Hajj is a very spiritual journey, but it is important to be pragmatic when planning your journey.
Vaccinations, visas, air-bookings, all of this has to be done much before you actually travel. The tour operator you are travelling with will arrange most of this for you, but it is a good idea to always double check.
Then comes all the packing that must be done. Make sure that you do not take too much; the lighter your baggage, the easier it will be to haul around. Clothes should be light as temperatures can get very hot during the day in Makkah.
Brothers should pack a few ihrams (two pieces of cloth attire worn by men during the state of consecration), though you shouldn't worry about taking too many as they are easily available in Saudi Arabia. If going in the winter, please take a warm jacket as Madinah can be rather chilly at dawn and after sunset.
Other things that you must remember to pack are any medications that will be needed along with the doctor's prescription. Don't forget good quality footwear. Remember, there is a lot of walking to be done.
A rucksack is very useful, it can be used to store any essentials that you would need while you camp in Mina.
Keep this bag small because if it is too big, security might stop you from carrying it in certain areas. Also keep this bag very light. All you need is a copy of the Quran, a drink (rather, an empty bottle that you can fill with Zamzam water), a snack, a change of clothes (when camping in Mina), and any other essentials — including medicines — you need for a day.
Hajj is a spiritual journey that also requires physical strength
Hajj includes a lot of physical activity, particularly walking, so if your lifestyle is a very sedentary one — eight hours at the computer at work, then home for dinner, chit-chat and bed — it is a good idea to incorporate light exercise, like walking or jogging, into your schedule during the last month before your hajj.
Hajj is a spiritual journey that also requires physical strength and stamina. With a little bit of preparation you can have an experience which will last for a lifetime and beyond, and every time you think of the journey you made, you will want to go back again and again.
Another thing to consider is your food. You cannot obviously pack and take it with you, but once you get to Makkah, you should be careful about what you eat.
If you are prone to the flu, getting a vaccination is something you should seriously consider. Ask your doctor about this.
Remember also to drink loads of water. This will keep both the flu and dehydration at bay.
Patience is essential during your hajj. You may have to stand in long queues. You may have long waits before you get food, or get a bus, or get anything. You may have to deal with the largest crowds you have experienced. You may unintentionally get trod on or get pushed.
In all of this, it is important that you maintain your cool and remember that this is a journey recommended by Prophet Muhammad and Allah.
Article source onislam.net
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