10 Insider Tips to Make the Most of Your Birthright Israel Trip!

​​Going on a Birthright Israel trip with Yael Adventures is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that everyone says will change your life — and to be honest, they’re not wrong. From the moment you step off the plane to the day you’re flying back home with a bunch of new best friends that feel impossible to leave, the trip is packed with nonstop memories, falafel, and emotional moments you didn’t see coming.

But if I could hop in a time machine and give my past self a few tips before boarding that flight to Ben Gurion Airport, here’s what I’d say:

1. This Isn’t a Vacation — It’s an Adventure

Yes, it’s free. Yes, it’s in Israel. But no, this is not a “lay by the pool and nap every afternoon” type of trip. Be ready to wake up early, hike, explore, and go, go, go. It’s intense — in the best way.

2. You’ll Bond With Strangers Faster Than You Thought Humanly Possible

Something about the jet lag, the group bus rides, and yelling “YALLA” in unison just speeds up the friendship process. You’ll probably go from “what’s your name again?” to “you’re in my wedding party” in under 10 days.

3. Bring Way Fewer Clothes Than You Think You Need

You don’t need three pairs of sandals. You don’t need five “going out” outfits. And yes, you’ll end up wearing that one t-shirt over and over again anyway. Pack light — you’ll thank yourself.

4. Israeli Food Is Amazing… and Yes, There’s a Lot of Hummus

You might start the trip unsure about tahini, but by the end, you’ll be putting it on everything. Be adventurous with the food! And don’t worry — there’s always something for everyone, including vegetarians, gluten-free folks, and picky eaters.

5. The Emotional Moments Sneak Up on You

You might expect the Western Wall to be powerful (and it is), but some of the most moving moments happen in unexpected places — like hearing a peer’s personal testimony, visiting a memorial, or dancing together at a Friday night Shabbat. Stay open.

6. Israelis Are Blunt — and It’s Awesome

The Israelis who will join your trip? They’ll feel like family by the end. They’ll also probably tell you exactly what they think — no filter. It’s refreshing. Embrace it.

7. You Don’t Need to Be Super Religious (or Even Religious at All)

Birthright trips are for people of all Jewish backgrounds. Whether you’ve been to synagogue every week since kindergarten or you’re still figuring out what being Jewish means to you, there’s space for you on this journey.

8. You Will Be Tired — But You’ll Push Through

The itinerary is full. You’ll hike Masada at sunrise, wander through Jerusalem’s Old City, swim in the Dead Sea, and dance in Tel Aviv all within a few days. It’s exhausting in the best possible way. Power naps on the bus are a lifesaver.

9. You’ll Come Back With Questions — Not Just Memories

A lot of us go into the trip thinking it’ll be a fun vacation (which it is), but it also raises big questions — about identity, community, tradition, and how we connect to Israel and to each other. That’s a good thing. Lean into it.

10. It Doesn’t End When the Trip Does

Birthright is a launchpad. After the trip, you’ll find yourself craving more: more Jewish community, more Israel, more meaning. Whether it’s through 8-day volunteer trips back in Israel, Shabbat dinners with friends from home, or just staying connected with your group — there’s so much more to explore.