Israel Travel Insurance

Rich with history, Israel is perfect for those looking to explore its ancient past, however there are plenty of opportunities to explore the current culture in more modern cities like Haifa where you can enjoy restaurants and cafes and take in the sights of the famous Baha'i Gardens. No matter what you hope to do in Israel, Travel Guard can help you plan.

Travel Guard offers comprehensive travel insurance plans to cover your needs on your trip to Israel. Our Preferred Plan is a great place to start as it has medical expense coverage, trip delay, baggage coverage and more. However, if you want higher benefit limits to help protect your travel investment, our Deluxe Plan is a great option for your Israel vacation as it includes additional features like flight accident coverage and roadside assistance.  

On average, a travel insurance plan costs between 5-7% of the total price of your trip. However, several factors come into play when pricing your plan, such as the product you select and the number of travelers in your party. For more details on pricing, check out our article on how much travel insurance costs.

For the latest information related to COVID-19 travel requirements for Israel, please visit the official U.S. Embassy site. 

The security situation in Israel is complex. In terms of crime, violent incidents are relatively rare, and the biggest concern is petty theft and theft of unattended items. However, other factors, such as regional tensions and internal political issues, can affect overall security conditions.

Risks associated with terror attacks are especially elevated in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, but incidents may also occur in tourist destinations such as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Terror attacks can include stabbings, shootings, bombings or vehicle ramming incidents. Although Israeli security personnel are often the targets of these attacks, incidents may occur near tourist sites, on public transportation and in shopping areas, creating collateral risks for travelers. Civil unrest is a concern throughout the country and can lead to clashes between demonstrators and security forces. Incidents of civil unrest frequently occur in parts of Jerusalem, including the Old City and East Jerusalem.

Israel is also impacted by rocket fire from the Gaza Strip, Lebanon, Syria and Egypt, though such incidents usually cause limited damage and are often intercepted by the Iron Dome missile defense system.

In general, travelers should closely follow regional developments before and during travel to Israel and should maintain heightened awareness during their trip. It is important to stay aware in crowded areas, avoid protests and large gatherings and follow any directives issued by Israeli authorities.

Visit the U.S. Department of State website for a complete, up-to-date information on travel advisory levels and safety information for travelers to Israel.

All U.S. travelers should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service offered to U.S. citizens traveling and living abroad. Enrolling in this program allows you to receive important information from the Embassy as well as helps the Embassy contact you in an emergency.

The official currency in Israel is the New Israel Shekel. Currency can be exchanged at most U.S. banks before leaving for your trip, at the airport before or after your arrival or at banks in major cities.

If you’re planning on using your debit and credit cards, be sure to inform your bank of your travels to avoid unwanted interruption. However, it’s still a good idea to carry a small amount of cash in case you stop at a local market where cards may not be accepted. 

The official language of Israel is Hebrew which is spoken by most of the country. You are unlikely to find English being commonly spoken, for this reason we suggest learning common sayings and phrases in Hebrew to prepare for your trip. Additionally, you may want to download a translation app that works without Wi-Fi to best avoid confusion.

Visas are not required for U.S. citizens who are traveling less than 90 days and have a passport valid for six months after your departure date. 

For the latest information regarding visas and passports for travel to Israel, please visit the State Department’s Israel country information page.

The U.S. Embassy in Israel is in Jerusalem. Visit the official U.S Embassy government website for a list of up-to-date phone numbers and addresses.

Israel’s temperatures can differ drastically between seasons. The spring months of March through May as well as the autumn months of September to November are known to be similar climates with temperatures typically staying within the 60° F - 70°F range. Summer temperatures vary depending on where you travel in the country, with northern areas being more pleasant while southern areas can be hot and humid. Still, if you travel in the summer, you are likely to enjoy plenty of sun as this is when Israel experiences their dry season. 

There are plenty of events and activities for tourists to participate in year-round in their vacation to Israel, so the best time of year will depend on what you are interested in doing. In the spring, tourists can join in the religious celebration of Passover in Jerusalem, pay their respects to lost lives during Yom HaShoah, also known as Israel’s Holocaust Remembrance Day, or learn more about the culture through food during the taste of the world festival where you can experience meals from the best chefs in the country while enjoying live music.

If visiting in December, tourists can stroll through the Christmas market in Nazareth, join in the Hanukkah celebrations with a walking tour to celebrate the festival of lights or appreciate the modern arts with the Jewish film festival in Jerusalem. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the country’s history, culture or locals, you’re sure to find an experience to remember whenever you decide to visit Israel. 

Israel’s dial code is +972, which is used to call landlines and mobile phones in the country. Remember to use the exit code of +11 when placing international calls from the U.S. and consider the area code of the city or town you’re calling. When calling internationally, remember landlines are usually more affordable than connecting to a cell phone but be sure to contact your phone provider for cost estimates and to let them know of your travel plans to best avoid unwanted interruption during your trip. 

Israel uses a different voltage than the U.S., so travelers will need to bring a power adaptor with them on their travels. A universal adaptor is your safest bet as you can bring it along on other trips in the future. 

Israel can be a great vacation for families looking to explore the country as there are plenty of family friendly activities, tours and meals for children of any age to enjoy. Whether you choose to swim in the Red Sea or take a fishing boat out on the Mediterranean, your family will find fun in Israel.

Tourists can visit Jordan or Egypt while on vacation in Israel as the borders remain open. However, tourists will be unable to cross the closed borders into Syria and Lebanon, so be sure to plan the activities on your trip accordingly.