Top Tips to Know Before Travelling to Israel

If you're planning your first trip to Israel, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. From understanding local customs to navigating security measures with ease, here are some essential Israel travel tips to help you travel confidently and make the most of your trip.

Security at Airports in Israel

Security in Israel is taken very seriously, especially at airports. Be prepared for the following:

• Expect meticulous security checks when arriving and departing. Arrive at the airport at least three hours before your flight
• Luggage inspections can be rigorous, slowing down the check-in process
  Upon departure, all passengers are questioned about their belongings and purchases
• While these measures might feel more intense than in other countries, they are in place to ensure everyone's safety.

What to Wear in Israel

Israel's climate varies by season, so it's best to pack accordingly:

• Winter (November – March): Can be surprisingly cold, as many buildings lack central heating. Pack layers, a warm water-resistant jacket, and waterproof shoes.
• Summer (April – October): Expect high temperatures. Wear breathable fabrics, hats, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and don’t forget a bathing suit.
• General Dress Code: Casual clothing such as jeans, t-shirts, tank tops, and shorts are widely accepted. However, modest attire is recommended when visiting religious sites.
• Religious Sites: Women should bring a shawl to cover their shoulders, while men may need to wear a kippah (provided at synagogues) when entering Jewish places of worship.

Religious Holidays and Observances

Israel observes many Jewish holidays, which may impact your travel experience:

• Shabbat (Sabbath): Observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening. In cities like Jerusalem, most businesses, restaurants, and public transport shut down, while Tel Aviv remains more active.
• National and Religious Holidays: Some businesses may close or have limited hours. It’s worth checking Israel’s public holidays in advance to plan your itinerary accordingly.

Health and Medical Services

Pharmacies are widely available in Israel, but keep the following in mind:

• The main pharmacy chains are Super-Pharm and Be. Use these names when searching on Google Maps.
• Pharmacies operate on a ticketed number system, so take a number and wait for your turn.
• On Shabbat, most pharmacies close. Emergency pharmacies remain open, but their locations change weekly and are usually listed in Hebrew.
• If you take prescription medication, it’s sensible to bring enough for your trip, along with a copy of your prescription.

Tipping in Israel

Tipping is customary in Israel, and it's good practice to carry small change for this purpose. Here are some general guidelines:

• Restaurants: A tip of 10-15% is standard, usually left in cash rather than added to the bill via card.
• Tour guides: It’s recommended to tip around $30 per day, and $20 for drivers. Groups may be expected to tip more.
• Other services: Tipping taxi drivers, hotel staff, and other service providers is appreciated.

Travel Insurance for Israel

Given the unique security situation Israel is still considered a high-risk destination and ensuring you have appropriate travel insurance is necessary:

• Ensure your policy includes medical cover, emergency evacuation, and coverage for unexpected cancellations or delays
• Choose a provider that offers 24/7 emergency assistance
• Keep a digital and printed copy of your insurance policy for easy access

Final Thoughts

Travelling to Israel is a unique experience filled with rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant landscapes. By preparing in advance, respecting local customs, and securing comprehensive travel insurance, you can ensure a safe and memorable trip.

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This article is for information and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute advice in any way. The information provided here is correct at the time of writing, however, please check the latest policy wording for the latest terms, conditions, and exclusions.