Pre-Trip Checklist: Bohol

Helpful Preparations

A chronological approach to planning a strong management for all tasks.

Chronological planning timeline:

Steps to follow for a well-prepared trip.

-6 Months Before

Passport Validity

It must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned period of stay in the Philippines.

Visa Requirements

Research visa requirements for your nationality. Apply for any necessary visas well in advance.

Book International Flights

Especially if you are traveling during high season (December-February) or major holidays.

-2 Months Before

Book Domestic Flights and Ferries

Book domestic flights (Manila/Cebu to Bohol) and ferry tickets (e.g., Cebu to Tagbilaran).

Reserve Main Accommodations

Notably if you have specific preferences or are traveling during busy times.

International Driving Permit IDP

Acquire an IDP if you plan to rent a car or scooter in Bohol. You will need your home country's driver's license too.

-2 Weeks Before

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all your bookings and reservations (flights, hotels, tours).

Travel Essentials

Acquire travel essentials like a Universal travel adapter and a Portable charger.

Philippines eTravel Registration

Complete the Philippines eTravel online registration. This is a mandatory digital arrival card.

Required Advance Bookings and Reservations

Items to Book Ahead

Flights (international and domestic)
Main accommodation
Popular tours (e.g., diving, island hopping during peak season)
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads recommended).

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Areas for Study

Read up on local customs and etiquette to ensure respectful interactions.
Learn some basic Cebuano or Tagalog phrases.
Stay updated on current events in the Philippines.
Organize any prescription medications, ensuring you have enough for your trip and documentation like a doctor's letter.

Arrival Checklist

These steps ensure your quick settlement upon reaching Bohol.

First steps upon arrival BOH

Proceed through immigration, presenting your passport and eTravel QR code.
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim.
Purchase a local SIM card from the Globe or Smart counter in the arrivals area for easy connectivity.
Exchange currency if needed, or locate an ATM to withdraw cash.

Orientation strategies

Locate your accommodation. Use your downloaded offline maps.
Familiarize yourself with nearby amenities, like restaurants, ATMs, convenience stores, and public transport stops.
Acquire a local map from your hotel or a tourist information center if available.
Arrange your airport transfer (use a pre-booked service, a shared van, or hail a tricycle/taxi outside the perimeter).

Currency exchange and initial purchases

Exchange a small amount of local currency at the airport for immediate needs. You may find better exchange rates in Tagbilaran City or Alona Beach.
Buy bottled water immediately upon arrival.

Prepare your travel documents and passport.

Departure Preparation

Strategize your departure to avoid last-minute stress.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

Purchase Souvenirs
Purchase souvenirs in advance of your departure day to avoid rushing.
Shipping Large Items
If you plan to ship large items home, confirm procedures and costs with local courier services in Tagbilaran.
VAT Refund Procedures
The Philippines does not currently present a general VAT refund scheme for tourists.

Pre-Departure Timing and Return Trip

Check Status
Check your flight or ferry status a day before and on the day of departure.
Allow Ample Time
Allow ample time for your transfer to the airport or port, especially from Panglao to BOH (30-45 minutes travel time, plus buffer for traffic or unexpected delays).
Return Trip Preparation
Reconfirm your onward flights or accommodation in your next destination. Ensure your passport validity meets the requirements for your next destination.

Departure Checklist Overview

Souvenir Planning

Purchase local crafts and gifts ahead of time.

Consider shipping options for larger items if needed.

Travel Itinerary Review

Double-check all flight or ferry schedules.

Allow extra time for airport/port transfers.

Onward Journey

Confirm bookings for your next destination.

Verify passport validity for international travel.

Local souvenirs from Bohol, ideal for gifts.

Pre-Trip Details

-2 Weeks Before Travel

Make copies (digital and physical) of all your essential documents, including passport, visa, flight tickets, and insurance policy. Store them separately from the originals.
Pack according to the climate and your planned activities, using the "What to Pack" guide (Section 3). Consider products from Eagle Creek for organization.
Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel plans to prevent transaction blocks.
Organize any prescription medications, ensuring you have enough for your trip and carrying documentation like a doctor's letter.

-3 Days Before Travel

Complete the Philippines eTravel online registration. This is a mandatory digital arrival card.
Exchange some local currency (Philippine Pesos) or possess USD/EUR for exchange upon arrival for immediate needs.
Charge all your electronics (phone, camera, power bank).
Download offline maps (Google Maps) and translation packs (Google Translate) for Bohol.

Pre-Trip Checklist