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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Mediterranean Coast, Israel And The Palestinian Territories

Warm Weather Clothing

For summer (June-September), pack lightweight, breathable fabrics. Cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking synthetics are good choices. Bring shorts, t-shirts, light dresses, and skirts.

Summer Essentials

  • Lightweight tops and bottoms.
  • A Light scarf or shawl for sun and modesty.
  • Very light cover-up for air conditioning.

Cooler Weather Layers

For autumn (Oct-Nov) & spring (Apr-May), layers are good for transitional seasons. Days are warm, but evenings can be cool. Pack Long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters, and a Light jacket.

Winter Readiness

Footwear Recommendations

General Walking

Haifa is a city of hills and stairs. Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are good.

Prioritize comfort over style.

Seasonal Choices

Summer: Breathable Sandals are suitable. Winter: Waterproof shoes or boots are useful if rain is likely.

Select based on season.

Hiking Shoes

For trails in Mount Carmel National Park, bring sturdy Hiking shoes or boots with good ankle support.

Break in new shoes beforehand.

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Keep copies separate from originals. This includes physical and digital copies.

  • Original passport and visa documentation (if applicable).
  • Travel insurance policy information.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) and national license.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation.
  • Printed & digital copies of reservations (flights, hotels, tours).
  • Emergency contact information (family, embassy, local services).
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for discounts (if applicable).
  • List of prescription medications.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Israel uses 230V, 50 Hz. Plug Type H (three flat pins) is standard, though Type C (two round pins) may also appear. Ensure your devices are dual voltage (100-240V).

Essential Power Gear

Mobile & Photography

Ensure your mobile phone is GSM compatible and unlocked. Local Prepaid SIM cards or eSIMs (Airalo) are readily available.

Device & App Checklist

Data Backup & Security

Offline Maps

Download offline maps for Google Maps and Moovit. This saves data and works without internet.

Cloud Storage

Set up automatic photo backups to a cloud service (e.g., Google Photos, Dropbox) for peace of mind.

Physical Backup

A small Portable SSD provides a physical backup for photos and documents.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid

A prepared health kit brings peace of mind and addresses minor issues. Include items for common travel ailments.

Kit Contents

Medication & Protection

Carry all prescription medications in their original containers with clear labels. Bring a copy of your prescription and a doctor's note.

Care Items

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Considerations

  • Haifa is coastal; altitude sickness is not a concern.
  • Stay hydrated, especially when climbing the city's hills.
  • Pace yourself on steep walks.

Motion Sickness

  • Consider motion sickness tablets if prone to bus or taxi travel on winding roads.
  • For boat trips from the port, consider medication.
  • Consult your doctor for specific remedies.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

For hiking in Mount Carmel National Park, some gear makes your experience better.

Beach & Swim

Enjoy Haifa's beaches. Pack items for water activities and relaxation.

Snorkeling/Diving

If you plan snorkeling or diving, especially north or south of Haifa, consider your own gear.

  • Your own Mask and snorkel.
  • Rental of specialized water sports equipment (e.g., windsurfing gear) is often available at beach clubs.
  • Consider a dive computer if you are certified.
  • Check local rental options.

Rent vs Buy

Items to Bring

  • Personal items like hiking boots that must fit well.
  • Any prescription medications or specific toiletries.
  • Your own Snorkeling mask if you prefer a specific fit.
  • Travel adapter and power bank.

Items to Rent

  • Cars are easy to rent locally from major international agencies.
  • Specialized water sports equipment (e.g., windsurfing gear).
  • Diving tanks and weights from local dive shops.
  • Camping gear if not frequently used.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Small items contribute to comfort and convenience, especially during transit or in shared spaces.

Travel Comfort

Reusable Items

Embrace sustainable travel practices by bringing reusable items, reducing waste during your trip.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Sustainable Travel Items

Eco-Friendly Toiletries

Solid shampoo/conditioner bars.

Solar Charger

Charge small devices with sun power.

Reusable Pen

Avoid single-use pens.

Headlamp

Energy-efficient lighting.

Region-Specific Essentials

Items

  • A light scarf or shawl for modesty at religious sites.
  • Smartphone with local apps downloaded.
  • Physical list of emergency contacts, separate from phone.

Purchase Locally?

  • Most common items are available in local supermarkets and pharmacies.
  • If you rely on a specific brand (medication, sunscreen), bring enough.
  • This avoids searching for specific items upon arrival.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll clothes tightly to save space. Use packing cubes to organize items and compress clothing. Wear your heaviest items (like hiking boots) on the plane to reduce luggage weight.

Pack a small emergency kit in your carry-on with a change of clothes, basic toiletries, and any essential medications, in case checked luggage is delayed.