Backpacking Philippines: The Complete No-Fluff Guide for 2026

Dreaming about a trip to the Philippines but not quite sure where to begin? You are not alone. With over 3,000 islands to pick from and such a mix of landscapes, planning a backpacking trip around the Philippines can feel a little confusing at first.

That’s why we’ve put this guide together, to help you plan your backpacking in the Philippines trip with confidence, even if you are travelling solo.

Inside, you’ll find everything you need, from choosing a route that fits your time and budget to the do’s and don’ts of travelling in the Philippines. Take a look through what we share before you start creating your backpacking packing list for the Philippines, and you’ll be off to a great start.

The Philippines has lots of islands to discover. Photo by HWL Photos - stock.adobe.com

Is The Philippines Good For Backpacking?

Yes, if you love beaches, boat trips, diving, snorkelling, waterfalls and relaxed island days. The Philippines does a few things better than almost anywhere in Southeast Asia:

• Beaches and water. The underwater world around Tubbataha, Moalboal, Apo Island, and the Visayas generally is world-class. At Moalboal, viewing sardine balls doesn't even require a boat or tour.

• Islands with actual character. Siargao for surf and slow days, Palawan for dramatic karst coastline, Bohol for a completely different landscape, Batanes in the north for wind-battered beauty that looks nothing like the rest of the country.

• The people. Consistently, genuinely warm. The ease of conversation and the openness of locals is something travellers mention repeatedly.

• Cost of diving. Relative to the quality of the sites, it remains one of the better-value places to dive in the world.

But it is not the easiest country for fast travel. Ferries can be slow, flights can become expensive, weather can change plans, and you need more buffer time than you might expect.

Getting Around Will Cost You More Than You Think

This is the one that catches most people off guard. The Philippines is a group of over 3,000 islands, and getting around is harder than in other Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam or Malaysia, where frequent and cheap buses shuttle thousands of tourists between cities each day.

There are no land borders here, no overnight buses connecting island to island. Your options are ferries or flights.

If you're coming from somewhere like Vietnam or Cambodia and you're used to covering a lot of ground in two weeks, reconsider. Pick fewer islands and go deeper into each one to spend less and see more.

Thus, Watch Out for Baggage Fees

The two budget carriers you'll use most are Cebu Pacific and AirAsia. Both fly the main routes (Manila to Cebu, Cebu to Palawan, Manila to Siargao) and both price their base fares attractively. 

The catch is the luggage.

Both Cebu Pacific and AirAsia operate on a no-frills model: Go Basic and Economy Supersaver fares include zero free checked baggage. Adding a 20kg checked bag on Cebu Pacific runs roughly ₱340–₱700 prepaid for domestic routes.

Do that across four or five island hops, and the baggage fees start to rival the cost of the ticket. This is where backpackers who pack with the right bag win.

CabinZero backpacks are built specifically for this: cabin-sized bags that fit in the overhead locker mean no checked luggage fees on any of those flights.

Light enough that the weight doesn't punish you on long travel days. Durable enough to go island to island without babying.

Plus, with the right adventure backpack, it’s easy to hop from one island to another and do some light hiking without repacking your whole luggage.

Philippines Quick Facts for Backpackers

This brief overview will help you better understand the country. And you will feel like the process of planning your trip is not so difficult after all.

Step 1: Planning Your Philippines Backpacking Route

The Philippines is made up of thousands of islands scattered from north to south, with a landscape that is mostly mountainous and shaped by volcanoes. Because of this, it is not the kind of country you can travel through in one straight journey. Without a well-thought-out route, it is easy to lose time, energy and money along the way.

Below, we share a few route ideas that are realistic, accessible and still give you a couple of amazing experiences.

Option 1: Palawan (Ideal for 2 Weeks)

Palawan is actually a large island group and also the name of the province it belongs to. The majority of travellers focus on three main areas here: Coron, El Nido and the Puerto Princesa Underground River.

The crystal-clear turquoise waters in El Nido, Palawan. Photo by kbarzycki on Adobe Stock

We have been fortunate enough to visit some of the most beautiful beaches around the world, but the water in Coron and El Nido, Palawan, is something special. Palawan is a great destination for first-time backpackers who want to see the Philippines in its natural state.

Getting to Palawan is straightforward. You can fly domestically from Manila or Cebu to one of the local airports: Puerto Princesa (PPS), El Nido (ENI) or Coron (USU).

Even though El Nido and Coron are both in Palawan, there are no roads connecting the two. The most practical way to get from one place to another is by ferry, which takes longer but is cheaper, or a short flight.

If you are travelling from the UK, simply fly from London to Manila. Then, follow a Palawan itinerary (Coron, El Nido), starting in Coron and finishing your trip in Puerto Princesa.

Days 1 to 4: Coron Town on Busuanga Island

• Arrive at Coron Airport and settle into eco-friendly floating huts just outside Coron town. Take some time to slow down and enjoy the views over the water.

• Join an island-hopping tour to visit some of Palawan’s most well-known spots, including Kayangan Lake, CYC Beach, Las Islas de Coral and Sunset Beach.

• Spend one afternoon climbing Mount Tapyas and watch the sun set over Coron town.

• Hire a scooter or ride a tricycle to explore the nearby areas, with stops at Cabo Beach and Concepcion Falls.

Days 5 to 8: Enjoying El Nido

• Travel by fast boat from Coron to El Nido. The trip takes around five hours.

• Go on an island-hopping trip in El Nido. There are several options to choose from, widely known as El Nido island hopping tours (Tour A, B, C, D).

• Book a shuttle van from your hotel in El Nido town to Nacpan Beach. Swim and relax on the beach. Stay until sunset, as this is when the beach comes alive with a few nearby bars.

• Get an early start to climb up to the top of Taraw Cliff. The views of Bacuit Bay and El Nido town from the top of the cliff are well worth the climb.

• Rent a tricycle to get to Ille Cave in the New Ibajay area. From there, head to Makinit Saltwater Hot Springs for a soak at the end of the day.

Days 9 to 11: Heading to Port Barton (between El Nido and Puerto Princesa)

• From El Nido, take a RORO minibus to Roxas and then a jeepney to Port Barton.

• Discover nearby islands such as German Island, Paradise Island, Cagnipa Island, and a few other small islands in the area.

• From Itaytay Beach in the heart of Port Barton town, take a boat taxi to Coconut Beach, where people can swim and have lunch at a small jungle bar. From there, head a little north to White Beach.

Days 12 to 14: Expedition to Puerto Princesa

• Take a bus from the new Port Barton Bus Terminal to San Isidro Bus Garage, which is five kilometres from the city centre.

• Allocate most of your day to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The boat ride through the underground river, surrounded by huge limestone caves, is the real highlight.

• Spend some time at the Butterfly Eco Garden, which is dedicated to responsible and educational exhibits on insects and reptiles. Then, visit the nearby Tribal Village to learn more about the lifestyle of Palawan’s indigenous tribes.

• End your Palawan adventure with a walk along Rizal Avenue, a leisurely way to wrap up your backpacking Philippines trip. Pick up some souvenirs and try local dishes such as tamilok, crocodile sisig, and inasal grilled chicken before leaving.

Entrance to the cave leading to the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Photo by tasha on Adobe Stock

Option 2: Visayas (Ideal for 2 Weeks)

The Visayas Islands technically refer to one of the three main geographical locations in the Philippines, along with Luzon in the north and Mindanao in the south.

A quick look at a map will reveal that Visayas is surrounded by the Visayan Sea. The main islands in this region include Panay, Negros, Leyte, and Samar, as well as the famous travel destinations like Cebu and Bohol.

Whilst Palawan offers a lot of nature and peaceful lagoons, the Visayas have their own unique appeal for us. It offers a mix of sea adventures and local culture, along with a more vibrant atmosphere.

You will find Instagram-worthy beaches like Boracay, historic sites with colonial influences in Cebu, and some local festivals like Sinulog and Ati Atihan.

Below is a simple Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor itinerary for two weeks in the Visayas, to help you plan your time in the region.

Days 1 to 2: Arrival in Cebu City

• Fly into Cebu on a flight to Mactan Cebu International Airport.

• Visit the Basilica del Santo Niño, the oldest Catholic church in the Philippines and the location of the famous Santo Niño statue. Next, head to Fort San Pedro, a small military fort that was constructed in the Spanish colonial period.

• Spend the evening walking along Magallanes Street to get a feel for the nightlife in Cebu and do a bit of casual shopping.

Days 3 to 5: Exploring Moalboal, Cebu

• From Cebu City, take a direct bus from the Cebu South Bus Terminal to Moalboal (roughly three hours).

• Go snorkelling at Panagsama Beach to see the sardine run. You may join a tour or do it by yourself. 

• Take a day trip to Kawasan Falls in Badian. Swim in the main pools and, if you are up for it, try canyoneering along the river.

• Visit Pescador Island for snorkelling, where you can spot sea turtles, coral reefs and a few underwater caves. Spend the afternoon relaxing at Basdaku/White Beach.

The cascading waterfalls in Siquijor are simply stunning. Photo by HWL Photos on Adobe Stock

Days 6 to 9: Going to Siquijor

• Travel from Moalboal to Siquijor via Dumaguete: Ride a bus from Moalboal to Bato, then take a tricycle to Liloan Port. After that, take a ferry to Sibulan Port, then take another tricycle to Dumaguete Port. Finally, take a ferry to Siquijor Island. The whole trip will take about five hours.

• Rent a scooter to explore the island. First stop: the 400-year-old Balete Tree; next stop: Cambugahay Falls to swim and play on the rope swings over the water.

• Relax for a bit at Salagdoong Beach in the east of Siquijor, which is famous for its cliff jumping spots. Then head to Tulapos Marine Sanctuary for some snorkelling to see the colourful coral and marine life.

• Chill out at Paliton Beach (near the tourist hub of San Juan). Get yourself a drink, some light food from any of the bars on the beach, and watch the sun set over the ocean.

Days 10 to 13: Adventures in Bohol (Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers)

• From Larena Port in Siquijor, take a ferry to Tagbilaran City in Bohol (about an hour and a half).

• Stay at Panglao Island and proceed to Alona Beach, which is the unmissable beach in Panglao.

• Go on a day tour to see the Chocolate Hills in Carmen and the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Canapanapan to see these tiny animals in their natural surroundings.

• Head out to Balicasag Island to see dolphins and sea turtles while snorkelling. After this, take a short ferry ride to the Virgin Islands for a quiet afternoon by the sea.

Day 14: Back to Cebu and Departure

• Take a ferry from Tagbilaran Port to Cebu Port, which is conveniently situated near the Cebu airport.

For 3+ Weeks: Combine the 2 island groups

We really think that three weeks or more is the ideal amount of time that backpackers can use to see the Philippines at a leisurely pace. If you have that much time, our first and strongest recommendation is to combine the island groups of Palawan and the Visayas in one Philippines backpacking route.

The good news is that it does not take too long to get from Palawan to Cebu. All it takes ia a one-and-a-half-hour flight with Cebu Pacific from Puerto Princesa to Cebu.

If you start your journey in Palawan, a nice way to divide your time is to spend 4 days in the town of Coron, followed by 4 to 5 days in El Nido.

After that, move on to the Visayas with around 4 days in Moalboal, another 4 days in Siquijor, and end with a quick side trip to Bohol for 3 to 4 days.

Step 2: Setting Your Daily Budget

Tourist inns in Siquijor usually cost between 800 and 2,500 PHP per night. Photo by jerdad on Adobe Stock

One habit that we always stick to when we travel is keeping a record of all our expenses, from accommodation and transport to main meals, snacks and activities. So, if you are wondering “How much does it cost to backpack the Philippines?”, then the figures below should help you work out a realistic daily budget.

Accommodation

Average daily cost: around 1,000 to 1,200 PHP

The Philippines is, generally, a bit more expensive compared to some of its neighbouring countries like Vietnam or Cambodia.

However, it is still possible to find pleasant and affordable accommodations. The amount you spend on places to stay really depends on your travel style and preferences.

We spent an average of 1,200 PHP (roughly 20 USD or 15 GBP) on accommodations each night during our stay. This included a combination of small guesthouses and hostels in the Philippines.

And we always kept things simple: a clean room, a quiet ambience perfect for a good night’s rest, and a strategic location close to ferry ports.

To give you a better sense, here are the cost estimate for each night in various locations:

• Tourist inn in Siquijor: 800 PHP

• Eco lodge in Loboc, Bohol: 1,500 PHP

• Guesthouse room in Puerto Princesa: 700 PHP

• Hotel room in El Nido: 800 PHP

• Guesthouse room in El Nido: 1,000 PHP

• Guesthouse room in Busuanga: 600 PHP

Food

Average daily cost: from 800 to 1,000 PHP per person

For us, Filipino food was more than enough to keep us full and happy throughout the day without breaking the bank.

This is especially true if you eat the way locals do. At small neighbourhood eateries (carinderias), you usually get rice with pork, chicken, grilled fish and vegetables. And a meal like this typically costs between 100 and 200 PHP.

If you feel like trying something different, simply head to a mid-range restaurant, where prices are a bit higher. Meals with more variety, such as steak or imported fish, usually cost between 500 and 1,200 PHP per person.

To keep your overall cost of travel in the Philippines down, it helps not to rely too much on Western-style restaurants or places that mainly cater to tourists.

Here’s a general estimate of what you could be spending on food and beverages in the Philippines:

• Carinderia or street food stall: from 100 PHP per meal

• Fast food at Jollibee, KFC, or McDonald’s: 150 to 250 PHP per combo meal

• Mid-range restaurant: 500 to 1,200 PHP per person

• Snacks or ice cream: 40 to 50 PHP per serving

• Fruits from the market (mangoes, avocados, or grapes): 85 to 230 PHP per kilo

• Bottled water: 25 to 50 PHP for 1.5 litres

• Coffee: 100 to 150 PHP per cup

• Local beer (San Miguel or Red Horse): 70 to 100 PHP per bottle

Local meals in the Philippines typically cost around ₱100 to ₱200 per dish. Photo by Bill on Adobe Stock

Transport

Average daily cost: approximately 900 PHP

When thinking about how to travel between islands in the Philippines, domestic flights are definitely the fastest option.

A one-way fare, for example, from Puerto Princesa to Cebu, usually costs around 3,200 PHP or more. Our advice is to book early.

For smaller islands and when the weather is favourable, ferries are a reliable and much cheaper option. As an example, when flights from El Nido to Coron were around 5,800 PHP, we chose the ferry instead and paid just 2,600 PHP.

Getting around in the Philippines is also an opportunity to experience life here. For this reason, we often used traditional means of transportation such as jeepneys, which are colourful old US jeeps, and motorised tricycles with a sidecar. They normally cost as low as 10 PHP for short trips in cities.

• Ferries in the Philippines (OceanJet, 2Go): a few hundred to 1,000 PHP for short to medium distances between islands

• Domestic flights with Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, etc.: 3,000 PHP for a one-way fare, depending on the distance and when the booking is made

• Local tricycles: 10 to 25 PHP per person

• Jeepneys: 10 to 15 PHP for a short distance

• Taxis: Metered, starting at 40 PHP; Additional charge of 13.50 PHP for every kilometre

• City buses with air conditioning: 15 to 20 PHP for a single ride

• Scooter/motorbike rentals: 400 to 600 PHP per 24 hours

Activities

Diving with whale sharks in the Philippines usually starts at ₱1,500 or more per person. Photo by Ollie on Adobe Stock

Average daily cost: around 1,300 PHP

Before coming to the Philippines for the first time, we honestly thought we would not spend much on activities. As it turns out, it was quite the opposite.

There are so many cool things to see and do, it was hard to say no to anything. Additionally, some of the most must-see spots, like Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon in El Nido, Palawan, are actually difficult to reach on your own. For those kinds of places, it usually makes more sense to join an island-hopping tour.

In fact, in some forests and caves, it is more or less required to hire a local guide. As such, it would actually be a brilliant idea to set aside some money for those kinds of things.

Here are a few examples of some popular activities in the Philippines and their usual costs:

• Snorkelling with the sardine run in Moalboal: 100 PHP environmental fee per person, plus 350 PHP to rent equipment

• Canyoneering in Kawasan Falls, Moalboal: 1,200 to 1,500 PHP per person for joiner tours

• Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Bohol: 150 to 170 PHP entrance fee

• Visiting the Chocolate Hills in Bohol: 150 PHP entrance fee

• Learning how to surf on Siargao Island: 500 to 1,100 PHP per hour for a private surfing lesson

• Island hopping tours in El Nido, Tours A to D: 1,200 to 2,000 PHP per person for joiner boat tours

• Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park, including entrance fee, environmental fee, and audio guide: 750 PHP per person

• Butterfly Eco Garden and Tribal Village in Puerto Princesa: 50 to 60 PHP per person

• Free things to do: relaxing on public beaches in El Nido or on White Beach in Boracay Island; exploring Port Barton; taking a walk around the Kawasan Falls area in Cebu.

Step 3: The Top "Must-Do" Backpacker Adventures

Even a few months would not be enough to see everything the Philippines has to offer, let alone just a few weeks. That is why we picked out a handful of experiences that really capture the spirit of the country and work especially well for a first trip.

Island Hopping in El Nido, Palawan

A tasty beachside lunch during an El Nido island hopping tour. Photo by Rolen on Adobe Stock

El Nido is where you get those postcard views of clear turquoise water, hidden lagoons, and rocky islets scattered across the sea. The best way to see all of this is by joining one or two of the El Nido island hopping tours (Tour A, B, C, D).

The routes are quite similar across different tour operators, so it does not really matter who you book with. We arranged our tours through our guesthouse once we arrived. If you are visiting during high season, it is worth booking in advance through sites like GetYourGuide or Klook to avoid missing out.

Diving or Snorkelling in Coron, Palawan

If diving or snorkelling is something that has caught your attention while travelling around Palawan, then Coron is definitely a place you should not miss. It is best known for its relaxed recreational dives, particularly the historical shipwrecks from World War Two that now rest quietly on the ocean floor.

There are said to be around twelve wrecks that divers can explore in Coron, and we were lucky enough to visit three of them. East Tangat was our first stop, a small tug or anti-submarine ship.

Then came Lusong, the most well-known wreck in the area and a favourite for many visitors. We also visited Morazan Maru, a large cargo ship resting in calm waters near Busuanga Island. The gentle conditions in this location make it a nice choice if you are still a beginner in diving.

One of the things we loved most about diving Coron WWII shipwrecks is how much life has grown around the wrecks. They are excellent not just for diving, but also for taking underwater photos. Everywhere you look, there are colourful fish and small sea creatures.

The Sardine Run in Moalboal, Cebu

Nature has its own way of showing us things that feel almost unreal, and the sardine run in Moalboal, Cebu, is one of them. What makes this experience even better is how close it is. You only need a short swim from Panagsama Beach to find yourself right in the middle of the action.

The sardine run in Moalboal, Cebu, can be seen all year round. Photo by SaltedLife on Adobe Stock

So what exactly is the sardine run? In simple terms, millions of sardines come together and move as one huge school along the reef. They swim tightly packed for protection, forming a flowing cloud of silver that constantly changes shape as it moves.

The sardine run in Moalboal usually happens at a depth of around 20 metres, where the reef drops into deeper water. The sardines are there all year round, rain or shine.

If you are looking for the best conditions, the dry season from November to May is ideal, with calmer seas and clearer visibility. Early mornings tend to be the most rewarding, when the fish are at their most active.

Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, Cebu

Kawasan Falls is located in the town of Badian on Cebu Island. It is known for its jungle canyons and beautiful turquoise water. You may visit the falls on your own, but if you really want to enjoy the place properly, canyoneering is the most fun way to do it.

Think jumping off cliffs more than 12 metres high into clear pools, then swimming through narrow paths with tall rock walls on both sides. This is exactly what canyoneering Kawasan Falls is all about.

It is a bit nerve-racking at first, but also exciting and surprisingly addictive. If we ever make it back to Cebu, this is one experience we would happily repeat.

The reason it works so well is how smoothly everything is run. You get all the safety gear you need, and a local guide stays with you the whole way.

Along with the life jacket and helmet provided, ensure you bring a waterproof pouch for your phone and a pair of shoes that can get wet. The rocks are fairly slippery, so proper grip really helps.

Chocolate Hills And Tarsiers (Bohol)

If someone asked us what not to miss in Bohol, our answer would be: the Chocolate Hills and the tarsiers. These two spots say so much about the island, and it is hard to imagine leaving without seeing them.

Visiting the Tarsier Sanctuary in Bohol is a lovely way to see these small primates up close in a peaceful, natural setting. 

There is a small entrance fee, and visits are done in small groups, giving everyone time to observe and take photos.

The visit to the sanctuary usually lasts around an hour, which pairs well with a stop at the Chocolate Hills on the same day. These cone-shaped hills stretch across the landscape and look just as striking in real life as they do in photos. 

Step 4: Getting Around the Archipelago

Ferries in the Philippines are best booked online. Photo by Mdv Edwards on Adobe Stock

In this first-timer's guide to the Philippines, we like to break transport down into two categories. First, how to travel between islands, and second, how to get around once you are on land.

Hopping Around Islands

When it comes to travelling from one island to another, there are a couple of main options:

• Flying: Philippine Airlines has a wide domestic network. Newer budget airlines like AirAsia Philippines and Cebu Pacific often offer more routes at very affordable prices, particularly if you book in advance.

• Ferries: Large companies like 2Go, Lite Shipping, OceanJet, and Starlite Ferries offer a wide variety of routes between islands. Just remember that when the weather is bad, ferry routes can be delayed or even cancelled.

Getting Around In Cities And Land

Okay, now let’s look at moving around on land as you follow your Philippines backpacking route:

• Jeepneys: In cities like Manila and Cebu, jeepneys are one of the cheapest ways to get around and run frequently between key areas. In the provinces, they connect smaller villages with nearby towns, and towns with bigger cities. They do not follow fixed timetables, and routes may seem a little confusing at first.

• Taxis: The main thing to watch out for is overcharging. If the taxi has a working meter, that is ideal. If not, it is best to agree on a price before getting in. A useful tip is to check prices on ride-hailing apps like Grab first, so you get an idea of the fare, and then add a little extra for the taxis.

• Tricycles: They are great for reaching small lanes, villages or beaches where larger vehicles do not go. There are no fixed routes, so all you need to do is wave one down and tell the driver where you want to go.

• Motorcycle: Renting a scooter on Siquijor, or hiring one elsewhere in the Philippines, gives you the freedom to explore tourist spots at your own pace. Road conditions in the country are generally decent, but having an international driving licence is important. Remember to always wear a helmet and drive carefully.

Step 5: Visas, Safety, and Avoiding Scams

Visa

For visitors from most countries, a short stay of up to 30 days in the Philippines for tourism or business purposes does not require a visa. You only need to have a return or onward ticket and a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.

Crucial: Before you travel, you also need to register your trip on the eTravel Card website to obtain a QR code. The code will be used for both arrival and departure formalities.

The Philippines offers visa-free entry for travellers from most countries. Photo by Loginova on Adobe Stock

Safety

Regarding safety, the Philippines is a very welcoming and friendly country. That said, there are a few things you should bear in mind to ensure that your stay goes smoothly:

• Travel insurance for the Philippines is not mandatory, but if things go wrong, you will be very grateful to have it. Make sure you know what you are covered for, such as lost luggage or emergency medical treatment. If you are planning to engage in adventure sports, double-check the information. For instance, many UK insurance policies will only cover motorbikes up to 125cc unless you pay additional premiums.

• It also helps to keep abreast of your destination. Some parts of the far southwest of Mindanao, including Sulu, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi, are considered high risk due to ongoing security issues. Travellers should best avoid these areas. Trust your instincts, if a place does not feel right, it is fine to walk away.

• The weather is another thing to consider. The Philippines typhoon season usually begins around June and peaks between August and October. On average, around 20 typhoons strike the country every year. If possible, avoid travelling during this period. If you do, pack suitable rain gear and keep an eye on daily forecasts at PAGASA.

• Food safety is worth mentioning, too. Street food may look very appetising, but hygiene standards vary. A mild case of food poisoning can ruin a couple of days of your trip. So, stick to bottled water and avoid tap water.

Scams

Like in many other tourist destinations, scams are also present in the country. Knowing a few common scams in the Philippines can save you a lot of trouble:

• Attraction scams may also occur. Some drivers may tell you that a popular attraction is closed, and take you to another where they will get a commission. If this happens, call the attraction yourself to confirm and then politely ask to be taken to your original destination.

• Vehicle rental scams can also happen. Some rental companies may rent you scooters or cars that already have some damage, and then charge you later for repairs. It is best to inspect the vehicle carefully before you rent it, and take pictures of it from all angles as proof.

• Pickpocketing is fairly widespread in crowded areas. One person may bump into you while another tries to steal your belongings. In busy places, keep your phone, wallet and other valuables in a secure bag where you can see them. Also, avoid taking part in street gambling.

Other Backpacking Tips

The following are a few Philippines travel tips that made our stay in the country less distressing. We hope these help you as well.

A water-resistant bag helps keep your essentials dry while island hopping.

• It would be good if you carry cash wherever you go. In cities like Manila and Cebu, paying with a card is usually okay. But once you get to Palawan, especially Coron and El Nido, ATMs often run out of cash, and many small places do not take cards.

• Skip buying a SIM card at the airport. You will find better deals at the stores located inside shopping centres. Registering a SIM card may be a bit of a hassle, as you may need to prove your onward travel and accommodation plans. The staff are usually happy to help, so let them sort it out for you.

• Leave yourself some extra time when planning your days. Ferries, boats, and buses take a long time to reach their destination. Buses, for instance, make a lot of stops to pick up people and cargo. Even grabbing a quick coffee or snack can take longer than you might expect.

• Keep a few snacks with you, just in case. Vegetarian food can be hard to find in more remote areas. If you are heading out on boat trips or longer journeys, having some high-protein snacks or a couple of tins of chickpeas can really come in handy.

• Pay attention to what to pack for the Philippines. A water-resistant bum bag is helpful for island-hopping days. Light clothing is ideal for the tropical heat. Beach shoes help protect your feet from rocks and sea life. Bring a strong mosquito repellent and plenty of sunscreen. Sunscreen is quite pricey in the Philippines (we paid about £9 for a small 50ml bottle).

Explore the Philippines, Now Is the Time

That is everything we wanted to share from our own backpacking in the Philippines journey. Every island and little corner of the country has interesting stories to tell. Stay open to discovering new places, getting to know the locals, and trying things you may not have done before. When your travel plans are ready, pack your bag with CabinZero and start your Philippines adventure.

Quyen Pham