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Hajj and Umrah Suitcase: The Complete Checklist for Muslim Women
May
Those who perform Hajj and ‘Umrah are the guests of Allah. He called them, and they responded; they asked of Him, and He gave to them.”
(Narrated by Al-Bazzar, authenticated by Shaykh Al-Albani – Silsilah As-Saheehah No. 1820)
Whether this is your first time or not, properly preparing your suitcase for Hajj or Umrah is essential to fully experience this journey of a lifetime. Between religious obligations, climatic conditions, and daily needs, it’s important to plan ahead to be well-prepared and not forget anything. The goal of this article, dear sister, is to offer you a complete and practical checklist along with tips to help you pack with peace of mind.
According to Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), she said: “O Messenger of Allah, is Jihad obligatory for women?” The Prophet ﷺ replied:
“Yes, a Jihad in which there is no fighting: Hajj and ‘Umrah.”
(Narrated by Ibn Majah, Hadith No. 2901, and authenticated by Shaykh Al-Albani in Sahih Ibn Majah – Sahih Hadith)
Essentials to Pack for Your Umrah
Here is a general list of must-haves every pilgrim sister should bring:
Practical & Organizational Items:
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A small, lightweight bag for your daily essentials (backpack, crossbody, tote bag—anything practical and secure).
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A small fabric bag for your sandals at the mosque.
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Comfortable sneakers.
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A map of Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi (especially helpful for first-timers).
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A secure pouch for your documents, cash, phone, etc.
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A basic medical kit including small scissors for releasing Ihram after Umrah.
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A universal travel adapter.
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A reusable water bottle (and a mini thermos if you’re a coffee lover and plan to stay long at the Haram).
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Some snacks for your time at the Haram.
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A couple of cardigans or light jackets—it can get chilly in the evenings.
For Worship and Spiritual Preparation:
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A small Qur’an that fits in your bag.
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A lightweight, foldable prayer mat.
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A book of daily supplications (like Hisnul Muslim).
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A personal du’a list for yourself and loved ones—so you don’t forget anyone.
As mentioned at the beginning of this article, the Prophet ﷺ said, as reported from ‘Abdullah Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with them both):
“The warrior in the cause of Allah, the pilgrim performing Hajj, and the pilgrim performing ‘Umrah are the delegation of Allah. He called them and they responded, they asked Him and He gave to them.”
You may also want to carry a small booklet with rites and invocations for Umrah, often available in PDF or provided by your travel agency.
Dear sister, every Muslim must strive to learn the rituals of our religion—especially when performing a pilgrimage like Hajj or Umrah—because the validity of our worship depends on it.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Take your rites from me.”
(Narrated by Muslim)
We should therefore stick closely to what is taught in the Qur’an and Sunnah and avoid any innovations in worship.
What to Pack for Hajj
When it comes to Hajj (may Allah grant us all the opportunity to perform it), the acts of worship are more physically demanding and often done in intense heat—requiring greater preparation both spiritually and physically. In addition to the items mentioned for Umrah, here are a few more essentials:
Organization & Comfort:
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Loose, light, and modest clothes suitable for heat and crowds. Choose breathable fabrics and plan to bring several abayas or jilbabs (especially for Mina and Muzdalifah where you’ll likely sweat and may need 3–4 outfits; you can hand wash clothes at Mina).
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Light cotton layers under your abaya.
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Comfortable loungewear for times spent with other women at Mina.
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Travel-sized laundry detergent.
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A wide hat or umbrella to protect from the sun during long walks (especially at Mina, Arafat, etc.).
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A manual fan or rechargeable mini fan.
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A travel pillow for rest between rites at Mina or Muzdalifah.
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Unscented refreshing wipes for hygiene when water is scarce.
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A facial mist spray to gently cool down.
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A light sleeping bag or large blanket—especially for Muzdalifah where accommodations are minimal.
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A portable prayer mat to sit comfortably anywhere, especially during long waits.
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Easy-to-wear open sandals for camps and between rites (you can also wear socks or comfortable sneakers if you prefer).
Health & Hygiene:
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A complete medical kit: bandages, antiseptic, painkillers, anti-diarrhea meds, muscle balm, sunscreen, unscented hand sanitizer, etc.
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Compression socks for circulation support during long walks.
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Face masks for dust or crowded areas.
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Nasal spray to prevent dryness (common in the region).
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Lip balm to prevent chapped lips.
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Unscented soap and deodorant suitable for Ihram.
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A fast-drying towel.
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Blister plasters.
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Anti-chafing sticks or Vaseline if you experience thigh chafing (especially if not wearing leggings).
Worship & Spiritual Focus:
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A Hajj-specific booklet detailing steps, invocations, and reminders.
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A checklist of your personal du’as for key moments like Arafat.
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A journal to write reflections, reminders, or beautiful du’as you hear along the way.
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An offline mobile app or printed guide for the Hajj rites—whichever suits you best.
What to Wear for Your Umrah or Hajj?
As you prepare for this spiritual journey, choosing the right outfits is key. Go for modest, loose, and breathable clothing—dark or neutral colors like black are especially fitting and culturally appropriate in Saudi Arabia.
There are two main outfit combinations that will help you remain modest, comfortable, and practical throughout your journey:
1. The Abaya & Khimar Combo
It’s one of the safest and most popular choices among European female pilgrims.
This combo is especially appreciated for its simplicity, ease of wear, and practicality during prayer or long periods spent at the Haram.
A well-cut, wide abaya made of soft fabric with particularly comfortable sleeves (like the Abaya with Puff Sleeves), paired with a flowy, comfortable, and full-coverage khimar (such as the Classic Maxi Khimar), will ensure ease and comfort throughout your journey.
2. A Skirt Set
Less traditional but just as practical, the long skirt set is especially appreciated for its lightness.
It’s perfect for long walks, especially in hot weather. Flared, adjustable skirts offer great comfort, particularly if you need to lift them at certain moments. Paired with a loose tunic or shirt, this outfit provides excellent freedom of movement and allows better airflow.
Discover our selection of skirt sets designed for pilgrimage.
What About the Veil?
When it comes to veiling, several options are available to you.
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You can opt for a long hijab or a khimar, depending on your habits and what you feel most comfortable in. These can be paired with a black niqab, like the Saoudi model. However, keep in mind that wearing the niqab is not allowed during the state of Ihram.
A practical alternative is the 3-Layer Flared Khimar with sitar option, which allows you to gently cover your face without violating Ihram conditions.
Alternatively, you can secure a Maxi XXL Hijab to the top of your head with a small safety pin to cover your face while in Ihram.
And finally… my most valuable advice:
Remember, during this beautiful act of worship, you must distance yourself from distractions and blameworthy behavior.
I strongly encourage you to disconnect from social media. Keep your phone only to contact your loved ones or your travel companions. It’s very easy to buy a SIM card at the airport—and most agencies take care of it for you.
Be patient! You’ll be sharing tents for several days with strangers who, just like you, came for the sake of Allah. It might not always be easy to live closely with people you don’t know. But remind yourself:
“I am in a state of Ihram.”
Say it again and again, especially in moments of hardship, to stay calm and composed.
Use your tongue only for good.
You may witness disturbing behavior from other pilgrims coming from all over the world. Be patient. Respond to harm with kindness. And avoid discussions that could lead to backbiting or judgment.
This last advice is especially important to me—I share it with you from personal experience. Sadly, it’s something I never read on any forum or blog before my first Hajj, and I wish I had known in advance so I could have been more mindful.
In Conclusion: Prepare Your Heart as Much as Your Suitcase.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“An accepted Hajj has no reward except Paradise.”
(Narrated in Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)
This journey is a tremendous gift. Prepare for it with sincerity, humility, and the intention to return transformed. Let yourself be carried, endure with patience, and most of all… cherish every moment, even the challenging ones.
Helpful Links to Prepare for Your Journey:
