There’s nothing quite like a Holy Land trip, complete with history, architecture, culture and religious connection beyond belief. With so many holy sites to visit and places to explore, the last thing you want is to forget anything behind. Your packing list would be different depending on the time of year, but these guidelines will help you remember what you just need to make the most of what could be “once in a lifetime” trip.
- Prioritize Comfort
If you’re planning to walk in the “footsteps of Jesus”, then be prepared to walk a lot! On a trip to the Holy Land, there are many places to go see and most of them involve a decent amount of walking especially if your itinerary includes Jerusalem or the Judean Desert. Pack a pair of good walking shoes or sneakers. If you’re interested to explore some hiking trails, the country has spectacular landscape in the springtime. You can also choose a stylish pair of comfortable sandals for beach days. Most importantly, bring what you’ll feel best in.
- Dress Modestly
Basically, the clothing style in the Holy Land is slightly more conservative, but it depends on which places you’ll be visiting. For example, avoid short skirts, shorts and sleeveless tops if you’re visiting religious sites such as churches, mosques or places like the Western Wall. There are some sites that require women to cover their head and shoulders or wear long skirts. If you’re visiting Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth or other religious attractions, be mindful to bring a scarf along with you. As for men, consider wearing bottoms that cover the knees and shirts that cover the shoulders. In some Jewish religious sites, men should also cover their heads with a kippah.
- Prepare for the Sun
No matter what season you fly to the Holy Land, there is sunshine almost all year round! Many find it really hot and humid in the summertime with the temperatures as high as 32˚ but cooler in the evenings. However, if you’re visiting Jericho or Masada, it can be extremely hot during the months of July and August. Even in the winter, be sure to bring with you sunscreen, sunglasses and a sunhat so you can explore the country without getting sunburned. And, don’t forget your swimsuit either! You don’t want to miss swimming in the Mediterranean or floating in the Dead Sea.
- Stay Connected
Stay connected with your family and friends at home while you travel overseas. If you are coming from the United States, you will need to bring a plug adaptor for your electronic devices. The Holy Land uses 220V at 50Hz. The standard plug is Type H which can accommodate Type C as well. If you travel with an electronic device that does not accept 220 Volts at 50 Hertz, you would actually need to buy a voltage converter to get that device to work. Check online to see if your country uses the same electrical and plug system. As for the Wi-Fi connection, it is also widespread in the country. Chances are you’ll be able to connect on the bus or at your accommodation for free. However, if you’re using a local SIM Card during the day, we encourage you to turn off your data and simply enjoy the journey.
- Travel Light
When you plan a trip, perhaps the most things you consider is packing as light as possible so that nothing will hinder your movement. We definitely encourage you to pack the absolute essentials and keep room in your bag for the gifts! But, traveling light does not necessary means traveling with less stuff. Visiting the Holy Land is an experience unlike any other. It’s a journey of faith; an opportunity to let go of the past, forgive others and be inspired. Don’t travel alone to the Holy Land. By traveling with a group, you bear one another’s burdens, share joys and lighten the load of your journey. Bring your Bible with you if you want. When you replicate the walk of Jesus at the Way of the Cross or when you visit the spot of His crucifixion, you are quickly reminded of the scriptures. It brings it all to life. You’ll be able to see and touch the places you’ve read about for a long time. You will feel blessed.