We’ve been in the midst of a pre-packing frenzy, at least mom and I.
We got a list from friends of ours who went last year of all the “essentials” one needs.
Of course we had to customize it with our medicines and preferences but…for starters, here is that list:

Medication
1. Panadol cold; Panadol pain & fever (alot)
2. Cough Syrup: Buckleys, Bisolvon, Histatussin
3. Strepsil/Difflam/Vicks chloroseptic (a lot)
4. Mints and saltprunes (not available in Saudi so take a lot)
5. Tums/MMT
6. lomotil
7. muscle rub/ sports balm,
 8. *_KWAN LOONG_ (Chinese oil) *and/or* *vicks
9. ankle wrap/ brace (for sprains etc)
10. antibiotics
11. hand and face cream – (it is very cold in Medina)
12. lip balm or vasaline – (your lips may crack and bleed)
13. gravol
14. Vitamin C – (start taking long before trip)
15. sugarless gum for flying
16. sinutab/ clarinase – (for flying)
17. medicine for constipation
18. dust masks

Toiletries and Food
1. unscented deodorant,
2. toothpaste and toothbrush
3. simple soap – this is unscented as well – check pennywise
4. vasaline – unscented (men will need this while in ihram)
5. small bottle shampoo and conditioner (2in1)
6. unscented sanitary napkins
7. flushable wipes – check superpharm
8. crix (small packs) and a few tins of tuna (tomato and basil etc) – optional
9. granola or other snacks
10. travel sized lysol (surface) sanitisers, j-cloths, gloves, dust masks, air fresheners, etc.

Someone thought that was a lot and do we really need all that?
Well, they haven’t seen what we’ve bought and packed.
And remember we’re packing for four people and some of them quite sickly!

I’m not sure where our clothes will go.