What to Bring

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Student Manuals » Short-Term Student Manual » Travel and Packing » What to Bring

A JUC Packing List

Students often have a hard time knowing which clothes to bring to study in Israel. Generally speaking, summer in Jerusalem (May to October) is hot and dry with temperatures ranging from 60º to 90º F (15º to 32º C). Temperatures can reach 100º F (38º C) and beyond in other parts of the country during that time. In winter time (November through April) it rains regularly and temperatures range from 35º to 60º F (2º to 15º C). In the transitions between summer and winter Jerusalem gets hot, dry winds from the desert and occasional cold blasts from the North as well, so be prepared for a variety of weather. JUC’s campus rooms will not be heated as warmly as you may be used to in the winter, and we also do not have air conditioning during the summer months.

The best solution for all this is to dress in layers. Rather than bringing a lot of clothing for extreme weather, bring a variety that you can layer on and off as the weather changes.

Here is a helpful list of what to bring during your stay in Israel:

1. If staying on campus, JUC will provide flat sheets, blankets, pillows, and pillow cases. If you want a twin-sized fitted bottom sheet, please bring one with you.

2. Personal toiletries. Please note that toiletries are expensive in Israel, and your preferred brand or product may not be available.

3. Washcloths (JUC will provide bath towels).

4. Plug converters and voltage adapters if needed for hair dryers, razors, etc. They will also be available for purchase in Israel if you prefer.

5. Comfortable and appropriate clothes for when you are on campus and in class. Please view the Student Dress page to familiarize yourself with the cultural implications and expectations for student attire in Israel.

6. Summer clothing:

  • Pants and knee-length walking shorts for field studies and hikes. Note that clothes made of breathable material are best for hot days in the field.
  • Longer and full skirts/maxi dresses for women and shirts with elbow-length sleeves.
  • Keep in mind that short skirts, short shorts, halters, and tank tops are not appropriate for women to wear in Arab or Orthodox Jewish cultures.
  • Several modest t-shirts or tops that cover your shoulders.
  • A light jacket or sweatshirt for cool evenings.

7. Winter clothing:

  • Clothes for cold and rainy days, including items like jackets, sweaters, thermal wear, fleece sportswear, knit hats, gloves, warm pajamas, and warm socks.
  • A long waterproof raincoat or parka is a good idea during the spring because the rains often come with strong winds in January and February.
  • Umbrellas are useful, but the wind is often too strong to use them.

8. Shoes:

  • Comfortable, sturdy shoes. We will do lots of walking on stone and concrete.
  • Hiking boots or other sturdy closed shoes are strongly recommended for field studies because of rough, thorny ground and animals.
  • Sturdy, Chaco-style sandals are popular for other areas on hot days.
  • Flip-flops or other beach shoes if desired.

9. A bathing suit (note that the Dead Sea is warm year-round).

10. Sunglasses, a hat, and a water bottle are a must!

11. Prescriptions for glasses or contacts. Note that eye examinations and glasses are significantly more expensive in Israel, and contact lenses are available over the counter.

12. Any prescription drugs you presently use and a copy of your prescription. Jerusalem has plenty of dust, mold, cats, and pollen if you have allergies.

13. Medications for common problems such as sore throat, cough, cold, insect bites, diarrhea, headache, and sunburn. They are available for purchase here but are more expensive.

14. One smaller suitcase or backpack is great for overnight field studies.

15. A small Bible for your backpack: ESV, NASB, NRSV, etc (NOT a paraphrase).

16. A flashlight.

17. Personal first-aid kit.

18. Electrolyte packets or hydration tablets are a helpful way to stay energized during hot days in the field. 

Do not bring unnecessary valuables such as expensive jewelry.

Bringing a Computer

JUC has four desktop computers in our computer lab for student use. There is also one black and white printer assigned for student use in the computer lab. Because of the limited number of computers on campus for student use, we encourage you to bring your laptop or tablet.

Almost all new computers can run on worldwide power (220volts/50hertz or 110volts/60hertz). Double check the power source to ensure it can run on the voltage in Israel.