Oman Western Hajar kit list

When traveling to Oman, it’s important to respect the local culture and dress modestly, especially in public places. Men should wear trousers and tops with sleeves, while women should opt for loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders and knees. While a headscarf is not mandatory for non-Muslim women, it is required when visiting mosques. Swimsuits are acceptable at private beaches and hotel pools, but it’s best to cover up when walking to and from these areas. Shorts are acceptable when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, but they should be of a modest length. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are recommended due to the hot climate. Omanis are very welcoming people, known for their hospitality and pride in their country and culture, so dressing respectfully is a way to show appreciation for their traditions and warm hospitality.

Essential Adventure Clothes  

  • Socks - We recommend decent quality hiking socks, which are design to help reduce blisters offering added padding in spots that might rub.

  • Underwear - These should be synthetic or merino wool and not cotton.

  • Lightweight hiking top - These should be synthetic or merino wool and not cotton. Long sleeves offer protection from the elements.

  • Hiking shorts - Oman has a reserved Islamic culture, and out of respect for this, it is important for both men and women to wear shorts that come to around the knee.

  • Light weight hiking trousers - Cotton trousers, sweatpants and joggers are not suitable for trekking, these should be synthetic.

  • Mid-weight fleece.

  • Warm jacket - it is surprisingly cold in the mountains at night and common for temperatures to get close to freezing point. A heavy down or synthetic jacket is recommended to stay warm while camping.

  • Light weight waterproof jacket - rain is very uncommon in Oman, however it is important to still have a lightweight waterproof in case we are caught out, they are also particularly good as windbreakers.

  • Buff/neck gaiter.

  • Sun hat.

  • Warm hat.

  • Swimming clothes - as mentioned above at private beaches swimsuits are acceptable, however it is worth having some board shorts and a rash vest or light weight top to wear in more conservative areas.

Essential Adventure Gear

  • Walking boots - The terrain in Oman is very harsh, ensure your boots are high quality and durable enough to withstand the full length of the trip. If you are buying new boots, we recommend getting them professionally fitted and taking the time to break them in, ensuring they are comfortable.

  • Canyoneering shoes - although these need to have good grip they don’t need to be any thing specialist. A pair of trainers or your walking boots will be fine, however bear in mind they will get wet so you will want an additional pair of shoes to wear after if you plan on using your walking boots.

  • Water bottles/bladder - it is essential to carry a minimum of 2 litres of water with you on the trail. While hydration bladders are fine it is advisable to bring a water bottle as well, these are easier to fill on the go and good for mixing rehydration salts.

  • Hand sanitiser.

  • Sunscreen - At least 30 SPF.

  • SPF lip balm.

  • Sunglasses.

  • Personal medications - Asthma pumps, adrenaline injectors, blood pressure medication, anything you take regularly, it’s a good idea to bring spares with you as well.

  • Small personal first aid kit - This should have plasters, blister dressings like Comped, zinc oxide tape, a bandage, paracetamol, and Ibuprofen.

  • Hiking day pack - Your day pack should be around 30L to carry a spare warm layer, your waterproofs, water, snacks, first aid kit, sunscreen, lip balm and any medication needed on the trail.

  • Duffle bag - This bag contains your clothes, sleeping bag and everything that you aren’t taking hiking with you. It will be transported between camps/hotels. A duffle bag is easier to pack into our 4x4’s than a sold suitcase or bag on wheels.

  • Sleeping bag - To be comfortable sleeping, this should be rated at around 0oC as it can get very cold at night.

  • Head torch and spare batteries.

Optional Adventure Gear

  • Trekking poles - Although optional, we highly recommend poles.

  • Extra snacks - While we provide ample food throughout the journey, you might consider bringing extra energy bars, and we highly recommend rehydration salts.

  • Sports watch - Not essential but many people enjoy recording the trek on them.

  • Power bank - For keeping electrical devices charged.

  • Trainers or sandals - If you want to change into more comfortable footwear in the evening.

  • Sleeping bag liner - Using a liner can enhance the warmth of your sleeping bag and help keep it cleaner.

  • Neoprene top - the water while canyoneering can be surprisingly cold, if you are a cold person you might want to bring a neoprene/wetsuit top to help stay warm.

  • Gloves - if you are a particularly cold person you might want to consider a pair of light weight gloves to wear in the mornings and evenings while camping. You won’t need these while hiking though.

Essential Travel Items

  • Wash kit - Washing facilities are basic while camping so you might want to bring a washcloth or some wet wipes with you, as well as all your normal items for at hotels and guest houses.

  • Passport and travel documents - We recommend having a photocopy printed and a digital copy on your phone.

  • Clothes to wear while travelling and when we return from our trek.

  • Travel adapter plug - Oman uses the G type plug and 240v, this is the same as the U.K.

Optional Travel Items

  • Ear Plugs

  • Book

  • Journal

  • Camera