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Hajj 2005

This is an information package including an extensive packing list prepared by a Hajji who went to Hajj from Toronto in 2001 with the HAC. This is a guideline only by one Hajji with advice to future Hajjis.

InshAllah you will be travelling for Hajj this year. As you prepare for Hajj remember you will be embarkingon a journey visiting the grave of our Holy Prophet. You will be walking where Prophet Ibrahim haswalked. You will circle around the birthplace of Imam Ali A.S. Do not perform Hajj as a series of emptyrituals - understand and enjoy your Hajj. The best way to do this is to be prepared and equipped withknowledge and not be overcome by the difference in behaviour, temperature, and culture of this newland.

Hajj is a once in a lifetime experience and I have found those who are the most prepared are notworrying about when to wear the Ehram and when not to, but are concentrating on the spirituality andenlightenment because they know all the technicalities and rules regarding Hajj and have prepared for them.

Compare your Hajj trip to driving from Calgary to Vancouver. Person A has consulted a map, figured outtheir chosen path, calculated the time necessary for the journey, made reservations for hotels to stay inon the way, packed extra clothes and snacks, and has a contingency plan in case of flat tires or roadclosures. Person A is able to enjoy the remarkable scenery and praise Allah on his journey. Person B,on the other hand, knows he wants to travel from Calgary to Vancouver, sets out in his car but spends

the trip looking at the map, for places to sleep, and solving problems along the way. Person B, althoughmakes it to his destination point, never gets to enjoy the scenery and relax through the drive as Person Ahas done. In the end every Hajji will complete his Hajj (Insha Allah). I have found that the more preparedyou are, the more time you have to enjoy the journey and bask in the memory of our Prophet's andImams who have walked on the same sand as you will walk on.

I like to be as prepared as possible which made Hajj a challenge for me. As I was preparing for Hajj, Iread all the books, talked to numerous individuals, and attended a few seMunnars. All were veryinformative and although I felt prepared for Hajj, I knew I could have been more prepared. That is thepurpose of this paper; Hajji's will find books on philosophy, journeys, history, rituals, etc. but rarely willthey find a book which prepares them with a complete packing list explaining what they should bring andwhy. I encourage each of you to read this paper and send comments after your own journey to me. Did

this paper help? What would you have done differently? What suggestions do you have for futureHajji’s?

This paper should be combined with other books on philosophy, other personal journeys, and definitelyother books on the practices of Hajj. This is a simple guide to help with expectations of Hajj.

sented by www.ziaraat.com



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Before you leave for Hajj

♦ Read everything you can get your hands on about Hajj. I suggest starting with Sayyid MuhammadRizvi's brief book on Hajj called Hajj - The Pilgrimage to Mecca. This will help familiarize yourself withthe different terms and required rituals of Hajj. You may also want to read Dr. Ali Shariati's bookentitled Hajj . This book may be available on the internet. Another interesting book is entitled TheHajj - A Personal Journey by Br. Mujtaba Datoo.

♦ Talk to everyone you know who has been to Hajj about their experiences. A good question to askthem is, "If you were going to Hajj this year, what would you do differently?" Also, "What tips or suggestions do you have that helped you on your journey?" You'll find a lot of innovative individualswith interesting tips. In my Hajj group one thing that stands out is one of our sisters (Sr. ZaheraPardhan Kanji) had brought powdered Gatorade to share with everyone. When we would load ontobuses she would break out the Gatorade and offer cups of Gatorade to keep our energy levels up.Bus rides are often extensive and very draining. I definitely thank her for the Gatorade she sharedwith me and found it a great way for her to earn thawab and help other Hajji's.

♦ Make sure you have written a will or have updated your will recently. Ensure that there is someone

who knows where your will is who will not be traveling with you. Sr. Hasina Alidina had a great ideawhen she and her husband prepared a video tape for her two sons when she left for Hajj. Having avideo or audio tape for your kids so they can see Mommy and Daddy when they are away or in casesomething should happen to you in Hajj, helps make the separation with your children a little easier.

♦ Explain Hajj to your kids! I remember when my father had gone for his first Hajj I was only 5 yearsold. When he came back from Hajj my mother, sister and I were anxiously waiting at the airport. Myfather came off the plane in a white kanzou (long white dress), a full beard, and a shaved head. I washorrified and refused to go near him. I remember being scared and crying running towards a relativefor comfort. I know things have changed since then and I really didn't know how much until I went for Hajj. Some of the children of the Hajji's had written farewell cards to their parents, some kids hadwatched videos on Hajj, other kids would ask their fathers on the phone, "Have you shaved your head

yet daddy?" This kind of awareness for kids helps them during their separation from their parent(s).

♦ Repay all debts. Certain debts, i.e. car loans and mortgages are not usually considered debts.Check with your local Alim for advice. Think about any debts you may have (even as small as $5)and check with friends and family to ensure debts you may not remember are paid off. If you owesomeone money and can't find them before you leave, donate the money to a local charity but doinform them when you return. Think of things you may have borrowed from friends or relatives likebooks or tapes, make sure you try to return all things borrowed before your journey. Debts can alsotake the form of promises and other commitments. Take time and reflect on promises made in thepast.

♦ Make peace with everyone. Ask for forgiveness and end all grudges you may have held. You may

want to take a trip to Kabrastan (graveyard) to forgive others who may have passed away, and prayfor your own forgiveness by them.

♦ Try out the clothes you plan to wear during your Hajj. Pray in them and make sure they arecomfortable and easy to move in.

♦ One of the best tips I can give you was one that was given to me is - Walk. Go to your nearest mall inthe clothes and shoes (slippers) you are going to wear in Hajj. Throw on a filled backpack or a bag tosee if you are comfortable and can handle the weight. There is a lot of walking in Hajj and you don'twant to be holding others up. In addition, you will need to 'break-in' your slippers and make sure they




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don't leave blisters or are easily broken. I also found that some Hajji's (women in particular) packedmore than they could carry (yes - this included me). If you pack a backpack and carry it, you yourself will be able to evaluate your own strength. It's easy to walk in running shoes with no luggage. InHajj, however, you will be walking in heat, wearing slippers, and carrying luggage (maybe even asleeping bag in some cities). Pack light, especially in Arafat and Munna, because you will have tocarry your own luggage.

♦ Wash all the clothes you are taking in unscented detergent. Try Tide Free for your clothes (the Freestands for phosphate free and scent free). I found the detergent available in the laundry facility inMedina and Mecca all contained a heavy scent. Your Ehram should not be scented at all! Noperfume or scents are allowed when in Ehram. You may want to pack your Ehram separately fromyour other clothes and other toiletries (i.e. in a plastic bag) so it does not pick up the scent from thingslike your soap or powder. If this does happen, air out your Ehram in Medina.

♦ Make lists - even if you are normally not a list person, make a list of things you are going to pack atthe last minute i.e. things you use everyday. It is a long way till you can get to a store so if you forgetyour toothbrush don't sit next to me on the bus! Keep a piece of paper beside your bed and in thecar, as you remember something to bring write it down. I know this sounds extensive, but you're

really going to regret not doing it when you realize you forgot something they only carry at Wal-Mart inNorth America.

♦ Learn the proper way to perform Ghusl, Wudhoo and Salaat. A lot of us learned from Madressah andhave never perfected our technique. Sit with a knowledgeable person and perform your Wudhoo andSalaat in front of them. Read material to refresh your memory on the meanings of Salaat etc. Thecorrect technique is key to the acceptance of you Salaat and Hajj. I also noticed a lot of womenperformed Wudhoo and Salaat like men (i.e. women did not place their forearms on the ground duringsajdah) therefore, make sure you learn the proper positions for Salaat from people of the samegender and take note of the differences.

♦ When in Ehram you are not allowed to kill any insects or swear. If this is something you are not used

to, start practicing now. For each swear word you use there is a kaffarah (about $40 US) so clean upthat language before you go.

♦ Toilets - Yes, you will have to use an Eastern toilet. There's no avoiding it in Arafat, Munna, and theJeddah Airport. The best thing to do is PRACTICE. Try squatting everyday from today on. Start inan upright position and bend your knees as far down as possible. Stay in this position for approximately 5 minutes. Do this on a regular basis, i.e. everytime you brush your teeth.

♦ Before you leave practice saying "Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaik laa shareeka laka labbaik…"

♦ Photocopy or compile books, Duas, Surahs etc, which you read regularly. It is easier to pack, and totravel with a few pages rather than an entire book. A list of recommended Duas and Surah's is

provided in the packing list. In addition, if your photocopies are confiscated when your bags aresearched in Jeddah it's not as bad as losing the Dua book your late grandmother gave you.

♦ Before you go for Hajj, the most common phrase you will hear is, 'pray for me'. Make a list of peoplewho have asked you to pray for them. If you know someone who is trying to have a baby, don't forgetthem in your prayers. Hajj is one of the best times to pray for others, especially to have children.Many couples come back pregnant, or the people they have prayed for become pregnant. It is bestto have a list of people so you don't forget anyone. Don't forget to add my name to the list - not tohave a baby of course!.




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♦ The first time you see the Holy Kaaba you should make 3 wishes. Think about what you will wish for from home. My sister told me that your first wish should be for Allah SWT to forgive all of your sins.She also said your second wish should be that Allah accepts your Hajj. I guess this leaves you withonly one wish left - use it wisely!

♦ Write a letter to yourself. Discuss your feelings, your fears, your excitement etc. You will never have

this opportunity again (your first Hajj), it is a very emotional and special time. Write about things youhope to accomplish in Hajj and the way you want to be when you return. When you hit the threeJamaraat (Shaitan) in Munna, each Jamaraat should represent something you want to overcome inyour own life - your personal Shaitan. Think about what you need to change in your life, i.e. pride,priorities of money vs. family, greed, vanity, etc. Think of things you want Allah's help with. It is niceto look back at where you were in your life before Hajj, and reflect on how your journey changed your life.

♦ Purchase a book to become your own 'Hajj Journal.' You may want to include your letter in your journal. Update your journal throughout your trip and after you return. Use it as an autograph bookfor fellow Hajji's to share friendly sayings and thoughts with you after your journey. You can also addphone numbers and email addresses of people you meet during your journey.

♦ Sucre - One of the interesting traditions has been the giving of money or presents before someonedeparts for Hajj. Friends and relatives may come by your house to bid you farewell and give you agift (usually cash, although everyone brought me food!). Take this gift and as a sign of your appreciation, remember them in you Duas, add them to your 'pray for me list,' and perhaps evenpurchase a gift for them from Hajj. There are opportunities for you to go shopping for gifts in bothMedina and Mecca but beware, you did not perform Hajj to go shopping!

♦ Get immunized. Talk to your doctor and other Hajji's to see what shots are necessary to obtain a visafor Saudi Arabia. When I went to Hajj in 2001 every Hujjaj needed Meningitis ONLY. Here is a list of possible immunizations you can take, and a description of how to take them;

Meningitis (0.05mL) – This is a mandatory requirement for you Hajj visa. It is a simple shot whichyou get in your arm leaving your arm sore for a day.

Cholera - I took an oral dosage a month before my departure. My vaccine was two packs of powder which were added to 100mL of cold or lukewarm water. The powder needed to be stirredin the water for 5-10 seconds and then swallowed. Possible side effects include gas, nausea, anddiarrhea. I do not believe this is required to obtain a visa, but may be a nice precautionaryvaccine to take.

Typhoid - I took oral typhoid which is a pill taken the 1 st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th day. These capsulesneed to be refrigerated. I had to wait 8 hours between my Cholera and Typhoid. I recommendwaiting at least a day before you begin the Typhoid vaccine. I do not believe this is required to

obtain a visa, but may be a nice precautionary vaccine to take.

Hepatitis A and B - Although not required to obtain your visa, I decided to take the Hep A&Bvaccine for precaution. I went to the doctor for a prescription, picked up the needle from thepharmacy, and took the needle to the doctor again to be injected. This vaccine is not 100%effective. Patients need to be injected once, than 1 month later (to be 99% immune) and thenagain 6 months later to be 100% immune for life. Therefore, if you feel like getting vaccinatedagainst Hepatitis A & B start you vaccines a month and a half before your journey, take thesecond injection one month after your first injection, and you still have 1/2 a month before youdepart for Hajj. Side effects include a sore arm (or wherever you were injected). If you choose totake the Hep A&B vaccine you do not need your Gamagobulin injection.




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Immunization book - you will need to obtain a yellow immunization book from your doctor or travelcenter which will be included in your visa application. Bring your immunization book to Hajj withyou and keep it with your airline ticket and passport. Make sure your doctor includes the requiredvaccines for your visa application, and updates your book accordingly.




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Your Hajj trip - Hajj 2005

The following is a rough guide as to what the Hajj 2005 trip will include. All of the following information issubject to change. Please listen to your Hajj tour guide and follow his instructions. Days which arebolded and in blue are days when you are wearing your Ehram.

Jan 6th Departure from London UK – traveling direct to Medina (avoids having to stop in Jeddah andtake another plane or bus to Medina)!!!!

Jan 10th – Jan 14th Medina

While in Medina you will be visiting the Mosque of the Prophet and Jannatul Baqi.During one of your days in Medina you will perform the 'Medina Ziyarat Tour.’ This tour involves visiting important Mosques, Battlefields, Graveyards, etc. The HAC has arranged for anew house in Medina walking distance to the Prophet’s Mosque

Jan 14th Departure from Medina to Mecca in the evening. You will be wearing your Ehram to travelfrom Medina to Masjid-e-Shajarah and finally to Mecca. A long bus ride - be prepared!

Jan 14 / 15th Mecca - Umrah Tamattu - this is your first tawaf and sa'i. When you complete your sa'i you are able to remove your Ehram

Jan 15th –18th Mecca -

While in Mecca you can perform sunnat tawafs, not in Ehram. On one of the days in Mecca,you will be traveling to various historical sites in during the ‘Mecca Ziyarat Tour’. The HAC hasarranged for a basement apartment walking distance to the Kaaba. Buses will pick-up anddrop-off hujjaj from this point and travel to our house (Azizia) in Mecca. The basementapartment is 10 minutes from the haram, and is equipped with a telephone for communication toAzizia house. The apartment is also stocked full of refreshments to help hujjaj on their way.

Jan 19th Mecca / Arafat - You will be in Ehram again to travel to Arafat by bus. This is the mostimportant night of your Hajj. You will be spending the night in Arafat performing amaal(this is when Shaitan will be trying to get you to sleep)!

Jan 20th Arafat / Muzdalifa - This is the most important day during your Hajj trip. Your day will bespent performing the Amaal of Arafat while in Ehram. You must leave Arafat after Maghrib time and make it to Muzdalifah. The women will travel to Muzdalifah with a fewmale volunteers by bus. They will stop briefly in Muzdalifah to pick up 70 stones to beused when hitting the Jamarat (don't forget your stone bag and flashlight on this night).After collecting their stones, the women will travel to Munna to hit the Jamarat. The menwill be spending this night in Muzdalifah under the open skies with their sleeping bags.

Jan 21st Munna - The women will have already hit the big Jamaraat once they arrive in Munna.The men will now travel to Munna after sunrise in the morning. The men will hit the bigJamaraat in the morning. Men will be sent out to do Qurbani (sacrifice of an animal) for the entire group. Once your group gets word that Qurbani has been done you willperform halq / taqsir (shaving of head or cutting a piece of your hair). After the halq youno longer have to wear your Ehram. The rest of your Hajj will be done in non-Ehramclothes.




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Jan 23rd Munna - Men and women will have to hit all three Jamaraat in Munna. We recommend hittingthe Jamaraat as soon as possible in the morning and then traveling to our house in Mecca toshower, change your clothes, rest, and do your second wajib tawaf and sa'i after Zohr Namaaz.You must return to Munna before midnight!

Jan 23rd Munna / Mecca - Again, men and women will have to hit all three Jamaraat in Munna (the

earlier the better). After Zohr we will all travel to Mecca. For those who have not completedtheir second tawaf and sa'i this is a good time to complete this wajibat. There is a third tawaf and sa'i (tawaf-ul-nisa) which will be performed today or in the next few days.

Jan 23rd Mecca - Ensure you have completed your second and third wajib tawafs and sa'is. Pack your bags and be ready for your departure tomorrow.

Jan 24th Mecca / Jeddah - In the afternoon you will be departing from Mecca to Jeddah. Your flight willbe from Jeddah - London England.

Jan 24th Today you will arrive in London UK. Please make arrangements for flights to Toronto or elsewhere.

All dates and times are subject to the sighting of the moon. Changes may be made, however, notice willbe provided by the HAC.




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Below is an extensive packing list with suggestions on when to use certain items. This is just a guidelineas packing these items is not mandatory!. Each Hujjaj is different with various needs.

Packing

Don’t pack anything you love or something which is your favourite item – be prepared to lose it or have it

be ruined! (I packed my favourite pajamas and they were misplaced in Medina)Don’t pack Dua books or Quran's with special sentimental value - a Dua Kumail book can be replaced, aDua Kumail book passed on from your Great Grandmother can never be replaced.Don't forget to write your name on everything you take with a waterproof marker (Rub a Dub is the brandI bought from Staples Business Depot). Take your marker with you to write your name on clothes you willbuy while you are in Saudi Arabia.

What to wear on the plane

One comfortable Islamic top - i.e. long sleeve t-shirt (you may also want to wear a chador)One pair of comfortable pants - with elastic or drawstring (i.e. track pants)One Sweatshirt (Sweatshirt or sweater to be used on the plane and to wear in Medina in the morning

when it is very cold!)Socks (it will be cold in Canada, England, and in Medina in the morning) You may also consider bringing

travel socks/slippers which you can walk around the plane inRubber Slippers - your feet will swell. It's best if you can take your shoes off during the flight. You will

want to walk around during the flight to circulate your blood. You will also need to wear your slippers when you visit the washroom to do Wudhoo

Remember - The next time you will see your checked luggage is in Medina. Whatever you are wearingon the plane will be the clothes you are wearing from Toronto to London to Medina. Check the Internetfor projected temperatures in Medina. Be prepared for the cold temperature by dressing in layers!

What to pack as hand luggage

Since you won’t have your luggage pieces until Medina, there are some things you should remember tobring as hand luggage’

Namaaz stuff - you have a long journey ahead of you and will be praying your daily salaat in airports, onplanes, and other unusual places. You can make your own prayer mat by using a piece of material and adding a piece of grass/straw cloth (sudri) to the area you use for sajdah.

Medicine - any medication you may be on - ladies don't forget your birth control pillsFood or snacks - especially if you hate plane food - don't take any chancesToiletries - Toothbrush and toothpaste, face soap, cream, washroom water bottle, toilet paper etc.

Whatever you will need from departure in London, through to Medina.One Ehram - just in case your luggage gets lost. Ladies pack one Ehram in your husband’s hand

luggage, one Ehram in your hand luggage, and one in your checked luggage. This way even if your luggage is lost you still have two Ehrams and what you are wearing to survive on until youget your luggage.

Books to read on the plane - a good book I suggest is Hajj a Personal Journey by Mujtaba Datoo. Thisis a book that recounts Br. Mujtaba's journey. It is a good step by step journey and makes for excellent plane reading.

Gum - For take off and landing in Toronto and London, and on the return trip home

I would also recommend packing leggings or long thermal underwear for inside your pants and mittens asyou may be cold in Medina




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Remember - You have to carry your hand luggage and it needs to be able to fit in the luggagecompartments on the plane. You do not want to have to repack your luggage at the airport if your handluggage does not meet plane regulations. Do not take any knives, scissors, nail clippers etc, which couldbe deemed dangerous by airport authorities.

Suitcase

Your suitcase should not be too large that you are unable to carry it. I recommend getting a suitcase withwheels so you can strap your hand luggage on you and pull your suitcase behind you.

ShoesSlippers - Bad Pair - You will need an inexpensive pair of light rubber slippers. These are slippers you

can wear in the shower, washroom, to get from the washroom to your room, etc. Do not expect towear these on your long journeys, for that you need a better quality pair. Try your local Dollar Stores for a light pair. You will be able to purchase slippers from the Medina street vendors if youlose or break your slippers.

Slippers - Good Pair - Find a good quality and comfortable pair of slippers. Make sure they are easy totake on and off, fit in your shoe bag, and you can carry them during tawaf. Practice walking in

them for long distances before you take them for Hajj. Avoid bringing slippers which have realleather or nubuck on them. Try brands such as Nike, Adidas, Ryder etc. Having a pair that areclosed in the back (they don’t flip flop) is important for when hitting the Jamaraat in Munna. Manypeople lose their slippers in Munna while hitting the Jamaraat. Alternatively, you can bring asmall, inexpensive pair of closed shoes for hitting the Jamaraat but remember you have to carrythese with you and it is better to pack light when traveling to Arafat/Munna. Try Old Navy slipperswhich are comfortable for walking short distances, and light to carry in your shoe bag.

Slipper bag – bring along a small strong bag to carry your slippers when doing tawaf. The best bags Ihave seen have a strap long enough that they can go over your body with your shoes at waistheight. Ideally, your bag will have a zipper to prevent things from falling out or getting stolen, andenough room for dua books, your washroom supplies, and your slippers. Throw in a sturdy plasticbag to keep your shoes away from your other belongings in your bag. Practice carrying around

your shoes in this bag and make sure it is comfortable as you will be using this bag everytime yougo into a mosque and you will be doing your tawaf carrying this bag.

ClothesUnderwear which you can pack in small travel bags so it stays together and is not searched individuallySocks your white socks will get dirty. Try bringing black or coloured socks as these will be useful for

those for cold mornings in MedinaT-Shirts / Nighshirts (for sleeping and to wear inside chadors)3 thin cotton pajama bottoms to wear inside kanzou or dresses

See the bottom of the packing list for items specific to men and women

Linens2 sheets - one flat and one fitted sheet. I used these sheets to cover the mattresses that were

supplied to us in Medina and Mecca. I used another sheet in Munna with my sleeping bag (slepton top of sleeping bag and used sheet as cover). My sheet got very dirty in Munna with sand andI was lucky to have brought two sheets on my journey.

2 coloured bath towels - the thin kind. I brought two very colourful not so large beach towels. Thesetowels were thin enough that I was able to fit two of them in my suitcase. Tip - sew an elastic loopin the middle of the large end of the towel. This piece of elastic shaped like a loop will be used tohang your towel from the hooks in the washroom or in your room. This prevents towels fromfalling to the ground and becoming najis. I added elastic to my face towels also for the samereason.




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2 pillow cases - I used these pillow cases to cover the pillows we were given in Medina and Mecca.Empty pillow cases are a great thing to bring along to stuff with clothes and use as a pillow inArafat/Munna. They also can be used in your suitcase to separate your Ehram from your scentedtoiletries, or your dirty and clean clothes.

2 small face cloth towels - These came in handy when traveling to Arafat/Munna. I did not shower when in Ehram but did wash my face with unscented soap and used a small face towel to dry

myself. This smaller towel was less weight, took up less space, and dried fast.Sleeping Bags - You will need a sleeping bag in Arafat and Munna. Be prepared to carry your sleeping

bag or come up with an innovative way to attach your sleeping bag to a backpack or your handluggage (using belts or bungee cords). In Munna mattresses may be provided for the elderly.Your sleeping bag should be lightweight and easy to carry. You can use your sleeping bag ontopof your mattress in Medina and Mecca. You may be provided with beds in Medina and Mecca(usually reserved for the elderly)

Travel Pillow – this is a luxury item if you have room and are willing to carry it around. Get a small pillow(preferably inflatable) to be used on bus rides, plane rides, in Arafat/Munna etc. You can also useyour clothes in an empty pillow case as an alternative to a travel pillow.

Toiletries

Baby powder - helps you to stay cool and feel fresh after a shower - cannot use when in EhramDisinfecting Wipes - used to disinfect Western toilet seats in Medina / Mecca and can also be used to

wipe surfaces or handsUnscented Deodorant - Dove Unscented for Sensitive skinLip Protection - Lip balm with sun protection is best, i.e. with an SPF of 15. Available at the Body ShopUnscented Liquid Soap - I was recommended to use Oil of Olay's Sensitive unscented body wash. I

used this product with a puffball to clean both my hair and my body before wearing the Ehram.Unscented Bar Soap – Shoppers Drug Mart carries an unscented body soap for sensitive skin called

Allenbury's Soap (white and blue package). Be careful not to buy the pink package which isscented. I highly recommend this soap and suggest you cut the soap into 3 pieces and wrapeach piece in saran wrap. Don't forget your sealed soap dish!

Soap - if you prefer soap over body wash, I recommend cutting a bar of soap into 3 pieces and wrapping

the pieces individually in saran wrap. This way if you forget your soap or if it falls into the toiletyou always have a back up.

Unscented Shampoo - I was unable to find an unscented shampoo which did not contain alcohol. Sincethis is only needed during the times you will shower before putting on your Ehram you can useyour body wash on your hair. During other times you can use your regular shampoo with scent.

Scented Shampoo – Bring a small bottle of your regular shampoo to use on non-Ehram days. Irecommend getting a two-in-one (shampoo + conditioner) to reduce the number of bottles youneed to pack and the conditioner will help when your hair is all tangled from being tied up andsweaty.

Foot scraper or pumice stone - with all the walking around barefoot and in slippers your feet will get dryand cracked. Scrape the bottom and heels of your feet with a pumice stone or foot scaper andthen apply Vaseline after your shower on a regular basis.

Vaseline - travel size to be applied to feet after shower. Men may find this useful when in Ehram toprevent the grazing of the inner thigh.

Hair ties - you can never have enough hair elastics. Carry some in your money pouch and hand luggagefor emergencies

Face Cream - your skin will get dry with the hot climate and pollution. I recommend an unscented facecream with an SPF built in. Try Neutrogena's Intensified Day Moisture with an SPF 15. (Can bepurchased at Wal-Mart in the cosmetics section, pump bottle)

Hand Soap in a small squeeze bottle - you can also purchase a hand sanitizer which does not requirewater but make sure it does not contain alcohol (most do)




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Nailclipper - take a small nailclipper with you when going for your wajib tawaf's. You will need to cut oneof your nails after you finish Sa'i (walking between Mount Safa and Mount Marwa). You will alsoneed to cut your nails during your Hajj trip.

Toothpaste and a travel toothbrush - remember to pack these in your hand luggage on the planeWet Ones / Wet Naps - It is a good idea to pack Wet Ones or Wet Naps in your purse, money bag, and

suitcase. You'll find yourself in a lot of sticky situations during your journey.

Empty plastic bags - I found bringing empty plastic bags folded carefully so they take up minimal spacewas a great idea. You need these for garbage's in your room, to separate wet towels from therest of your clothes, and to separate your Ehram from your scented powders and soaps. It is alsoa good idea to bring some good quality plastic bags to separate your shoes from your other belongings in your shoe bag.

Washroom water bottle - you should carry one bottle in your hand luggage or purse, and keep another just in case in your suitcase. Bottles get misplaced, forgotten, or fall into the deep dark hole. Thebottle should be small enough that it fits in your pocket or small purse. Keep your bottle filled atall times just in case water is not available. There are hoses in most Eastern toilets, but Irecommend using your own personal water bottle.

Waterproof bag - when going for a shower it is a good idea to put your shampoo, soap, foot scraper etc,in a waterproof bag with a string. The bag can hang from the back of the shower door since there

are no shelves in the shower area. You can also use a waterproof bag to hold your toilet paper,washroom water bottle and disinfecting wipes and carry it when visiting the washroom

Toilet Paper - You can never have too much toilet paper! In our houses toilet paper sometimesappeared in our washroom, but there were times when we would run out and have to use our own. Bring lots of rolls and be prepared to carry them with you on journeys. You will definitelyneed your toilet paper in public washrooms and in Arafat and Munna. I also brought a roll of paper towels to use just in case. Start saving half finished toilet rolls from now so you will nothave such a bulky roll to carry when traveling. Remember your toilet paper on the plane just incase.

Comb - Just bring the basics. Hajj is not a fashion show!Packs of travel tissues - you can buy these from Mecca but it is always nice to carry a pack with you at

all times in case of sickness, the emotions you may experience when visiting sites, and tissue can

be used as a mohr or turba to do sajdah on. Make sure they are unscented.Extra pair of glasses - bring an old pair of glasses in case you break your current pair. You can also

use these glasses when hitting the Jamarat in Munna and during tawaf Disposable contacts - if you prefer wearing contacts than bring disposable contacts and your contact

solution. Remember - when in Ehram you cannot look in a mirror so if you decide to use your contacts be prepared to put them on before you are in Ehram or without using a mirror.

Just in case…Safety pins - 2 large pins to secure your money bag to your top inside your clothes. Bring extra small

pins for hijabs and to pin up any hems which may come loose1 elastic band - you never know3 needles - I used my needle and thread set to sew the hem on clothes I purchased from Saudi to wear

during Hajj1 spool of white thread5 press studsString - can be used to create a laundry hanging line for unmentionables in your room. This way your

underwear does not need to be flying from the rooftops in Mecca

Other items for use in Arafat/Munna/MuzdalifaSpray bottle - this is something which is handy to take on your trip to Arafat. There is no air-conditioning

in Arafat and the spray bottle comes in handy in tents and on buses.Stone bag - you will need a small bag to collect 70 stones while in Muzdalifa. It is helpful if this bag has

a drawstring to close and can be carried around your wrist. It needs to be strong enough to carry




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70 stones and not rip. When actually hitting the Jamaraat, I would carry 10 stones in my handand keep another 10 stones in my stone bag in my pocket. (The stone bag will most likely beprovided by the HAC)

Folding fan - this comes in handy on bus rides and in ArafatSafety Glasses - Safety glasses with an elastic string are an excellent idea to help protect your eye area

from stones in Munna. If you wear prescription glasses, try to find safety glasses than can fit over

your prescription glasses. Although it may be uncomfortable, it is only for a short while and your safety is more important. (Try getting these at Canadian Tire or the Dollar Store)

Flashlight with batteries - used to pick up stones in Muzdalifa Small bag - You will need a small bag which you can carry your belongings in for Arafat / Munna. In the

bag you will need an extra Ehram set, unscented soap, your flashlight, stone bag, mandatorymedication, snacks, sleeping bag and other necessities (try using a backpack and strap your sleeping bag to your backpack).

MedicineCough Drops - you'll need these in your hand luggage when departing from Mecca. Almost everyone

was coughing on the bus or plane ride home!Calamine Lotion - a small bottle for insect bites

Cold / Cough medication - again pack this in your hand luggage for your ride homeGravol - if you get nauseous on long bus rides or plane ridesBand Aids - a few band aids and ointment for cutsIodex - bruise medication - you can probably borrow this from the doctor. My roomates and I received a

lot of bruises from being pushed in the Prophet's Mosque by other women.Dextrose Tablets - Dextrosol can be purchased at Wal-Mart or your local pharmacy. They are an instant

source of sugar and come in handy between tawaf and sa'i. They are small white cubes with achalky taste to them and are sold in packs like Halls.

Vitamin C - Vitamin C tablets can also be purchased at Wal-Mart and come in an orange tube/capsul inthe pharmacy section. The brand I purchased was called Redoxon 1000mg of Vitamin C inorange flavour. Inside the tube/capsul are powdered cubes which need to be dissolved in 1/2 cupof cold water. They fizz in water and change the flavour of the water to something similar to

Orange Crush. It is recommend to take one of these a day. There will be delicious orangesserved at meal time which you can alternatively take as a source of Vitamin C.

Imodium - Bringing some sort of diarrhea medicine is always a good idea in Hajj. Don't rely on themedicine solely, check the food you eat to make sure it is cooked thoroughly and be wary of unclean eating establishments.

CYPRO - This medication can be provided as a prescription by your doctor. It is great for stomachproblems, diarrhea, etc.

Antibiotics - Talk to your doctor about getting a set of antibiotics especially if you have a drug plan.Tylenol, Asprin, Advil - Bring whatever pain medication you would normally take in Canada.

Remember, there is a qualified doctor with most medication in Hajj. You can almost always findwhat you are looking for.

Books/DuasDuas / Surahs - Bring photocopies of Surahs and Duas that you wish to recite. Dua Kumail, Surah

Yaseen, Dua Nudbah, Dua Saba, and Hadith-e-Kisa may be provided by the HAC beforedeparture in English, Arabic and Transliteration. If you do bring any papers, even copies of Duas,be sure to keep them in a safe, hidden place in your bag. During bag checks in Jeddah, Saudigovernment officials will discard any papers they feel could be propaganda. You would not wanta Surah from the Qu'ran or a Dua to end up disrespected in the garbage. I would recommendbringing information on how to pray Namaaz – e – Shab (Salaat – ul- Lail).

Hajj books - bring books you want to refer to or read on the plane. I recommend reading all books andinfo before leaving for Hajj and just using these books as a refresher.




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The guide book compiled by the Hajj Assistance Committee - You will need this spiral bound book(which may be bound in an organizer) on a constant basis when entering mosques, during Ziyarattours, during tawaf, etc. It is a good idea to tab and label the pages so it is easy to find the pageyou are looking for when in a hurry.

Other items

Sunglasses - buy cheap ones you are not afraid to lose or ruinDetergent samples - if you can get your hands on travel size detergent which is unscented you may

need this if your Ehram gets dirty. The detergent in Medina and Mecca has a strong fragrance init.

Eye cover and earplugs - There is no such thing as 'uninterrupted' sleep in Hajj. Either people will betalking while you are trying to sleep, the door will keep opening allowing the light to come in,people will be turning the light on trying to find things, a name will be called over the loudspeaker,etc. Having an eye cover and earplugs can help you get a somewhat sound sleep.

Face mask - If you are not used to the heavy exhaust fumes from the vehicles in Saudi, it is a good ideato bring along a face mask (like surgeons use). Carry it with you and use it when exhaust fumesbecome unbearable (I used it when visiting public washrooms also). Saudi does not haveemission testing like we have in Canada causing severe pollution by all vehicles. When you leave

Saudi and everyone is coughing on the plane just think of it as your bodies way of removing thepollution you've inhaled from surrounding vehicles. Just a reminder - when in the state of Ehramyou cannot use your face mask!

Permanent Marker - I recommend you buy a permanent marker called 'Rub a Dub' Label all your clothesso people do not take your clothes, and so you do not take other people's clothes. The last thingyou want to do in Hajj is wear someone else's pajamas during your tawaf as they may be Ghasbi.I purchased my marker for $2-3 from Business Depot. Try Wal-Mart of the Dollar Store also.

Travel alarm clock - battery operated which can be placed by your bedStickers - Make sure your bags are properly identified with tags of your name, address, and phone

number both inside and outside your bag. A good tip is to apply large stickers to your bag inaddition to the red ribbons given to your by your Hajj guide. This makes bags easily identifiable toyourself and your group leader.

Food - I recommend you bring snacks to eat during our long bus and plane journeys. You may want toconsider snacks that are easy to carry, lightweight, and things you can share. For example,granola bars, roasted soya nuts, peanuts, dahls, chevro, ghatia, cup-a-soup, Gatorade (powdereddrink you add to water), tetra packs of juice…etc. There will be food provided by the HACthroughout your journey. There are also many places to eat out in Medina and Mecca i.e.Kentucky, McDonald's, Burger King, Pizza Hut. You can also find paya and masala fish alongwith other kebob places nearby our house. You may also want to bring a few plastic utensils andcups to be used along the way. Bottled water will be provided throughout your trip. Be preparedto carry 1.5L bottles of water.

Disposable Camera - You are not allowed to take pictures in the haram in Medina or Mecca. Use your camera on the Ziyarat tour or to take shots of you and your new Hajj friends. The memories willlast forever and you can look through your album and its like you're in Hajj again.

7 Beads on a string - It is a handy idea to have a string on a key chain with seven small beads. Thiscan be used when performing tawaf and sa'i so you don't lose count of which tawaf you are on .

1 moneybag - Can be purchased from Zellers and most travel/luggage stores. It is a small cotton bagwith two zippers and a long adjustable strap. Mine cost around $10.

Pens - carry a pen with you during your journey in your moneybagMoney - I advise you to bring US currency in hundred dollar bills. You will be able to convert Canadian,

US, and British Pounds to Saudi Riyals in Medina and Mecca. You will get the best rate for UScurrency. I do not recommend bringing traveler's cheques as the ID you will need to cash them(your passport) will be taken from you at the beginning of your journey.

Ticket - do not lose this! Keep it in a safe place in your room




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Passport - another important item not to lose. You will have to turn your passport in to your group leader at the beginning of your journey. Do not be alarmed, they know what they are doing. Passportsare an extremely important part of your identification. You must ensure your passport is valid for 6 months after the day you are traveling to Hajj. Ladies do not need to be in hijab in their passport photo. Keep a photocopy of your passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate, andcredit cards in your suitcase and at home in Toronto just in case.

Immunization Card - Make sure this goes to Hajj with you also. You may need to show this togovernment officials upon your arrival in Medina. Make sure it is up to date containing all thenecessary shots for Hajj. Keep this in a safe place - perhaps with your ticket.

Watch - Don't forget to take a watch, as you will be disoriented as to what time it is. Night becomes dayand day becomes night in Hajj. Because of the heat we often went out in the morning or at night.You need a watch to keep track of when you need to take your medication/pills. I bought anelastic waterproof Timex Gizmoz watch from Wal-Mart for only $9. This came in handy when myarm swelled and was easy to remove for Wudhoo.

Leather ID Band – you will be given a leather band with elastic to be worn at all times during your Hajjtrip. Do not take it in the shower as it is not the best quality and you may lose it or it may break itif it is handled improperly. Keep this in your money bag if the strap breaks. This is your new IDtag for the Saudi govt. It is a tool they use to identify you if you get lost or in any trouble in Saudi.

ID Card – you will be given and ID Card on a string to wear AT ALL TIMES. This card has your photoand passport info on it. Ladies must be in hijab in this photo. Behind the ID card are theemergency phone numbers for our houses in Mecca and Medina along with a map. If you are lostor need to explain to a cab driver how to get home, use this card. You may want to keep someemergency cab fare/phone fare behind this card.

Men Only

Men are able to purchase their Ehram and money belt in Medina

Women Only

Ehram outfits

Women's Ehram can really be any Islamic outfit. It is highly recommended that the outfit be white. I haveseen outfits as long white cotton dresses, salwar kurta (long top with long sleeves and pants), shortenedmen's khanzu top with white pajama, or any other variation. I recommend taking one Ehram in your handbag, one in your suitcase, and if you bring a third Ehram pack it in your husbands'/friends bag.

Many white thin cotton pajamas for Ehram1 white labcoat (white labcoats make for an excellent Ehram. They are not see-through, have two large

pockets and button all the way down. I did not end up using this either as my Ehram tops weremuch thinner and more comfortable)

1 large white hijab with elastic - for Ehram (practice wearing this hijab as the elastic may be too tight or

too loose and cause headaches. I opted to wear a white hijab instead of a large elastic hijab as Ifound the elastic uncomfortable)

5 tops for Ehram and other days (white kanzou tops hemmed below the knee with elastic in the cuffs.Thin and loose. There were days I was so tired I just came to my bed and crashed using mykanzou as a nightgown.)

Non-Ehram outfits

Bras - Bring as many bras as you can! White cotton bras are best. There will be laundry sinks andwashing machines available in Mecca and Medina.

White underwear - you do not have to wear 'white' underwear while in Ehram but it is recommended.




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Hijabs – cotton white ones are recommended so you can wear them when in Ehram also. The more thebetter as they will get dirty and dingy looking very fast.

Red Hijab ribbon- you will be receiving a red ribbon with a safety pin attached to it for all women to wear during your journey. It is very important that this ribbon is on the crown of your head at all timesso volunteers can spot members of our Hajj group. Remember to move your ribbon every timeyou change your hijab.

1 pair of black cotton leggings / tights - I took this in case it was really cold in Medina to wear insidemy pajamas in the morning. I never ended up using these leggings but they only took up a smallamount of space in my bag and I would probably take them again

3 thin white cotton tank tops - to be worn inside men's kanzou - kanzou's are very see-through1 mens khanzou skirt - This is a coloured skirt that is used by men and wrapped around their waste

during namaaz. I would wear this when I would go to the bathroom to take a shower so theclothes I would pray in would not go into the bathroom with me. I would wrap myself in thismaterial before and after my shower. This material is much more lightweight than a bath toweland suffices as a bathrobe.

1 long black nylon chador - this is a great non-see-through dress which can be thrown on as you rushfor morning salaat. You're tired and don't have time to change so just throw on a chador over your nightgown and you're off. I found my chador so convenient, I had two cotton dresses made

which are long-sleeved, non-see-through, and reach the floor to use the same way my chador was used.

Birth Control Pills - figure out the time you want to take these pills starting in Toronto. Saudi Arabia is 8hours ahead of us. Plan your pill taking for salaat time when you know you will be awake. I madethe mistake of taking mine at 7am in Toronto which corresponded to 3pm in Saudi. Most peoplesleep during the day in Hajj. I had to wake up for Salaat, and then go to sleep and wake up again

just to have my pills. Learn from my mistake. Start your pills early and don't stop taking themuntil you have completed your Hajj. I started 20 days before we left for Hajj. Therefore I wastaking pills for 38 days straight (two packs of 21 pills each). My brand was Marvellon and mostothers were given Allesse. Speak to your doctor about the brand and timing best for you.

Pack of individually wrapped pantyliners - changing your pantyliner gives you a fresh feeling whenyou haven't showered or changed clothes for a number of days

Individually wrapped pads - even though you will be taking birth control pills, please bring supplies(heavy, medium and light pads) in case you experience spotting.

Tips

Medina Airport - You and your bags will be searched - Be prepared! Officials are looking for drugs,counterfeit money, and political material. Be polite and do as you are told. Do not pack any unusualpowdered substances, carry only necessary literature, do not bring magazines or English books notabout Hajj. Bring only $100 bills which are not too old or too new. Try to get your bank to check your billswith the ultraviolet light. If they pass through the bank's test they should pass through the Saudigovernments test. You will need your passport, drafts, immunization card, ticket and departure card(receive afterwards). You will have to pass this bundle of documents to about 10 different men. Each will

either look at, stamp, or sticker your documents. Make sure you have the keys to your luggage readilyavailable - Ladies, don't start looking for your husbands if they have the keys to your luggage as they willbe in their own area. Ladies will be frisked (body searched) by other ladies in a private room. It is anuncomfortable experience but just recite Duas and think how it will be over in just a minute or so. Thecustoms process can take anywhere from a few hours to many, many hours. Expect the worst! Duringour Hajj trip customs was a breeze - short lines, officials barely checked our bags, we were out in notime. You may not be so lucky. After the body and bag search, you will proceed to a circular table whereyou will have to turn in your money drafts for tickets. Keep all documents you are given in a safe place.If you group leader needs them, be ready to turn them in.




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Grave of the Prophet in Medina mosque - The area where the grave of the Prophet rests has beenclosed off so only men can go near the Zari. Women are able to go near the grave from 7am-10am only.If you want to touch the Prophet's grave I recommend going with an experienced lady for Fajr salaat atthe mosque. Sit up front and be ready to run towards the grave of the Prophet. There is a great deal of pushing and shoving by other women and you may be hit lightly by one of the female governmentofficials.

Never travel alone anywhere! You want to concentrate on performing your Hajj rituals not worryingabout getting robbed. Take precautions, don't carry a lot of money when you go out (especially whengoing to the haram), keep your money bag close, hidden and safety pinned to your top. Always carryyour ID and some Saudi Riyals wherever you go (tuck riyals behind your ID card). You should carryaround 30 Riyals with you wherever you go for cab fare back to the house in case you get lost. There isa map and emergency phone number behind your ID card with picture.

You can call home (Toronto) from phone kiosks – These places are like small stores with a number of small telephone booths – the procedure requires you to go into a booth, call home, complete your phonecall, and go to the front desk to pay for your call. You will be charged by the minute so keepconversations short!

There are laundry facilities available similar to the dry cleaners we have in Canada. You drop off your clothes and pick them up at a certain time. Although this is a convenient service which does not cost awhole lot, a lot of people lost clothes or received clothes that didn't belong to them. Your best bet is touse the in house laundry service and do your own laundry upstairs.

Cab fare - You will need a cab to travel to restaurants and can take cabs to the haram. Agree on a pricebefore getting into the cab and make sure the rate is understood by the driver (i.e. is the rate per person,or for the group of you in the cab). Drivers may not be able to drop you directly to the haram as there arestrict rules to prevent traffic jams in Saudi.

Mohr / Turba - You will not be allowed to bring a mohr or turba into Saudi Arabia. If you try and fail, your

mohr will be thrown into the garbage in front of you. You can take the risk, but expect to have the mohr disrespected. There are mohrs available in our house in Mecca.

The above list and guide are just suggestions. If you do not feel you need any of the above items, thenplease do not bring these items. You can also share items in Hajj and therefore do not need to bring allof the above items (i.e. share with your spouse or friend).

Please enjoy your Hajj and consider it an experience you will think fondly of. Don’t forget to pray for allthose at home and in other parts of the world.

Shahin Daya

hajj shah in

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