Beware of the Thefts!
Pickpocketing is common in public places. Even holiest of places are not exempted from such petty crimes.
Anyone can easily pickpocket you. Small items keep getting “lost” all the time. Even if you do get a token for your shoes (to take them off while praying) and they still tend to get lost or replaces by someone else’s shoes.
Before going to perform Hajj and Umrah the best remedy for that can be to carry a small carrying bag in which you can put your shoes easily. It’s better to keep it locked even.
There’s no need of wearing any jewelry, the simpler attire is the safer you are from getting things stolen.
Pack warm clothes
Saudi Arabia is a hot semi-arid country. winds are particularly scorching dry and it can easily be dishing you.
But even if you are visiting in summer, you will need to pack light but warm jackets. As most of the areas are surrounded by desert, it tends to get cold in night (as sand has no heat absorbing properties).
Always keep a pair of light and warm socks. When the needs call for it, keep light jackets in your carrying bag, when going to Mina and Arafat. You don't want to get cold in of the most precious journeys ever.
Travelling in Group
People feel more comfortable when travelling in the form of small or larger groups. You get the sense of safeguard, knowing you won't get lost.
You can decide a common meeting point when going to perform different stages of a pilgrim and keep sharing each other's live location to keep track of movements and vice versa. Going in pairs is a better option when travelling in a larger group.
Points to Ponder
Going for the best journeys of your life requires proper planning and such tips are extremely helpful in every regard.
Remember that, when in the crowd, either going for prayer or have to throw stones and such, never push through the crowd. Every pilgrim in Makkah is there for one sole reason; to perform their duty as a Muslim. So make sure that no one gets hurt in any way, taking care of such things will add more righteousness in your book.