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Tel Aviv Travel Checklist

Comprehensive Travel Preparation

Chronological Planning Timeline

A phased approach guides preparations.

1

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months). Research visa requirements.

Flight Bookings

Book international flights, especially for peak season.

Insurance & Health

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Consult doctor for vaccinations.

2

Month Before

Accommodation

Book your accommodation.

Itinerary & Tours

Plan a rough itinerary; pre-book tours or high-demand restaurants.

Connectivity & Transport

Arrange local SIM/eSIM. If renting a car, arrange International Driving Permit.

3

Week / 24-48 Hours Before

Confirmations & Packing

Confirm all bookings. Pack main luggage. Prepare carry-on essentials.

Financial Readiness

Convert local currency. Verify international ATM functionality. Inform bank of travel.

Digital & Documents

Download required apps. Copy documents (digital/physical). Complete online check-in. Charge devices. Notify emergency contacts.

Advance Bookings

Flights, accommodation, popular tours (e.g., Jerusalem, Dead Sea), and specific high-end restaurants pre-booking is necessary.

Booking Reminders

  • Book flights for peak season.
  • Secure accommodation early.
  • Pre-book popular tours.
  • Reserve high-demand dining spots.

Pre-Trip Understanding

Familiarization with local context enhances your visit.

Research Recommendations

  • Read on Israeli culture and history.
  • Understplus present events.
  • Familiarity with basic Hebrew phrases.
  • Explore local norms and expectations.

Home Preparation

Secure your residence before departure.

Pet Care

  • Arrange pet care during your absence.
  • Secure house environment for pets if staying home.
  • Confirm feeding schedules.
  • Brief pet-sitters on routines.

Mail & Deliveries

  • Arrange for mail to be held or collected.
  • Coordinate package deliveries.
  • Cancel recurring deliveries.
  • Inform post office of absence.

Home Security

  • Notify neighbors of your absence.
  • Ensure all doors and windows are secured.
  • Set up timed lights for occupancy appearance.
  • Activate home security systems.

Travel Documents

Ensure passport validity for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Copy all important documents (digital and physical).

Smooth Arrival

Initial steps upon arrival make your... more efficient The White city experience.

Arrival Process

  • 1
    Immigration & Luggage

    Clear immigration and collect your luggage.

  • 2
    Rav-Kav Card

    Get your Rav-Kav card (if not using eSIM for initial transport).

  • 3
    SIM/eSIM Activation

    Activate your local SIM or eSIM.

Orientation & Local Travel

  • Google Maps or Moovit

    Make use of these tools to understand your surroundings.

  • Neighborhood Walk

    Take a walk around your neighborhood for familiarity.

  • No-cost Walking Tours

    Consider a free walking tour for city introduction.

Financial & Transport Details

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount at the airport.

Use ATMs in the city for better rates.

Airport Transfer

Know how to get from Ben Gurion Airport to your hotel.

The train has the best option.

Car Rental Considerations

If renting a car, arrange an International Driving Permit.

Ensure local driving regulations are understood.

Essential Arrival Tip

Upon arrival, activate your local SIM/eSIM and locate an ATM for initial cash.

Departure Preparations

Prepare for a seamless exit from Tel Aviv.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Plan luggage space for souvenirs.
  • Consider shipping larger items.
  • Check airline baggage allowances.
  • A set of Travel packing cubes organizes belongings.

VAT Refund Process

  • Claim VAT refunds on purchases over a certain amount from participating stores.
  • Collect a special invoice from the store.
  • Process the a refund from the airport before luggage check-in.
  • Present your passport during the refund process.

Airport Timing

Security processes at Ben Gurion Airport require ample time.

Airport Arrival Time

  • International flightsArrive at least 3 hours before.
  • Security checksAccount for procedures.
  • Boarding processAllow sufficient time.
  • Peak travel timesConsider extra buffer.

Final Return Checks

  • Confirm your return flight.
  • Organize transportation to the airport.
  • Ensure passport and documents are easily accessible.
  • Verify baggage allowance.

Overall Departure Tip

Confirm your return flight and plan airport transport early.

Keep all necessary travel documents within reach for a stress-free departure.