Rav Kav for Tourists: All Questions Answered!

Say hello to the Rav-Kav card – Israel’s modern ticketing wonder for public transport! Since January 2019, this little gem has been revolutionizing travel in the country by bidding farewell to cash and embracing the future with its reloadable magic. No more fumbling with coins or counting change – it’s all about the ease and efficiency of the Rav-Kav! In this post, we will explain everything you need to know regarding Rav Kav for tourists in Israel.

What is a Rav-Kav?

So, what exactly is a Rav-Kav? Well, it’s your electronic ticket to transportation bliss in Israel! You can load it up with cash or use your trusty credit card. And here’s the cherry on top – it works seamlessly with both buses and trains! How’s that for convenience? No more worries about carrying wads of cash; grab your Rav-Kav, and you’re good to go!

Now, let’s talk types! There are two categories of Rav-Kavs: personalized and anonymous. Local Israelis jazz it up with personalized cards flaunting their names, photos, and other relevant deets like a student or senior status. But for tourists, the anonymous card is the way to roll.

The anonymous card, which doesn’t require personal information and be purchased for a one-time payment of 5 NIS.

Where to Get It?

“But where do I get this marvelous card?” you ask. Fear not, fellow adventurer! For travelers seeking anonymity, designated locations around each city have got your back. Check out the train stations, the Central Bus Station (level 6), or the arrival hall of Ben Gurion Airport.

For more information and details regarding the Rav-Kav service stations (and in general, all things related to it), you can check the official Rav-Kav website.

How to Load It?

Now, the million-dollar question: “How do I load up my Rav-Kav with moolah?” Easy peasy! Head back to those convenient locations we mentioned earlier – the train and bus stations. But hey, there’s more! You’ll find Rav-Kav loading spots sprinkled all over the city. Pop into Super-Pharm, Good Pharm, or any friendly neighborhood kiosk. And hey, if Hebrew instructions leave you puzzled, no worries! Seek a helpful shop clerk to assist you in topping up your card. Oh, and did we mention the nifty Rav Kav Online app? Yep, load your card on the go and embrace tech-savvy travel!

Hold your horses! Can you charge your Rav-Kav on the bus or with the driver? Sadly, no can do. In the good ol’ days, it was possible, but now, the drivers are off the hook. No cash transactions or card loading on the bus, folks!

Other Apps

Alright, while the Rav-Kav reigns supreme, let’s not forget an English app called HopOn. Trusty for those who prefer digital delights, this app lets you flash a QR code on the bus, replacing the Rav-Kav card. Whip out your credit card and make payment through the app – easy peasy! But remember, this gem only works with smartphones and requires a bit of data.