Dress is generally informal in Israel.  The summer months are hot and humid, although in Jerusalem it tends to be a bit drier.  We suggest that you bring comfortable, easily laundered clothing, such as shorts, t-shirts, skirts etc. Since we will be visiting several holy sites in Israel, we suggest you pack some appropriate modest clothing for those days.  Modest standard there is the 3-point system:  no cleavage, no elbows, no knees.  So throw in some 3/4 sleeve tops, and/or a light pashmina to cover, and 2 or 3 light skirts.  Many women have found that carrying a light skirt and light pashmina in their backpacks can do the trick, so they can slip it on when entering a synagogue or visiting the Western Wall. Israel is also a great shopping place for skirts, so bring money and extra room in your suitcase too!

Comfortable walking shoes, such as sneakers, Merrels, or Keens are a must- especially on Shabbat, there will be a lot of walking.  A light jacket, sweater, or pashmina, may be needed as Jerusalem may get cool at night.  Expensive jewelry, electronics and other valuables should be kept to a minimum or better yet, left at home.  If you do decide to bring any of these items, please pack them, your passport and a sufficient supply of any prescription medications you are taking, in your carry-on luggage.  Once in Israel, we suggest placing your valuables in the hotel safe and carrying your passport, camera and cash/credit cards with you at all times.  Consider a small travel purse which can be worn comfortably messenger-style (across your body).

Here are some packing suggestions:



Documents


To be carried with you (in carry-on or purse)

• Passport/Visa
• Tickets
• Credit Card/Debit card
• Cash

Note: Photocopy the inside photo/signature page of your passport, which includes your passport number. Keep it in your suitcase. 

There is no need to bring your drivers license as your passport will serve as photo ID.  Also, don’t bring personal or travelers checks.  Credit cards are much easier to deal with, and accepted in many more places.

Basic Travel Wardrobe

• Hat for sun – really, we can’t stress this strongly enough.
• T-shirts and tops (some with sleeves that cover the elbow for times when you wish to be modest)
• Shorts
• Jeans/pants
• Walking shoes
• Skirts/Dresses (below the knee length) for Shabbat, the Kotel, other times where you wish to be respectfully modest
• Swimsuit, water shoes and large towel (for kayaking and Dead Sea swimming)
• Pajamas
• Hoodie, light jean jacket or pashmina (can serve both as warmth for cool evenings and as coverage for modesty)
• Jewelry (bring very little)
• Undergarments (there will be opportunity for laundry)

Small Carry-on Bag for Each Person

• Passport/Visa/Tickets
• Medications
• snacks/gum/hard candy- trail mix, granola bars, mixed nuts, toast/peanut butter crackers are all good options that will provide energy
• Tissues
• One change of clothing
• Reading material/ puzzle books

 Note: No tweezers or sharp instruments in your carry-on

Medical Toiletries: Here are some suggestions (share with other women from your city and you will free up some valuable luggage space)

• Prescription medications
• Band-Aids
• Pain-relievers
• Diarrhea medication
• Laxatives
• Alka Seltzer/Pepto Bismol
• Motion sickness medication
• Cold capsules
• First-aid cream/ointment (Triple antibiotic, Hydrocortisone, Antifungal cream)
• Extra pair eyeglasses/contact lenses and all assorted liquids and cases
• Sleeping pills

Note: All medications should be kept in a carry-on bag. Do not check through with other luggage.

Non-Medical Toiletries

• Tissues
• Sunscreen
• Deodorant
• Sanitary Supplies
• Comb & Brush
• Hairdryer/Curling or Flat Iron (good item to share with roommates, make sure to bring electrical converter/adapter)
• Shampoo/Conditioner
• Pre-moistened towelettes
• Make-up/Facial Cleanser/ Moisturizer
• Talcum Powder
• Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Dental floss
• Cotton swabs

Miscellaneous

• Clothes washing liquid
• Washcloth
• Sewing kit
• Zipper-Lock Baggies of small and large size
• Small scissors (only in checked baggage, NEVER in carry-on)
• Safety pins
• Pen/Pencil
• 220 Electrical converter (as needed, good item to share)
• Camera/Film/Batteries
• Folding bag or Nylon duffel bag (for overnight stay or to use for additional gifts and purchases)
• Note: Film and batteries abroad are usually expensive. Bring plenty!