For more info, see Alternatives to Tourism. When you travel, always carry two or more forms of identification on your person, including at least one photo ID; a passport combined with a driver's license or birth certificate is usually adequate. Many establishments, especially banks, may require several IDs in order to cash traveler's checks. Never carry all your forms of ID together; split them up in case of theft or loss. TEACHER, STUDENT & YOUTH IDENTIFICATION. The International Student Iden- tity Card , the most widely accepted form of student ID, provides discounts on sights, accommodations, food, and transport. The ISIC is preferable to an insti- tution-specific card because it is more likely to be recog- nized and honored abroad. All cardholders have access to a 24hr. emergency helpline for medical, legal, and financial emergencies , and US cardholders are also eligible for insurance benefits . Applicants must be degree- seeking students of a secondary or post-secondary school and must be of at least 12 years of age. Because of the proliferation of fake ISICs, some services require additional proof of student identity, such as a school ID or a letter attesting to your student status, signed by your registrar and stamped with your school seal. The International Teacher Identity Card offers teachers the same insurance coverage as well as similar but limited discounts. To receive an ITIC, you must prove that you're employed at a recognized educational establishment for at least 18 hours per week. For travelers who are 25 years old or under but are not stu- dents, the International Youth Travel Card also offers many of the same benefits as the ISIC. Each of these identity cards costs US$22 or equivalent. ISIC and ITIC cards are valid for roughly one and a half academic years; IYTC cards are valid for one year from the date of issue. Many student travel agencies issue the cards, including STA Travel in Australia and New Zealand; Travel CUTS in Canada; usit in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland; SASTS in South Africa; Campus Travel and STA Travel in the UK; and Council Travel and STA Travel in the US. For a listing of issuing agencies, or for more information, contact the International Stu- dent Travel Confederation , Herengracht 479, 1017 BS Amsterdam, Nether- lands . CUSTOMS Upon entering Israel, you must declare certain items and pay a duty on the value of those articles that exceed the allowance established by Israel's customs service. The following items are prohibited: gambling equipment, illegal drugs, porno- graphic materials, weapons, fresh meat, and plants. It is wise to make a list, includ- ing serial numbers, of any valuables that you carry with you from home; if you register this list with customs before your departure from home and have an offi- cial stamp it, you will avoid import duty charges and ensure an easy passage upon your return. Be especially careful to document items manufactured abroad.