What should I pack for Hajj 2026, and what items are essential for Mina and Arafat?

For Hajj 2026, here are essential items I recommend:

1. Ihram clothing (two white unstitched sheets for men) and modest clothing for women.
2. Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes for long walks to Jamarat and Arafat.
3. A small backpack with: prayer mat, water bottle, snacks, prayer beads, pocket Qur'an.
4. Sun protection: hat, umbrella, sunglasses, sunscreen.
5. Toiletries (unscented in Ihram), tissues, wet wipes.
6. Medications and a small first-aid kit.
7. Copies of passport, visa, vaccination certificate, and emergency contacts.
8. A small amount of cash in SAR for incidentals.

For Mina and Arafat specifically: pack light since you will carry your bag. Keep hydrated, use the umbrella against the heat, and carry your essential documents in a waterproof pouch. May Allah accept your Hajj.