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Jerusalem Travel Checklist

Jerusalem Travel Checklist

Jerusalem Israel Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

Follow this guide to manage your pre-trip tasks effectively.

Your Journey Preparation

A structured timeline helps you manage tasks and avoid last-minute rush.

3

Months Before

Passport & Visa Checks

Check passport validity (6 months beyond departure). Research visa requirements and begin application if needed.

Flights & Accommodation

Book international flights, especially during high season. Reserve main accommodation.

Insurance & Health

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Consult a travel doctor for vaccinations.

1

Month Before

Remaining Bookings

Book remaining accommodation and popular tours. Reserve car rentals.

Itinerary & Connectivity

Plan a detailed day-by-day's itinerary. Arrange international mobile plan or local SIM/eSIM.

Financial Alerts

Inform bank/inform your credit card companies of your trip to avoid freezes.

1

Week Before

Confirmations & Packing

Reconfirm all flights, accommodation, and tour reservations. Begin packing.

Currency & Digital Prep

Convert small amount of local currency. Download offline maps and essential apps.

Document Copies

Print physical copies of documents; save digital copies to cloud storage.

Home Preparation Checklist

Arrange mail collection, pet care, and plant watering. Secure your home, notify neighbors. Pay upcoming bills.

Home Tasks

  • Share itinerary with trusted contacts.
  • Organize your mail/pet/plant care.
  • Secure home: locks, windows, alarms.
  • Settle bills due during absence.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with local customs and current events. Read up on Jerusalem's history and culture.

Research Priorities

  • Read guidebooks on Jerusalem's history.
  • Learn cultural norms for religious sites.
  • Stay informed about current events.
  • Understand travel advisories.

Required Advance Bookings & Reservations

Secure these bookings well in advance for a stress-free trip.

Flights & Main Stays

  • Reserve international air traveling.
  • Main accommodation reservations.
  • Useful for high season travel periods.
  • Early booking secures better rates.

Tours & Transport

  • Popular tours (e.g., Masada sunrise).
  • Car rental if planning to drive.
  • Specific vehicle types benefit from early booking.
  • Limited capacity tours fill quickly.

Special Experiences

  • Restaurant reservations for special occasions.
  • Event admission or festival passes.
  • Any specific activities with limited slots.
  • Check for local holiday impacts.

Important Checkpoints

Ensure all passport and visa documentation meets current requirements to avoid travel complications.

Arrival Checklist

Follow these steps for a smooth entry and initial orientation.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Pass through border control and customs at Ben Gurion Airport; collect entry permit.

  • 2
    Luggage:

    Collect checked luggage.

  • 3
    Local Currency:

    Obtain local currency (NIS) from an ATM or exchange office.

Orientation & Essentials

  • Local SIM Card:

    Purchase local SIM card or activate eSIM.

  • Neighborhood:

    Familiarize yourself with your immediate neighborhood and amenities.

  • Public Transport:

    Locate nearest public transport stops (Streetcar, bus).

Transfer & Purchases

Transfer Confirmation

Confirm transportation from airport to accommodation.

Pre-booked transfer service, train, sherut, or licensed taxi.

Initial Purchases

Buy water, snacks, or immediate necessities.

Ensure a comfortable start to your journey.

City Map Acquisition

Acquire a physical city map of Jerusalem.

Handy for getting around the Old City's labyrinthine alleys.

Welcome to Jerusalem

A stress-free arrival indicates you start your exploration sooner. Have your documents ready.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a smooth exit from Jerusalem, including unique transportation security at airports.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Package fragile/bulky souvenirs for the way back or shipping.
  • Keep track of VAT refund forms for eligible purchases.
  • Consider weight limitations for luggage.
  • Check customs rules for specific items.

VAT Refund Process

  • Eligible purchases over ~$100 USD (check current amount).
  • Locate VAT refund counter at airport (before security).
  • Present passport, forms, receipts, purchased items for inspection.
  • Allow ample the right time for the process.

Airport Timing TLV

Ben Gurion Airport's security procedures are thorough.

Departure Timing Recommendations

  • Arrive at least 3 hours before international flight departure time.
  • Thorough security checks take time.
  • Ben Gurion Airport is highly secure.
  • Account for check-in and passport control.

Return Trip & Final Checks

  • Reconfirm your return flight or onward transport details.
  • Pack luggage according to airline weight and size restrictions.
  • Do a final check of your accommodation for forgotten items.
  • Secure all travel documents.

Ben Gurion Security Tip

Ben Gurion Airport's security procedures are comprehensive.

Plan to arrive well in advance of your flight to experience a smooth departure.