If you’re planning an Israel trip and wondering what to wear, then you should know that packing for Israel is probably easier than you think. With very mild winters and transition seasons, and hot summers, there’s no need to worry too much about packing special clothes for extreme temperatures. However, there are still a few important things to keep in mind when it comes to your outfit during your visit to Israel. Here is our guide for Israel clothing, that will help you choose the most comfortable and suitable clothes for your trip.
Clothing in Israel
General dress codes in Israel
Outside of holy sites or places with a major religious population, Israel is very open-minded when it comes to dress codes. So during your time here, you can feel free to wear anything you want, including tank tops, shorts, and any other style that suits you. That is especially true for Tel Aviv, which has taken the open-mindedness to a whole new level. Here, you can truly be who you are and dress freely without any worries whatsoever.
Israel clothing in religious holy sites
Probably the most important thing to keep in mind when it comes to Israel clothing is the dress codes in religious and holy sites in Israel. In religious Jewish sites, like the Western Wall, or any synagogue in the country, it is mandatory to wear shirts and pants with long sleeves, and generally try to wear modest clothes.
This dress code applies to all sites of religious importance in Israel, like the Old City of Jerusalem, Nazareth, and more. In addition, we would highly recommend following the same dress code if you’re planning to visit sites with a major religious population, like Tzfat or Mea She’arim Neighborhood in Jerusalem. While it’s not mandatory to dress this way in places with a big religious population, it is a much more respectful way to visit them.
If you’re planning to visit the Al-Aqsa Mosque, it’s also very important to abide by the dress code of this holy place, which is ruled by the Jordanian Jerusalem Waqf. During your visit there, in addition to wearing long sleeves, it’s forbidden to wear and display any religious items, such as crosses or bibles.
Dress code for Tel Aviv nightlife
When you’re gearing up for a night out in Israel, especially if Tel Aviv is your playground, you can keep it cool and casual. Throwing on a pair of jeans, your favorite T-shirt, and sneakers will have you blending in perfectly at most spots. Don’t worry about suiting up; jackets and ties are pretty much aliens in these parts. Whether you’re hitting the latest dance bars or just cruising through the city’s nightlife, this get-up is your go-to.
Now, while the vibe is definitely laid-back, it doesn’t hurt to do a quick check before you head out to some of the fancier venues. Tel Aviv’s night scene is all about that chill factor, but every now and then, you’ll find a spot that likes to dial up the dress code a notch. A quick look online or a phone call can save you from any surprises at the door. Remember, it’s all about having a good time without sweating the small stuff, so dress comfortably, and you’ll be set to dive into the night.
Israel clothing in summer
The long Israeli summer is the hottest time of the year. In the summertime, which typically lasts from May to mid-October, there is no rainfall at all, and the climate is generally very hot and humid. For that reason, there isn’t any reason to bring warm clothes for this time of the year, except for those who are sensitive to cold weather caused by AC in trains and other indoor places.
In addition, since the summertime is the official time to visit the stunning beaches of Israel, we would definitely recommend you bring bathing suits for your visit here, so you will be able to enjoy the great seas, lakes, and springs of Israel. Anyway, make sure you protect yourself from the hot sun of the summer, with a proper hat and sunscreen.
Israel clothing in winter
The Israeli winters are usually quite short, and much less cold compared to most parts of the world. With 10 days of rainfall each winter month, and no less than 5-10 degrees Celsius/41-50 Fahrenheit, you should travel with an umbrella and some warm clothes during winter, but there isn’t any need for especially warm winter coats.
In the coldest areas of Israel, like Jerusalem and the Golan Heights, it might occasionally be a bit colder, but there isn’t anything special you need to prepare for the Israeli winter.
What to wear in transition seasons
While the weather in transition seasons never gets too cold or too warm, it is pretty unpredictable, as some days in spring and autumn can feel like 4 seasons in 1 day. For that reason, if you visit Israel during the transition seasons, we would recommend bringing both long and short clothes, just to make sure you are prepared for any weather conditions that might come.
