Pre-Trip Checklist: El Nido

Helpful Preparations

Organize your trip effectively with a chronological planning timeline.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Organized steps ensure a smooth journey to El Nido.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity for at least six months beyond return. Research visa requirements and apply if needed.

Flights & Accommodation

Book international flights to Manila or Cebu. Book AirSwift flights to El Nido (ENI) or domestic flights to Puerto Princesa (PPS). Book accommodations, especially for high season.

Insurance & Tours

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance. Research and book high-demand tours or dive courses.

Month Before

Health & Permits

Check recommended vaccinations with a travel health clinic. Arrange an International Driving Permit (IDP) if planning to rent a motorbike.

Itinerary & Gear

Plan your detailed itinerary and transfers. Purchase helpful gear: dry bags, reef-safe sunscreen, a power bank. Consider Packing organizers.

Finances & Confirmation

Inform your bank of travel plans to prevent card issues. Confirm all bookings.

Week Before

Final Checks & Packing

Reconfirm all flights, accommodation, and tours. Pack your bags, referring to your packing list.

Digital Prep & Money

Download offline maps and translation apps. Arrange travel money: carry cash and know ATM withdrawal limits.

Documents & Home

Make copies (digital and physical) of important documents. Complete eTravel registration. Inform family/friends of itinerary and secure your home.

Bookings & Research

Secure essential elements for your journey.

Advance Bookings

International and domestic flights (especially AirSwift to ENI).
Accommodation (valuable in high season).
Private island hopping tours or specialized dive trips.
Complete eTravel registration online within 72 hours of arrival.

Pre-Travel Awareness

Familiarize yourself with local context.

Essential Research

Read up on local customs and etiquette.
Familiarize yourself with common travel scams.
Check current travel advisories from your government for safety updates.
Inform family or friends of your itinerary and contact details.

Pre-Departure Tasks

Ensure everything is in order before you go.

Document Preparation

Make copies (digital and physical) of all important documents.
Arrange for mail to be held or collected.
Pay any outstanding bills.
Secure your home.

Packing & Essentials

Pack your bags according to your checklist.
Download offline maps and translation apps to your phone.
Arrange travel money; carry cash and know ATM limits.
Charge all electronic devices.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange care for pets.
Arrange care for plants.
Ensure all windows and doors are locked.
Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances.

Preparation Notice

Thorough planning before departure minimizes surprises during your El Nido adventure.

Arrival Checklist

These steps settle you in quickly upon arriving in El Nido.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration Clearance
Clear immigration. Present your passport, eTravel QR code, and onward ticket.
2
Luggage Retrieval
Collect your luggage from the carousel.
3
Ground Transportation
If arriving at PPS, find the shared van terminal for El Nido. If arriving at ENI, find your pre-arranged shuttle or a tricycle.

Initial Needs

Local SIM Card
Purchase a local SIM card if you have not already done so.
Accommodation & Amenities
Locate your accommodation. Find ATMs and money changers in El Nido town.
Currency & Purchases
Exchange some currency at the airport or in town if needed. Get small PHP denominations and purchase bottled water.

Settling In

Town Orientation

Familiarize yourself with the layout of El Nido town. Take a walk around to identify spots.

Identify nearby restaurants and tour operators for convenience.

Transportation Hubs

From ENI: Use the AirSwift shuttle (often included) or a tricycle to your accommodation.

From PPS: Take a shared van to the El Nido town terminal, then a tricycle to your accommodation.

Financial Setup

Ensure you have enough local currency for initial expenses. ATMs can be unreliable.

Consider using a travel-friendly debit card with low foreign transaction fees.

Arrival Success

Completing these first steps upon arrival starts your El Nido experience smoothly.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a smooth departure from El Nido.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid a last-minute rush.
If shipping large items, inquire about services well before departure.
Shipping can take time and be expensive.
The Philippines does not currently offer a VAT refund scheme for tourists.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

For flights from ENI: Arrive 1-1.5 hours before departure.
For flights from PPS: Arrive 2 hours before domestic departure. Account for the 5-6 hour van ride from El Nido to Puerto Princesa.
For ferry from El Nido: Arrive at the terminal 30-60 minutes before departure.
Book your van transfer the day before.

Return Trip Preparation

Ensure your journey home is as smooth as your arrival.

Final Checks

Confirm your return flight details or ferry bookings.
Ensure all documents, including passport and tickets, are readily accessible.
Pack strategically for the return journey, leaving space for souvenirs.
Settle any outstanding bills with your accommodation or tour operators.

Baggage & Logistics

Weigh your luggage to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
Attach clear luggage tags with your contact information.
Consider using TSA-approved locks for your bags.
Keep essential items and important documents in your carry-on bag.

Smooth Exit

Confirm all travel arrangements and settle bills before your departure day.

This prevents last-minute stress and ensures a pleasant end to your trip.

Pre-Trip Checklist