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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

North Luzon, Philippines

Dry Season Attire Nov-Apr

Warm, sunny days and cooler evenings. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal.

Items

  • T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, skirts, light dresses.
  • Light long-sleeved shirt, thin cardigan, or Light jacket for evenings/AC.
  • Swimwear for nearby beaches.

Wet Season Attire May-Oct

Higher humidity and frequent rainfall. Quick-drying fabrics are preferred.

Items

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Shoes/Sandals

Truly essential for exploring Vigan. Cobblestone streets are uneven. Sturdy, supportive options like Teva sandals or Comfortable sneakers.

Comfort first

Flip-Flops/Sliders

Useful for short walks around accommodation, quick errands, or beach visits.

Casual use

Waterproof Footwear

During wet season, water-resistant shoes or sandals handle rain and puddles. Avoid fine leather. Quick-drying materials are best.

Wet weather ready

Essential Documents

Papers Checklist

Keep both physical and digital copies of these important documents.

  • Original passport (6+ months validity) and visa documentation.
  • Travel insurance policy details, emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if renting a vehicle.
  • Vaccination records and prescription medication details.
  • Printed/digital copies of flight, hotel, and tour reservations.
  • Emergency contact information (family, embassy, bank).
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for potential discounts.
  • Store copies separately from originals and leave copies with a trusted person at home.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Plan for power needs and local compatibility for your devices.

Details

Cameras & Apps

Capture memories and navigate with useful digital tools.

Recommendations

Digital Security

VPN Usage

Consider a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure Wi-Fi use.

Cloud Storage

Utilize Google Drive or Dropbox for off-site storage of important files and photos.

Local Backups

An External hard drive or large USB stick offers redundant photo and video backups.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

Pack a thoughtful selection of health items to manage minor ailments.

Contents

Climate-Related Protections

Stay safe from sun and insects.

Essentials

Special Health Concerns

Altitude & Motion Sickness

  • Vigan is at low altitude; altitude sickness is not a concern.
  • For long bus rides on winding roads, consider Motion sickness medication.
  • Over-the-counter remedies for colds, coughs, indigestion.

Water & Hygiene

Activity-Specific Equipment

Walking & Sightseeing

Comfortable walking shoes are the most significant "gear."

Photography

Capture Vigan's architectural details and ambiance.

Rent vs. Bring

Decide what to bring based on quality and availability.

  • Bring high-quality specialty items (e.g., specific camera lenses, drone).
  • Rent/buy locally basic umbrellas, extra flip-flops, simple hats.
  • Bicycles are available for rent from some guesthouses or shops.
  • No unique specialty gear for Vigan's main historical attractions.

Cultural Dress & Modesty

General Wear

  • Comfortable and casual clothing for daily wear.
  • Lightweight tops and bottoms for ease of movement.
  • General casual attire for navigating Vigan's streets.
  • Wear clothes you do not mind getting dirty for pottery workshops.

Religious Sites

  • Dress respectfully when visiting churches like Vigan Cathedral.
  • Shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • Avoid overly revealing clothing, tank tops, or very short shorts/skirts.
  • Carrying your own shawl or cover-up is advisable.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Items that improve comfort, security, and general convenience.

Reusable Items

Reduce waste and stay hydrated.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Hard-to-Find Local Items

Specific Medications

Prescription medications or specialized medical supplies.

Preferred Sunscreens

High-quality sunscreens or insect repellents with specific concentrations.

Niche Toiletries

Specific personal hygiene products or cosmetics for sensitivities.

Adventure Gear

Specialized adventure gear not common in Vigan.

Cultural Awareness Gear

Cultural Respect

  • Modest clothing for religious sites.
  • A basic Filipino phrasebook or translation app.
  • Be mindful when photographing locals; ask permission.

General Readiness

  • Plenty of small bills and coins for local purchases.
  • An open mind for new experiences and unexpected delights.
  • A friendly attitude for engaging with locals.

Packing Smarter

Pack light for ease of movement and to accommodate souvenirs. Consider rolling clothes to save space.

Divide essentials between carry-on and checked luggage in case one bag is delayed.