General Travel Tips

• Time Your Visit:
  • The high season for tourism is from November to April, which offers the most pleasant weather for exploring both heritage sites and natural attractions.
  • The Philippines is a tropical country, and the hotter, drier months (85 degrees F and up) are March through June.
  • The cooler season runs from November to February, when it remains at around 78 degrees F.
  • July through October brings the potential for typhoons.
  • The further south you go, the more humid the weather gets, and rain showers are likely regardless of the season.
• Plan Ahead: Research and check flight and ferry schedules in advance, as these may vary due to unexpected weather changes.
• Consider booking your tours or accommodations ahead to ensure availability.
• You might want to purchase travel insurance before heading out on your Philippine adventure.
• Check with your origin country for the latest information on any current travel advisories.
• As with travel to any foreign region, make sure to remain mindful of personal safety at all times.

Currency

• The Philippine Peso is the official currency of the Philippines. Each peso consists of 100 centavos. Bills and coins are used in the Philippines.
• It’s easy to exchange money at a shopping mall, and traveler’s checks are usually accepted for money exchange.
• ATMs are readily available in the major cities, but if you’re traveling to smaller islands or more remote areas, it’s a good idea to stock up on cash before your arrival.
• Credit cards are accepted in the bigger cities and more populated beach areas.
• Keep some small change for paying tips and public transport fare.

Connectivity and Navigation

• SIM Cards: Grab a local SIM (Smart or Globe) for better coverage. Data is essential for maps and bookings.
• Offline Maps: Download Google Maps or equivalent, especially useful for areas with weak signal.

Transportation

• Island transfers often involve ferries or small planes—build buffer days into your itinerary in case of unexpected weather changes.
• If planning a day trip or long rural travel, start early to maximize daylight hours.
• The public buses and jeepneys are convenient but may require waiting and multiple transfers.
• Driving your own vehicle or private hire car/taxi can be more ccomfortable but watch for traffic, especially on weekends or holidays.
• Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to track progress, especially during jeepney rides.
• An alternative is to use ride-hailing apps whenever available. For details see this page.
• If renting a vehicle, check with your accommodation for recommended drivers and operators. Most locals are helpful if you ask for assistance.

Language, Culture and Local Etiquette

• Filipino ( Tagalog ) and English are the official languages of the Philippines — but the Philippines is an ethnically diverse country (and was a Spanish colony for 300 years), so more than 150 languages are spoken in the region.
• The dominant religion in Luzon and the Visayas is Catholicism, while majority of the population in the Bangsamoro Region in Mindanao practice Islam.
• Many churches and mosques were built centuries ago, most of which still remain active places of worship. These structures add to the historical and religious heritage of the country.
• Respect Sacred Sites: Dress modestly and follow local customs, especially in indigenous or religious areas.
• Learning basic phrases like “Salamat” (thank you) and “Magandang araw” (good day) can go a long way in building rapport.
• It is also considered polite to use the words “Po” and “Opo” as a sign of respect for elders, as well as using familial terms like Tito/Tita (for Uncle/Aunt), Lolo/Lola (for grandfather/grandmother), and Kuya/Ate (for older brother/sister).
• Always be friendly and wave back at anyone who waves at you.

Packing Essentials

• Bring lightweight and comfortable weather-appropriate attire, like loose-fitting tops and shorts for the warm lowlands, along with layered clothing for the cooler uplands.
• Bring lightweight and comfortable weather-appropriate footwear, such as sneakers or sandals if you intend to go hiking, and aqua shoes for any water activities you have planned.
• Ensure to pack swimwear, and optionally a waterproof camera, if you plan on heading to the beach or doing any boating or diving.
• A waterproof bag can be helpful for protecting gear that must remain dry during island-hopping boat excursions, like phones, cameras, wallets, keys and other items.
• A pair of sunglasses, along with rain gear or a compact foldable umbrella, is essential for unpredictable weather.
• Reef-safe sun protection and a mosquito repellent are must-have items in a tropical environment.

Sustainable Travel

• Do not purchase travel-sized toiletries in plastic bottles. Instead, use refillable containers or look for packaging-free alternatives, like shampoo bars. You can also find multi-use products, like Castile soaps, that can be used for washing your hair, body, and even clothing.
• It always helps to bring your own reusable bag or bag-for-life along with your backpack to prevent additional plastic waste.
• Always use eco-friendly gear like reusable water bottles and utensils whenever possible to help reduce travel waste.
• Consider donating your leftover currency at the end of your trip to a local charity dedicated to cleaning beaches or preserving wildlife.

Food and Safety

• Eat Local, Stay Safe: Try regional dishes but stick to bottled water and freshly cooked meals in rural zones.
• Tipping Culture: Not mandatory, but appreciated—₱20–₱50 for guides or drivers is a kind gesture.
• Filipinos are generally friendly and hospitable, but still avoid walking alone whenever possible, particularly at night in remote areas.
• Keep your belongings, especially valuables, close to you in crowded areas. Although seldom, some misfits may take advantage of unwary tourists.

Family-Friendly Add-ons

• Check Accessibility: Not all eco-sites are stroller-friendly—look for paved paths or inquire ahead.
• Bring Essentials: Wet wipes, snacks, and small bills make family travel smoother.