Judaean Desert, Israel: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Judaean Desert, Israel? If you're planning to go to Judaean Desert, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Judaean Desert, Israel

Based on the climate and weather in Judaean Desert, Israel, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Judaean Desert, Israel

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Judaean Desert, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Judaean Desert, Israel by month

January

In January, Judaean Desert is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Judaean Desert, with several of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Israel has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Judaean Desert. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and H. Take care to pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

February

If you visit Judaean Desert during February, you will probably find that it is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Israel has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Judaean Desert. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and H. It's important that you get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

March

March in Judaean Desert is balmy, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Israel has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Judaean Desert. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and H. Check that you find the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you visit Judaean Desert during April, you are likely to see that it is warm and very hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Israel has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Judaean Desert. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and H. Ensure that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

May

If you vacation in Judaean Desert during May, you may find that it is hot, very hazy and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Israel has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Judaean Desert. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and H. It's important that you pick the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June is extremely warm, very hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Israel has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Judaean Desert. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and H. Take care to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

July

Traveling to Judaean Desert in July, you will notice that it is extremely hot, very hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Israel has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Judaean Desert. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and H. Check that you get the right type. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

August

If you are traveling to Judaean Desert in August, you will notice that it is constantly hot, very hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Israel has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Judaean Desert. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and H. Take care to get the correct type. Many adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

September

September for Judaean Desert can be sweltering, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Israel has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Judaean Desert. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and H. Be sure to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

October

If you visit Judaean Desert during October, you will probably see that it is hot and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Israel has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Judaean Desert. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and H. Be sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

November

November for Judaean Desert is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Israel has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Judaean Desert. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and H. It's important that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

December

December in Judaean Desert can be chilly and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Israel has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Judaean Desert. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and H. Be sure to get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Judaean Desert, Israel

The Judaean Desert, located in the southeastern part of Israel, is a region of astounding beauty and significance, with a rich history and diverse natural landscapes. From rugged mountain peaks to stunning desert plains, this area offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Here are the top tourist attractions that you shouldn't miss when visiting the Judaean Desert.

1. Masada - This ancient fortress, perched atop a plateau overlooking the Dead Sea, is one of Israel's most iconic and important historic sites. Built by King Herod in the first century BCE, Masada became the last stronghold of Jewish rebels during the Roman Empire's conquest of Judea. The site can be accessed via cable car or by hiking up the famous Snake Path.

2. Ein Gedi - For a taste of the desert's lush oasis, Ein Gedi is the ultimate destination. This nature reserve boasts stunning waterfalls, palm groves, and hot springs, making it a perfect spot for hiking, birdwatching, and relaxing in the shade. Visitors can also explore the ancient synagogue ruins and caves nearby.

3. Qumran National Park - This archaeological site is home to the famous Dead Sea Scrolls, a collection of ancient Jewish texts from the Second Temple period. The caves here were used by a Jewish sect during this time and later discovered in the mid-20th century. Visitors can see the remains of the community's dwellings and ritual baths, as well as exploring the caves where the scrolls were found.

4. Jericho - Located in the heart of the Jordan Valley, Jericho is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins of the biblical city, including the fortifications, palaces, and temples of King Herod's era. The nearby Spring of Elisha and Mount of Temptation offer stunning views of the surrounding desert.

5. Wadi Qelt - This deep valley, cutting through the cliffs of the Judaean Desert, is a breathtaking natural wonder. Visitors can hike along the riverbed, marveling at the sheer rock walls and stunning scenery. The Monastery of St. George, built into the cliff face, offers a peek into the region's early Christian history.

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover or adventure seeker, the Judaean Desert offers the perfect combination of cultural and natural wonders. From the revered fortress of Masada to the lush oasis of Ein Gedi, there's something for everyone in this region. So be sure to make time during your next visit to Israel to explore the beauty and history of the stunning Judaean Desert.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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