Packing for the Philippines is mostly about the sun, the sea and small planes. Pack light, in a soft bag, and bring a few things that are hard to find on the islands.
Clothes
- Light, breathable clothes in cotton or linen. It is warm all year.
- Swimwear, plus a rash guard for long boat and snorkelling days.
- A light layer for air-conditioned planes, buses and restaurants, and for the mountains in Banaue, Sagada or Tagaytay, where evenings are cool.
- Something modest that covers shoulders and knees for churches and mosques.
- A light rain jacket in the wet season (June to October).
Shoes
Sandals, water shoes for rocky beaches and boat landings, and light trainers or walking shoes for waterfalls and hikes. Leave heavy boots at home unless you plan serious trekking.
Sea and sun
- Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. The sun is strong, even when it is cloudy.
- A dry bag for phones and cameras on boat days.
- A snorkel mask if you prefer your own; masks are also available locally.
- After-sun or aloe vera.
Health
Mosquito repellent, a basic first-aid kit, motion-sickness tablets for boats, your usual medicines with prescriptions, and rehydration salts. Hand sanitiser and tissues are useful in small places.
Electronics
The Philippines uses 220V at 60Hz with plug types A, B and C. A universal adapter covers all of them. Bring a power bank for long travel days, a waterproof phone pouch, and download offline maps before you go.
Documents
Passport valid for at least six months, the eTravel registration completed before arrival, printed or offline copies of bookings, and your travel insurance details (included with every trip we plan).
Bag and weight
Small planes have lower baggage allowances, so a soft duffel or backpack is easier than a large hard suitcase. If you bring dive or surf equipment, tell us before we book flights.
What to leave at home
Heavy jeans, lots of shoes, expensive jewellery and anything you would hate to get wet. Laundry services are cheap and fast in most towns, so you can pack for a week even on a three-week trip.
