FAQs

The Necessities
In Israel, constant hydration and protection from the sun is a top priority. Because of this, a canteen/water bottle, hat, and sunscreen are ABSOLUTELY necessary! 

You want to be comfortable: make sure to bring close-toed shoes for hikes and shoes that are comfortable to walk in, as you will be on your feet!

Baggage
Because you will be loading your luggage on and off of the bus and responsible for maneuvering your baggage at the airports, it is essential to pack in something you are comfortable carrying, meaning trying your best to not overpack. 

Baggage limits are usually 50 pounds or under, so we recommend bringing a suitcase or duffel on wheels. 

Additionally, it is a good idea to pack a backpack to carry around your belongings. We also recommend bringing a small cross-body or fanny pack for activities where you do not want to carry your backpack.

Other Important Information
We require everyone to drink three liters of water a day, as the sun is much hotter in Israel than North America. Camelbak packs come highly recommended by alumni and staff.

Although Israel is a generally a very casual country when it comes to dress-code, it is important to have the appropriate attire for religious sites. On days when we are visiting to Old City in Jerusalem or the holy city of Tzfat, your shoulders and knees will need to be covered. We recommend pants, cropped pants, maxi skirts, or dresses.

On Shabbat, please dress a little fancier than usual. We recommend casual skirts, dresses, maxis, and polos or button down shirts with khakis or jeans as a fitting option.

For more packing tips, check out Pinterest Board.

Summer Adventures
Israel is hot during the summer! Temperatures range from the low 60s to more than 100 degrees, depending on your location. We recommend clothing for a warm climate, with some layers for cooler nights in the desert. Check out our recommended summer packing list.

Winter Adventures
Israel is temperate in the winter with averages ranging from the low 40s to high 70s, depending on location. We recommend packing layers to accommodate these temperature changes. Check out our recommended winter packing list.

Spending Money
Participants generally bring between $300 - $400 spending money. You should not change money in advance, as it is more expensive to do so in the US. The conversion rate right now is about 3.4 Shekels to the Dollar.

You can expect to spend money on the following:

1. Gifts and souvenirs
2. Daily purchases of drinks and snacks
3. Money for one meal per day
4. Recommended group tip/gift for bus driver and tour educator ($70 per participant)
5. $10-$15 for a group t-shirt if you choose

Preparation/Arrival

You need to meet your group at the ticket counter at least four hours before your flight.

Please note that in your Shorashim Application, your flight table will outline the airport that you are departing from and the airport that you are returning to following your experience.

It is your responsibility as a Birthright Israel participant with Shorashim to get to the departure airport on the date and time of your flight. You will meet your staff members who will be flying with you to Israel and they will assist you in checking in under the group ticket and going through airport security.

All airlines allow one checked bag, a carry-on, and a small bag at no additional charge. You should not bring more than this, as this is what your bus will be able to accommodate. For specific dimensions questions pertaining to a specific airline, please visit their website.

Some flights are nonstop, but some flights do require a layover. If you are departing from JFK and want to consider flying into La Guardia as a more cost-effective option, there are various options to assist you in traveling between airports. 

The Flight

All meals on the flight and in Israel will be kosher. If you require special meals on the flight and in Israel, please review your medical information on your application status page, and adjust your dietary restrictions as necessary at least two months before departure. Please note that if you are on an airline other than EL AL special meals on the plane will not be kosher.

Any seating requests must be made at the airport on the date of departure as Shorashim and Birthright Israel do not have any control over seating arrangements on your group ticket.

Other Important Information

You must fly with your group from the departing US airport. Under no circumstances can you meet the group in Israel.

Passports must be valid six months from your date of departure and you must have your passport with you to travel.

If you want to cancel your return flight all together, please email us at registration@shorashim.org with the subject: "Your Name - Cancel Return Flight." You must email us at least seven days prior to your departure. If you fail to cancel your return ticket, this will result in the loss of your deposit.

Conditional Acceptances: Please note that your acceptance will be conditional until you complete your interview and receive an email confirming that your offer is no longer condtional.

Booking Your Domestic Travel: Please check your specific flight information in your Shorashim Application under the trip information header. Once your acceptance is fully confirmed, you will need to book a domestic flight unless you are able to drive or take the train to your departure airport. Remember, you must arrive at the ticket counter at least four hours before your flight departs, which means booking flights that that arrive at your departing airport at least five hours before departure. This is to accommodate for the time it will take for you to obtain your baggage, transfer terminals, & connect with your group at the ticket counter of the airline that you are traveling with for your Birthright Israel experience. Please note to account for time changes and pay attention to if your departure and return airports are the same or different when making your travel plans

Joining Your Facebook Group: You will receive an email from us to join your Facebook group. Once you receive this, please make sure to join, as your staff and Shorashim will be sharing important information through this platform. 

Acccessing Your Itinerary: Your itinerary will be available two weeks prior to departure in your Shorashim Application page. You will receive an email, so make sure to add info@shorashim.org and it will be posted in your Facebook group.

Notify Debit/Credit Card Company: Make sure your bank knows of your travel plans. Be sure to check with them about any international fees. With this in mind, we recommend taking out at least $300 in cash to bring with you. Please note that some stops along your journey will be "cash-only", so it is important to have cash.

Social Media: Remember, it's okay to humble brag! If you're posting on social media before, during, or after your experience, make sure to tag us: 

• Facebook: @Shorashim
• Instagram: @ShorashimIsrael
• Twitter: @Shorashim
• Snapchat: @Shorashim

Our Pinterest boards offer helpful pre-trip resources. Make sure to also connect with our Shorashim LinkedIn company page and join our Shorashim LinkedIn group to expand your network, and see how your Shorashim experience can enrich your resume and professional development, and for other helpful professional resources.