Pilgrims generally travel to Hajj in groups, as an expression of unity. Some airlines have special packages for Muslims going to Mecca. Ships also take pilgrims to Mecca so they can perform Hajj.

During the Hajj, male pilgrims are required to dress only in a garment consisting of two sheets of white unhemmed cloth, with the top draped over the torso and the bottom secured by a white sash; plus a pair of sandals. Women are simply required to maintain their hijab - normal modest dress, which does not cover the hands or face.

Ihram

The Ihram clothing is intended to show the equality of all pilgrims in the eyes of Allah: there is no difference between a prince and a pauper when everyone is dressed the same. The Ihram also symbolizes purity and absolution of sins. A place designated for changing into Ihram is called a miqat.

While the pilgrim is wearing the Ihram, they cannot shave, clip their nails, or use deodorant or perfume. They may not swear or quarrel, kill any living thing or engage in any sexual activity.

Clothing

Ihram clothing is simply an item of clothing to be worn during the pilgrimage, but there are many competing views on the proper wearing of ihram. For example, the exact number of days a pilgrim is required to wear ihram varies according to the type of pilgrimage (Hajj) the individual is performing, such as performing Hajj, or a smaller version of Hajj, called Umrah. The simple, white Ihram clothing is intended to make everyone appear the same, as in the eyes of Allah there is no difference between a prince and a pauper.

For women there is no clear prescription. Women's clothing, therefore, varies considerably and reflects regional as well as religious attitudes. In general female hajjis clothe themselves in long white robes, covering the body from head to foot.

Restrictions

A person in the state of Ihram must not tie any knots or wear any stitched items except for a money belt if it is needed. Sandals and flips flops must not be stitched either and should allow the ankle and back of foot to be exposed (some other schools of thought also agree that the front of the foot must be shown as well). Whilst in the state of Ihram a muslim must also not use any scented things at all on himself or on the robes, if the robe has been fouled by najas (dirty) material, such as excrement, or has been wiped, rubbed or touched by scented liquids (intentionally) then a new ihram must be worn otherwise there is a high possibility that the Umrah or Hajj will be invalidated.

Behavior and hygiene

Aside from being as clean as they are for prayer, male Muslims are expected to cut their nails, trim their hair and beards, and wear Ihram clothing, which is a white, seamless garment. Many also shave their head as this is hygienic. Females also dress in white and are expected be clean. During the pilgrimage, sexual activity, shaving and cutting one's nails are forbidden.

Other forbidden activities include killing animals or eating meat (unless it is part of Eid ul-Adha), using profane language, quarrelling or fighting, and taking oaths, in addition to any other regularly prohibited acts. Males should also refrain from looking at women and women should exercise strict modesty in their appearance and not apply make-up, perfume (males must not wear deodorant) or any other cosmetics.