The Ultimate Umrah Packing List from the US

For those visiting from the US, it is not only spiritual but also physical, involving long flights, hot weather, and adjusting to a new culture. You don't need to bring everything with you for Umrah, but you need to pack smartly and choose simple items such as important travel documents, items that follow the Islamic principles, basic clothing and health care, etc.

Because performing Umrah is one of the most profound and emotional journeys of a life for every Muslim around the world.

It is better to have a few good things that make you comfortable than a lot of useless things that make the trip heavy and stressful.

This guide explains what every pilgrim from the United States should bring, so that you can perform Umrah with a calm heart and a clear mind.

Must-Knows - Your Top 5 Essentials

If you are planning to go on Umrah from the US, start with the five most important things. These are your essentials - everything else can wait after that:

●    Passport and Umrah Visa from the USA - Check your passport, it must be at least 6 months valid from your departure date.

●    Ihram for men or a simple abaya and hijab for women.

●    Unscented toiletries - Very important to have in the rules of Ihram.

●    Comfortable shoes or sandals - You will be walking a lot, so choose something soft and easy.

●    Your medications- Always keep them with you, not in your larger luggage.

These five things are the foundation of your smooth Umrah. Once you have them ready, the rest becomes much easier.

Important Papers & Money Things (Don’t Skip These!)

Travel Papers

●    Passport: Make sure it is good for at least 6 months after you come back.

●    Umrah Visa: Keep both printed and on your phone, just in case.

●    Flight Tickets & Hotel Bookings: Keep copies printed and saved on your phone too.

●    Emergency Numbers: Write down the US Consulate in Jeddah or Riyadh, your group leader, and insurance contact.

Money & Safety

●    Saudi Riyals (SAR): Good to change some before you arrive, for food or taxi.

●    Credit or Debit Cards: Tell your US bank before travel, so they don’t block your card.

●    Money Belt or Small Pouch: Keep passport, cash, and cards safe while doing rituals.

●    Travel Insurance: It’s very helpful if something happens — better to have it.

These are small things but very important. When you organize them before flight, you feel more calm and ready for your journey.

Quick tip: Use simple packing cubes or plastic bags to keep your hijab, everyday clothes, and laundry separate. It makes life easier when you're tired and looking for things.

Health, Hygiene, and First Aid (Unscented is Key!)

Unscented toiletries (very important during Ihram)

●    Use unscented soaps, shampoos, creams, and deodorants – you can find them at Target, CVS, or Walmart.

●    Unscented wet wipes and tissues – small but very useful for travel.

●    Alcohol-free hand sanitizer.

●    Nail clippers or small scissors – use before putting on Ihram.

First Aid and Medications

●    Bring your prescribed medications in their original bottles, and if possible, with a small doctor’s note.

●    Pain relievers, antiseptic creams, and blister pads – these are great after a long walk.

●    Electrolyte powder or packets – great when the weather is very hot.

●    Nasal spray or cream – helps with dryness from airplanes or desert air.

Note: Some American medications are not allowed in Saudi Arabia. Check the Saudi Food and Drug Authority website before your trip.

Electronics and staying connected

●    Universal power adapter: Uses Saudi Type G plug (230V).

●    Power bank (10,000 mAh or more) – For long days at the Haram.

●    Smartphone with E-SIM or local SIM: Download Nusuk (for Umrah permit) and Tawakkulna (for health conditions) while in the US.

●    Simple wristwatch – Saves your phone’s battery during Tawaf or Sa’i.

Quick tip: Many devices can switch to dual voltage mode. Use airplane mode to avoid high roaming bills until you get a Saudi SIM.

Spiritual and comfort items

●    Small Quran or Quran app.

●    Prayer notebook or personal list of your prayers.

●    Tasbeeh or digital counter.

●    Foldable prayer mat.

●    Reusable water bottle – great for Zamzam water.

●    Light bag or shoe bag – to carry essentials inside the Haram.

Keep it simple. Lots of things take up space and focus. Umrah is about the heart, not heavy luggage.

Travel and local tips for American pilgrims

●    Weather and climate

●    Saudi Arabia is very hot for most of the year, much hotter than the weather in the US.

●    In Mecca, it can be 95–108 °F (35–42 °C).

●    Drink plenty of water, wear light and loose clothing, and rest in the shade during peak sun.

●    Jet lag and rest

●    Flights from the US are long — usually 12–16 hours. Try to get some sleep on the plane and avoid coffee when you arrive.

Local culture

●    Dress modestly, even while in Ihram.

●    Don’t speak too loudly or take photos inside holy sites.

●    During prayer times, some shops close for a few minutes — be patient.

Transportation and Safety

●    Use only official Haram buses or hotel shuttles.

●    Solo women — always confirm rides with a registered travel agency.

Additional Tips for Smart Travelers

●    “Unscented” does not always mean “fragrance-free.” Read the label carefully.

●    Download and test the Nusuk and Tawakkalna apps while in the US Wi-Fi.

●    Carry electrolytes and drink often — dehydration happens quickly in the heat.

●    Email yourself copies of your passport, visa, and tickets.

●    Add bright tags or ribbons to your luggage — many bags look the same.

Simple, light, and clear — this is how your Umrah will be peaceful and easy.

Final reminder

Pack light, keep your things neat, and prepare your heart more than your suitcase. The real journey is in the soul, not in the bags.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Can I bring scented toiletries from the US for Umrah?

Yes, you can take them in your bag, no problem. But once you have put on Ihram and intend to perform Umrah, you cannot use anything with a smell — any perfume, any scented soap, any lotion. You can reuse them after completing Umrah.

Q2: What type of plug adapter do I need?

In Saudi Arabia, they use a type G plug, like in the UK. But in the US, we use type A and B, so it’s different. It’s best to get a universal adapter that works for 230 volts. Then you can charge your phone or anything anywhere, no worries.

Q3: How much luggage can I bring?

Most people flying from the US for Umrah can bring two large bags (23 kg or 50 lbs each) and one small handbag (7-10 kg), plus one personal item such as a backpack or purse. But always check with your airline before you travel — sometimes the rules change for each ticket or flight. It’s best to ask first, so there’s no surprise at the airport.