THE PHILIPPINES PACKING LIST: WHAT TO PACK AND WHY

The Philippines is my favorite country in the world! And if you’re reading this now, it’s about to be yours too. If you’re looking to adventure, go cliff jumping, snorkeling, and waterfall hunting I’ve got you covered. This is the Ultimate Philippines Packing list to prepare you for your adventures throughout the 7,500 islands that make up the Philippines.

THE ULTIMATE PHILIPPINES PACKING LIST

Here’s everything you didn’t know you needed to make the most of your trip to the Philippines. First, I’ll include a list of items to prepare you for your vacation. At the end of the blog post, is a complete Philippines Packing Checklist to ensure you don’t miss any important items.

Reef Safe Sunscreen

While not officially banned in the Philippines, sunscreens containing Oxybenzone and Octinoxate cause damage to marine environments. Their continued use endangers the fragile coral reefs of the Philippines. In other words, opt to pack in reef-safe options to minimize your impact on the local environment.

Non-nano Zinc Oxide sunblock provides effective protection without risking absorption into your bloodstream, making it the safest option for you and the environment. Raw Elements Face + Body SPF 30 delivers 80 minutes of waterproof sun protection, and my favorite reef-safe option for the face is SuperGoop’s Unseen Screen.

Waterproof Phone Case

With island-hopping, waterfalls, and world-class beaches, chances are you’ll have your phone with you near the water. Many smartphones are advertised as water-resistant these days, but water-resistant is far from waterproof. Consequently, a waterlogged phone is the most easily preventable way to ruin a trip to the Philippines.

Save yourself the trouble and invest in a waterproof phone pouch like this. Or, if you want to turn your phone into an underwater camera rig, the Axis GO is a great investment. 

Bug Spray

Mosquitos run rampant in the hot, humid climate of the Philippines. Pesky tropical mosquitos love to hang around same places you do, like palm trees, lagoons, villa pools, and pretty much anywhere else you’ll find water.

While Malaria and Zika are rare in the country, Dengue is common. If you plan to visit, it’d be best to pack an effective Deet-free mosquito repellant like this one. If you want full coverage, here’s an alternative with Deet.

Water Shoes

Water shoes are a great way to explore the Philippines. Firstly, they prevent cutting up your feet on the volcanic rock that often accompanies its white sandy beaches. They also protect your feet from sea urchin stings and accidental coral abrasions. Secondly, they can also protect your feet against hot, midday sand, and provide traction on muddy waterfall trails. These Xero Water Shoes tick all the boxes, with these NRS Water Shoes offering a slightly more cost-effective option.

Dry Bag

An easy way to ensure all your electronics and valuables stay dry, traveling to an island without one seems negligent. If you plan to do any island-hopping, waterfall, or boat tours, a dry bag is highly recommended.

If you’re visiting during shoulder-season or the monsoon, a dry bag might be necessary to keep your electronics safe during sudden downpours. Either way, make sure one of these options makes its way into your packing list!

This dry bag is large enough to fit all your valuables and includes backpack straps for easy carry. For a more minimal approach, this Sea to Summit Dry Bag provides 5 liters of protection at a more budget-friendly price.

Travel Day Pack

Also known as the carry-on pretending to be a personal item, few people travel to the Philippines without one. A pack like this can comfortably carry your laptop, water, snacks, and a change of clothes for your long-haul flight to Manila. It also doubles as an adventure bag for your island hopping tours and waterfall hikes. In conclusion, it’s an item that shouldn’t be left at home.

Underwater Camera

While we’re on electronics, let’s talk about underwater cameras. With so many picture-perfect beaches, waterfalls, and underwater activities to offer, having a waterproof camera on hand is always a good call. For this, the GoPro Hero 10 is my top recommendation. With HyperSmooth available in 4K resolution and slow motion, shaky, dull vacation footage is a thing of the past.

Dome Port

If you don’t opt for the Axis GO phone housing, I’d highly recommend a cheap dome port attachment for your GoPro. While a bit bulky, these make for awesome over-under shots. The double handles also help keep your underwater footage stable. Certainly, if there’s any time to use a dome port, it’s in the Philippines.

Selfie Stick

Need I say more? Pack yourself a selfie stick robust enough to handle the hard impact of the Philippines’ best cliff jumping spots, and long enough to get the whole crew in the shot. Don’t be ashamed of using your selfie stick. They capture some of the best and most engaging angles.

I use the Sandmarc GoPro Pole for a few reasons. Firstly the Sandmarc pole is longer than the default GoPro stick. Second, it doesn’t have a three-arm bend. Most importantly, it’s built for holding out during a cliff jump, on a moped – it doesn’t bend or need adjusting. Just whip it out, get the shot, and put it away before anyone notices!

Reusable Water Bottle

Being on a tropical island shouldn’t be the only time you’re eco-conscious, but it can be a great reminder. Help keep the Philippines clean by opting out of plastic water bottles, and carrying a refillable Hydroflask instead.

Insulated and built to last, this is the bottle for all your adventures. Moreover, most bars and restaurants will happily fill a reusable bottle. If not, you can use the next item in my list to filter your water.

Grayl GeoPress Water Filter

I’ve used this for the past three years while traveling to some of the most remote and raw places in the world, and have never gotten sick. It filters your water with one 8 second press. In addition, you can drink directly from it once it’s been filtered. As a result, you could never buy a plastic water bottle again!

Travel Adapter

You should never travel without a travel adapter, even if you’re visiting a country with the same plug-in points. Being stuck during a layover with dead electronics is a drag. This universal travel adapter includes 2 USB ports to allow multi-device charging, as well as covering over 150 countries. It’s a lightweight and convenient way to improve your travel kit for a couple of bucks, and certainly shouldn’t be overlooked.

Power Bank

I’ve been using Anker power banks for years and highly recommend them for a few reasons. Firstly, this model features dual-USB ports to allow multi-device charging. Secondly, it comes with a massive storage capacity, which can be more useful than you know. It’s great to have during the power outages that sometimes sweep through the Philippines, for example.

Light Rain Jacket

A lightweight rain jacket is a very handy addition to your adventure backpack. The Philippines is known for its great weather but it’s pretty common for there to be a short burst of rain each day. From the late night moped rides, to protection from torrential downpours or waterfall spray, you’ll be happy to have one of these in your bag.

Travel Towel

Never underestimate the need for a lightweight travel towel – especially in a place like the Philippines. Having a microfiber towel on hand can be the difference between shivering through a boat ride or enjoying a sunset cruise. These microfiber travel towels pack very small and easily fit in your day pack or beach bag.

Crushable Sun Hat

The Philippines is way too close to the equator to not pack a hat. Whether it’s a baseball cap, a hiking hat like this one, or a wide-brimmed sun hat, make sure it’s in your suitcase. A crushable hat is a travel-friendly option that doubles as a fashion accessory.

Leave-In Hair Conditioner

If you’ve got long hair and are planning to spend time in the water, I’d recommend taking good care of your hair. My girlfriend worked on a dive boat and swore by this leave-in conditioner to keep her hair healthy despite the salt water and sun day after day. Stream to Sea includes eco-conscious packaging and natural, reef-safe ingredients for guilt-free care.

Packing Cubes

Declutter your suitcase and invest in some packing cubes. This packing set can keep help separate your electronics from your swimwear, activewear, and resort casual outfits. Personally, I love packing cubes as they’re the closest thing to having a wardrobe and chest of drawers on the road.

Money Belt

While the Philippines is generally known as a very safe and travel-friendly destination, I always recommend carrying the next two items on the list. First up, is the money belt. This is a sleek redesign of the travel fanny pack and hides seamlessly under a shirt. The silk fabric makes it cool and comfortable to wear, and an elastic waistband leaves plenty of room for chicken adobo and pancit.

Sarongs / Beach Cover Ups

While not necessary for modesty (the Philippines is pretty open in most places), having a quick coverup or sarong handy is great for ladies. If you’re feeling a bit extra, my girlfriend loves this white beach wrap.

Passport Wallet

I’ve been keeping my travel documents and bank cards in my passport wallet for the past 6 years, and have never had an issue – unlike some of my friends randomly losing passports and atm cards. With vaccine cards to add to the list of travel requirements, having a place to store all your documents is needed peace of mind. Therefore, I always recommend a passport wallet.

Philippines Packing Checklist

Aside from the highly-recommended items above, here is a complete Philippines Packing Checklist so you can start packing for your island vacation:

Clothing:

• Breathable t-shirts (2-3 pairs)
• Quick-dry shorts (1-2 pairs)
• 1 pair of full-length pants
• Long-sleeved outer layer
• Rain jacket
• Light puffy jacket (if hiking in the mountains)
• Workout clothes for hikes & adventures
• Bathing suits/ board-shorts (always have spare while used pairs dry)
• Beach cover-ups & sundresses for women
• Long-sleeved button-up shirts for men (Resort casual is enough to get you into most places)
• 1 dressier outfit if going out in Manila, Cebu, or upscale bars
• Underwear

Footwear:

• Hiking/walking shoes
• Flip flops
• Water shoes (optional but recommended)
• 1 dressier shoe (some nightclubs require for entry)
• Socks

Toiletries:

• Sunscreen
• Lip balm (SPF)
• First-aid kit
• Prescription medication
• Insect repellent
• Lotion (local products often contain whitening agents)
• Feminine hygiene products (tampons can be hard to come by in remote areas)
• Toothbrush
• Travel-sized versions of your favorite toiletries:
  • Deodorant
  • Toothpaste
  • Shampoo & conditioner (optional if hotel/local products suffice for you)

Electronics

• Phone
• Camera(s)
• Headphones
• Tablet/Kindle
• Power bank
• Travel Adapter
• Charging cables
• Memory cards
• Spare batteries

Miscellaneous

• Sunhat
• Sunglasses
• Backpack or bag for daily adventures
• Reusable water bottle / water filter
• Packing cubes
• Dry bag
• Money belt
• Passport wallet
• A good book

Final Thoughts

There it is, the most extensive Philippines Packing List. Have a blast, enjoy the raging waterfalls and be sure to send it off a few wild cliff jumps for me. P.S Don’t forget to wear a helmet on the moped.

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