27 Traveling to Philippines Tips: A Mom’s Ultimate Guide to Surviving Paradise with Kids
Planning a trip to the Philippines can be exciting and a little overwhelming all at once. We’ve been there ourselves and know that figuring out what to do, where to go, and how to prepare can make your head spin faster than a trike on a busy Manila street!
The Philippines offers incredible beaches, friendly locals, and amazing food, but knowing a few key tips before you visit can make your experience so much better and help you avoid common tourist mistakes. It’s also important to be aware of the limitations of emergency services in the Philippines, as they may not meet U.S. standards and can be critical for travelers needing urgent medical assistance.
Getting ready for your Philippine adventure doesn’t have to be stressful, friends!
With over 7,000 islands to potentially explore, this gorgeous Southeast Asian paradise with stunning beaches has something for everyone—but be aware of increased risk in certain areas.
We’ve gathered some super helpful tips from our own travels and from advice shared by other travelers to make your Filipino journey absolutely amazing!
1) Pack light and bring aloe vera for those accidental sunburns.
When traveling to the Philippines, we always remind our besties to pack light for using public transportation !
Those island hops are way more fun when you’re not lugging around a massive suitcase.
But girls, don’t forget to toss some aloe vera gel in your beach bag!
Trust us, those tropical rays are STRONG and we’ve all had that “oops, fell asleep on the beach” moment.
Aloe vera is a total lifesaver that soothes sunburn and reduces that painful inflammation.
Pro tip: keep it in the mini fridge at your hotel for extra cooling relief!
2) Try Halo-Halo; it’s like a party in your mouth with coconut and jellies!
When visiting the Philippines, we absolutely must try their famous dessert called halo-halo!
It’s a Filipino shaved ice dessert that’s layered with all sorts of yummy ingredients like coconut, jackfruit, sweetened bananas, and colorful jellies, perfect after a day of shopping malls . The name actually means “mix-mix” because you’re supposed to stir it all together!
Each spoonful gives you different textures and flavors. You’ll find sweet beans, condensed milk, and fruits all in one delicious bowl. Our favorite versions include ube (purple yam) ice cream on top!
Don’t worry if you see variations of this dessert during your travels. Every region has their own special way of making it, and that’s part of the fun!
3) Island hop like a pro – Palawan is your Instagram paradise
Ladies, Palawan is THE spot for your Filipino adventures!
We’ve been there and can confirm it’s absolutely worth the hype. The crystal clear waters are begging to be your next profile pic backdrop!
Island hopping in Coron should definitely top your travel bucket list. The limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons will have your followers double-tapping like crazy.
Just this week, travelers are experiencing Coron in amazing new ways with guided expeditions.
We recommend booking a small group tour to hit all the best spots without the crowds.
While Palawan is beautiful, travelers should be aware of the challenges faced in major cities, such as air pollution and terrorism.
Don’t forget to visit the pristine beaches away from tourist crowds for that authentic island experience. Your camera roll will thank you!
Don’t go breaking the law; respect local customs and rules, chicas! Listen to local authorities.
When visiting the Philippines, we need to be extra mindful of local rules to avoid potential violent crimes.
The country takes their local laws seriously, and foreigners aren’t exempt—in fact, you might face harsher treatment than locals if caught breaking rules!
Remember to respect local culture by following simple things like no-smoking zones and traffic regulations.
The penalties associated with illegal drugs in the Philippines are severe, including life imprisonment and hefty fines.
It’s not just about avoiding trouble—it’s about being a good guest!
We always follow this rule: if we wouldn’t do it at home, we definitely shouldn’t do it abroad! Trust us, a vacation is way more fun without a visit to the local police station.
5) Learn a bit of Tagalog – locals love when you try!
We cannot stress this enough – learning a few Tagalog phrases will absolutely make your Philippines trip more special, especially when interacting with locals who appreciate a foreign passport holder trying to communicate.
When we tried speaking even basic Tagalog, the smiles we got were totally worth the effort.
Start with simple expressions like “Kumusta?” (How are you?), “Salamat po” (Thank you), “Oo” (Yes), and “Hindi” (No). These little words go a long way!
Don’t worry about perfect pronunciation. Most Filipinos understand English, so they’ll help you out if you get stuck. The effort is what counts!
Filipino culture is super friendly, and your attempts to speak their language will be met with genuine appreciation. We promise it’s the quickest way to make local friends!
6) Always carry a stash of cash; ATMs can be a rare breed.
When traveling to the Philippines, we’ve learned that cash is definitely your BFF!
While cards are accepted in most cities, once you venture to those gorgeous remote islands (which is where the magic happens!), you’ll need plenty of cash on hand for taxi drivers .
ATMs can be super scarce in less touristy areas, and here’s the kicker – many banks charge foreign cards ₱250 per transaction with limits around ₱10,000. Yikes!
Not all ATMs even accept international cards, so we always recommend planning ahead for your money needs.
Nothing ruins a beach day faster than being stuck without pesos for that well-deserved coconut drink!
7) Say hello to a jeepney; they’re like vibrant, moving art galleries.
One of our favorite experiences in the Philippines was riding a jeepney!
These colorful vehicles are the cheapest mode of public transportation in the country and totally unique to Filipino culture.
Jeepneys aren’t just transportation—they’re moving pieces of Filipino culture where every ride gives you a front-row seat to local life!
Each one is decorated differently with bold colors and unique designs.
We loved how these iconic vehicles were born from WWII military jeeps but transformed into vibrant art on wheels.
Don’t worry about figuring it out—locals are super helpful, and there are easy ways to learn the ins and outs of riding them!
8) Embrace ‘Filipino time’ – schedules are more like suggestions
If you’re used to strict punctuality, you’ll need to adjust your expectations in the Philippines!
The concept of Filipino time is real, where being late isn’t considered rude.
We learned this lesson quickly when planning meetups with locals; it’s also wise to monitor local media for any update .
Events often start 30 minutes to an hour after the stated time, and it’s totally normal!
This relaxed attitude toward time isn’t disrespect – it’s cultural.
We found it refreshing once we stopped stressing about exact timing.
Just go with the flow and build some flexibility into your plans.
It’s part of the charm of Filipino culture, and fighting it will only cause frustration!
9) Tipping isn’t required but makes you a hero!
Unlike the US, tipping in the Philippines is not expected. This is such a relief if you’re used to calculating percentages after every meal!
That said, a little tip goes a long way.
Filipinos typically just leave the small change or round up the bill when they’re happy with the service.
We’ve found that even a small tip can make someone’s day!
For good service, consider leaving some spare change or rounding up your fare when taking taxis.
Trust us, even though it’s not required, your small gesture might make you the highlight of someone’s workday!
A little generosity makes both you and your server feel amazing.
Avoid areas with civil unrest and armed groups like your feet avoid Lego blocks!
We’re big fans of skipping those fancy resorts and diving into the local experience!
Finding an Airbnb in the Philippines can give you that authentic Filipino vibe we all crave when traveling.
But wait – we need to throw in a quick reality check!
Some Reddit travelers suggest you might want to avoid Airbnb for short trips and stick to higher-rated hotels if you’re not into surprise roommates (hello, cockroaches!).
If you do go the Airbnb route, remember to make safety your top priority, including checking with local transport and tour operators and respecting local customs.
Depending on the type of visa issued by various Philippine authorities, including the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, travelers may need to obtain a Travel Pass from the issuing department to depart from the country.
The Philippines has some super cute guesthouse options that give you the perfect blend of comfort and local flavor!
Be cautious with selfie spots – some ocean friends like to steal phones! Monitor local media for updates.
Just like we all frantically hop around when stepping on those tiny plastic death traps, we need to dodge areas with civil unrest in the Philippines, especially those monitored by security forces !
The Philippines currently has several regions where increased caution is advised due to civil unrest, terrorism, and kidnapping risks; it’s important to stay informed with local authorities .
We strongly recommend avoiding the Sulu Archipelago where armed groups have targeted tourists for kidnappings.
The southern regions generally pose greater danger than northern areas, and it’s advisable to stay updated with philippine authorities about the safety condition .
Keep an eye out for demonstrations and large gatherings during your trip, as these can sometimes turn violent with little warning.
We always check travel advisories before planning our routes!
12) Be cautious with selfie spots – some ocean friends like to steal phones!
Taking photos at beautiful beaches in the Philippines is a must, but watch out for those sneaky ocean critters!
We’ve heard wild stories about monkeys and even some bold seagulls snatching phones right from tourists’ hands mid-selfie.
When we visited Palawan, we saw a monkey grab someone’s phone and run up a tree with it! The poor traveler never got it back.
Consider using a phone lanyard or waterproof pouch that attaches to your wrist when taking beach photos.
This simple trick has saved our devices many times!
Keep a tight grip and stay aware of your surroundings when capturing those perfect Instagram moments.
The wildlife is amazing, but they might think your shiny phone looks like a tasty treat!
13) Fish balls on a stick? Yes, you gotta try them!
OMG, we’re obsessed with this Filipino street food classic!
Those delicious little fish balls on a stick are a must-try when you’re exploring the Philippines.
You’ll spot vendors everywhere selling these savory treats for super cheap – like only $0.26 in some places!
We love watching them cook in bubbling oil until they turn golden brown.
The best part? The sauce!
You can dip them in spicy sauce that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance.
Some vendors let you choose how many you want on a stick, and you just dunk them yourself!
Can’t wait to visit? You can even make them at home with fish balls from your local Asian market. So good!
14) Make friends with SPF 50 – the sun is no joke!
The Philippine sun is serious business, friends! We learned this the hard way after one too many lobster-red experiences.
Trust us when we say that SPF 50 should be your BFF throughout your trip.
Never forget to reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after swimming or sweating.
Don’t forget those sneaky spots like the back of your hands and between your feet – areas we totally overlook but regret later!
We love sunscreen sticks for easy application on the go.
They’re perfect for quick touch-ups without the mess and make sun protection actually doable throughout the day.
15) Don’t stress if transport is late; it’s all part of the adventure!
When traveling in the Philippines, we’ve learned that transportation schedules are more like loose suggestions!
Buses, ferries, and even flights often run on “Filipino time” – which means delays are super common.
Instead of getting frustrated, we recommend embracing this as part of your journey.
Bring a good book, strike up a conversation with locals, or just enjoy people-watching during the wait.
Transportation in the Philippines can be quite challenging, but it’s also where some of the best travel stories come from!
That time our ferry was three hours late? We ended up meeting the coolest travelers who became our island-hopping buddies!
16) Try not to party alone; always have a buddy system!
Let’s be real – exploring nightlife while traveling is super fun, but safety first, ladies!
We always recommend using the buddy system when hitting up those amazing beach parties or city clubs in the Philippines.
Share your location and plans with someone trustworthy back home. It’s not being paranoid – it’s being smart!
Having a travel companion makes everything safer and more enjoyable.
Plus, you’ll have someone to take those epic dance floor pics with (because did you even party if there’s no evidence, right?).
We know solo trips are empowering, but when the sun goes down, find some hostel friends to join your adventures!
17) Binge on Jollibee Chickenjoy – it’s fast food with a Filipino flair.
OMG, we can’t talk about the Philippines without mentioning Jollibee! This iconic fast food chain is like the heart and soul of Filipino fast food culture.
The star of the show? Chickenjoy! It’s their famous fried chicken with that amazingly crispy skin that’ll make you want to do a happy dance right there in the restaurant. So good!
Many Filipinos actually travel hundreds of miles just to get their Jollibee fix when they’re away from home. It’s that special!
Don’t forget to order it with steamed rice instead of fries for the authentic experience. Trust us, you’ll be joining the legions of Jollibee food reviewers who can’t stop raving about this Filipino treasure!
18) Explore Manila’s street art – your backdrop for epic selfies!
Manila’s street art scene is seriously amazing! We totally fell in love with the colorful murals throughout the city, especially in BGC where you can explore incredible street art.
Grab your phone and get ready for some insta-worthy pics! The vibrant backdrops make for the perfect selfie spots that’ll have your followers double-tapping like crazy.
We recommend wearing something that pops against the colorful walls. Trust us, it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon and see a different side of Manila that many tourists miss!
19) Skip the plastic, go for a bamboo straw – save a turtle!
Let’s be eco-friendly travelers, besties! When visiting the Philippines, we can make a huge difference by saying “no thanks” to plastic straws that often end up in the ocean.
Bringing our own bamboo or steel straw is such a small change that makes a major impact! These cute little items are part of what we call a no waste kit – perfect for island hopping adventures.
Did you know that by skipping the straw, we’re literally helping save sea turtles? Those poor babies mistake straws for food! Our reusable straw and water bottle combo will be your new travel BFFs while keeping the gorgeous Philippine waters clean.
20) Learn the art of the slow wave – it’s like being in a Miss Universe pageant.
Okay, we’ve gotta talk about this iconic Filipino cultural move – the slow wave! Filipinos are absolutely obsessed with Miss Universe and their elegant waves, and locals have perfected this art form.
When you’re walking through a neighborhood in the Philippines, don’t be surprised if strangers wave at you.
Channel your inner beauty queen and give them that graceful, fingers-together, side-to-side wave back!
This small gesture works magic in making local friends. We’ve found that kids especially love it when tourists play along with this charming custom.
Practice in your hotel mirror first – slow and steady wins the race! It’s a fun way to connect with the super friendly Filipino culture.
21) Bring several swimsuits; one is never enough.
Trust us on this one – you’ll want to pack at least 2-3 swimsuits for your Philippines adventure!
With all those gorgeous beaches and island-hopping opportunities, you’ll be living in your swimwear.
Nothing’s worse than having to put on a damp swimsuit because your only one isn’t dry yet.
It’s not a trip to the Philippines without bringing at least one swimsuit, but we strongly recommend multiple!
We suggest bringing a sturdy, wave-proof bikini if you plan on swimming actively.
Don’t forget cute cover-ups too – they’re perfect for those beachside lunches and protecting yourself from the sun.
Having options means you’re always ready for spontaneous swims. Your Instagram will thank you for the variety!
22) Secure your belongings; thieves are sneaky ninjas of the night.
When traveling to the Philippines, foreign nationals should keep in mind that keeping our stuff safe is super important, especially in rural areas !
Thieves can be crafty and quick, sometimes snatching items right from your hands.
One trick we love is using a phone lanyard case. These babies can be lifesavers!
They’ve been known to prevent phone theft even when someone tries to yank it away.
Don’t tempt fate by leaving valuables lying around in your hotel room either.
We always make a point to greet the housekeeping staff warmly and keep our precious items secure.
Cross-body bags are our BFFs for this very reason!
23) Enter karaoke competitions – star power unlocked!
Filipinos take their karaoke seriously! It’s basically a national pastime there, and joining in is a must for the full Philippines experience.
We recommend stepping out of your comfort zone and entering a local karaoke competition.
Don’t worry if you’re not the next Whitney Houston – it’s all about the fun and connecting with locals!
You’ll find karaoke everywhere from small neighborhood bars to fancy hotels.
Many Filipinos use portable “Magic Sing” microphones, so you might even get invited to an impromptu singing session.
Trust us, nothing breaks down cultural barriers faster than belting out a power ballad together!
24) If someone waves, wave back! They’ll adore you.
Filipinos are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet!
We noticed that almost everywhere we went, locals would smile and wave, especially to foreigners.
Don’t be shy – wave back!
This simple gesture goes a long way in the Philippines. When we returned those friendly waves, we often found ourselves in delightful conversations with locals.
Filipino people appreciate these small interactions, and showing friendliness can transform your trip.
Sometimes a wave led to amazing local recommendations or even invitations to join family gatherings!
The genuine warmth of Filipinos is truly special. A little friendliness from you will be met with so much more in return!
25) Dive with whale sharks in Cebu. Epic? Oh yes!
Swimming with whale sharks in Cebu is one of those bucket list experiences we absolutely LOVE! These gentle giants are totally breathtaking up close.
Most tourists head to Oslob for this amazing adventure. It costs about 500 pesos per person to snorkel with these magnificent creatures!
But heads up, friends! Some places have gotten mixed reviews about the risk of japanese encephalitis . The experience at Oslob wasn’t what some travelers expected, so do your research!
We recommend looking into ethical ways to see whale sharks in the Philippines. When done right, swimming alongside these massive beauties is a memory you’ll treasure forever!
26) Follow the smell of adobo. Your taste buds’ new BFF.
Let’s talk about Filipino adobo – the dish that’ll make your nose lead you places! When traveling in the Philippines, we absolutely recommend following that mouthwatering aroma of authentic Filipino Adobo whenever you smell it.
This tasty dish comes in different varieties! The classic chicken adobo is marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic – creating that perfect balance of salty, tangy goodness that we’re obsessed with.
Don’t worry if cooking isn’t your thing! Adobo is actually super easy to make – just throw everything in a pot and let it simmer. But honestly, why bother when you can find the real deal everywhere in the Philippines?
27) Avoid haggling too hard; it’s not a shopping battlefield.
Haggling is totally part of shopping in the Philippines, but we don’t want to go overboard, ladies! Remember, bargaining should be fun, not a heated battle.
When shopping at markets, we recommend starting at about 40% lower than the asking price – not 80%! Filipino vendors are trying to make a living too, and super aggressive bargaining can feel disrespectful.
Before you start haggling, know roughly what things should cost so you don’t overpay but also don’t undervalue someone’s work.
A smile and friendly attitude go so much further than tough negotiating! Filipinos are known for their warmth and kindness, so let’s match that energy!
Before You Go
Travel Documents: Ensure passports and visas are ready for the whole family.
Before you jet off to the Philippines, make sure everyone in the family has a valid passport with at least six months’ validity left. Trust us, you don’t want to be caught off guard at the airport! Check if you need a visa to enter the country and apply well in advance to avoid any last-minute stress. And here’s a pro tip: register with the Philippine’s eTravel System within 72 hours before your travel date. It’s a quick and easy step that can save you a lot of hassle.
Don’t forget to make photocopies of all your important documents, like passports and visas. Leave a copy with a trusted friend or family member back home, just in case. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
Health and Vaccinations: Check necessary vaccinations and pack a family first-aid kit.
Health first, friends! Before you embark on your Filipino adventure, consult your doctor or a travel clinic to find out which vaccinations you and your family might need. Make sure everyone is up-to-date on their routine shots, and consider getting vaccinated against diseases like cholera, Japanese encephalitis, and rabies.
Packing a family first-aid kit is a must. Stock it with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you might need. And don’t forget the sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water filter or purification tablets to ensure you have access to safe drinking water. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping everyone healthy and happy!
Navigating Local Transportation
Getting around the Philippines can feel overwhelming at first, but we’ve got your back! The country offers several unique transportation options that are both affordable and part of the authentic Filipino experience.
It is important to stay on national highways and other paved roads, especially at night, due to dense and unpredictable traffic and potential safety hazards.
Jeepney Adventures
Let’s talk about jeepneys – these colorful, modified WWII jeeps are the rock stars of Filipino transportation! They’re super cheap (usually under 20 pesos per ride) and run along set routes throughout cities and towns.
To catch one, simply flag it down anywhere along its route. Don’t be shy! When you’re ready to hop off, just yell “Para po!” (Stop, please!) and the driver will pull over.
Payment works on an honor system – you’ll pass your money forward through other passengers to reach the driver. Pro tip: have small bills ready since drivers rarely have change for large notes.
Jeepneys can get crowded, especially during rush hour, so be prepared to squeeze in with locals. This might feel chaotic at first, but it’s honestly the best way to experience everyday Filipino life!
Mastering Manila’s MRT and national highways
Manila’s Metro Rail Transit (MRT) is a total lifesaver when you need to escape the city’s legendary traffic jams! The MRT runs along EDSA, connecting major areas of Metro Manila with stops at many shopping malls and business districts.
Tickets are super affordable (usually 13-28 pesos per journey) and can be purchased as single-journey cards or stored-value cards if you’ll be using it frequently. During rush hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM), expect crazy-long lines – we recommend avoiding these times if possible!
Some quick tips for MRT success:
Keep valuables secure and in front of you
Have your ticket/card ready before approaching gates
Stand to the right on escalators so others can pass
Move to the center of the train car after boarding
The first car is usually reserved for women, seniors, and those with children – a thoughtful touch that makes traveling around the Philippines safer for everyone!
Understanding Filipino Culture
The Philippines is home to one of the warmest and most welcoming cultures you’ll ever experience, especially when navigating the public transportation systems ! Filipino culture blends Eastern and Western influences with its own unique flavor that makes traveling there so special. However, public medical clinics in the Philippines often lack basic resources and equipment, which can pose risks for travelers needing medical assistance.
Etiquette Essentials
When visiting the Philippines, we’ve learned that respect is super important! Filipinos are extremely friendly people who genuinely want you to enjoy your time in their country, and they are proud to provide essential services for travelers .
Never point with your fingers at people or objects – it’s considered rude! Instead, we recommend using your lips to gesture (yes, really!) or motion with your chin. It’s a quirky cultural difference we absolutely adore.
When meeting someone new, show respect by adding “po” or “opo” to your sentences when speaking to elders. This little word makes a huge difference in how locals perceive you!
Physical touch, like a light handshake or friendly arm touch, is common during conversations. Don’t be surprised if strangers get a bit closer than you’re used to – it’s totally normal and shows friendliness.
Exploring Filipino Festivals
OMG, Filipino festivals are EVERYTHING!
These colorful celebrations give us the perfect chance to experience local culture up close and personal.
Sinulog Festival in Cebu (January) celebrates the Filipino acceptance of Christianity. You’ll see the most incredible street dancing! The costumes are to die for, and the energy is absolutely contagious.
Holy Week celebrations are super important since Catholicism is huge in Filipino culture.
Many locals participate in processions and even self-flagellation. It’s intense but fascinating!
Don’t miss Ati-Atihan in Kalibo – think of it as the Filipino Mardi Gras!
People paint their faces black and dance through streets while drums pound all around. We totally lost ourselves in the rhythm when we went!
Pro tip: Festival dates often change yearly, so double-check before planning your trip around one!
Safety and Security
Natural Disasters: Be prepared for typhoons and monsoons, especially with kids in tow.
The Philippines is a beautiful destination, but it’s also prone to natural disasters like typhoons and monsoons. When traveling with kids, it’s crucial to stay informed and prepared. Keep an eye on local media and weather reports to stay updated on any potential weather issues. Register with your government’s travel advisory program to receive important safety and security updates.
Make sure your accommodation is typhoon-proof and have an emergency plan in place. Keep a list of emergency contact numbers, including the local police and your embassy, handy. It’s also a good idea to make sure your kids know what to do in case of an emergency. Being prepared can make all the difference in keeping your family safe and sound during your trip.
