Tel Aviv Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Comprehensive Travel Preparation

Chronological Planning Timeline

A phased approach guides preparations.

+ 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.

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.

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 require advance booking.

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 enriches your visit.

Research Recommendations

Read on Israeli culture and history.
Understand current 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 streamline your Tel Aviv 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
Utilize these tools to understand your surroundings.
Neighborhood Walk
Take a walk around your neighborhood for familiarity.
Free 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 refund at 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.
Arrange transport to the airport.
Ensure passport and documents are easily accessible.
Verify luggage weight limits.

Overall Departure Tip

Confirm your return flight and arrange airport transport early.

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

Tel Aviv Travel Checklist