Missions

Mission Packing List

General

Dress is generally informal. We suggest that you bring comfortable, easily laundered clothing, such as a pair of slacks and/or khakis. Women should bring a skirt for Shabbat. A sports jacket is optional for the men. Comfortable walking shoes, sweater or light jacket are needed, as Jerusalem can get chilly at night. Expensive jewelry, electronics and other valuables should be kept to a minimum. If you 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.

Documents

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

  • Passport/Visa
  • Tickets
  • Driver's License
  • Credit Card
  • Travelers Checks
  • Personal Checks
  • Cash

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

Medical

Anticipate your needs. Some items are much more costly abroad.

  • Band-Aids
  • Aspirin/Headache/Pain-relievers
  • Prescriptions
  • Sanitary needs
  • Suntan lotion
  • Diarrhea medication
  • Laxatives
  • Eye drops
  • Alka Seltzer/Pepto Bismol
  • Motion sickness medication
  • Cold capsules
  • First-aid cream
  • Extra pair eyeglasses/Contact lenses

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

Basic Travel Wardrobe
  • Jeans/Khakis
  • Pullover
  • Shorts/Tops
  • Walking shoes/Sneakers
  • Skirt/Dress for Shabbat
  • Swimsuit
  • Hat for sun (NECESSITY)
  • Travel umbrella
  • Sports jacket
  • Pajamas and nightgowns
  • Parka/Blazer/Light Jacket
  • Sweater/Sweat pants
  • Jewelry (bring very little)
  • Folding rain poncho
  • Undergarments
  • Head covering (for religious sites: scarf for women, kipah for men.)

Note: Layered clothing is recommended for comfort.

Small Carry-on Bag for Each Person

No tweezers or sharp instruments

  • Medications
  • Nosh/Gum/Hard candy
  • Tissues
  • One change of clothing
  • Reading material
  • Small water bottle
Toiletries
  • Tissues
  • LSunscreen
  • Deodorant
  • Comb & brush
  • Shampoo/Conditioner
  • Pre-moistened towelettes
  • Make-up/Moisturizer
  • Talcum Powder
  • Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Dental floss
  • Cotton swabs
Miscellaneous
  • Clothes washing liquid
  • Sewing kit
  • Scissors
  • Safety pins
  • Pen/Pencil
  • 220 Electrical converter (as needed)
  • 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!

For Friends, Family & Hosts
  • Easy to carry & wrap gifts (do not wrap—customs will unwrap)
  • Souvenir of your hometown i.e., mugs, key chains
  • Paper goods – guest towels, napkins
  • Stickers or small toys
  • Picture frames
  • Books

Note: Last Minute shopping can be done at airport duty free shops.

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Need More Info?

Contact:

Missions Department
Jewish Federations of North America
Local: 1-212-284-6504
missions@JewishFederations.org