ISRAEL TRAVEL TIPS

Israel enjoys long, warm dry summers (April – October) and generally mild and wet winters ( November – March). Evenings can get cool so it is always recommended to pack layers regardless of the season.

A number of taxi companies operate in Jerusalem throughout the day and night. A taxi (“monit” in Hebrew) can be ordered by phone or flagged down on the street. Ask the driver to turn on the meter, as it usually turns out to be cheaper than a predetermined fare.

Givat Shaul 02-651-2111
Bar Ilan 02-586 6666
Ramat Alon 02-500-0003
Ramat Eshkol 02-581-4111

The most popular way to get to and from the airport is with Nesher (a shuttle between the airport and Jerusalem): 02-6257227

Banks will cash foreign currency and traveler’s checks for a small charge. (Ask for the foreign currency desk.) As a rule, banks run on staggered schedules, open only in the morning on certain days of the week, but opening up again later in the afternoon on other days.

There are money-changing shops all over the city center. (Change Point is the name of one chain of shops.) You may also change money at Shop Change, across from Holy Bagel in the main square of the Jewish Quarter.

Bank Discount 11 Ben Yehuda 02-675-4444
Bank HaPoalim 33 King George 02-620-7676
American/Israel Bank 48 Jaffa Rd. 02-623-2271
First International Bank 10 Hillel St. 02-675-6888
Bank Mizrachi 12 BenYehuda 02-620-8922

Stores close early on Friday, usually in the early afternoon, and are closed all day Saturday. Food and entertainment outlets reopen Saturday night after Shabbat is over. Sunday is a normal business day, and all stores and banks are open. Certain foreign currency transactions cannot be carried out on Sundays, because banks abroad are closed. Foreign embassies are closed on Sundays as well.

Your safety and security is our primary concern throughout your stay in Israel. Go Inspire is in daily contact with the Ministry of Defense dealing with travel and we receive real-time notifications on any irregularity in the routine of Israel. Based on the latest security updates, itineraries are revised as needed. We also follow the guidelines from the Israeli Police and Moked Teva that include ensuring appropriate attire is worn on hikes, keeping hydrated, and avoiding certain locations if required. It is helpful to note that Israel is a very popular travel destination with over hundreds of thousands of tourists arriving monthly.

Will I be able to do laundry on the trip?
On most trips there is an opportunity to send laundry out for washing. The cost is per bag.

Do I need to know Hebrew to be able to get around, shop, order food, etc?
No, you do not. Most Israelis speak at least some English; some speak it quite well.

What kind of sun protection is best?
Even people with dark-toned skin will need protection in Israel’s summer sun. Hats are a necessity, not just for skin protection, but also to be able to see well when the sun is shining. An SPF of at least 25 will protect you, as long as you reapply often during the day.

Do I need to buy travel insurance?
GoInspire highly recommends buying travel insurance for all trips. See goinspire.com/insurance or more details. Feel free to email [email protected] or call our office with any questions.

Will I be able to use my American electronics?
The electricity in Israel runs at 220 volts. Most electronics are dual voltage, and you will only need a small plug adapter type C and H for them. Others may need a converter. Check the device for an indication that it runs with 100v to 220v input. Most laptops and phone chargers are dual voltage. Most blow dryers and hair irons will require a converter, but cheaper ones will often only require an adaptor. Hotels provide a convertor for shavers only in the restroom, but most shavers are dual voltage as well. . Note that if the appliance is not adaptable, and you plug it into a 220 volt outlet, you can blow the outlet and ruin the appliance.

Will I need any special immunization before traveling to Israel?
No special health precautions or immunizations are required for U.S. citizens traveling to Israel. Of course, see your physician prior to your departure if you have any medical problems.
Medicines and other medical supplies should be carefully labeled and stored in your carry-on luggage. Consider bringing a second pair of prescription eye glasses/contact lenses, and bring paper prescriptions with you in case you need a refill for any reason.

When do I need to dress modestly?
You will likely feel more comfortable if you dress modestly when visiting the more religiously observant areas (such as the Kotel/Western Wall, Mea She’arim and B’nei Brak). While you want to dress comfortably at all times due to the heat, you will feel more respectful of the local communities when you cover your knees, elbows, and collar bone.

Climate

Israel enjoys long, warm dry summers (April – October) and generally mild and wet winters ( November – March). Evenings can get cool so it is always recommended to pack layers regardless of the season.

Taxi Services

A number of taxi companies operate in Jerusalem throughout the day and night. A taxi (“monit” in Hebrew) can be ordered by phone or flagged down on the street. Ask the driver to turn on the meter, as it usually turns out to be cheaper than a predetermined fare.

Givat Shaul 02-651-2111
Bar Ilan 02-586 6666
Ramat Alon 02-500-0003
Ramat Eshkol 02-581-4111

The most popular way to get to and from the airport is with Nesher (a shuttle between the airport and Jerusalem): 02-6257227

Bank

Banks will cash foreign currency and traveler’s checks for a small charge. (Ask for the foreign currency desk.) As a rule, banks run on staggered schedules, open only in the morning on certain days of the week, but opening up again later in the afternoon on other days.

There are money-changing shops all over the city center. (Change Point is the name of one chain of shops.) You may also change money at Shop Change, across from Holy Bagel in the main square of the Jewish Quarter.

Bank Discount 11 Ben Yehuda 02-675-4444
Bank HaPoalim 33 King George 02-620-7676
American/Israel Bank 48 Jaffa Rd. 02-623-2271
First International Bank 10 Hillel St. 02-675-6888
Bank Mizrachi 12 BenYehuda 02-620-8922

Shopping

Stores close early on Friday, usually in the early afternoon, and are closed all day Saturday. Food and entertainment outlets reopen Saturday night after Shabbat is over. Sunday is a normal business day, and all stores and banks are open. Certain foreign currency transactions cannot be carried out on Sundays, because banks abroad are closed. Foreign embassies are closed on Sundays as well.

Safety and Security

Your safety and security is our primary concern throughout your stay in Israel. Go Inspire is in daily contact with the Ministry of Defense dealing with travel and we receive real-time notifications on any irregularity in the routine of Israel. Based on the latest security updates, itineraries are revised as needed. We also follow the guidelines from the Israeli Police and Moked Teva that include ensuring appropriate attire is worn on hikes, keeping hydrated, and avoiding certain locations if required. It is helpful to note that Israel is a very popular travel destination with over hundreds of thousands of tourists arriving monthly.

FAQs

Will I be able to do laundry on the trip?
On most trips there is an opportunity to send laundry out for washing. The cost is per bag.

Do I need to know Hebrew to be able to get around, shop, order food, etc?
No, you do not. Most Israelis speak at least some English; some speak it quite well.

What kind of sun protection is best?
Even people with dark-toned skin will need protection in Israel’s summer sun. Hats are a necessity, not just for skin protection, but also to be able to see well when the sun is shining. An SPF of at least 25 will protect you, as long as you reapply often during the day.

Do I need to buy travel insurance?
GoInspire highly recommends buying travel insurance for all trips. See goinspire.com/insurance or more details. Feel free to email [email protected] or call our office with any questions.

Will I be able to use my American electronics?
The electricity in Israel runs at 220 volts. Most electronics are dual voltage, and you will only need a small plug adapter type C and H for them. Others may need a converter. Check the device for an indication that it runs with 100v to 220v input. Most laptops and phone chargers are dual voltage. Most blow dryers and hair irons will require a converter, but cheaper ones will often only require an adaptor. Hotels provide a convertor for shavers only in the restroom, but most shavers are dual voltage as well. . Note that if the appliance is not adaptable, and you plug it into a 220 volt outlet, you can blow the outlet and ruin the appliance.

Will I need any special immunization before traveling to Israel?
No special health precautions or immunizations are required for U.S. citizens traveling to Israel. Of course, see your physician prior to your departure if you have any medical problems.
Medicines and other medical supplies should be carefully labeled and stored in your carry-on luggage. Consider bringing a second pair of prescription eye glasses/contact lenses, and bring paper prescriptions with you in case you need a refill for any reason.

When do I need to dress modestly?
You will likely feel more comfortable if you dress modestly when visiting the more religiously observant areas (such as the Kotel/Western Wall, Mea She’arim and B’nei Brak). While you want to dress comfortably at all times due to the heat, you will feel more respectful of the local communities when you cover your knees, elbows, and collar bone.

On most trips there is an opportunity to send laundry out for washing. The cost is per bag.

No, you do not. Most Israelis speak at least some English; some speak it quite well.

Even people with dark-toned skin will need protection in Israel’s summer sun. Hats are a necessity, not just for skin protection, but also to be able to see well when the sun is shining. An SPF of at least 25 will protect you, as long as you reapply often during the day.

WHAT TO PACK

To be carried with you (in carry-on or purse)

  • Passport/Visa – make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the return date home.
  • A copy of your eticket (just in case)
  • Credit Card/Debit card
  • Cash

There is no need to bring your driver’s license, as your passport will serve as photo ID. Additionally, do not bring personal or travelers checks. Credit cards are much easier to deal with and are accepted in many more places.

Dress in Israel is generally informal – we recommend that you bring comfortable, easy care clothing, such as shorts, t-shirts and skirts etc.

We will be visiting several holy sites in Israel, so we suggest you pack some appropriate modest clothing for those days. (For men – long pants, long-sleeved shirts and a Kippa; for women – long skirts and shirts with sleeves).

Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are important especially on Shabbat when there is a lot of walking. A light jacket, sweater, or pashmina may be needed even in the summer, as Jerusalem tends to get cool at night.

Electronics, expensive jewelry, and other valuables should be kept to a minimum or better yet, left at home. If you do decide to bring any of these items, please pack them, your passport and a sufficient supply of any prescription medications you are taking, in your carry-on luggage. Once in Israel, we recommend placing your valuables in the hotel safe and carrying your passport, camera and cash/credit cards with you at all times.

  • Hat with brim (for trips, baseball cap is recommended)
  • Shoes for walking through water
  • Comfortable walking shoes (high heels are unnecessary)
  • Comfortable clothes for hiking
  • Backpack for overnight trips
  • Toiletries (wrap any shampoo or the like in plastic bags to avoid spillage, should the container burst from weight or pressure)
  • Basic medication e.g.. sunscreen, pills for headaches and diarrhea, mosquito repellent, anti-bite cream
  • Spending money for souvenirs, food on free days, gifts, and to use as tips
  • Umbrella
  • Swimsuit and large towel
  • MEN – a few pairs of long pants, several long-sleeved shirts and a kippa for Shabbat
  • WOMEN – a few long skirts and shirts with sleeves

MEDICAL TOILETRIES

  • Prescription medications
  • Band-Aids
  • Pain-relievers
  • Alka Seltzer/Pepto Bismol
  • Motion sickness medication
  • Cold capsules
  • First-aid cream/ointment (Triple antibiotic, Hydrocortisone, Antifungal cream)
  • Extra pair eyeglasses/contact lenses and all assorted liquids and cases
  • Sleeping pills

Note: All medications should be kept in a carry-on bag. Do not check through with other luggage.

NON-MEDICAL TOILETRIES

  • Tissues
  • Sunscreen
  • Deodorant
  • Comb & Brush
  • Shampoo/Conditioner
  • Pre-moistened towelettes
  • Make-up/Facial Cleanser/ Moisturizer
  • Talcum Powder
  • Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Dental floss
  • Cotton swabs

 

  • Sewing kit
  • Safety pins (place in checked bag)
  • Pen/Pencil
  • Adapter for Israeli outlets
  • 220 electrical converter
  • Camera/Batteries
  • Folding bag or duffel bag (for overnight stay or to use for additional gifts and purchases)

  • Small inflatable pillow
  • Parachute pants that zip to become shorts – great for hikes & camel ride
  • Israel has hard water, so if you need it, bring moisturizing hair products
  • The hair dryers in the hotels are weak, so if you need a good one, bring your own
  • Ziploc bags
  • Stain remover pens
  • If you tend to be cold, bring fleece jacket (also good for the plane and air-conditioned rooms)
  • Sandals for the beach
  • If noise and light bother you, bring eye mask & earplugs for airline and bus
  • Dried fruit / trail mix in small packets for snacks
  • Notes from your family and friends for Kotel
  • Composition size journal for class notes
  • Pens

Documents

To be carried with you (in carry-on or purse)

  • Passport/Visa – make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the return date home.
  • A copy of your eticket (just in case)
  • Credit Card/Debit card
  • Cash

There is no need to bring your driver’s license, as your passport will serve as photo ID. Additionally, do not bring personal or travelers checks. Credit cards are much easier to deal with and are accepted in many more places.

Clothes

Dress in Israel is generally informal – we recommend that you bring comfortable, easy care clothing, such as shorts, t-shirts and skirts etc.

We will be visiting several holy sites in Israel, so we suggest you pack some appropriate modest clothing for those days. (For men – long pants, long-sleeved shirts and a Kippa; for women – long skirts and shirts with sleeves).

Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are important especially on Shabbat when there is a lot of walking. A light jacket, sweater, or pashmina may be needed even in the summer, as Jerusalem tends to get cool at night.

Electronics, expensive jewelry, and other valuables should be kept to a minimum or better yet, left at home. If you do decide to bring any of these items, please pack them, your passport and a sufficient supply of any prescription medications you are taking, in your carry-on luggage. Once in Israel, we recommend placing your valuables in the hotel safe and carrying your passport, camera and cash/credit cards with you at all times.

  • Hat with brim (for trips, baseball cap is recommended)
  • Shoes for walking through water
  • Comfortable walking shoes (high heels are unnecessary)
  • Comfortable clothes for hiking
  • Backpack for overnight trips
  • Toiletries (wrap any shampoo or the like in plastic bags to avoid spillage, should the container burst from weight or pressure)
  • Basic medication e.g.. sunscreen, pills for headaches and diarrhea, mosquito repellent, anti-bite cream
  • Spending money for souvenirs, food on free days, gifts, and to use as tips
  • Umbrella
  • Swimsuit and large towel
  • MEN – a few pairs of long pants, several long-sleeved shirts and a kippa for Shabbat
  • WOMEN – a few long skirts and shirts with sleeves

Toiletries

MEDICAL TOILETRIES

  • Prescription medications
  • Band-Aids
  • Pain-relievers
  • Alka Seltzer/Pepto Bismol
  • Motion sickness medication
  • Cold capsules
  • First-aid cream/ointment (Triple antibiotic, Hydrocortisone, Antifungal cream)
  • Extra pair eyeglasses/contact lenses and all assorted liquids and cases
  • Sleeping pills

Note: All medications should be kept in a carry-on bag. Do not check through with other luggage.

NON-MEDICAL TOILETRIES

  • Tissues
  • Sunscreen
  • Deodorant
  • Comb & Brush
  • Shampoo/Conditioner
  • Pre-moistened towelettes
  • Make-up/Facial Cleanser/ Moisturizer
  • Talcum Powder
  • Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Dental floss
  • Cotton swabs

 

Miscellaneous

  • Sewing kit
  • Safety pins (place in checked bag)
  • Pen/Pencil
  • Adapter for Israeli outlets
  • 220 electrical converter
  • Camera/Batteries
  • Folding bag or duffel bag (for overnight stay or to use for additional gifts and purchases)

Wish I'd Brought

  • Small inflatable pillow
  • Parachute pants that zip to become shorts – great for hikes & camel ride
  • Israel has hard water, so if you need it, bring moisturizing hair products
  • The hair dryers in the hotels are weak, so if you need a good one, bring your own
  • Ziploc bags
  • Stain remover pens
  • If you tend to be cold, bring fleece jacket (also good for the plane and air-conditioned rooms)
  • Sandals for the beach
  • If noise and light bother you, bring eye mask & earplugs for airline and bus
  • Dried fruit / trail mix in small packets for snacks
  • Notes from your family and friends for Kotel
  • Composition size journal for class notes
  • Pens