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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Israel

Essential Preparations

Organize your planning into a chronological timeline to avoid last-minute rushes.

1

-6 Months Before Departure

Passport Validity

Check your passport. It must hold validity for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Israel. Renew if needed.

Visa Requirements

Research visa requirements for your nationality. If a visa finds need in advance, begin the application process.

International Flights

Book your international flights, especially if traveling during peak season (summer, major Jewish holidays) to secure better rates and availability.

2

-2 Months Before Departure

Accommodation

Book your accommodation in Caesarea and any other cities you plan to visit.

Itinerary Planning

Plan your detailed itinerary, including attractions, activities, and day trips. Book any major tours or events (e.g., concerts at the Roman Theater) that require advance reservations.

Vaccinations & Health

Check vaccination recommendations with a travel health professional and schedule any required or recommended vaccinations.

3

-4 Weeks Before Departure

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all your flight, accommodation, and tour bookings.

Document Copies

Make physical and digital copies of all important documents (passport, visa, insurance policy, reservations). Store them separately from the originals.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid issues with transactions being flagged as suspicious.

Required Advance Bookings and Reservations

Confirming reservations in advance secures your travel plans.

Accommodation & Transport

  • Flights: International and any domestic flights within Israel.
  • Main Accommodation: Secure your hotel, guesthouse, or vacation rental well in advance.
  • High-Demand Tours or Events: If you plan to attend a concert at the Roman Theater or a popular guided tour, book these ahead.
  • Travel Insurance: World Nomads presents policies covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Preparation involves informing yourself about the destination.

Cultural Insights

  • Familiarize yourself with basic Hebrew phrases (as listed in Section 11.1).
  • Read about Israeli culture and customs to confirm respectful interactions.
  • Stay informed about current events in the region through reputable news sources.
  • Prepare your mobile phone plan for international roaming or acquiring a local SIM card upon arrival.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Securing your home before leaving gives peace of mind.

Home Management

  • Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Organize pet care if you have pets.
  • Arrange for a house-sitter or inform trusted neighbors of your absence.
  • Secure your home (lock windows/doors, unplug unnecessary electronics).

Travel Insurance Reminder

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly suggested for any international trip. It safeguards against unforeseen events and offers peace of mind.

Arrival Checklist

These steps facilitate a smooth entry into Israel.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Immigration & Customs

    Have your passport, onward ticket, and any visa documentation ready for inspection. Receive your entry permit slip instead of a passport stamp.

  • Luggage Retrieval

    Retrieve your checked baggage.

  • Local SIM Card

    Acquire a local SIM card at the airport if you opted for this instead of international roaming.

  • Rav-Kav Card

    Obtain a Rav-Kav public transport card at the airport train station or a designated kiosk.

Initial Orientation

  • Locate Accommodation

    Use your navigation app to find your accommodation.

  • Local Currency

    Withdraw Israeli Shekels from an ATM at the airport or a bank.

  • Familiarize with Transport

    Understand the public transport options from your entry point to Caesarea or your initial destination.

Initial Purchases & Transfers

Currency Acquisition

Obtain NIS from an airport ATM (generally good rates) or exchange a small amount of foreign currency.

Immediate Necessities

Purchase water and any immediate necessities like snacks upon arrival.

Airport Transfer

Follow your pre-arranged plans: locate your taxi, head to the train station for the train to Binyamina, or pick up your rental car.

Seamless Transition

A smooth arrival sets a positive tone for your entire journey, facilitating a comfortable start to your Israeli adventure.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a hassle-free departure from Israel.

Souvenirs and Shipping

  • Purchase any last-minute souvenirs well in advance of your departure.
  • If you have large purchases, check shipping options and costs with the vendor.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Tourists can claim VAT refunds on purchases exceeding a certain amount from stores participating in the tax refund scheme. Confirm you receive a tax refund form and the original receipts at the time of purchase.
  • Present these with the goods at the airport customs counter Before checking in for your flight.

Pre-Departure Timing

Ensure ample time for airport procedures.

Airport Arrival Timing

  • International flights:At least 3 hours before departure.
  • Security checks:Can be thorough and lengthy.
  • Baggage drop-off:Factor in queue times.
  • Passport control:Can also require time.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your flight details and check in online if possible.
  • Pack your luggage according to airline baggage rules (weight, size, carry-on restrictions).
  • Confirm possession of your B2 entry permit slip for immigration upon departure.

Final Security Reminders

Security procedures at Ben Gurion Airport are comprehensive. Allocate sufficient time for these checks to avoid any last-minute rush.

Always follow instructions from airport personnel.