In the holy month of Ramadan, most Muslims would rather stay at home than travel, since it can be hard on the body and mind even when you’re not fasting.

For millions of Muslims around the world, Ramadan is a very important time. It’s a time to fast, pray, and think about things that will help you grow spiritually and connect with Allah. Witnessing Ramadan practices and customs in different parts of the world can be fun and interesting for people who travel during this time.

But going during Ramadan also needs extra planning and care to make sure that everyone, Muslim and non-Muslim, has a respectful and fun trip. To help you get ready, here are some good ideas:

Pick The Right Time

If your trip is short, choose a route that leaves after iftar and arrives before sahur. That way, you won’t have to travel while you’re fasting.

If that’s not possible, try to plan your departure and arrival so that you don’t have to have sahur or break your fast in the middle of the trip. 

Know When To Take A Break

You don’t have to follow the fasting times of the country you’re leaving or arriving in while you’re in transit. If you’re on an airplane, for instance, you should break for the day when you see the sun go down from where you are. You’re good as long as it’s dark where you are. 

In the summer, the days in Reykjavik, Iceland’s city, are about 20 hours long! If you’re in a place with unusually long days, you should follow the fasting hours of Saudi Arabia, which is where Mecca is. You can also follow the routine of your home country. For example, if you normally start fasting at 5:30am and end it at 7:30pm, then don’t change those times. 

Carry Extra Iftar Or Saur Snacks With You

Things you can’t plan for can happen at any time, like planes being late or traffic jams, so you may need to grab a quick meal for iftar or sahur while you’re on the go. For these times, bring snacks that are easy to carry, like a cereal bar, a bag of nuts, or dates. It also works with a box of cookies and a juice box.

Plan Before

Planes being late or jams are examples of unplanned events that can happen at any time. Because of this, you may need to grab a quick meal for iftar or sahur while you’re on the go. Bring snacks that are easy to carry, like dates, cereal bars, or a bag of nuts, for these times. It works with a juice box and a box of cookies too.

Make sure your plans are light and flexible so you don’t get too tired. Also, find out where the closest mosques or prayer places are so you don’t have to waste time looking for them. 

Do Not Skip Sahur

We know it’s tempting to sleep through sahur when you’re tired, but you shouldn’t. It’s like taking off on a long road trip with only a little gas in your tank.

When you get to your destination, go to the nearby grocery store or 24-hour convenience store to get loads of plain water and foods that are high in protein and complex carbohydrates, like whole-grain bread with peanut butter. You could also eat fruits. 

Make Friends With Other Muslims

Being with your Muslim brothers and sisters is always a good thing, but it’s especially nice during Ramadan. Check to see if there are any Muslims in the area or pick a hotel that is close to a mosque. Take part in the Tarawih prayers and get to know the Muslim community in your area.

There are probably halal restaurants nearby, or you can ask people where they think you should break fast. Who knows, someone might even bring you to their home for iftar! Some mosques even give away free food for sahur or iftar.

When Should You Fast Or Not?

This is only a choice if nothing else works, but Muslims have an exception where travelers don’t have to fast. So do not push yourself if it is physically hard for you. Once Ramadan is over (and before the next one), you’ll have to make up for any days you didn’t fast. 

Have a safe trip and a great fast wherever you are! Book your flights and hotel on Traveloka to make your trip go even better.

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Conclusion

Fasting while traveling during Ramadan can be challenging, but with proper planning and the right mindset, it is entirely possible to maintain your fast and stay healthy. Prioritize traveling during non-fasting hours, carry light snacks for unexpected delays, and connect with local Muslim communities for support.

Remember, it’s important not to push your limits; Islam offers flexibility for travelers. Whether you’re fasting or taking a break, enjoy your journey and make the most of the spiritual experience. Safe travels, and may your fasting be blessed, wherever you go!