Arbaeen Walk | Journey to Karbala with Millions
Essential Packing List for Arbaeen Pilgrimage
Preparing the right Arbaeen pilgrimage packing list is crucial for your spiritual journey from Najaf to Karbala. Since this 80km walk demands careful planning to balance comfort, safety, and cultural respect, our guide prioritizes essentials to help you honor traditions while staying prepared.
Clothing Essentials for the Najaf-Karbala Journey
Modest attire (follow Islamic dress code):
- Men: Lightweight thobes or loose pants paired with long-sleeve shirts
- Women: Breathable abayas/hijabs (cotton or chiffon)
- All pilgrims: Opt for light colors to reflect heat and avoid synthetic fabrics
Weather protection:
- Compact rain poncho for sudden showers
- UV-blocking scarf or wide-brimmed hat
Footwear & Health Must-Haves
Footwear:
- Prioritize broken-in hiking shoes (tested on 10km+ walks)
- Pack 3+ moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters
Health kit:
- Prescription medications (with a doctor’s note)
- Blister pads, antiseptic cream, and painkillers
- Electrolyte tablets to combat dehydration
Hygiene essentials:
- Travel-sized wet wipes and alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Lightweight portable prayer mat
Tech & Documentation
Navigation/safety:
- High-capacity portable charger (20,000mAh minimum)
- Offline maps (download the Arbaeen route app)
Health kit:
- Laminated copies of passport/ID
- Emergency contacts (local and home country)
Pro Packing Tips for Pilgrims
- Space-saving: Use compression sacks (see our light packing guide)
- Security: Label belongings with your name and phone number
- Efficiency: Avoid overpacking—Mowkebs provide free meals and water
Respecting Traditions on the Journey
- Simplicity: Avoid flashy jewelry to maintain humility
- Spiritual focus: Carry a pocket Quran or dua book for reflection
