Packing for Medjugorje is simpler than for most trips. Your days follow a rhythm of Mass, prayer, confession and climbing the hills, so you need clothes that are modest, comfortable and easy to walk in. Here is what to bring, and why.
At a glance
- Dress code: shoulders and knees covered at the sacred sites
- Shoes: sturdy, broken-in walking shoes with good grip
- Evenings: can turn cool, so bring a warm layer
- Money: the local currency is the Bosnian convertible mark; euros are widely accepted
- Power: bring an adapter for Bosnia and Herzegovina
1. What to wear at church and holy sites
Plan to dress modestly every day. Pilgrimage organizers ask that shoulders and knees are covered at the sacred sites, and you will move between Mass, Adoration and the hills without going back to change. See also what to wear to Mass.
- T-shirts or blouses with sleeves (no tank tops)
- Long trousers, or skirts and dresses that cover the knee
- A light scarf or cardigan that you can throw on over a short-sleeved top
2. Shoes for Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain
The paths up Apparition Hill (Podbrdo) and Cross Mountain (Križevac) are rocky and uneven. Bring sturdy walking shoes or trail shoes with good grip.
Pilgrim tip: break your shoes in before you travel. Sandals and new shoes are a common regret on the hills.
3. Layers for cool evenings
Even when days are warm, evenings can turn cool, and the evening prayer program at St. James Church runs for hours, much of it outdoors. Pack a light jacket, sweater or hoodie, and a compact rain jacket in case the weather changes.
4. Your carry-on
Put at least one full outfit in your carry-on, in case your checked bag arrives late. Add your medications, travel documents and a phone charger.
5. Small things pilgrims are glad they packed
- ☐ Your rosary, and a small notebook or journal for intentions and reflections
- ☐ A refillable water bottle and sun protection for the climbs
- ☐ A small backpack for the hills, so your hands are free
- ☐ A power adapter for Bosnia and Herzegovina (check the plug type for your country before you go)
- ☐ Some euros in cash. The local currency is the Bosnian convertible mark, but euros are widely accepted in Medjugorje
- ☐ A list of prayer intentions from family and friends at home
Traveling as a group? Match your shirts
At a busy airport or in the crowd outside St. James Church, matching shirts make your group easy to spot and easy to keep together. Go2MARY makes pilgrimage shirts, hoodies and journals for groups, with one link where every pilgrim picks their own size. Here is how group orders work, or see the Medjugorje Queen of Peace T-Shirt.
Always check your tour operator's own packing list too, as programs and seasons differ.