices typically range from £1.60 to £2.55 (7.5 to 12 Saudi Riyals).
• Storage Safety: For smaller quantities, use leak-proof containers and ensure they are padded to avoid spills during transit.

"A maximum of 5 litres (total) of Zamzam Water can be checked-in can be carried in addition to free allowance. It has to be bought from Zam Zam Water Company otherwise it will not be accepted" - Gulf Air.

Umrah Guides

Carrying reference materials can be incredibly helpful as you perform your rituals. Here are some suggestions:

• A supplication prayer book with translations to help you grasp the meaning of the prayers.
• A printed collection of personal Du'as for easy access during Tawaf and Sa'i.
• A compact list of essential prayers to keep you focused through each stage of Umrah.

Additionally, consider bringing a laminated card with common supplications for quick reference during your spiritual journey.

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Travel Tools and Extras

After sorting out your essentials, a few extra tools can help make your journey smoother and more organised. Here's a rundown of some useful items to consider.

Power and Charging

Saudi Arabia uses a different outlet system compared to the UK, so having the right charging equipment is crucial. The standard voltage in Saudi Arabia ranges from 110V to 220V at 60Hz, whereas the UK operates on a 230V/50Hz system.

For example, the Anker PowerCore (£19.99) provides a 10,000mAh capacity, which can charge a smartphone twice. If you're looking for more capacity, the Charmast 20000mAh Portable Charger comes with built-in cables and a slim profile, making it a great travel companion.

Once your devices are charged and ready, it's wise to organise your important documents to avoid any last-minute stress.

Document Holders

Keeping your documents safe and easily accessible is critical during Umrah. Here are some practical storage solutions:

The Sea to Summit TPU Clear Zip Pouch (£26) is perfect for storing liquids and meeting flight requirements, while the Peak Design Tech Pouch (£48) is excellent for managing cables and electronics.

Extra Items

In addition to chargers and document organisers, a few extra items can make your trip more convenient:

• A compact travel scale to avoid surprise baggage fees
• A small torch, especially useful in Muzdalifah
• A Saudi SIM card for local communication, often included in travel packages

Before you leave, download essential apps like prayer time reminders and translation tools. Also, ensure your phone is unlocked so you can use local SIM cards without hassle.

For carrying daily essentials during rituals, the Fjallraven High Coast Pocket Bag (£28) is a great lightweight option. It's water-resistant, compact, and perfect for keeping items like your phone, wallet, and prayer beads close at hand.

Conclusion

Having a well-thought-out packing list does more than just keep you organised - it helps create a smoother, more meaningful spiritual journey. Proper preparation can save you from unnecessary travel hiccups and ensure you're fully focused on the purpose of your trip.

As you approach your departure date, double-check your essentials with this Final Pre-Departure Checklist:

Ideally, begin your preparations 3–4 weeks before your departure. This way, you can avoid the stress and unexpected costs that often come with last-minute planning.

FAQs

What are the clothing requirements for Ihram during Umrah for men and women?

For men, Ihram attire consists of two simple, unstitched white garments: the Izar (worn as a lower garment) and the Rida (used as an upper garment). These garments must be free of seams, buttons, or any form of stitching. While in the state of Ihram, men are prohibited from wearing stitched clothing, undergarments, or footwear that covers the ankles.

For women, there are no specific garments designated for Ihram. They may wear their usual modest clothing, such as an abaya or jilbab, provided it is plain and not overly decorative or brightly coloured. Women must cover their hair but should leave their face uncovered. Both men and women are reminded to dress modestly, reflecting the spiritual purpose of the pilgrimage.

What hygiene and medical supplies should I pack to meet the fragrance-free requirements for Ihram?

To meet the fragrance-free requirements of Ihram, make sure all your hygiene and medical products are unscented. Opt for items clearly marked as fragrance-free, including soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, and other personal care products. Steer clear of anything containing perfumes, essential oils, or scented additives, as these can invalidate your Ihram.

Pre-packaged hygiene kits tailored for pilgrims can be a convenient option, as they usually include items that comply with these rules. If you prefer to buy products individually, take the time to check ingredient labels to ensure they are free from fragrances. Paying attention to these details will help you stay spiritually focused and in accordance with Ihram requirements throughout your journey.

How can I manage my money effectively during my Umrah pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia?

Managing Your Finances During Umrah

Taking control of your finances during Umrah is key to ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey. Here are some practical tips to help you manage your money wisely:

• Plan Your Budget: Start by estimating all your expenses, including travel, accommodation, meals, and personal purchases. A well-thought-out budget will help you avoid overspending and stick to what you can afford.
• Carry Multiple Payment Options: Bring a mix of cash and payment cards. Cash is handy for smaller transactions, while debit or credit cards provide security and often better exchange rates. A prepaid travel card can also be a convenient and secure option to manage your funds.
• Exchange Currency Smartly: Convert some money into Saudi Riyals (£1 ≈ SAR 4.5, though rates may vary) before your trip to cover immediate expenses. Use authorised exchange services to get better rates, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash to minimise the risk of loss or theft.

By organising your finances ahead of time and keeping track of your spending, you can focus fully on the spiritual purpose of your journey without any financial worries.