What to pack for Israel: the ultimate checklist

Pack light. You'll be on and off a bus daily, walking 8–12 miles on uneven terrain, and your hotel room changes every two or three nights. A single carry-on-sized rolling bag plus a daypack is ideal.

Essentials: Comfortable broken-in walking shoes (not new), a refillable water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50, a wide-brim hat, and a light rain jacket (October–March). Modest clothing is required at religious sites — shoulders and knees covered. A large scarf or pashmina works as a multi-purpose cover-up, pillow, and blanket on the bus.

Often forgotten: A headlamp for early Masada ascents, zip-lock bags for Dead Sea mud clothes, a travel adapter (Israel uses Type H plugs), and a small notebook for journaling at sacred sites. Leave the fancy jewelry at home — Israel is casual, even at dinner.