Pre-Departure Information

Airlines require that your passport be valid until at least 6 months after your return ticket date

When you take taxis, make sure to get the name and number of the taxi company as well as the information about the driver. If you lose something in the taxi, you will be able to find it later

Modest clothing is required on bases. No tank tops or short shorts.

Volunteers with medical conditions that put themselves at risk or which burden other volunteers or staff members cannot participate in Sar-El or may be asked to leave the program

Volunteers with medical conditions that put themselves at risk or which burden other volunteers or staff members cannot participate in Sar-El or may be asked to leave the program

There is a new rule regarding buses and trains in Israel. Everyone must purchase a “Rav Kav” card BEFORE going on a bus/train. The bus drivers will not take any money.
You can purchase these cards at the central bus stations and train stations, as well as at the airport.

Volunteers should also bring powdered milk should they require it in their tea or coffee. There is no milk available on the army bases

Please carry all medicines, copies of prescriptions, clean underwear and socks and your Sar-El papers in your carry-on luggage.

Everyone must have INSURANCE that will cover him/her in Israel OR SPECIAL TRAVEL INSURANCE; Make sure to bring an English translation (or Hebrew) of your insurance card information.

AND please bring at least two valid credit cards and cash to pay for medical emergencies.

*PLEASE BEWARE  of pickpockets in outdoor markets and other crowded places

Pack lightly; you must carry your own suitcase. Bring a small bag for weekends. There are no rides from your barracks to the gate on weekends. You are taken to the base when you arrive and back to a central location in Tel Aviv at the end of the three week program

Getting a flu shot and a tetanus shot before you come is recommended. Take extra vitamins, Echinacea, Vitamin C before and during your stay. Bring your own cold/cough medicine – just in case. Anti-dehydration pills are recommended.

Please make sure to check your flight departure times; airlines will not refund a missed departure

Make sure you bring a pair of closed shoes & socks (instead of just sandals). Not all bases provide army boots and you cannot wear sandals while you work. No tank tops or short shorts are allowed on bases

If you bring a computer to the base please note that  Sar-El is not responsible for any damage or loss.

Please refrain from taking pictures of anything which you might even think may be classified or sensitive. We WILL reject volunteers for future programs if they disobey the rules. This also includes mentioning the names and specific locations of the bases.

Before you leave home, please tell your credit card company that you will be in Israel and give them the correct dates

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