Guide to Backpacking Through the Philippines

Being a many-island nation, it can be a nightmare to go on a backpacking trip to the Philippines if you’re not prepared.

How would you know where or how to start your journey?

Well, for many tourists who have visited the country, the pressure and stress of planning out the perfect backpacking expedition are overshadowed only by the excitement and sense of adventure they feel once they step foot onto the beautiful land known as the Pearl of the Orient Seas.

Whether you’re traveling alone or with a group of friends, you would need a guide to ensure that you make the most out of your experience. Such an activity obviously involves a lot of walking, and it will be hours before you can get back to the safety of the lodge or hotel you’re staying in.

As such, it’s important that you be guided accordingly.

Backpacking Necessities You Should Have

1. Waterproof bag / pouch

   When backpacking in the Philippines, make sure you have all your important documents with you at all times. Though there is no written law that requires tourists to carry with them their passport, it never hurts to think ahead. Even a photocopy of your passport is enough, for as long as you place it inside a waterproof bag or pouch.

   Another necessity you need to place inside your waterproof pouch is some pocket change and bills. You wouldn’t want to be far away from civilization and have no amount of money with you. You never know when you might need to buy snacks and souvenirs, or pay for an entrance fee.

   
   

2. First aid kit

   Your health should always be a top priority when traveling to a foreign country. Be sure to have the proper medication available for common mishaps like getting a light scratch, an upset stomach, or a mild headache.

   Even as you explore some of the most enchanted places in the Philippines, you should be prepared for anything that can happen along the way. Being able to quickly remedy a health problem or concern will allow you to get back to enjoying your trip as soon as possible.

   
   

3. Waterproof camera

   There’s no telling when you might run into unchartered rivers or lakes, and you might be tempted to go swimming, so you might as well have a waterproof camera to satisfy your photography needs.

   You don’t always have to spend money on an expensive one. Use your creativity and purchase a waterproof case or a sealable plastic pouch with which you can protect your camera.

   
   

4. Selfie stick

   Of course, when there’s a camera, there should also be a selfie stick. This allows you to capture good angles of unforgettable moments and breathtaking places with you in the picture.

   
   

5. Footwear

   With all the walking you’ll be doing, it’s incredibly important that you have the right hiking boots with you. Not only will it keep your feet from hurting or getting blisters, but you’ll also have a good grip or balance for when you’ll be taking uneven trails.

   
   

6. Travel insurance

   This will come in handy for when a flight gets delayed or cancelled so the agency can take care of your unexpected accommodation costs. The same goes for when any kind of accident happens so that your hospital bills will be taken care of.

   Some also cover reimbursements. We all know how expensive traveling overseas can be, and if you suddenly have an emergency that forces you to cancel your trip, you won’t have to worry about non-refundable expenses.

   
   

7. Your adventurous spirit

   Backpacking through the Philippines wouldn’t be complete if you don’t bring with you your adventurous spirit. Leave your worries and troubles behind and simply look forward to exploring the many undiscovered beautiful places in the Philippines. Always make the most out of this exciting journey and never hesitate to try new things.

A Short Philippine Itinerary Guide

Every enjoyable trip has to start somewhere, and the best way to make sure you don’t miss out on anything is by having an itinerary in hand. Whichever town or city you’d like to go to first, as long as you know your schedule and list of activities, you’ll be going home with a lot of good memories.

1. Cebu

   Although Manila is the capital city of the Philippines, Cebu offers a lot of adventurous activities both within the city proper and in the provinces. In the southern town of Oslob, you can go whale watching or interact with them up close and personal. If you’re not much of a swimmer, there is no need to worry as professional tour guides will always be with you.

   Kawasan Falls, located in Badian, Cebu, is another picturesque location that features an aquamarine lagoon and natural swimming pools that you can enjoy and swim around in.

   While in the south, you can book your accommodations with D Alegre Travelers Inn, which is located in Alegria, Cebu. It’s only a few meters away from the beach, so you have all the time you need to bask in the sun, soak in the waters, and relax in the inn for less than 10USD!

   
   

2. Bohol

   Whether you prefer visiting the world-renowned Chocolate Hills or the local Tarsier sanctuary, no trip to the Philippines will ever be complete without stopping by Bohol. Here, you can meet one of the world’s smallest primates, the Tarsier. Known to be endangered, these tiny creatures have become the symbol of Bohol and its tourism.

   Accommodations can be booked in one of the municipality’s luxury resorts, the Bohol Beach Club. Savor the elegance and beauty of a resort that is located in the middle of a tropical paradise. Beachside bars and pools are available in case you’re in need of a good relaxation.

   
   

3. Palawan

   This is one of the few places in the Philippines that is rightly considered a paradise. It has beautiful islets that you can visit by renting out kayaks and small dinghies. The clear blue waters are perfect for that beautiful profile picture you want everyone to see.

   While in Palawan, you can visit Coron or El Nido. Both feature fine sand beaches that you only ever see on postcards!

   
   

4. Boracay

   Last but not the least, don’t forget to stop by Boracay. Just a few kilometers north of Cebu, this Philippine island would be the perfect ending to a perfect getaway. With the beautiful beaches and incredibly gorgeous women, you can never go wrong with spending a night in this lovely place.

Backpacking Philippines | Exciting Adventures Await

Every tourist and traveler knows that backpacking should be enjoyable, memorable, and most of all, hassle-free. Keep this brief guide in hand and you won’t have to worry about the stresses of backpacking through the Philippines. With that, you’ll be able to look forward to a lot of adventures and discover how the Philippines is one of the best countries in Southeast Asia to travel to!