Fasting While Traveling

The concession

“And whoever is ill or on a journey — then an equal number of other days” (Qur’an 2:185). A traveller may break the fast and make the day up later.

Fast or break?

Anas reported that the companions travelled with the Prophet ﷺ, some fasting and some not, and neither criticised the other (Sahih al-Bukhari 1947). Where fasting causes real hardship, breaking it is better; the Prophet ﷺ said of one who fasted with great difficulty on a journey: “It is not righteousness to fast while travelling” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1946).

Practical points scholars discuss

• The journey must be one commonly considered travel; the classical schools cite distances around 80 km, and contemporary scholars differ on modern equivalents.
• The concession applies once you have left your town, not while still at home.
• If you begin a fast and then travel, most scholars allow completing it or breaking it.
• Time zones: your fast ends at Maghrib where you actually are, including on a plane.

Attribution: the rulings summarised here are the positions recorded in the classical schools and the well known hadith collections. They are presented for information, not as a fatwa. For your own situation, ask a qualified scholar in your community.

Frequently asked questions

Can I fast on a long-haul flight?

Yes, and the fast ends at sunset as observed from the aircraft. Flying east can shorten the day considerably and flying west can lengthen it, which is a valid reason to take the traveller’s concession.

How many days must I make up?

Exactly the number you missed, before the following Ramadan.

Where to go next

Suhoor and IftarBoth meals, the sunnah and the practicalities.Ramadan plannerPreparing for the month and a daily routine.Dua librarySupplications with source and grading.Health while fastingHydration, sleep, caffeine and medication.Ramadan quizTest what you know, with every answer referenced.