Currency, Travelers Checks and Credit Cards
Israel's basic unit of currency is the New Israeli Shekel (or Sheqel), N.I.S. for short. Money can be changed upon arrival at Ben-Gurion Airport and also throughout the country at local banks, for a small fee. You can also change money in many hotels and hostels or with licensed money changers all over the country, who charge a commission.

Although less convenient than cash, travelers checks are certainly a lot safer. The travelers checks that are mostly recognized and accepted in Israel are the ones issued by American Express, Citicorp, Visa, Bank of America, Thomas Cook and Barclays Bank. Like in most countries of the world, you will probably need to show your passport when cashing a travelers check in Israel.

Major credit cards are recognized in Israel, including Visa Card, American Express, Diner's Card and MasterCard.

If you run out of cash, you can wire for more through your credit card company, American Express, Barclays Discount Bank or the Post Office.

Some useful words in Hebrew: