Table of Contents

28 Top Philippines Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Cove in the Philippines
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Jungle hikes, stunning waterfalls, white sand beaches, and some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving are just a few of the incredible experiences the Philippines offers. It’s the perfect destination for any type of traveler, whether you are an adventure seeker, beach lover, looking for some luxury, or on a budget.

It’s also a unique place to pack for, so we’ve created the ultimate Philippines packing list no matter what kind of travel experience you are looking for! We have a section on what to wear in the Philippines, what NOT to bring, and other frequently asked questions.

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What to Pack for Philippines – 28 Essentials

  • 1. Philippines Power Adapter

    Electricity in the Philippines uses 220 volts, so if you want to plug anything into the wall, you will need a power adapter. We recommend purchasing a reliable universal power adapter like this one, as you can use it in nearly every country. It comes with a built-in safety fuse in case of power surges and has a lifetime replacement guarantee!

    Philippines Power Adapter

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

    You can’t drink the tap water in the Philippines, so it’s important to have a water bottle to keep hydrated throughout your trip. We recommend bringing a Grayl water bottle which has a built-in water filter. This will be perfect for hiking, backpacking, and traveling through the Philippines in general, as it will ensure that the water you’re drinking is safe while helping you save money and the environment from single-use plastic water bottles. It filters out harmful bacteria, viruses, sediment, and more.

    Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    Internet freedom is not consistent worldwide. Many Asian countries censor or monitor your internet activities and restrict the use of websites used in your home country, such as Facebook, PayPal, YouTube, and Netflix. With a VPN, your internet use is protected from surveillance and potential hackers, and you are able to access websites from your own country without a problem.

    Anytime you hop on public Wi-Fi networks at cafes, airports, and hotels – you should be on a private network. The Philippines has faced a lot of cybersecurity attacks in recent months, so don’t risk a stolen identity or a drained bank account when you’re meant to be enjoying vacation. I learned this first-hand after having a credit card number stolen in Paris. We like NordVPN because it’s inexpensive and the fastest VPN for streaming. It protects your passwords, financial info, and private data so you can rest easy and enjoy your trip.

    Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    View NordVPN.com Options ➜

  • 4. Neck Wallet

    Whenever we travel, we always make sure to bring a trusty neck wallet to prevent pickpocketing and petty theft. Especially in destinations that are particularly crowded or touristy, it pays to make sure your belongings are secure and safely stowed away beneath your clothes. This neck wallet is amazing because it’s large enough to hold your phone, passport, cash, and credit cards, and has separate pockets to keep you organized. Keep your valuables out of reach from those who may try to take advantage of travelers, it will give you peace of mind and discretion.

    Neck Wallet

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Jet Lag Relief

    If you’re coming from North America, Southeast Asia is a long way from home! You’re sure to feel the effects of jet lag and potentially lose your first day of sightseeing to it if you don’t prepare accordingly. These natural jet lag relief pills are a godsend after a long flight traveling through different time zones. Bring them along to help prevent the exhaustion and sluggishness of jet lag.

    jet lag relief

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Travel Insurance for the Philippines

    Your domestic provider will likely not cover you overseas, and you should always plan for the worst while hoping for the best. Many would argue – if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. There is a reason it’s mandatory in many places, mostly to spare tourists from paying extremely high medical bills out-of-pocket. And for a small cost of your trip, you can insure yourself against delays, theft, trip cancelation, baggage loss, evacuations, medical bills, and more.

    We love to use Faye Travel Insurance because they are changing the entire industry. With a modern approach to reimbursements through their mobile app, they pay you upfront when you need it most (it’s honestly taking me longer to write this than it did to submit a claim!) It’s so nice not to fill out mountains of paperwork or feel daunted by the process, and it’s a great comfort to protect the investment you’ve already made in your trip. Don’t overlook it and end up with major regret.

    Travel Insurance for the Philippines

    Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

  • 7. Packing Cubes

    This is a game-changer when it comes to packing. Coming in a multi-piece set with different colors to choose from, you can easily organize and locate all your clothes for travel. You can label each cube ‘pants, shirts, essentials, etc.’ and easily find what you’re looking for without a suitcase explosion. Bonus points for the two laundry bags that separate your dirty clothes and shoes from your clean items.

    Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO”.

    packing cubes

    Or view them on Amazon.com ➜

  • 8. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    Having your phone die in the middle of a boating excursion or jungle far from any power source can be a real buzzkill. Whether you’re using your device for navigation, photos, or music, you’ll want to make sure you have an external source of power when you need it. This can be a true lifesaver if you’re lost and relying on your phone for directions or finding a particular address; we never travel without one.

    Lipstick-Sized Charger

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Universal Waterproof Phone Case

    In a country surrounded by water in an archipelago, there are few items more useful than a waterproof smartphone case. The Philippines is also renowned for typhoons and torrential downpours during wet season. If you plan on using your phone for navigation, photos, music, and even underwater video, this case will keep your device safe and 100% dry. Use flotation straps to ensure everything floats!

    Universal Waterproof Phone Case

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 10. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    There is nothing more versatile in your packing artillery than this quick-dry travel towel. In a location like the Philippines that encompasses 7,600+ islands – you will get a ton of use out of it since it dries 10x faster than cotton. Use it for beach days, boating excursions, or in more versatile ways like a seat cover, modesty shawl, or packing cushion – the possibilities are endless!

    Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. Luggage Straps

    Baggage loss and mishandling happens more frequently with international flights than domestic, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. These adjustable straps are a vibrant safety net that you can spot from a mile away, and reinforce your zippers to withstand more than 700-pounds of force tension (which you may need with the way bags are handled these days!)

    I love the brightly-colored belts so I immediately know which checked bags are mine at the arrivals terminal. I never have to worry about my suitcase exploding open due to a faulty zipper or lock, and these are TSA-friendly for any random searches.

    luggage straps

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 12. Discounted Tickets on Philippines Tours

    From sunset cruises to underwater rivers, the Philippines is full of magical surprises. Your vacation is the culmination of your experience, so book the most authentic tours in the Philippines. Get Your Guide books through local tourism companies to support the national economy while ensuring YOU are booking top-notch tours. While here, check out the whale-shark sightseeing of Cebu, the hidden beaches of El Nido, the lagoons of Coron, and the volcanos of Manila.

    Discounted Tickets on Philippines Tours

    See all Philippines attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

  • 13. Hanging Toiletry Bag

    Hotels in the Philippines are quite affordable, but bathroom space can be scarce. This hanging toiletry bag will convert any door, hook, towel rack, or shower pole into a mini-shelf organization system. It unfolds to expose 4 giant pockets that hold your hair products, skin-care, makeup, or anything else to maintain your routine, plus 3 external pockets for smaller items like medicine, bobby pins, and jewelry.

    It’s so much easier than juggling and stacking dozens of tiny bottles or trying to hack it with heaps of plastic sackies! The leakproof compartments will ensure you don’t battle with a luggage spill and the stain-resistant material is a necessity. It’s an elegant solution to the common woes of travelers – I promise you’ll be itching to use it any chance you get, even at home!

    hanging toiletry bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. Mosquito-Repelling Wristbands

    In the Philippines, mosquitoes pose the threat of malaria and dengue fever, so it’s important to protect yourself. Be sure to bring along mosquito repellent and some of these handy deet-free mosquito wristbands, which you can slip on your wrist and forget about, as they last for up to 300 hours and are waterproof!

    Mosquito-Repelling Wristbands

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 15. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    In the Philippines, serious downpours can happen when you least expect it. Be prepared with a sturdy travel umbrella and a lightweight rain jacket to keep you dry and comfortable in the inevitable case of rain. This umbrella is ideal because it’s windproof and large enough to fit two people beneath it, which is perfect if you’re traveling with a partner.

    Umbrella

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 16. Activated Charcoal

    Do not travel without activated charcoal! When traveling overseas to unfamiliar places, there’s no doubt you will be tempted to taste all the mouthwatering delicacies your destination has to offer. That said, your body may not be used to the ingredients, spices, and germs you encounter, which could result in more time spent in the bathroom than out exploring. To avoid this, bring along activated charcoal caps which will quickly absorb and expel the toxins from your system, keeping you energized and healthy while abroad.

    Activated Charcoal

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 17. Waterproof Backpack

    In the Philippines, you’re bound to spend time on day trips and island hopping tours, so it’s essential to have a waterproof daypack. This one is amazing because it can comfortably hold all your valuables, such as your phone, cash, camera, passport, books, and more, without you having to worry about them getting wet or damaged. It keeps your belongings safe whether you’re hiking through the rainforest, canyoning down waterfalls, or kayaking in the sea.

    Waterproof Backpack

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 18. TSA-Approved Luggage Lock

    After having items stolen out of our checked luggage, we always attach TSA-approved locks to our bags. You can use these to secure your backpacks and other out-of-sight valuables when exploring crowded places like attractions and transit stations. They’re also great for city lockers.

    TSA-Approved Luggage Lock

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 19. Deodorant Wipes

    Between the monsoon-prone climate, high humidity, and tropical temps – the Philipines can leave you sticky and hot! It’s nice to have these deodorant wipes on hand since they’re pocket-sized and can fit in your wallet. Wipe down your whole body for an on-the-spot refresh. Your future self thanks you.

    Deodorant Wipes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 20. Cooling Towel

    As you explore historic cities, take food tours, and island hop, the direct sun can be fierce! For any warm destination, we bring this cooling towel as a chilly reset. Simply add water and wring it out. The towel will stay 20-30 degrees colder than the outside temperature for up to an hour! When you’re ready for more frosty bliss, just add more water. It’s seriously magical.

    cooling towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 21. Motion Sickness Patches

    If you’re prone to any form of motion sickness (on land or at sea), these motion sickness patches are a wise addition to your packing list. A lot of your days in the Philippines will involve boating excursions, swimming, driving down windy roads, and enjoying the epic landscapes. This will be easier if you keep nausea at bay. Plus, smaller boats don’t have stabilizers which can turn even an experienced sailor green from time to time.

    Motion Sickness Patches

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 22. Rash Guard

    In a destination as wet as the Philippines, you’ll be glad to have a rash guard for daily wear. These are great as they’re quick-drying and comfortable, and can be worn in and out of the water. This type of rash guard also provides sun protection and will cool you down in the hot and humid Philippines. Wear it on a hike through the jungle or on a day spent island hopping; this item is perfect for protection from the elements and remaining comfortable during any activity.

    Rash Guard

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 23. Sand-proof Pocket Blanket

    The Philippines has some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world. Check out Sugar Beach, Coron Bay, Cape Engano, and the Big Lagoon! This pocket blanket is perfect for beach days, picnics, concerts, or whenever you want to sit for a while. It repels sand and is moisture-resistant so you won’t stand up with wet clothes. We love that it folds up into a small carrying pouch, wonderful for travel.

    Sand-proof Pocket Blanket

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 24. Breathable, Mesh Water Shoes

    You won’t regret bringing a good pair of mesh water shoes to the Philippines. Suitable for hikes, kayaking, and water sports, these shoes are super comfy and will keep your feet cool and blister-free. We can’t recommend water shoes more; my hubby loves them so much he wears them out to restaurants in our home on Maui!

    Breathable, Mesh Water Shoes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 25. Swimsuit Cover-Up

    A swimsuit cover-up is great to have in any beach setting, and the Philippines is no exception. You’re sure to spend at least part of your trip jaunting between islands and absorbing all that this stunning country has to offer. A stylish swimsuit cover-up like this one is ideal for throwing on over your bathing suit after a beach day so you’ll feel comfortable walking into a restaurant or cafe.

    Swimsuit Cover-Up

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 26. Affordable Underwater Camera

    Nothing’s better for capturing your incredible experience in the Philippines than a small and affordable waterproof camera. Great for filming exotic sea life such as whale sharks, sea turtles, and giant mantas – a camera like this will be a godsend while scuba diving and snorkeling. It’s also durable, which means it’s not too precious for shooting all your adventure activities, like surfing, ziplining, hiking, cave exploring, and scootering through the cities.

    Camera

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 27. Travel Sheet

    You never know where you may end up falling asleep during international travel – at the airport, a plane, a train, an Airbnb, or a hostel. Even if you’re sleeping in uncomfortable places or with less-than-clean sheets, it’s nice to bring your own sheets and know they are at least sanitary. I’ve slept in some pretty funky places with these, and it feels much more comfortable.

    Travel Sheet

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 28. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

    Don’t we all wish we had packed just ONE more bag? This “just in case” bag is your solution for the shopping you did during your travels. With a duffle-like material, it weighs virtually nothing when empty. But for the return flight home, it can count as your personal item and be filled with authentic Philippino goodies like pearls, spices, coffee, art, leather goods, and more.

    Packable “Just in Case” Bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

What to wear in the Philippines?

The Philippines is a tropical climate so you want to wear light, breathable clothing. It can cool down in the evenings though so a light sweater and a pair of pants are good to have on hand.

Beach towns are spread across the Philippine islands with a relaxed and casual atmosphere so flip flops, shorts, tees, tanks, beach dresses and bikinis are the norm.

You’ll get a lot of sun in the Philippines so make sure to protect yourself from sunburn and heatstroke. Pack plenty of sunscreens, a hat, and sunglasses.

If you are looking for a trip that goes beyond staying in a resort, you’ll want to pack some comfortable and sturdy shoes. There’s a lot of great hiking routes filled with rice patties, jungles, and waterfalls so shoes are necessary. Also, if you are planning to get around by scooter, shoes are the best way to go.

The Philippines has an abundance of marine life with opportunities to go snorkeling with sea turtles and spotting whale sharks while scuba diving so you’ll want to have water gear. A snorkel, mask, and GoPro are the basic essentials to bring. Also, many areas have sea urchins around and other things that may hurt your feet so it’s good to wear water shoes.

Lastly, torrential downpours can occur between June to September so it’s good to have a light rain jacket and umbrella.

Packing for the Seasons in Philippines

DRY SEASON: November, December, January, February, March, April, May

January and February are the coolest months and May is the hottest month. Make sure to pack light-colored and breathable clothing. You’ll get lots of sunshine so also bring sunscreen and a hat. The dry season average ranges from a low of 75°F to a high of 88°F.

RAINY SEASON: June, July, August, September, October

Don’t be afraid to visit during this time though because the weather can still be hot and sunny during the day with short downpours normally occurring at dusk. During the rainy season bring a light rain jacket and umbrella. It can get very humid so you will want quick-dry clothing to keep you cool and comfortable. The wet season average ranges from a low of 79°F to a high of 88°F.

What NOT to take to the Philippines

  • 1.DON’T ARRIVE with a one-way ticket

    In the Philippines, you may not enter without proof of onward travel. Without proof, you may not even be able to board your flight.

  • 2.DON’T BRING a suitcase

    The Philippines is not full of paved and smoothe sidewalks like Europe. Instead, there may not even be a sidewalk and/or bumpy, unpaved roads. The best way to travel in the Philippines and the rest of South East Asia is with a backpack.

  • 3.DON’T PACK too many clothes

    You’ll be carrying everything on your back so make things easier for yourself and pack light. Packing cubes will be a great help to stop you from overpacking.

  • 4.DON’T TAKE anything valuable

    Theft does happen so leave your nice jewelry at home where it will be safe.

  • 5.DON’T PACK soap and shampoo bottles

    This only weighs down your luggage. You can easily purchase these items in grocery stores and pharmacies.

  • 6.DON’T BRING lots of makeup

    It’s a tropical climate and you don’t want your face to be melting off! Take a hint from the locals and keep minimal.

FAQs about travel in the Phillippines

  • 1. Why visit the Philippines?

    With over 7,000 islands there’s plenty of things to see and do in the Philippines. Best of all the locals are very friendly and welcoming to their country.

  • 2. Are the Philippines safe for travelers?

    The majority of the Philippines is a welcoming place for tourists with minimal danger. Currently, the biggest risk is terrorism which is limited to a small area of the Phillippines in the areas of Mindanao, the Zamboanga Peninsula, and the Sulu Archipelago which is very dangerous. To get up to date information on the Philippines, check your local government travel advisory and sign up for e-mail alerts which will be sent to you if there’s anything you should be aware of during your trip.

  • 3. Do I need a visa?

    Many countries including the United States, Canada, the UK and Australia are allowed free entry into the Phillippines for 30 days without a visa. If you are planning to stay longer, you can extend a tourist visa for a fee. All you need to bring is a passport valid for 6+ months and an onward ticket.

  • 4. What immunizations do I need?

    Visit a travel clinic at least six to eight weeks before your trip for full information on the specific vaccinations you will need. It often takes a couple weeks for the vaccination to provide full immunity so this is why you need to go far in advance. The only required vaccination is yellow fever if you’ve visited a country that is in a yellow fever zone, six days or less prior to entering the Philippines. Other common vaccines to get include Diptheria, Tetanus & Polio and Hepatitis B but it is important to consult with a doctor who can properly determine what vaccines you need specific to your trip.

  • 5. When is the best time to visit?

    High season runs from December to April when there is little rain and cooler temperatures. Prices are at its peak though where resorts can cost 3X especially at Christmas, New Year, and Easter. Low season with the cheapest prices are June to September but there is a risk of passing typhoons. The shoulder season is in May and November with a hotter climate and some rain but prices are much cheaper.

  • 6. Where should I go?

    If you want a beach vacation with little worries and no fuss, you may want to stick to the resorts on Boracay. If you are looking for adventure, check out the unique geological formations and world’s smallest primate on Bohol. For island hopping tours, abundant sea life with a backdrop of limestone cliffs, visit El Nido. Lastly, for stunning rice terraces visit Banaue.

  • 7. Can I drink the water?

    Drinking tap water can cause you to have stomach problems and should be avoided. However, you can use it to brush your teeth and wash dishes. Most accommodations will have a water filling station so bring a water bottle with you.

  • 8. Should I learn some phrases in Tagalog?

    Tagalog and English are the official languages so it’s very easy to communicate with the locals. Filipino’s will appreciate it though if you learn a few phrases like Salamat (Thank you), Magkano? (How much?), Magandang araw (Good day) and Paalam (Goodbye).

  • 9. How can I get around?

    For an authentic experience in the cities and towns, ride a jeepney which is the most popular mode of transportation amongst locals. After WWII, the surplus of American jeeps was converted into colorful transportation for Filipinos. Scooter rentals are also widely available. If you are looking to travel between islands, you can find a few great budget airlines or boats (known as bangkas) and ferries to get around.

  • 10. How much money and what currency should I bring?

    The currency used in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso. ATMs are available in major cities but often difficult to find on less touristy islands so it is good to have cash. One of the best things about traveling to the Philippines is how cheap it is compared to many other countries including those in South East Asia. If you are a budget traveler you can easily get by with $35 a day. A mid-range budget will between $35-$100/day and luxury travelers expect to spend $100+ every day.