![\"\"](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/siargao-island-swim.jpg\")
<\/p>\nDreaming of a trip to the Philippines? Here are tips on what to pack.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
<\/p>\n
Apart from the necessary, obvious items that you would bring on any trip (travel documents, passport, money etc), here are some tips and suggestions on what you might want to pack specifically for your holiday to the Philippines.<\/p>\n
Keep\u00a0in mind that most of these things can be found here, especially in the bigger towns and cities.\u00a0So if you\u00a0forget something, do not panic.<\/p>\n
Type of Clothing<\/h2>\n<\/h3>\nLight and Loose<\/h3>\n
Light and Loose<\/h3>\n
The Philippines has a tropical climate so it is very humid, even more so during the rainy months. It\u2019s wise to bring clothing that breathes easily and well, unless you\u2019re planning on spending your entire holiday going from one air-conditioned space to another.<\/p>\n
![\"bring](\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/clothes-philippines-1.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n Light breezy clothing in natural fibres are ideal to wear during your travels through the Philippines. Image by Katherine under the CC BY-ND 2.0 License<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n Loose, comfortable clothing made from natural fibres that allow air to pass through are best to help you keep cool as they are less likely to trap the heat or sweat in. Cotton and linen fabrics are ideal. Although Filipino culture tends toward conservative, it is not overly so. Sleeveless tops and shorts are acceptable in places like beach resorts and tourist areas; and really almost everywhere during\u00a0the summer time. When you are visiting something like a church however, it’s respectful to cover your shoulders and not have too much skin exposed.<\/p>\n An impromptu visit to a historical church in Bohol. “Luckily” they provided me with this lovely polyester cover-up to hide the tank top and shorts. Photo by Claire Walker @thesilvercherry<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Should the need arise to visit a government office (for example to extend your tourist visa at the Bureau of Immigration), put away the board shorts and flip-flops for a while. There is a dress standard that may or may not be enforced by a security guard when you enter. Guys – dress appropriately in a shirt, long trousers and closed shoes; and for the ladies, something of a similar level of formality. You might call it smart\/ business casual.<\/p>\n For the most part, summer clothing will get you through the bulk of your holiday. But you should also bring some warm clothing (we’re not talking polar fleece or arctic grade winter wear, a sweater or shawl should suffice) for the following instances:<\/p>\n or a cap, as long as it has a wide enough brim to protect your face<\/p>\n polarised and\/or anti\u00a0glare<\/p>\n Essentials for the beach, when sightseeing or any time you are outdoors<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n Essentials like shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant and moisturiser are easy to find here. And travel-sized toiletries are available to purchase everywhere. So, it\u2019s easy enough to buy more product if or when you run out. However, keep in mind that Filipinos are fond of skin whitening products and sometimes you\u2019ll struggle to find a moisturiser or deo that does not have this property incorporated into its ingredients.<\/p>\n Sunscreen, mosquito repellent and anti-itch ointment (in case of jellyfish or if the mosquito repellent failed)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n You may come across public restrooms (known here as CR – Comfort Rooms) where running water and toilet paper are\u00a0scarce. So these will come in handy:<\/p>\n You might find yourself in a public restroom without running water or paper. So these will be useful.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n Of course, it goes without saying to always bring along enough of whatever regular medication \/ prescriptions you use, unless you\u2019re sure\u00a0that you can find it here without issues.<\/p>\n Travelling into any new environment and experiencing changes in diet increase the chances for upset stomachs, so bring along a small supply of<\/p>\n Although these can be found in pharmacies throughout the Philippines it is much more convenient to have them with you already, especially if you are somewhere a little more remote,.<\/p>\n for insect bites and jellyfish stings might also come in handy.<\/p>\n you will find that two types\u00a0of power outlet exist in the Philippines<\/p>\n Both the 2 pin round and 2 pin flat socket types are used in the Philippines. Outlets that can receive both, like this one, are common especially in newer buildings.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n A universal power adaptor works for both the flat (American type) and round (European type) outlets found in the Philippines.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Sure, you might bring your smartphone or laptop or tablet and these can be great if and when you have electricity\u00a0and or wifi. But don\u2019t forget books. Remember those? This vendor at Cebu’s Carbon Market understands the value of some good old fashioned book reading.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n if you are a light sleeper and not a huge fan of weekend karaoke and the early morning calls of roosters and dogs, bring these.<\/p>\n For light sleepers, ear plugs can help cut down night time noises.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n For the brown outs or walking the islands at night. I have a miniature one attached to my keys but lets face it, most of us end up using the ones on our phones.<\/p>\n Wherever and whenever you can, avoid accepting the plastic bags (or \u201ccellophane\u201d) that shopkeepers give you no matter how small your purchase. Rubbish disposal is a big problem especially on the islands. The less plastic consumed means less to potentially end up in our seas. I have had these cloth bags for many years. They are multi-purpose, reusable, washable and fold into nothing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n You can pick up a SIM card at the airports in Manila and Cebu. Texting is relatively cheap here and can come in very handy when travelling.<\/p>\n Personally, I don’t usually have either of these with me. But there have been times that I’d wished I did.<\/p>\n A dry bag to keep your stuff dry, and a mask, snorkel and rash guard for when you want to get in the water.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Remember that you are travelling through a \u201cdeveloping\u201d nation. There are aspects of it that are on par with the most modern countries. But there are other parts which can pose challenges. When things don’t go exactly as planned, the best thing you can have with you is a positive attitude.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\n Have I forgotten anything? If you\u00a0can think of any essentials that I’ve missed, let us\u00a0know in the comments below.[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Dreaming of a trip to the Philippines? Here are tips on what to pack. Apart from the necessary, obvious items that you would bring on any trip (travel documents, passport, money etc), here are some tips and suggestions on what you might want to pack specifically for your holiday to the Philippines. Keep\u00a0in mind […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":17103,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"[caption id=\"attachment_16802\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"960\"]
\nAlternatively, you can visit your favourite adventure travel store to investigate the latest clothing made from technical fibres. See what\u2019s available and recommended for hot \/ humid climates. Some people prefer synthetic mixes which are designed to wick perspiration away from the skin. They may also tend to dry more quickly after washing.<\/p>\nLocation and Occasion Appropriate<\/h3>\n
<\/p>\nSomething for the cold (yes, even in the tropics!)<\/h3>\n
\n
And don’t forget these<\/h3>\n
– hat<\/h4>\n
– sunglasses<\/h4>\n
<\/p>\nToiletries and Medication<\/h2>\n
– mosquito repellent<\/h4>\n
– sunscreen<\/h4>\n
<\/p>\n– hand sanitiser<\/h4>\n
– tissues<\/h4>\n
– wet wipes<\/h4>\n
<\/p>\nFirst Aid<\/h2>\n
<\/p>\n– anti-diarrhoea<\/h4>\n
– oral rehydration solution<\/h4>\n
– over the counter painkillers<\/h4>\n
– anti itch ointment<\/h4>\n
Other Essentials<\/h2>\n
<\/h4>\n
– power adaptors \u00a0– round and flat<\/h4>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n<\/h4>\n
<\/h4>\n
– entertainment<\/h4>\n
\nYou could find yourself experiencing delayed and long travel times. A good novel (or even a trashy one), pen and journal, a deck of cards are all classic\u00a0non-tech, unplugged forms of entertainment. Might as well make the most of those times when the power is out or when you do not have access to electricity.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n<\/h2>\n
Not Necessary but Good to Have<\/h2>\n
<\/h4>\n
– ear plugs<\/h4>\n
<\/p>\n<\/h4>\n
– flashlight \/ torch<\/h4>\n
– lightweight reusable shopping bag<\/h4>\n
\nThe reusable bags are not only good for shopping; they also do extra duties as a beach bag or to separate dirty clothes from clean in your suitcase. I know I’ve filed this under “Not Necessary” but I tend to always bring at least one with me any time I travel.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n<\/h4>\n
– unlocked mobile phone<\/h4>\n
– lightweight rain jacket or umbrella<\/h4>\n
If you\u2019re going to hit the beaches or participate in water activities<\/h2>\n
<\/h4>\n
– all weather\/ waterproof camera<\/h4>\n
– dry bag<\/h4>\n
– quick dry towel<\/h4>\n
– water shoes \/ sandals – to avoid injury from sea urchins and rocky beaches<\/h4>\n
– rash guard<\/h4>\n
– mask and snorkel<\/h4>\n
<\/p>\n<\/h2>\n
And Finally…<\/h2>\n
– extra room in your suitcase for shopping and souvenirs<\/h4>\n
– a positive attitude!<\/h4>\n
\nTake a deep breath, have a sense of humour and enjoy these differences in culture. You are on vacation, after all!<\/p>\n<\/p>\n Dreaming of a trip to the Philippines? Here are tips on what to pack.[\/caption]\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nApart from the necessary, obvious items that you would bring on any trip (travel documents, passport, money etc), here are some tips and suggestions on what you might want to pack specifically for your holiday to the Philippines.\r\n\r\nKeep\u00a0in mind that most of these things can be found here, especially in the bigger towns and cities.\u00a0So if you\u00a0forget something, do not panic.\r\nType of Clothing<\/h2>\r\n
<\/h3>\r\n
Light and Loose<\/h3>\r\nThe Philippines has a tropical climate so it is very humid, even more so during the rainy months. It\u2019s wise to bring clothing that breathes easily and well, unless you\u2019re planning on spending your entire holiday going from one air-conditioned space to another.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]
<\/a> Light breezy clothing in natural fibres are ideal to wear during your travels through the Philippines. Image by Katherine under the CC BY-ND 2.0 License<\/a>[\/caption]\r\n\r\nLoose, comfortable clothing made from natural fibres that allow air to pass through are best to help you keep cool as they are less likely to trap the heat or sweat in. Cotton and linen fabrics are ideal.\r\nAlternatively, you can visit your favourite adventure travel store to investigate the latest clothing made from technical fibres. See what\u2019s available and recommended for hot \/ humid climates. Some people prefer synthetic mixes which are designed to wick perspiration away from the skin. They may also tend to dry more quickly after washing.\r\nLocation and Occasion Appropriate<\/h3>\r\nAlthough Filipino culture tends toward conservative, it is not overly so. Sleeveless tops and shorts are acceptable in places like beach resorts and tourist areas; and really almost everywhere during\u00a0the summer time. When you are visiting something like a church however, it's respectful to cover your shoulders and not have too much skin exposed.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16775\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"480\"]
An impromptu visit to a historical church in Bohol. \"Luckily\" they provided me with this lovely polyester cover-up to hide the tank top and shorts. Photo by Claire Walker @thesilvercherry[\/caption]\r\n\r\nShould the need arise to visit a government office (for example to extend your tourist visa at the Bureau of Immigration), put away the board shorts and flip-flops for a while. There is a dress standard that may or may not be enforced by a security guard when you enter. Guys - dress appropriately in a shirt, long trousers and closed shoes; and for the ladies, something of a similar level of formality. You might call it smart\/ business casual.\r\nSomething for the cold (yes, even in the tropics!)<\/h3>\r\nFor the most part, summer clothing will get you through the bulk of your holiday. But you should also bring some warm clothing (we're not talking polar fleece or arctic grade winter wear, a sweater or shawl should suffice) for the following instances:\r\n
\r\n \t
And don't forget these<\/h3>\r\n
- hat<\/h4>\r\nor a cap, as long as it has a wide enough brim to protect your face\r\n
- sunglasses<\/h4>\r\npolarised and\/or anti\u00a0glare\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16783\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]
Essentials for the beach, when sightseeing or any time you are outdoors[\/caption]\r\n\r\n \r\nToiletries and Medication<\/h2>\r\nEssentials like shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant and moisturiser are easy to find here. And travel-sized toiletries are available to purchase everywhere. So, it\u2019s easy enough to buy more product if or when you run out. However, keep in mind that Filipinos are fond of skin whitening products and sometimes you\u2019ll struggle to find a moisturiser or deo that does not have this property incorporated into its ingredients.\r\n
- mosquito repellent<\/h4>\r\n
- sunscreen<\/h4>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16780\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]
Sunscreen, mosquito repellent and anti-itch ointment (in case of jellyfish or if the mosquito repellent failed)[\/caption]\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nYou may come across public restrooms (known here as CR - Comfort Rooms) where running water and toilet paper are\u00a0scarce. So these will come in handy:\r\n- hand sanitiser<\/h4>\r\n
- tissues<\/h4>\r\n
- wet wipes<\/h4>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16781\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]
You might find yourself in a public restroom without running water or paper. So these will be useful.[\/caption]\r\n\r\n \r\nFirst Aid<\/h2>\r\nOf course, it goes without saying to always bring along enough of whatever regular medication \/ prescriptions you use, unless you\u2019re sure\u00a0that you can find it here without issues.\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\nTravelling into any new environment and experiencing changes in diet increase the chances for upset stomachs, so bring along a small supply of\r\n- anti-diarrhoea<\/h4>\r\n
- oral rehydration solution<\/h4>\r\n
- over the counter painkillers<\/h4>\r\nAlthough these can be found in pharmacies throughout the Philippines it is much more convenient to have them with you already, especially if you are somewhere a little more remote,.\r\n
- anti itch ointment<\/h4>\r\nfor insect bites and jellyfish stings might also come in handy.\r\n
Other Essentials<\/h2>\r\n
<\/h4>\r\n
- power adaptors \u00a0- round and flat<\/h4>\r\nyou will find that two types\u00a0of power outlet exist in the Philippines\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16972\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]
Both the 2 pin round and 2 pin flat socket types are used in the Philippines. Outlets that can receive both, like this one, are common especially in newer buildings.[\/caption]\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16791\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"] A universal power adaptor works for both the flat (American type) and round (European type) outlets found in the Philippines.[\/caption]\r\n<\/h4>\r\n
<\/h4>\r\n
- entertainment<\/h4>\r\nSure, you might bring your smartphone or laptop or tablet and these can be great if and when you have electricity\u00a0and or wifi. But don\u2019t forget books. Remember those?\r\nYou could find yourself experiencing delayed and long travel times. A good novel (or even a trashy one), pen and journal, a deck of cards are all classic\u00a0non-tech, unplugged forms of entertainment. Might as well make the most of those times when the power is out or when you do not have access to electricity.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16962\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]
This vendor at Cebu's Carbon Market understands the value of some good old fashioned book reading.[\/caption]\r\n<\/h2>\r\n
Not Necessary but Good to Have<\/h2>\r\n
<\/h4>\r\n
- ear plugs<\/h4>\r\nif you are a light sleeper and not a huge fan of weekend karaoke and the early morning calls of roosters and dogs, bring these.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16779\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]
For light sleepers, ear plugs can help cut down night time noises.[\/caption]\r\n<\/h4>\r\n
- flashlight \/ torch<\/h4>\r\nFor the brown outs or walking the islands at night. I have a miniature one attached to my keys but lets face it, most of us end up using the ones on our phones.\r\n
- lightweight reusable shopping bag<\/h4>\r\nWherever and whenever you can, avoid accepting the plastic bags (or \u201ccellophane\u201d) that shopkeepers give you no matter how small your purchase. Rubbish disposal is a big problem especially on the islands. The less plastic consumed means less to potentially end up in our seas.\r\nThe reusable bags are not only good for shopping; they also do extra duties as a beach bag or to separate dirty clothes from clean in your suitcase. I know I've filed this under \"Not Necessary\" but I tend to always bring at least one with me any time I travel.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16797\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]
I have had these cloth bags for many years. They are multi-purpose, reusable, washable and fold into nothing.[\/caption]\r\n<\/h4>\r\n
- unlocked mobile phone<\/h4>\r\nYou can pick up a SIM card at the airports in Manila and Cebu. Texting is relatively cheap here and can come in very handy when travelling.\r\n
- lightweight rain jacket or umbrella<\/h4>\r\nPersonally, I don't usually have either of these with me. But there have been times that I'd wished I did.\r\n
If you\u2019re going to hit the beaches or participate in water activities<\/h2>\r\n
<\/h4>\r\n
- all weather\/ waterproof camera<\/h4>\r\n
- dry bag<\/h4>\r\n
- quick dry towel<\/h4>\r\n
- water shoes \/ sandals - to avoid injury from sea urchins and rocky beaches<\/h4>\r\n
- rash guard<\/h4>\r\n
- mask and snorkel<\/h4>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16798\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]
A dry bag to keep your stuff dry, and a mask, snorkel and rash guard for when you want to get in the water.[\/caption]\r\n<\/h2>\r\n
And Finally...<\/h2>\r\n
- extra room in your suitcase for shopping and souvenirs<\/h4>\r\n
- a positive attitude!<\/h4>\r\nRemember that you are travelling through a \u201cdeveloping\u201d nation. There are aspects of it that are on par with the most modern countries. But there are other parts which can pose challenges.\r\nTake a deep breath, have a sense of humour and enjoy these differences in culture. You are on vacation, after all!\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16800\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]
When things don't go exactly as planned, the best thing you can have with you is a positive attitude.[\/caption]\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nHave I forgotten anything? If you\u00a0can think of any essentials that I've missed, let us\u00a0know in the comments below.","_et_gb_content_width":"","content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[213,242],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-17056","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"yoast_head":"\n