Smooth Travels Made Easy: Baggage Tips from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj & Umrah
Salam and good day friends!
On August 18, 2025, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj & Umrah tweeted a thoughtful reminder to help us travel more smoothly:

Baggage Rules to Remember
For a smooth journey, pay attention to baggage specifications in air travel.
Do not bring:
- Plastic bag carriers
- Excess weight beyond what’s on your ticket
- Suitcases with long straps
- Items tied with ropes
- Cylindrical or irregular-shaped luggage
And a gentle reminder: contact your airline well before the trip to provide you with baggage specifications and requirements—trusted advice to avoid last-minute surprises.
Why This Matters
It’s more than just rules—it’s about making the journey easier and more dignified. Avoiding odd-shaped bags or excess weight means fewer headaches at check-in, and keeping everything secure speaks well of our care and respect for the travel process, especially during sacred pilgrimages like Umrah.
These points also echo other guidance from trusted sources:
- Travelers have been advised to skip fabric-wrapped or unstructured bags since they can be damaged or mishandled - [ Gulf News - Saudi Arabia: List of items pilgrims need to avoid when travelling for Umrah ]
- Pilgrims often bring two checked bags totaling up to 50 kg, plus a 7 kg carry-on—but each airline may differ, so always double-check . [ Hajj Companions - The Updated Luggage Guidelines For Hajj 20a24 ]
- Opting for a sturdy, hardshell suitcase with secure locks and no loose straps helps protect your belongings from damage or theft. [ HajjUmrahPlanner.com - Baggage ]
Smart Suitcase Suggestions
To keep things smooth, let me share a few recommended carry-on suitcases that meet airline rules, avoid long straps, and get great reviews:
Travel Star Signature | ![]() FreeBird |
- Travel Star TNL018 Signature Luggage
Efficient carry-on, available in standard dimensions (so no bulky straps or awkward shapes). Compact but generous, with solid build and TSA lock. - FreeBird Carry‑On Roller
Designed for real-world travel—durable, organized, crush-proof and with internal compression straps . Sleek and streamlined for hassle-free journeys.
More Travel-Ready Tips
To complete the prep for a truly smooth travel experience:
- Choose lightweight and manageable luggage
Light carry-ons reduce strain—Travel + Leisure recommends those between 4.3 lbs/2 Kg to 12.9 lbs/6 Kg for ease of use and compliance. - Good brands go the distance
Reliable options like Samsonite Theorym Medium Spinner earn praise for durability and capacity. Frequent travelers also love Travelpro Trolley Case for their toughness and smooth rolling.
These two are great value picks and are available on Aara Affiliate Storefront .
A Gentle Reminder (With a Heart)
Before heading to the airport, dear friends:
- Ask your airline about baggage limits and restrictions.
- Review the Ministry’s guidance about unsuitable items—especially if you're going for Umrah or Hajj.
- Choose reliable luggage—durable, properly shaped, and free of dangling straps—to make your journey smoother and safer.
Final Note
May Allah ease your journey and bless your travels. Whether you're headed for Umrah, Eid, or a family holiday, thoughtful packing and understanding the rules go a long way toward relief and peace of mind.
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