Dead Sea Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go
Planning a trip to the Dead Sea? Whether you’re going for the famous salty float or the rejuvenating mud mask, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience but it definitely helps to go in prepared. Here are my personal Dead Sea travel tips, based on my own time there and the valuable lessons I learned the salty way!
1.) Be Prepared for Lots of Steps
This might not be something you think about beforehand but getting to the water’s edge often means heading down a lot of steps. Many of the beaches and resorts are set on cliffs or banks above the shoreline, so accessibility isn’t always simple.
🚨 Top tip: If you or someone in your group needs step-free access, it’s worth calling ahead to check whether the location offers ramps or lifts. Some resort-style beaches are better set up than others.
2.) Make the Most of the Amenities
Most Dead Sea beaches, especially the private resort ones, come with excellent amenities. These include showers, changing rooms, lockers, restaurants, sunbeds, pools and in some cases, full spas.
🌊 Top tip: Don’t rush! Plan to spend a few hours here. Treat it like a spa day: float, rinse, relax, reapply mud, float again. Use the various pools, enjoy the food, and drink plenty of water while you’re at it.
3.) Indulge in the Mud Cleanse
It might look messy (and feel cold going on), but slathering yourself in Dead Sea mud is a must. The minerals in the mud are known for their skin-healing and softening properties, and honestly, your skin will thank you afterwards!
🖤 Top tip: Float for 10-20 minutes first to open your pores and then cover yourself in the dark grey/black mud from head to toe; Let it dry for 15–20 minutes before rinsing it off in the Dead Sea. It’s part skincare, part ritual and completely worth it!
Watch the Video: Dead Sea Tips in Under a Minute
Prefer to see it all in action? I’ve put together a short YouTube video with my top Dead Sea travel tips. It’s quick, visual, and straight to the point!
Dead Sea Survival Tips (Do’s & Don’ts)
Once you’re ready for your salty bathing session, keep these survival tips in mind to make your visit smooth, safe, and enjoyable.
👙 1. Wear an older swimsuit
The salt can stain and fade your swimwear, so avoid wearing anything new or expensive. Dark colours work best (especially if you’re going for a mud mask session too!).
🪒 2. Don’t shave right before visiting
Even the tiniest cuts or nicks will sting like mad in the salty water. Aim to shave at least 24–48 hours beforehand.
👣 3. Protect your feet
The salt crystals and rocky shorelines can be really sharp. Bring water shoes or solid flip-flops to keep your feet safe. I placed mine at the sea edge whilst I was bathing.
🚫 4. Don’t splash or dunk your head
This one’s serious: Getting Dead Sea water in your eyes, nose or mouth is incredibly painful. Always keep your head above water.
🛟 5. Float, don’t swim
You don’t need to do anything fancy. Just lean back gently and let the salt water support you. Trying to “swim” can cause problems and get the water in your eyes.
⏱️ 6. Don’t stay in too long
Aim for a maximum of 20 minutes in the water at a time. Any longer and your skin might start to feel dry or uncomfortable from the salt concentration.
💧 7. Stay hydrated
The combination of intense sun and salty air can dehydrate you quickly. Drink water before, during, and after your float.
📿 8. Leave jewellery and electronics behind
Salt water will ruin anything metal or delicate. Store jewellery and gadgets in lockers or leave them at your accommodation.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Dead Sea Visit Unforgettable
From the surreal floating experience to that glow-up from the mud, the Dead Sea is pure magic, but only if you’re well prepared. Hopefully, these Dead Sea travel tips will help you plan ahead, pack right, and enjoy every salty second of your time there.
View more Jordan travel tips on the Travel Missions YouTube page.
