Check list before the trip

Before you start packing and planning all the details, it's always good to pause for a moment and remember – proper planning is half the fun. Whether you're going on a short vacation or a long journey, there are a few important things to remember before setting off. Yes, this list might remind you of a "grocery list," but it’s exactly what will ensure a smooth and pleasant trip without unpleasant last-minute surprises. So sit back, take a deep breath, and let’s make sure everything is organized and ready with this list of important things to do before your trip: A complete guide for planning a successful trip!

Checking Passport Validity

It’s important to ensure your passports are valid and in good condition. Some destinations require at least three months (from the last day of the trip, not the first). Others might require six months.

Photocopy your passports and keep the copy in a separate place from the actual passports.

Booking Flights

Be sure to read all the fine print, cancellation, and change policies, as well as baggage rules.

Decide in advance on the amount of luggage based on the nature of the trip and plan accordingly.

Print out the tickets in both the destination’s language and Hebrew, and take them with you. Send a copy to the WhatsApp group.

Booking Accommodations

It’s best to decide and book accommodations in advance to ensure the best availability and price.

After booking, I like to send a simple question, like whether there’s a kettle in the room, just to ensure the booking went through (Asking "Did you receive my booking?" can annoy them... ask me how I know – I’ve learned to ask a question, and I always have one!).

Print out the confirmation in both the destination’s language and Hebrew, and take them with you. Send a copy to the WhatsApp group.

Renting a Car

There are car rental services at airports, international train terminals, and in major towns and cities. I recommend, especially in high seasons, booking well in advance and choosing from the big, well-known companies. Drivers with mobility challenges, or those who prefer, can rent automatic or adapted cars.

To rent a car, you must:

• Be over 21 or 25, depending on the rental company’s policy;

• Present identification (ID card for EU citizens or a valid passport for other nationals);

• Have had a valid driver’s license for over a year.

You must obtain a paper international driving permit from Israel (not the plastic one we have), as the Israeli license is not considered an international permit.

For an international driving permit, visit one of the authorized stations with a valid regular driving license. The service costs a fee of 8 NIS (6 NIS in Eilat, no VAT).

To find photo stations for international driving permits, check the following link: https://www.gov.il/he/service/drivers_license_photo_stations.

Make sure you have enough funds in your bank account, as car rental companies often place a temporary deposit hold, so you don't get stuck if you forgot that you just furnished your whole house the day before.

Print out the vouchers in both the destination’s language and Hebrew, and take them with you. Send a copy to the WhatsApp group.

Booking Travel Insurance

My tip is to do this as early as possible, so you’re covered well in advance for any emergencies (you can do this up to 180 days before the flight).

Print out the insurance and send a copy to the WhatsApp group.

Creating a WhatsApp Group

This is the most exciting part for me and symbolizes the start of the trip. I love to create two groups: one where I back up digital copies of passports, flight tickets, car rental vouchers, insurance, bookings, attractions, etc.

In the second group, I place a link to the trip itinerary and other fun notes and reminders.

Exchanging Currency (Foreign Exchange)

Prepare ahead of time by either ensuring a foreign currency balance in your bank account or ordering foreign currency for pickup at the airport.

I like to ask for 10 and 5 euro/dollar bills, not larger ones, as not everywhere accepts larger bills.

I also make sure to have small coins available for tips and trolleys.

I divide the cash between several secure places and don't keep it all in one spot.

Credit Cards

Remember to carry international-use credit cards with you.

I recommend taking two cards, especially if you have a Diners card, which isn’t accepted everywhere.

It’s wise to verify the PIN code before leaving, as you’ll need to enter it during purchases abroad.

Purchasing Data and Call Plans for Your Cell Phone

Decide in advance whether to order a communication package from your provider and arrange it in advance, including activating call filtering services.

Or purchase a local SIM card with a data-only or combined plan.

Or use an eSIM in supported devices. I’m including a $3 USD discount code for your first eSIM data package from Airalo. Use the code ILANIT6909 during registration or at checkout: https://ref.airalo.com/KwV7.

Checking Your Final Flight Terminal

Low-cost flights often depart from Terminal 1.

Flights from regular airlines like El Al usually depart from Terminal 3.

Check the terminal on the Ben Gurion Airport website: Link here.

Trip Itinerary

Make sure all travelers have access to the personal trip itinerary, including the password.

For convenience, I recommend saving the link to the trip itinerary on your home screen.

For extra security, print the trip itinerary on paper: open each page, print to PDF, and then print it out. You can also send it to the WhatsApp group, including all the links for easy access.

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