You are permitted two suitcases that may be “checked in” and one carry on.  Remember  airlines are very strict about carry on luggage size requirements.  Purses and video cameras are not considered carry on luggage.  If your suitcase is over 50 pounds you will be charged a fee by the airline.  Carry on luggage must be able to fit under the seat or in the overhead compartments. We highly recommend that you visit the web site of your international carrier to read about their specific requirements and instructions related to baggage.) For our customers flying El Al Airlines you may use the following link: www.elal.com

Please remember that some airplanes used for domestic connections will not have the same overhead capacity as your international air carrier. You may be required to check your carry on luggage on your domestic connection if it does not fit the particular planes overhead capacity. If you have further questions regarding luggage please contact the airline directly.  You will receive luggage tags from New Covenant Tours.  PLEASE USE THEM, even if you have other personal tags.  This helps the group help each other at the baggage claim area in Israel.  We recommend the use of luggage straps especially with soft sided luggage.

Packing Tips:
1.  Pack light. While bell boy service is utilized at virtually all of the hotels oversized and over-packed luggage will become a source of frustration for you.

2.   Be SURE to pack at least three days worth of clothing and toiletries in your carry on luggage. If your luggage is lost or delayed you will have clothing to wear until it  arrives or new garments can be purchased.

3.   If you intend to use small personal appliances such as a blow drier or electric razor, then you will need an international voltage converter. Israel is on 220V power.  You can get a converter at Wal-Mart, Target or Radio Shack.  Many hotels have hair dryers in the restrooms but not all.

4.   Bring your own washcloths!!  Israel is not big on small washcloths that Americans frequently use. 

5.   DO NOT PACK THE FOLLOWING ITEMS INTO YOUR CHECKED-IN LUGGAGE:  
Cash, Passport, Pressurized containers such as soft drinks, hair spray, or any glass items. 

6.  Many of the hotels have personal safes in your hotel room closet in which you can place your valuables and extra cash.  Those that don’t safes in the room will have safety deposit boxes at the front desk.  USE THEM!!!  DO NOT UNDER AND CIRCUMSTANCE CARRY ALL YOUR CASH ON YOU WHILE TOURING.  Ignore this warning and you may find yourself in a dilemma of previous passengers who thought they knew better.  YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.

7.  Flight Travel Tips: 
Snacks for the journey are nice.  Be sure to include bottled water and some breath mints.  We  recommend getting a travel pillow for the flight and bringing a pair of extra warm socks so that you can kick your shoes off.  Eyeshades are nice as well.  The international part of your flight is about 12 to 13 hours from New York.  If you have trouble sleeping on planes then we suggest bringing some sleep aid or ibuprofen.  Be sure to have stomach medication close at hand as well such as antacids and diarrhea medication. If you are susceptible to motion sickness consult your physician or pharmacist for available medications.  Be sure to have access to a toothbrush and toothpaste.  It is very refreshing to clean up a bit just prior to landing in Tel-Aviv and “dragon breath” is a sin in Israel.