Backpacking through the Philippines is an adventure like no other, offering a rich tapestry of vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, this archipelago of over 7,000 islands is a true paradise for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable experiences.
From the crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches of Palawan and Cebu, to the ancient rice terraces of Banaue and the bustling streets of Manila, the Philippines invites you to immerse yourself in a unique blend of traditional and modern life.
Whether you have days or weeks, this guide will help you make the most of your trip to this beautiful country.
Whether you’re planning a short trip or weeks of backpacking through the Philippines, this travel guide will help you uncover the best places to visit, the top activities to enjoy, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and memorable.
With its affordable cost of living, delicious street food, and diverse landscapes, the Philippines is an ideal destination for backpackers eager to explore one of the most beautiful and welcoming countries in Southeast Asia.
You will find cheap accommodation options such as hostels and budget guesthouses, which allow you to make the most of your days without breaking the bank.
Deciding Your Route: Key Itineraries for Backpackers
Short Escapes: 1-2 Weeks
If you have only a short period to explore the Philippines, focusing on a few key destinations is the best approach. A 1-2 week itinerary can be incredibly rewarding, especially if you concentrate on one or two main islands.
For instance, you could spend your time in Palawan, exploring the stunning beaches and limestone cliffs of El Nido and Coron. This itinerary will allow you to fully stay and tour some of the most iconic places without feeling rushed.
These areas offer a plethora of activities such as island hopping tours, snorkeling, and relaxing on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches like Nacpan Beach. Taking a boat tour will let you make the most of your time and explore multiple islands in a single day.
Another option is to base yourself in Cebu, where you can visit the breathtaking Kawasan Falls, go island hopping around Moalboal, and take a day trip to Bohol to see the famous Chocolate Hills.
With a good hostel or affordable accommodation in Cebu, this itinerary provides a great balance of beach life, cultural sites, and natural wonders without the need for extensive travel.
Mid-Length Journeys: 2-3 Weeks
For a more comprehensive experience, a 2-3 week itinerary is ideal. This duration allows you to explore multiple islands and delve deeper into the Philippines’ diverse culture and landscapes.
With more time, you can stay longer in each place and enjoy the best that each island has to offer.
A suggested route could start in Manila, where you can spend a few days exploring the city before heading to Banaue to marvel at the ancient rice terraces.
From there, you can travel by bus to Legazpi in Bicol to see Mt. Mayon and enjoy whale shark watching in Donsol. Booking tours in advance will help you find the best experiences and ensure a smooth trip.
After Bicol, you can head to Cebu and Bohol, where you can enjoy the beaches, go snorkeling or diving, and visit the Chocolate Hills. Finally, end your trip in Palawan, exploring the islands of Coron and El Nido, which are renowned for their crystal clear waters and stunning limestone formations.
Using a boat for island hopping in Palawan will allow you to explore more places efficiently and discover hidden gems.
Extended Backpacking Trips: 4+ Weeks
If you have the luxury of time, a 4+ week itinerary offers the ultimate backpacking experience in the Philippines. This extended period allows you to visit almost all the major destinations without feeling rushed.
Staying longer in each city gives you the chance to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy a variety of activities over many days.
You can start in Manila and then head north to explore Mt. Pulag, known for its sea of clouds and the Milky Way Galaxy visible at dawn.
Booking a guided tour will enhance your experience and ensure you make the most of your day in this breathtaking location.
From there, you can visit the Banaue Rice Terraces, Lake Ta’al, and other northern attractions. These places offer unique experiences and are perfect for day trips or extended stays as part of your itinerary.
Next, you can travel to Bicol to see Mt. Mayon and experience whale shark watching in Donsol. Then, move to Cebu and Bohol for some beach time and cultural exploration.
Backpacking through these regions allows you to enjoy affordable accommodation and connect with friendly local people, enhancing your overall trip.
After that, head to Palawan for an extensive island hopping adventure in Coron and El Nido. Finally, you can end your trip in Siargao, known for its surfing spots and laid-back island vibe.
This itinerary ensures you experience some of the Philippines’ best beaches and vibrant island communities over many memorable days.
Must-Visit Destinations in the Philippines
Exploring Palawan: Coron and El Nido
Palawan is often hailed as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, and for good reason. The areas of Coron and El Nido are must-visit destinations for any backpacker. Coron, with its jade lagoons and weathered limestone cliffs, offers a serene and breathtaking landscape.
Island hopping tours by boat in Coron will allow you to explore multiple stunning places in a single day.
Here, you can engage in island hopping tours, snorkeling, and diving to explore the underwater world filled with vibrant marine life and even shipwrecks.
Ensure you check the weather and book tours in advance to make the most of your time in these water paradise areas.
El Nido, on the other hand, is famous for its powdery white sand beaches, such as Nacpan Beach, and its stunning limestone formations that rise dramatically from the ocean.
Both areas provide endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and capturing unforgettable moments. Staying in a beachfront hostel or resort will allow you to easily access these beautiful beaches and participate in various tours and activities.
Adventures in Cebu and Bohol
Cebu and Bohol are two islands that offer a diverse range of experiences for backpackers. In Cebu, you can visit the picturesque Kawasan Falls, go island hopping around Moalboal, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Cebu City.
Staying in a central hostel in Cebu City provides easy access to these great places and convenient bus connections for your day trips.
The nearby island of Bohol is home to the unique Chocolate Hills, a geological formation of over 1,000 conical hills that turn brown during the dry season.
Bohol is also a great spot for hiking and wildlife spotting, particularly to see the tiny tarsiers, one of the smallest primates in the world. Joining a guided tour can help you find the best spots for wildlife sightings and explore the beautiful landscapes efficiently.
Panglao Island in Bohol is another highlight, offering beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the local culture.
There are several cheap hostels and accommodations available, allowing you to stay longer and experience the area’s natural beauty and friendly people.
Off the Beaten Path: Batanes and Siquijor
For those looking to venture off the beaten path, Batanes and Siquijor are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Batanes, located in the northernmost part of the Philippines, is known for its unique stone houses, rolling hills, and a distinct cultural heritage that is different from the rest of the country.
Exploring these small islands with a local guide will help you find the best places and understand the local traditions better.
The island’s serene landscapes and traditional architecture make it a fascinating destination for those seeking a unique experience. Staying in a local homestay allows you to immerse yourself in the island’s unique culture and meet friendly people.
Siquijor, often referred to as the “Island of Fire” due to its historical reputation for mysticism and sorcery, is a tranquil island with pristine beaches, waterfalls, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s an excellent place to relax, enjoy the local seafood, and explore the island’s natural beauty without the crowds.
You can stay in affordable hostels and take boat tours to discover the island’s hidden waterfalls and scenic spots.
The Rice Terraces and Cultural Richness of Luzon
Luzon, the largest island in the Philippines, is home to some of the country’s most significant cultural and natural attractions. The Banaue Rice Terraces, carved into the mountains over 2,000 years ago by indigenous people, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of the ancient Filipinos.
A comprehensive guide can help you find accommodation nearby and plan your hiking trips to fully experience this great place.
These terraces are surrounded by lush greenery and offer excellent hiking trails and scenic views. Spending a day or two hiking through the Banaue Rice Terraces will allow you to fully appreciate their natural beauty and cultural significance.
Additionally, the town of Sagada in the Mountain Province is a must-visit for its adventure activities such as caving, trekking, and exploring the unique Hanging Coffins of Echo Valley.
This area is steeped in traditional culture and offers a glimpse into the Philippines’ rich and diverse heritage. Backpacking through Sagada allows you to find affordable accommodations and join guided tours to explore its fascinating sites.
The Vibrant Life of Boracay and Siargao’s Surfing Haven
Boracay, despite its recent rehabilitation efforts, remains one of the most vibrant and popular destinations in the Philippines.
Known for its white sand beaches and lively nightlife, Boracay offers a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow travelers and indulge in a variety of water sports and activities.
Staying in a beachfront hostel will allow you to easily access the best tours and enjoy the island’s vibrant atmosphere every day.
Siargao, on the other hand, is celebrated as the surfing capital of the Philippines. The renowned Cloud 9 surf break draws surfers from across the globe.
But even if you’re not a surfer, Siargao’s laid-back island vibe, breathtaking natural beauty, and exciting adventure opportunities make it an unforgettable destination.
Activities include kayaking in Sugba Lagoon, trekking to Taktak Falls, and simply immersing yourself in the island’s relaxed atmosphere. Staying in a local hostel and joining daily tours can help you make the best use of your time and find great new places to explore.
Top Activities For Backpackers
Diving and Snorkeling Par Excellence
The Philippines is renowned for its incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts. In Coron, you can snorkel or dive to explore shipwrecks and coral reefs, while in El Nido, the crystal clear waters offer a glimpse into an underwater world teeming with marine life.
Moalboal in Cebu is another hotspot, known for its sardine run and the chance to swim with sea turtles and whale sharks. Joining a guided tour will help you find the best dive sites and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The Tubbataha Reef National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best diving spots in the country, featuring an incredible array of marine biodiversity.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, the Philippines has numerous dive sites that cater to all levels, ensuring an unforgettable underwater experience.
Booking a dive trip in advance is recommended, and you should check local guides to find the best sites that match your skill level.
Island Hopping: An Essential Philippine Experience
Island hopping is an essential activity for any backpacker in the Philippines. El Nido offers four different island hopping tours (A, B, C, and D), each with unique itineraries that include visits to stunning lagoons, caves, and beaches.
Each tour typically lasts a full day, allowing you to maximize your time and explore multiple beautiful places by boat.
The most popular tour, Tour A, takes you to the Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Shimizu Island, and Seven Commando Beach, among other breathtaking spots.
This full-day tour is highly recommended for first-time backpackers looking to experience some of El Nido’s best sights.
In Coron, island hopping tours allow you to explore the jade lagoons and limestone cliffs, while in other areas like Siargao and Bohol, you can enjoy similar tours that highlight the local marine life and scenic beauty.
These tours often involve cruising on traditional Filipino bancas boats, adding to the authentic island experience. Booking a boat tour with a reputable guide will help you find the best places to visit and make your island hopping efficient and enjoyable.
Hiking, Caving, and Exploration
For those who love adventure on land, the Philippines offers a plethora of hiking, caving, and exploration activities. In Sagada, you can hike to the top of Taraw Peak for panoramic views or explore the caves and visit the Hanging Coffins of Echo Valley.
The Chocolate Hills in Bohol are another great spot for hiking and offer a unique geological wonder to explore. Joining a guided hiking tour will help you navigate these trails and discover the best viewpoints for breathtaking photos.
In El Nido, you can hike to Kuyawyaw Falls or kayak through the crystal clear waters to explore hidden coves and beaches.
The Banaue Rice Terraces also offer excellent hiking trails with scenic views of the ancient terraces and surrounding landscapes. Hiring a local guide will help you navigate these trails and discover the best viewpoints for breathtaking photos.
Discovering the Local Cuisine
Philippine cuisine is a delightful blend of Spanish, Chinese, and Malay flavors, offering a wide range of dishes that are both flavorful and affordable.
As a backpacker, you should definitely try local street food like adobo, lechon, and sinigang. Exploring street food stalls not only saves you money but also allows you to interact with friendly local people and experience authentic flavors.
Fresh seafood is also a staple in many coastal areas, and you can often find it at local markets or beachside restaurants. These places offer a great opportunity to enjoy delicious meals at cheap prices while interacting with the local community.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try some traditional Filipino desserts like halo-halo and leche flan. Additionally, experiencing a traditional Filipino massage, known as “hilot”, can be a great way to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploring.
These relaxing activities are perfect for unwinding after a busy day of backpacking and offer a glimpse into the local wellness traditions.
Engagement with Local Culture and Festivals
The Philippines is renowned for its vibrant culture and festive spirit. Engaging with local traditions can be an incredibly rewarding experience, whether you’re attending a traditional festival, exploring local markets, or staying in homestays and hostels that offer an authentic glimpse into daily Filipino life.
Participating in these cultural activities helps you connect with friendly local people and enriches your backpacking trip.
Festivals such as the Sinulog in Cebu and the MassKara in Bacolod are colorful, lively events that highlight the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Visiting local communities and participating in cultural activities allows for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Filipino way of life.
These events are great opportunities to meet new people, enjoy local performances, and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere for a day or more.
Moreover, learning a few basic Filipino phrases can significantly enhance your interactions with locals, making them more meaningful and enjoyable.
Simple phrases will help you communicate better with the friendly people you meet throughout your trip and make your stay more pleasant.
Accommodation: Staying Like a Local
Hostels and Budget Lodging
For backpackers, hostels are a popular and affordable option for accommodation in the Philippines. These hostels, particularly in touristy areas like Palawan and Cebu, offer a social and adventurous atmosphere.
Staying in a hostel is a great way to meet other travelers, share experiences, and find cheap and comfortable accommodations.
Prices range from $5 to $30 USD per night, depending on the room size, location, and standard of the hostel.
Modern hostels often provide amenities such as Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, daily activities, and on-site bars, making them ideal for meeting fellow travelers and enjoying a spontaneous travel experience.
These facilities help you stay connected, save money, and enhance your overall backpacking trip.
Some highly recommended hostels include Lub d Philippines Makati, The Circle Hostel in La Union, and Spin Designer Hostel.
These hostels are known for their comfortable accommodations, friendly staff, and convenient locations near popular attractions and beaches.
Choosing one of these hostels will ensure you have a great stay and easy access to the best places to explore in each city.
Local Homestays and Guesthouses
For a more immersive experience, local homestays and guesthouses are excellent alternatives. These options allow you to stay with local families or in family-run establishments, providing a genuine insight into Filipino daily life.
Guesthouses, or bed and breakfasts, often offer a more personalized and homely atmosphere, with some even serving traditional Filipino meals.
This type of accommodation helps you connect with local people and experience the culture firsthand, enhancing your backpacking trip.
In areas like Banaue and Sagada, staying in local homestays can be particularly rewarding, as you get to experience the unique cultural practices and traditions of the indigenous communities.
These stays are not only budget-friendly but also contribute to the local economy and foster meaningful interactions with the community.
By choosing homestays, you support local people and enjoy an authentic and affordable accommodation option during your trip.
Booking Tips and Considerations
When booking your accommodation in the Philippines, it’s important to consider a few key factors. First, book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or in popular destinations like El Nido, Boracay, and Siargao, as these places tend to fill up quickly.
This ensures you find the best and cheapest accommodation, allowing for a smoother and more enjoyable trip.
Use online platforms like Hostelworld, Hostelz, or Tripadvisor to find and compare different hostels and guesthouses. These websites provide detailed reviews and ratings from other travelers, helping you make an informed decision.
Additionally, look for hostels or guesthouses that offer additional services such as airport transfers, tour bookings, and local advice, which can greatly enhance your travel experience.
Reading reviews will help you find the best and most affordable accommodation that fits your needs and itinerary.
Lastly, always check the location of your accommodation in relation to the local attractions and transportation hubs. Staying in a central location can save you time and money, and make your travel itinerary more manageable.
A central stay allows easy access to tours, buses, and major places, enhancing your overall trip experience.
Practical Tips for Backpacking the Philippines
Budgeting and Costs
When planning your backpacking trip to the Philippines, understanding how to manage your expenses effectively is key.
If you’re traveling on a budget, it’s possible to spend as little as $20-$30 USD per day by staying in hostels, eating local food, and avoiding costly activities.
Finding cheap accommodation and budgeting for each day will help you make the most of your trip without overspending.
A typical daily budget can be divided into four main categories: accommodation, food, transport, and activities. Accommodation costs range between $4-$15 USD per night for hostels or budget lodgings.
Food expenses can be kept between $3-$8 USD daily if you stick to local meals, while transport costs vary from $2-$8 USD depending on your choice of transportation.
Managing your budget across these categories will ensure you have enough funds for each day of your trip.
Activities and nightlife may add an additional $0-$10 USD to your daily spending. For travelers with a mid-range budget of $35-$45 USD per day, you can enjoy a mix of dormitory beds and private rooms, join most tours, and occasionally indulge in finer dining or luxury experiences.
This budget allows you to enjoy a variety of activities each day while still keeping your accommodation affordable.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit the Philippines depends on your preferences for weather and crowd levels. The dry season, from December to May, is the best time to travel, offering clear skies and minimal rainfall.
This period is perfect for island hopping, diving, and other outdoor adventures. Planning your trip during the dry season ensures you have the best weather for exploring the beautiful beaches and islands.
If you prefer fewer crowds and lower costs, consider traveling during the shoulder season from June to November.
While this season may bring heavier rainfall and the risk of typhoons, it can be a great opportunity to save money if you’re okay with the occasional rain shower.
Traveling during this time allows you to enjoy a quieter trip and find cheaper accommodation and activities.
Staying Safe and Healthy
Ensuring your safety and health while backpacking in the Philippines requires taking some basic precautions.
Always drink bottled or filtered water, and avoid consuming undercooked or raw food from street vendors. Staying aware of your surroundings and following these tips will help you have a safe and healthy trip.
Before your trip, make sure to get all the necessary vaccinations and consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses.
Be vigilant about your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport, and avoid traveling alone at night.
Additionally, respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting rural or indigenous communities. Following these safety tips will ensure your backpacking adventure remains enjoyable and trouble-free.
Transportation: Getting In and Around
The Philippines has a well-connected transportation network, making it relatively easy to explore. For international arrivals, the main entry points are Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Cebu’s Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
From these airports, you can take buses or domestic flights to reach your desired destinations across the country.
Within the country, you can travel using a mix of buses, jeepneys, tricycles, and ferries to navigate between islands.
Renting a scooter or hiring a tricycle for the day is an affordable and convenient way to explore local areas. For longer distances, budget airlines like Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines offer cheap flights between major cities, making inter-island travel faster and more efficient.
Using these transportation options wisely will help you save money and optimize your trip itinerary.
Must-Know for Digital Nomads: Connectivity in the Philippines
For digital nomads, connectivity is essential, and the Philippines generally offers good internet access. Major cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao provide reliable and fast internet, with many cafes and coworking spaces offering high-speed connections.
This connectivity allows you to effectively plan your trip and stay connected with loved ones while backpacking across the country.
In more rural areas, internet access can be slower and less reliable, but it is still possible to stay connected. Mobile networks such as Globe and Smart offer prepaid SIM cards with data plans that are affordable and widely available.
This ensures you can stay online even when traveling to smaller islands and remote places during your trip.
This makes it relatively easy to stay connected even while traveling to more remote destinations. Staying connected allows you to navigate your trip smoothly and keep in touch with travel guides and local contacts.
Cultural Etiquette and Sensitivities
Understanding Filipino Hospitality
Filipino hospitality, or “magiliw na pagtanggap”, is a cornerstone of Philippine culture, embodying warmth, care, and respect towards guests. When visiting a Filipino home, you will often be greeted with open arms and immediately offered food and drinks.
This welcoming nature ensures that your stay is comfortable and memorable as you connect with the kind-hearted local people.
Phrases like “Kain na” (Let’s eat) and “Umupó ka muna” (Take a seat first) are common, highlighting the importance of nourishment and togetherness. Learning these phrases can enhance your interactions with locals and deepen your cultural experiences during your trip.
This hospitality extends beyond just offering meals; it includes providing comfortable accommodations and ensuring guests feel valued and prioritized.
For instance, hosts might say “Dito ka na muna” (Stay here for a while), inviting you to stay and feel at home. Such gestures make your stay more enjoyable and foster meaningful connections with the local people.
Do’s and Don’ts
When interacting with Filipinos, there are several cultural norms to be aware of to avoid unintended offense. Here are some key do’s and don’ts:
Do:
- Always greet elders with respect by using kinship titles such as “Tito” or “Tita” (uncle or aunt) and performing the traditional “mano po” gesture, where you gently touch the elder’s hand to your forehead.
- Accept food and drinks offered to you, as declining can sometimes be seen as impolite.
- Use polite language and phrases like “salamat” (thank you) and “opo” (yes) when speaking to older individuals.
Don’t:
- Avoid public displays of affection, as Filipino culture tends to be conservative.
- Refrain from pointing with your feet or using your left hand when eating or giving/receiving items, as these actions are considered rude.
- Do not decline an offer of food or drink outright; instead, politely decline after taking a small portion to show respect for the host’s generosity.
Responsible Tourism
Responsible tourism is important when traveling in the Philippines to ensure that your visit benefits the local community and preserves the environment. Here are some tips:
Support Local Communities:
- Choose local accommodations, such as homestays or family-run guesthouses, which help distribute tourism income more evenly.
- Eat at local restaurants and try traditional Filipino cuisine to support small businesses.
- Engage in community-based tourism activities that promote cultural exchange and mutual respect.
Environmental Awareness:
- Be mindful of your plastic usage and opt for reusable water bottles and bags.
- Respect protected areas and marine reserves, especially during island hopping tours.
- Avoid activities that harm the environment, such as touching or standing on coral reefs, and support eco-friendly tour operators.
By being respectful of local customs and taking steps to minimize your environmental impact, you can contribute to a positive and sustainable tourism experience in the Philippines.
Conclusion
As you embark on your backpacking adventure in the Philippines, remember the rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality that await you.
From the crystal-clear waters of Palawan to the vibrant streets of Manila, each destination offers a unique experience. Planning your trip to include a variety of islands and cities will help you find the most beautiful and memorable places to stay.
Always respect local customs, support local communities, and practice responsible tourism to ensure a positive impact. With careful planning, an open mind, and a sense of adventure, you’ll create unforgettable memories.
Your respectful behavior and thoughtful itinerary will enhance your backpacking trip and positively affect the places you visit.
So pack your bags, grab your water bottle, and get ready to immerse yourself in one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating countries.
Embark on a backpacking trip through the Philippines and discover its beautiful islands, vibrant cities, and welcoming people.
FAQ
How do I plan an efficient travel route given the Philippines’ geographically dispersed islands?
To plan an efficient travel route in the Philippines, focus on clusters of islands to minimize travel time. For example, visit Bohol and Panglao together, as they are connected by a bridge. Then, move to nearby destinations like Siquijor or Cebu. This strategy helps you make the most of your time and ensures you see the best places without unnecessary travel days.
For Palawan, concentrate on key locations such as El Nido, Coron, and other nearby spots to reduce travel days. Consider flying between major islands to save time, and use ferries for shorter distances to keep your journey smooth and efficient. This approach allows you to maximize your trip by spending more time exploring and less time traveling between places.
What are the most practical ways to travel between different islands in the Philippines?
The most practical ways to travel between different islands in the Philippines include using airlines like Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and Air Asia for flights. Ferries are also an excellent option for inter-island travel. For instance, you can take a ferry from Coron to El Nido, which takes approximately 4 hours. Choosing the right mode of transport will help you find the best routes, save time, and make your trip more efficient.
What are some of the top destinations and activities for a first-time backpacker in the Philippines?
For a first-time backpacker in the Philippines, top destinations include:
- El Nido, Palawan: Famous for its white sand beaches and jade lagoons.
- Siargao: Known as the surfing capital, featuring Cloud 9 and Sugba Lagoon.
- Bohol: Home to the iconic Chocolate Hills and tarsier spotting.
- Bicol: Highlights include Legazpi for Mt. Mayon and Donsol for whale shark watching.
Activities to enjoy include hiking the Banaue Rice Terraces, surfing in Siargao, and exploring the Caramoan islands. Each activity allows you to immerse yourself in the natural and cultural wonders of the Philippines while managing your time effectively during the trip.
How can I save money and travel on a budget while backpacking in the Philippines?
To save money and travel on a budget in the Philippines, follow these tips:
- Stay in budget hostels or local guesthouses, where dorm beds can cost as low as $6 USD per night.
- Use affordable transportation such as jeepneys (20-50 cents) and public ferries ($6-8 USD).
- Eat street food ($1.50-4 USD) instead of dining at restaurants.
- Haggle when shopping and avoid overpriced tourist services.
- Consider Couchsurfing or camping to save on accommodation costs.
- Pack a travel water bottle to reduce expenses on bottled water and help the environment.
