Ten Days in a Steamer Trunk or a Carry On?

By Karen on 01/26/2011 @ 12:56 PM

Probably the single most asked about subject, when talking to participants who have signed up for a Greater Miami Jewish Federation Mission to Israel, is “What should I pack?” The thought of preparing for a trip overseas can be daunting. The good news is that packing for a trip to Israel is not like packing for a cruise and it really should not create panic.

The best advice I can give you is to pack light! Israel is a very casual country. No matter what time of year you go, it is laid back and casual. Remember, even though you aren’t really schlepping your own luggage on a Mission since all porterage is included, you may still feel weighed down with a large, heavy suitcase, or even worse, two suitcases.

The dressiest item you may want to bring is a wrinkle-free skirt and top for Shabbat. Everything else, including evening cultural events or dinner at the nicest restaurant, is casual. And, believe me; nobody is going to notice or care if you wear something twice. One pair of jeans is enough!

One tip that I would give is to make use of the items that the hotels supply as much as possible. Unless you simply cannot live without your personal blow dryer, remember that every hotel in Israel has one. Even the kibbutzim that you will stay at have blow dryers. And by using theirs, you don’t have to worry about bringing an electrical converter. Also, why bother carrying shampoo and lotions when the hotel will supply as much as you need? However, while you won’t need a converter if you don’t bring a blow dryer, you will still need to bring an electrical adapter for your digital camera, laptop, iPod and domestic cell phone.

Click here to download a copy of the general suggested packing list.

Watch the slide show “10 Days in a Carry On” where you can get a flight attendant’s advice on really light packing at 10 Days in a Carry-On - Slide Show - NYTimes.com

Some interesting web site links that I really like with great ideas, tips and resources are listed below:

Create your own personalized packing list and set reminders that will be emailed directly to you at Don't Forget Your Toothbrush

Learn the art and science of traveling light including what to pack, how to pack it and what to pack it in. Check out their advice on “bundle packing” at One Bag

Check out many tips for packing light at Go Green, Travel Green

Check out the Kiva Key Chain Pack, Duffel or Sling sold on Amazon. It’s easy to carry along and can really come in handy. Another tip: take a few plastic zip loc bags in different sizes. They will always come in handy for something.

Ultimately, you have to find the style of packing that works best for you. I know it’s not as easy as it sounds. Each time I go on a Mission I promise myself to pack lighter than the last time and I have managed to reduce my load from 2 bags to 1 very heavy one. I’m still not satisfied though and next time I am definitely taking a much smaller and lighter suitcase. I may even try the “bundling method!”

Safe & Happy Travels!
Karen