Do I need a Passport? Yes. Proof of citizenship is required for all travelers, and passports are required (must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel). All non-citizens of the U.S. must have passports, visas and other documentation normally required for entry into the country of destination. Do not pack your passport or travel documents in your luggage.
What should I make copies of before I leave for Israel? In case documents get lost or stolen, make two photocopies of the following: the first two pages of your passport, credit cards, airline tickets and itinerary and travel insurance details. Leave one copy with a contactable friend at home and take the other with you (separate from the originals) or give it to a friend traveling with you.
How safe is traveling to Israel? While Israel is normally a very safe country to visit, due to the current situation we encourage you to visit your Embassy’s website to read further information provided by your Government. During this trip you will NOT be going to the West Bank or Gaza and your safety is our top priority. We use various measures to ensure the safety of participants, but we also encourage participants to take precautions they normally would when traveling to another city or country.
What time zone is Israel in? Israel Standard Time (IST) is the standard time zone in Israel. It is 2 hours ahead of UTC and 7 hours ahead of EST.
Can I drink tap water in Israel? Tap water is safe to drink in Israel, but bottled water will also be available on the bus free of charge.
What is the weather like in Israel? Please check out our Seasonal “What to Pack” pdfs. Coming Soon!
What should I pack in my carry-on? – Passport (Bring 2 Colored Copies)
– Pack 2 sets of clothes in carry-on
– Electronics (including chargers)
– Medical Prescriptions
– We also recommend that you bring basic medicine as well (i.e. Tylenol, Advil, Emergen-C, Loperamide)
Should I bring a backpack or bag every day? A backpack is always a good idea. Water bottles, cameras, money and souvenirs will be harder to manage if you do not have something to put them in.
How much walking do I need to be prepared for? Most days will include some walking. Participants can expect to walk approximately 2-3 miles per day. We would recommend wearing comfortable shoes or sneakers each day. Most walks will be light to moderately strenuous and there will be breaks throughout the day as you travel to and from sites. Please keep in mind that walks can typically include steps and uneven terrain.
Can I use my cellphone in Israel? Do I need to get a different SIM card or prepaid phone? Most cell phone providers offer international plans; check with your carrier before your trip to see what international options they provide. If your phone is unlocked you can purchase a prepaid SIM card at a fairly low price.
What currency does Israel use? How should I exchange my money? We suggest you bring US Dollars, British Pounds, or Euros, which can be exchanged for the Israeli Shekel. There are locations throughout each city in Israel to exchange currency, including most hotels; you may also obtain Shekels prior to departure. Rates vary from place to place and some charge commission.
What about my debit card? Do shops and restaurants accept debit/credit cards or do I need to bring money to convert to local currency? Most shops and restaurants accept foreign debit/credit cards. Exchanging some money for Israeli Shekels is a good idea. You will need Shekels for there are a small number of shops that may only take cash especially when outside of tourist areas or in the markets).
Will I be able to plug in electronics in Israel? Most hotels in Israel will have 220 volts AC 50 Hz. You will need to bring along necessary converters and adapters to operate any 120 volts, 60 Hz appliances such as hair dryers, electric razors, etc. Some small electronic devices are dual-voltage and will adjust automatically for other countries. If your appliance’s charger has a manual switch, you’ll need to change it back and forth before plugging in your appliance. For dual voltage electronics, you’ll simply need to bring an adapter to plug the charger in to the outlet. Before leaving on your trip, check the manual or power cord for the device to know if it will work with 220 voltage without a converter. Be aware that U.S. electronics that are not dual-voltage should never be used without a converter in countries with a voltage of 220.
Gratuity Basic gratuities for the hotels, guides, security and drivers are included. You are always free to give extra gratuity for exemplary service. The going rates for gratuities (for meals purchased on your own) is 15-20%.
Israel Work Week In Israel, the workweek is Sunday to Thursday. Shops and businesses are normally open on Fridays but close early afternoon for the Jewish Sabbath (or Shabbat). The Jewish Sabbath lasts from after sundown Friday to after sundown Saturday. Shops closed Saturdays for the Sabbath tend to open up Saturday night. Muslims and Christians observe their own Sabbaths on Friday and Sundays, respectively.
