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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

The Visayas, Philippines

Seasonal Clothing

Focus on lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking synthetics. These dry quickly and manage sweat.

Dry Season Dec-May

  • Light, airy clothing: shorts, t-shirts, sundresses.
  • Sun protection: Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses.
  • A light cardigan or scarf for strong AC or added sun protection.

Cultural & Activity Attire

Modest dress receives appreciation across the Philippines, especially outside major beach resort areas. Casual wear is acceptable in most city settings.

Dress Codes

  • Religious Sites: Shoulders and knees covered (men and women).
  • Hiking: Quick-drying shorts/pants, Moisture-wicking shirts, long pants for protection.
  • Swimming: Multiple Swimsuits/board shorts, rash guard for sun.

Footwear Focus

General/City

Comfortable sandals, flip-flops, or breathable Walking shoes. Prioritize comfort for lots of walking.

Ideal for everyday wear.

Hiking/Canyoneering

Water shoes with good grip or sturdy sandals. Lightweight hiking shoes for more serious trails.

Useful for slippery surfaces.

Beach/Evenings

Flip-flops or water slippers for the beach. Dressier sandals or casual shoes for upscale evenings.

Versatile for various settings.

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Keep your travel documents organized and secure. Carry both original and copies of all important papers.

  • Passport: Original, physical, valid 6+ months beyond stay.
  • Visa: Physical visa or e-visa approval if required for your nationality.
  • Return/Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from the Philippines.
  • eTravel QR Code: From completed online registration (Etravel.gov.ph).
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Printed copy of details, 24/7 emergency contact.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If planning to drive, with national license.
  • Vaccination Records: For personal reference, Yellow Fever card if applicable.
  • Emergency Contact Info: Family, embassy, bank fraud department.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

The standard voltage in the Philippines is 220V, 60Hz. Most modern electronics are dual voltage (100-240V). The Philippines mainly uses Type A and Type B sockets.

Essentials

Photography & Apps

For general photography, a Compact mirrorless camera or a DSLR. For water activities, a Waterproof action camera (GoPro).

Recommended Apps

  • Google Maps (offline maps), Waze for navigation.
  • Grab for ride-sharing and food delivery.
  • WhatsApp, Viber, Messenger for communication. Google Translate.

Data & Digital Security

Backup Solutions

Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) for photos and important documents. A physical flash drive offers additional backup.

VPN Services

For secure internet access, especially on public Wi-Fi. Consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Electronics Retailers

For camera gear and electronics, B&H Photo can be a source pre-trip. Local malls have electronics stores.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health and wellness kit provides peace of mind and addresses minor issues quickly.

Kit Contents

Medications & Protection

Carry all prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's note. Include remedies for cold/flu, motion sickness, and antacids.

Essential Protection

Special Considerations

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness pills (e.g., Dramamine) for boat trips.
  • Useful for long bus rides on winding roads.
  • Altitude sickness is not a concern in Cebu (low peaks).

Personal Hygiene

  • Bring specific brands for sensitivities (shampoo, toothpaste, menstrual products).
  • Travel-sized containers for liquids.
  • A basic Travel first aid kit for prompt wound care.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Water Sports

While gear rental is available, bringing your own Snorkel mask and fins offers comfort and hygiene. A rash guard for sun protection is also useful.

Hiking & Canyoneering

For canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, Water shoes with good grip are essential. Helmets and harnesses are usually provided by tour operators.

  • Lightweight backpack for day hikes.
  • Trekking poles for extensive or challenging hikes.
  • Long pants for protection against scratches and insect bites.
  • Headlamp for early morning or late evening hikes.

Specialty Gear

A Waterproof phone pouch protects your phone during boat trips and at waterfalls, allowing for worry-free photos.

  • Drone for scenic shots (research local regulations).
  • For avid divers, bringing your own Dive computer can be beneficial.
  • Surfboards typically available for rent in surfing spots.
  • Portable water filter for safe refills.

Rent vs. Bring Decisions

Consider Renting

  • Scuba diving BCDs, regulators, tanks.
  • Surfboards.
  • Canyoneering helmets and harnesses.
  • Mountain bikes for challenging trails.

Consider Bringing

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Long flights or bus rides are more comfortable with a Neck pillow, an Eye mask, and Earplugs.

Security Items

Reusable & Cebu-Specific

A Reusable water bottle is useful for refilling at purified water stations, reducing plastic waste. A Reusable shopping bag is also handy.

Cebu Essentials

  • Small denominations of Philippine Pesos for local transport and food.
  • A light, quick-drying Travel towel for beaches and waterfalls.
  • Consider a Reusable cutlery set for street food.
  • Items difficult or expensive to find locally (specific brands, specialized gear).

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Bottle

Reduce plastic waste, refill at stations.

Reusable Bag

Avoid single-use plastic bags for shopping.

Filter Bottle

Access safe drinking water from various sources.

Hand Sanitizer

Maintain hygiene on the go.

Destination-Specific Items

For Beaches & Water

  • Snorkel gear (if preferred over rental).
  • Rash guard for sun protection while swimming.
  • Waterproof phone pouch.

For Urban & Tours

  • Small PHP denominations.
  • Portable charger for phone/devices.
  • Offline maps downloaded on your phone.

Packing Smart Tip

Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize different types of clothing or items.

Consider bringing a lightweight, foldable daypack for excursions and a larger bag for your main luggage.