Welcome
to Israel
Looking forward to exploring Israel? From historical sites to busy cities, Israel effortlessly blends ancient and contemporary. Before you go, though, make sure you've got everything you need.
Don’t forget travel insurance for your adventure to Israel to protect you against the unexpected.
What Is Israel Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance for Israel is an essential safeguard against a variety of travel-related challenges. When visiting Israel, you can choose between two types of travel insurance: trip insurance and travel medical insurance.
Travel medical insurance offers protection in case of medical emergencies while you're overseas, while trip insurance helps reimburse nonrefundable costs if your travel plans are disrupted or canceled.
Travel Medical Insurance for Israel
Travel medical insurance for Israel is crucial for ensuring access to emergency medical care during your time abroad.
Should you become ill or injured while visiting Israel, this insurance offers temporary coverage for your medical treatment, allowing you to manage potentially high healthcare costs without bearing the full financial burden.
Considering that medical expenses in Israel can be steep for travelers, having health insurance is vital for your protection.
Travel medical insurance for Israel typically includes coverage for:
- Emergency medical expenses
- Hospitalization
- Surgery
- Prescription medications
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Repatriation of remains
- Lost luggage
Trip Insurance for Israel
Trip insurance for Israel is crafted to protect your prepaid and nonrefundable travel investments.
This insurance can provide coverage for different aspects of your journey, such as flights, hotels, excursions, tours, and more. By insuring these nonrefundable expenses, you can be reimbursed if your trip is canceled or disrupted for a covered reason.
Trip insurance for Israel may include protection for:
- Trip cancellation
- Trip delay
- Trip interruption
- Lost or delayed luggage
- Accidents and illnesses
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Rental car collision coverage
Frequently Asked Questions About Israel Travel Insurance
Q: Does Israel require travel insurance?
Israel does not require travel insurance for visitors.
Q: Do I need travel insurance for Israel?
ITravel insurance for Israel is highly recommended for visitors to protect against costly medical bills in the event of an unexpected injury or illness.
Q: Can I get travel insurance to Israel?
Yes, you can get travel insurance for Israel. However, it is important to read through a policy's wording as Israel may be a restricted country for coverage for some plans.
Q: Does travel insurance cover war in Israel?
Travel insurance may cover war, terrorism, or political evacuation, depending on the policy. It is important to review a policy's wording to understand war and terrorism coverage or consult with your insurance provider for more details on what situations fall under coverage.
Q: How much is travel insurance to Israel?
The cost of Israel travel insurance will vary depending on the plan you choose and the length of your trip, among other factors. Get a quote with your specific trip details to compare plan prices.
Q: How much travel medical insurance do I need for Israel?
It is recommended to have at least $50,000 in emergency medical expense coverage and at least $250,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation when traveling abroad.
Q: Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover me in Israel?
Most US-based health insurance plans will not offer coverage for medical expenses incurred internationally, but it is best to check with your insurance provider for coverage details outside of the United States.
Q: Is Israel in Europe for travel insurance?
Israel is not in Europe for travel insurance, it is in the Middle East.
Israel Travel Insurance Requirements
Travel insurance is not legally required for entry into Israel. However, it is highly recommended, especially considering the potential costs of medical care, trip disruptions, or other unexpected events during your visit.
Do You Need a Visa to Travel to Israel?
Whether you need a visa to travel to Israel depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.
U.S. passport holders, citizens of the European Union, and several other countries such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand can enter Israel for tourism, business, or family visits without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Many countries have visa exemption agreements with Israel, allowing their citizens to visit for short stays without a visa. It's important to check the specific requirements based on your nationality.
If your country is not on the visa exemption list, you will need to obtain a visa before traveling to Israel. This can usually be done through the Israeli consulate or embassy in your country.
Do US Citizens Need a Visa to Travel to Israel?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to travel to Israel for short visits. U.S. passport holders can enter Israel for tourism, business, or family visits without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
However, it is important to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
For stays longer than 90 days or for other purposes such as work or study, a visa would be required. Always check the latest travel requirements before your trip.
Is It Safe to Travel to Israel?
While most areas of Israel are safe for tourists, there are regions where political tensions and security risks are higher. The Gaza Strip and some parts of the West Bank can be more volatile. It's advisable to avoid these areas and stay updated on travel advisories.
Israel is known for its low crime rates, particularly in comparison to many other countries. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is rare but can occur in crowded areas.
Popular tourist areas like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, and Eilat are generally safe for visitors, with a strong security presence.
Is Israel a Cheap Place to Visit?
Israel is not typically considered a budget travel destination. The cost of visiting Israel can be relatively high compared to many other countries, particularly in terms of accommodation, dining, and transportation.
Prices for hotels can range from moderate to high, especially in popular cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. There are budget-friendly options, including hostels and guesthouses, but availability and prices can vary.
Dining out can be expensive, particularly in tourist areas. Meals at mid-range restaurants may cost between $15 to $30 per person. For a more budget-friendly option, consider street food or local eateries.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Israel?
Spring and Autumn are generally considered the best times to visit Israel, offering mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant landscapes.
Summer is ideal for beachgoers and those who enjoy hot weather, but be prepared for high temperatures and larger crowds.
Winter can also be a good time for a quieter visit with mild temperatures, though some areas can be cooler and rainier.
What to Know Before Your Trip to Israel
The following tips can be helpful to know before your trip to Israel:
- Israel has a high standard of healthcare. It's advisable to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage.
- The official currency is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
- Tipping is customary in Israel, with a standard of 10-15% in restaurants and cafes.
- Israel has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trains. Consider purchasing a Rav-Kav smart card for convenience.
- Stay informed about the current security situation, especially if traveling to areas with potential political tensions. Consult travel advisories from your government.
- Hebrew is the official language, and Arabic is also widely spoken. English is commonly understood, especially in tourist areas and major cities.
- Be respectful at religious and historical sites, and follow any guidelines or dress codes provided.
Health and Safety
As you get ready to travel to Israel, remember that every place comes with its own set of risks. Keep yourself healthy and secure with these pointers:
- Israel's weather requires protection from the sun and insects. Don't forget sunscreen and bug spray so you can enjoy your trip without injury.
- Drink a lot of water, especially when it's hot.
- Try the local food but be careful with street food. You don't want to get food poisoning on your trip.
- Keep a first aid kit with you. That way you can easily take care of minor injuries or ailments during your explorations.
Crime
While people generally consider Israel safe for travelers, it's always best to stay alert. Here are a couple of tips to help lower your crime risk:
- Israel is generally safe for travelers, but it's always smart to stay alert. Protect your belongings, especially in crowded places, to prevent petty theft.
- Keep your personal items in a safe place.
Transportation Security
If you're using a ride-share app or going with public transportation in Israel, here are a couple of tips:
- Keep things like your passport and travel insurance information in a secure yet easy-to-get-to place.
- Follow security rules at airports and other transportation hubs for a smooth travel experience.
Road Safety
If you plan to drive in Israel, it's important to know the rules and laws before you start. Also, here are some extra tips to think about:
- In Israel, they drive on the right side of the road.
- Some roads might have a lot of twists and turns, so follow road signs and obey speed limits.
Wildlife and Nature
One of the best things about going to a new country is exploring its natural beauty. Yet, there are some important things you should keep in mind, especially when it comes to wildlife:
- When exploring nature, keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
- Do not attempt to feed any animals.
- When taking in all the scenery, be sure to pick up after yourself. Leave no waste.
- If you're snorkeling or diving, don't touch coral reefs and aquatic creatures.
Natural Disasters
When you're about to go to Israel, it's a good idea to find out about the weather there. A little bit of research can prepare you for natural disasters. Here are some tips that might help:
- Israel is generally not prone to natural disasters. Still, it's a good idea to keep up with the weather conditions during your visit.
- If traveling during the rainy season (November to April), be prepared for showers. Keep your plans a bit open in case of weather-related disruptions.
Travel Resources for Israel
Please note that the content provided is just an overview. Please stay updated on the latest information and follow local guidelines and regulations during your visit.
For more information on travel tips, attractions, hotels, and more, please visit this tourism website of Israel. This resource will provide you with valuable insights and help you plan an amazing trip to Israel.
If you’re ready to have an unforgettable time in Israel, pack your bags, build your itinerary and make sure you plan and prepare for the unexpected.
