If you are reading this article, I assume that you too have found yourself managing limited economic resources. I also imagine that you are considering the “holy land” as a destination that may not fit within your means for a trip of several weeks. In fact, the Holy Land is definitely not a budget-friendly place for low-cost travellers. Indeed, accommodation costs, transportation, food and activities can increase daily expenses to unsustainable levels for more modest travellers.
That is why it is useful to share some “best practices”, both specific for this territory and overall, when it comes to sustainable, long-term travel.
My experience focuses on about a month of on-the-road travel in many areas of the country, with various incursions into the West Bank areas. I thus invite you to follow the list proposed here and to possibly suggest other tips for other travellers.
1) Plan ahead
Planning ahead is essential for travelling on a budget. Research accommodation options, transport, and activities before you go. This will help you to budget and save money. Don’t forget, nevertheless, to be spontaneous and self-starter too, in order not to end up into gringo stereotypes. Download Lonely Planet or other PDF guides through torrent websites to be able to move them into your phone for easy consultation. Try to spend more time in Palestine (West bank, as Gaza is very difficult to access) than in Israel, as it is much cheaper there.
As for bookings, I would recommend to go on a last-minute basis, especially if you are travelling off-season. You may get special discounts to fill out rooms.
2) Stay in hostels or guesthouses
Hostels and guesthouses are great options for budget-conscious travellers. You can find affordable accommodation in most cities and towns in Israel and Palestine. They also offer a great opportunity to meet other travellers and make new friends. These days, even the Airbnb website is offering cheap 10 or 14 bunk beds in dorms. Off season prices for Israel are around 20 € /night, whereas for Palestine 15 €/night.
As a personal advice try maybe the Bedouin tent in Sallama, Israel, a typical Muslim village. You can then walk around and probably be invited for lunch by Muslim or Druze families for free.
If you are on a tighter budget, instead, Couchsurfing is definitely your way then!
3) Use Couchsurfing
This is the perfect platform to save accommodation expenses, meet local hosts and see their houses. The platform gathers a huge travelling community and requires a very cheap membership (€13.99 on a yearly basis in Europe). You may also use the Hangout functionality to meet like-minded locals or travellers.
4) Use public transport & hitchhike
Israel and Palestine have a well-developed public transport system, including buses and trains. This is the most affordable way to get around. Consider buying a multi-day pass for public transport to save money. Rides are inexpensive and in cities last for 90 minutes (you may catch different means).
As for me, I bought the Rav-Kav card at the Ben Gurion airport, Tel Aviv. Rav-Kav is a smart card used as the main form of payment for public transportation in Israel. It can be used to take the train or bus. Actually it is the only possible way to pay for the public transport. You may only charge it at the airport, at some bus / train stations or stops. More info may be found here.
Be reminded, though, that public services are unavailable or partially available from Friday afternoon to Sunday Morning (Shabbat period). Alternatively, especially across the mountains (Golan Heights), it is very customary to hitchhike. I noticed myself that while struggling a bit on “low lands”, in the countryside or “high lands” I turned out to be more successful. Hitchhiking is generally considered very safe here.
5) Eat local food
Eating local food is not only a great way to save money, but it is also an opportunity to experience the local culture. Look out for street food stalls, local markets, and small family-owned restaurants for authentic and affordable meals. Falafel, Sabich, Shawarma, Kebabs and hummus are very easy to find and are a cheaper alternative to a more formal sit-down restaurant. Again, be aware that during weekends (Shabbat) you will have much fewer options.
6) Visit free attractions
There are many free attractions in Israel and Palestine, including religious sites, parks, and museums. Check out local guides and websites for a list of free attractions. In Tel Aviv, for example, you may walk the Bauhaus circuit; in Jerusalem you may visit the Old City, plenty of churches, Rockefeller Archaeological museum and many more; in Haifa The Baha’i Gardens, Stella Maris Lighthouse and Carmelite Monaster, Carmel National Park, Hecht Museum and many more.
7) Buy souvenirs at markets
Markets are a great place to buy souvenirs and gifts. Prices are often lower than in tourist shops, and you can bargain for a better price.
8) Take advantage of student discounts
If you are a student, take advantage of student discounts on transport, attractions, and accommodation. Bring your student ID with you to get discounts. If you are not a student any longer, maybe fabricate a useful Photoshop ID for discounts.
9) Use water fountains
Israel and Palestine have many water fountains where you can refill your water bottle for free. This will save you money and reduce your plastic waste. Indeed, apart from Gaza Strip, you may drink tap and fountain water everywhere!
10) Travel during off-peak seasons
Travelling during off-peak seasons can save you money on flights, accommodation, and attractions. Consider travelling during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall for the best deals. Besides, temperatures around the Dead Sea and the Negev desert may become unbearable between June and August, leaving aside the pressing crowd of tourists in summer across Jerusalem tiny alleys.
11) If you are a smoker, bring your tobacco!
Prices are double (or triple) than Europe. Specifically about 15 € for a cigarette pack and 20 € for a tobacco bag. Therefore, you should try to bring your own supplies from a cheaper country.
In conclusion, travelling in Israel and Palestine on a shoestring is possible with a bit of planning, research, and flexibility. Follow these tips to have an affordable and memorable trip to this fascinating region. Be aware that many times, the cheaper you go, the more local you may experience. Feel free to come back with any other tip for the travelling community!
