Travelling to the Philippines
Before you fly: the practical questions
eTravel, airport pick-up, SIM cards, money, weather and plugs. The answers our guests ask for most before a trip to the Philippines.
Travelling to the Philippines
1. Is there an e-travel form I need to fill out?
Yes. Every traveller, children included, must register on eTravel, the official online arrival form at etravel.gov.ph, within 72 hours before arrival. It is free on the official site, so avoid websites that charge for it. Save the QR code on your phone in case you have no signal when you land. We send you a reminder before your trip.
2. Where is the designated pick-up area at the airport?
Your transfer meets you in the arrivals area once you have cleared immigration, collected your bags and passed customs. The exact meeting point depends on the airport and the terminal, so we send it to you on WhatsApp before you fly, together with your driver's details. If you cannot find each other, message or call our 24/7 line and we will guide you.
3. How will I communicate with the team?
Mostly on WhatsApp, at +63 952 405 0513. Before your trip, our office replies Monday to Saturday, 9:00 to 18:00 Philippine time, and you can also email marc@travelinsidephilippines.com. While you are travelling, the same WhatsApp number is answered 24/7 for anything urgent: a delayed flight, a cancelled boat or a change of plan.
4. What should I do about mobile connectivity?
The simplest option is an eSIM for mobile data, bought before you arrive. Airalo offers eSIMs for the Philippines that you can check and buy on their website. You can also buy a local SIM at the airport; registration with your passport is required by law. Data is good in towns and patchy on boats and remote beaches, so download offline maps before you go.
5. How do I handle currency and payments in the Philippines?
The currency is the Philippine peso (PHP). Cards are accepted in most hotels and many city restaurants, but cash is still essential on the islands for tricycles, small eateries, markets, boat tips and environmental fees. ATMs are easy to find in cities and main towns, but they charge a fee per withdrawal, often limit the amount, and can run dry on small islands at weekends. Withdraw in Manila or Cebu before you fly on, and carry small notes.
6. Where should I exchange my money?
Bring euros, US dollars or dirhams in clean, undamaged notes. Licensed money changers in city shopping malls usually offer better rates than the airport, so change only a small amount on arrival. Avoid changing money on the street. Using a card at ATMs is the main alternative. On small islands, exchange options are limited, so arrive with the pesos you need.
7. What should I know about the weather and clothing?
It is tropical all year: roughly 24°C to 33°C at sea level and humid. December to May is the drier season in most of the west; June to October brings the wet season and most typhoons. Pack light, breathable clothes, swimwear, a long-sleeved rash guard, a hat and reef-safe sunscreen, plus a light rain jacket in the wet months. Bring a warm layer for the mountains (Baguio, Sagada, Banaue) and for chilly air-conditioning, sturdy shoes for treks, and clothes that cover shoulders and knees for churches.
8. What kind of electricity and adapters do I need?
The Philippines uses 220V at 60Hz. Most sockets take flat two-pin plugs (type A), sometimes with a ground pin (type B), and many also accept round two-pin European plugs (type C). Bring a universal adapter. Most phone and laptop chargers work from 100V to 240V, but check hair dryers and other appliances before you plug them in.
Ready to see the Philippines from the inside?
Tell us when you're coming. We'll help design the rest.