Packing Light Makes Haj Journey Easier For Pilgrims

By Amirul Mohd Sajadi

MAKKAH, May 6 (Bernama) -- In preparing for haj, many pilgrims pack their bags with the belief that bringing more will ensure comfort and peace of mind, only to realise later that much of what they carried from home goes unused.

Suitcases are often filled with extra clothes, instant food, snacks, medication and other daily necessities, driven by concerns that these items may be hard to find upon arrival.

However, after more than two weeks observing haj operations here, it is evident that answering the call as Dhuyufur-Rahman (guests of Allah) has little to do with how much one brings along.

In reality, much of what is packed from home remains neatly stored in luggage, with some items left untouched from the first day.

Clothes brought in abundance are often worn only once or not at all, as pilgrims tend to rotate a few comfortable outfits, especially with laundry services available near their accommodation.

Food items such as sambal goreng, instant noodles, biscuits and snacks, initially thought to be essential, are also rarely consumed as meals are provided by Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH), while eateries are easily accessible around hotels.

In the end, heavily packed bags often become an added burden rather than a necessity.

A pilgrim from Selangor, Mohd Azman Ibrahim, 58, admitted he brought an extra bag filled with food and clothing out of concern that essentials would be difficult to obtain.

“Only after arriving did I realise everything is already available. Food is provided, shops are everywhere and TH offers facilities including free clinics for pilgrims.

“I didn’t use most of my clothes because the focus is on worship. If I had known, I would have packed much less. The lighter the bag, the easier it is to move,” he told Bernama here recently.

Meanwhile, Malaysian Haj Delegation head Mohd Hisham Harun said packing in moderation not only eases movement but also helps ensure smoother logistics, especially during hotel check-ins, transfers between locations and return journeys.

“Many pilgrims come well prepared, but sometimes bring more than necessary, including items that can easily be purchased here or are not used at all.

“We always advise pilgrims to bring only essentials and prioritise mobility, as haj requires physical strength,” he said.

Based on observation, the excitement of buying souvenirs also contributes to heavier luggage, even though many popular items such as embroidered prayer mats, tasbih, camel figurines and decorative items are readily available online in Malaysia.

-- BERNAMA