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While most of this tour is already paid for, it’s still a good idea to bring some spending money. Two meals per day are typically included as part of the program. Lunch is on your own and is usually a quick and inexpensive stop. You may occasionally want to purchase bottled water (though Israel’s tap water is perfectly safe to drink), snacks, or other refreshments.
It is also customary in Israel to tip both the tour guide and the bus driver at the end of the program. There’s good reason for this: the professional staff work tirelessly to ensure the success of your experience. They truly put their heart into the trip, and tipping is a small but meaningful way to say thank you.
Based on experience, for a ten-day tour, a tip of $70 for the tour guide and $30 for the driver (total $100 per passenger) is appropriate. Tipping is not mandatory—if it’s beyond your means or you prefer not to participate, please don’t feel embarrassed to tip less or refrain altogether.
All in all, we recommend bringing $400–$800 in spending money for the trip.
The official currency of Israel is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS). The exchange rate typically fluctuates around 3.4–3.5 shekels per U.S. dollar, but you should check online before departure to confirm the current rate.
If you plan to bring cash, your only reliable opportunity to exchange dollars for shekels will be at the airport currency exchange kiosks upon arrival. Once you leave the airport, there will be few opportunities to exchange money at a fair rate.
The best option is to bring a credit card and/or ATM card:
Credit cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in Israel. Call your card provider before departure to inform them you’ll be traveling abroad—otherwise, they may freeze your account for suspected fraud.
ATM cards: Most work in Israel, but check with your bank beforehand to ensure compatibility. Any ATM card displaying the Visa or Mastercard logo will definitely work.
Please do not bring Traveler’s Checks or Israeli Bonds, as there will be no opportunity to cash them during the 10-day trip.
