The Philippines, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is a dream destination for many travelers. However, navigating this Southeast Asian gem on a budget requires a touch of creativity and resourcefulness. While food, accommodation, and transportation may be slightly more expensive compared to neighboring countries, it is still possible to experience the beauty of the Philippines without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll delve into the details of budget travel in the Philippines, offering top tips and itineraries to help you plan your trip effectively.
I. Budget Travel in the Philippines: Is It Possible?
When it comes to budget travel in the Philippines, backpacking is a popular choice for exploring the country’s best sights on a tight budget. With some careful planning and research, you can keep your daily expenses as low as PhP 500 (Philippine Pesos) for food and drink, provided your needs are simple. While hostels and cheap food options are abundant, it’s important to note that prices in the Philippines, particularly in Manila, are slightly higher than in other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
For instance, while you can savor a bowl of pho on the streets of Vietnam for as little as PhP 30, you’ll need to spend around PhP 80 or more for a decent meal in the Philippines, as street food is not always regarded as the safest, cleanest, or healthiest option. In terms of accommodation, while hostel dorm beds in Thailand can be as cheap as PhP 300 per night, the most affordable options in Manila start at around PhP 700 per bed.
Traveling on a low budget in Manila is still possible, but transportation costs can be a significant expense. To save on transportation, it’s advisable to book a hostel in the city center, allowing you to explore on foot instead of relying on taxis or ride-sharing services like Grab and Uber. However, when venturing into more remote areas and beach destinations, you’ll find it easier to find budget accommodations, and the overall cost of transport, food, and activities will be more reasonable. In these areas, you can discover homestays and hostels offering dorm beds for as low as PhP 250 per night, especially if you don’t mind basic amenities and are focused on outdoor exploration. Furthermore, food in Philippine provinces, including beach areas, is inexpensive, abundant, and delicious. You can expect to pay around PhP 50 or more for a homemade meal consisting of a viand and a generous serving of rice (a Filipino staple).
In addition to homestyle meals, you’ll find inexpensive Filipino food served at food stalls known as carinderias, which are commonly found along the side of the road in all tourist destinations. These carinderias, along with small, family-owned restaurants, offer a wide variety of affordable and tasty dishes. While carinderias may lack ambiance, they provide an excellent option for budget travelers, allowing you to immerse yourself in local dining experiences and potentially make new friends.
II. Independent or Packaged Tour: Choosing the Right Approach
When planning your trip to the Philippines, you’ll discover numerous ways to enjoy your holiday even on a limited budget. The country is highly tourist-friendly, catering to price-conscious travelers. As you plan your itinerary, you’ll come across two main options: independent travel or a packaged tour. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each approach to help you make an informed decision.
Independent Travel
Independent travel is a popular choice among budget travelers who wish to explore various sights and destinations in the Philippines. With the help of a guidebook, map, and some research, you can plan everything on your own.
Pros:
a. Flexibility
Independent travel allows you the freedom to choose your own itinerary and explore at your own pace. You can customize your trip according to your preferences and interests, without being bound by a set schedule.
b. Relaxed Experience
Traveling independently enables you to stay longer in a destination that captivates you and skip attractions that don’t interest you, even if they are popular with other travelers. You have the flexibility to make spontaneous decisions and fully immerse yourself in the places you find most captivating.
c. Affordability
Creating your own itinerary in the Philippines is generally more cost-effective. Hiring a private guide, if needed, won’t strain your budget, and you have the freedom to choose accommodations, transportation, and activities that fit your financial constraints.
Cons:
a. Research-Heavy
Planning an independent trip requires investing time and effort in creating an itinerary that suits your needs. Some destinations within the Philippines may require more extensive planning than others. While large cities like Manila and Cebu offer numerous possibilities, remote locations like Sagada or the islands of Boracay are easier to plan for.
b. Potential Missed Attractions
Relying solely on guidebooks and online research may cause you to overlook certain attractions that might have been enjoyable in person. It’s possible to underestimate the value of some sites, resulting in missed opportunities.
Packaged Tour
Tour operators in the Philippines offer a wide range of packaged tours at reasonable prices, making them an attractive option for budget travelers.
Pros:
a. Affordability
Tour operators have established connections with local tourism services, enabling them to offer add-ons at discounted prices. These add-ons may include special desserts from local vendors, hotel pick-up and drop-off services, and other perks that would typically cost extra if planned independently.
b. Ideal for Island Hopping
The Philippines is renowned for its tropical destinations, which are best explored through island-hopping tours. Booking a packaged island-hopping tour is often more affordable than hiring a private outrigger boat. These tours typically cost around PhP 800-1,000 for three or more travelers, including one meal aboard the boat and basic refreshments. Private island-hopping tours, although pricier, offer a more intimate experience.
c. Inclusion of Everything
Packaged tours handle all the logistics for you, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Plane rides, car services, snorkeling equipment rental, boat rentals, and meals are usually included in the package price. This eliminates the need to worry about arranging these aspects individually and allows you to focus on enjoying the best attractions of your chosen destination.
Cons:
a. Lack of Flexibility
Packaged tours typically follow a fixed itinerary, leaving little room for customization. You’ll have to adhere to the designated time frame for each activity and may risk being left behind if you deviate from the group.
b. Travel Companions
Unless you’re traveling with a group large enough to meet the minimum required number of participants, you may end up touring with other travelers you may not necessarily get along with.
c. Limited to Popular Sights
Packaged group tours often focus on the most popular attractions, overlooking some hidden gems. Exploring independently allows you the freedom to discover lesser-known sites and create unique experiences.
Ultimately, the best travel experiences in the Philippines often combine elements of both independent and packaged tours, as both approaches can be pursued affordably. This is especially recommended when visiting multiple destinations rather than just staying in one or two places.
III. Top Budget Itineraries
The Philippines offers a wealth of low-cost travel experiences. Here are some top budget itineraries to consider for your trip, featuring destinations where budget travelers can find a wide range of affordable accommodations, inexpensive food, and free attractions.
Manila
The capitalof the Philippines, Manila, is rich in budget-friendly experiences. Throughout the city, you’ll find affordable hostels, inns, and guesthouses, but for the best options, consider staying in Poblacion, a gentrified area located just outside the central business district of Makati.
Poblacion boasts numerous affordable restaurants where PhP 250 will provide you with a satisfying meal, accompanied by an ice-cold San Miguel Beer. For budget-friendly shopping, head to Greenhills Shopping Center, a 30-minute Uber ride from Makati, where you’ll find a bustling marketplace with thousands of stalls selling clothes, jewelry, bags, and more (don’t forget to haggle!).
In terms of free attractions, take a leisurely walk through the historic district of Intramuros, where you’ll find well-preserved remnants of Spanish colonial architecture. Relax at a lush park in Legazpi Village or seek out the vibrant street art in Bonifacio Global City for some excellent photo opportunities.
El Nido
Situated on the northern side of Palawan, El Nido is a tranquil beach destination that has gained popularity among travelers seeking a tropical Philippine experience. Compared to the once-popular but now expensive Boracay, El Nido offers a more affordable trip in all aspects.
You’ll find budget accommodations easily along the local beaches, allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of El Nido without straining your wallet. Free attractions include Marimegmeg Beach, where you can relax and soak up the sun, as well as the opportunity to hike up Taraw Peak for panoramic views of the area.
Don’t miss out on the packaged tours that take you to the best islands around El Nido. Options include Tour A (Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Shimizu Island, 7 Commando Beach), Tour B (Pinagbuyatan Island, Snake Island, Entalula Island, Cudugnon Cave, Cathedral Cave), Tour C (Matinloc Shrine, Helicopter Island, Star Beach, Secret Beach, Hidden Beach), and Tour D (Nat Nat Beach, Pasandigan Beach, Bucal Beach, Paradise Beach, Cadlao Lagoon). These tours can be enjoyed at a cost of around PhP 1,000 per person and provide unforgettable island-hopping experiences.
By combining independent exploration in Manila with a packaged island-hopping tour in El Nido, you can experience the best of both worlds and create a memorable and affordable journey through the Philippines.
In conclusion, budget travel in the Philippines requires careful planning, but with a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can experience the beauty of this diverse country without breaking the bank. Whether you choose independent travel or a packaged tour, the Philippines offers a plethora of budget-friendly options to suit every traveler’s preferences. With the top itineraries mentioned above, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on an unforgettable adventure while staying within your budget.
Baguio: An Affordable Mountain Retreat in the Philippines
If you’re in search of an affordable mountain destination in the Philippines, Baguio is an excellent choice. Located just a 5-hour bus ride away from Manila, Baguio offers a rich history and a range of attractions that won’t put a dent in your wallet. Explore the city’s thriving thrift shopping scene by asking locals for the nearest ukay-ukay shop, where you can find second-hand treasures at bargain prices. Baguio is also home to several beautiful gardens and parks that are free to visit, including Mines View Park, Burnham Park, People’s Park, and Igorot Garden. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Baguio’s public market, where you can find fresh produce at a fraction of the cost compared to Manila, as well as a variety of inexpensive souvenirs.
Best Cheap Hostels/Hotels in the Philippines
When planning your budget trip to the Philippines, it’s crucial to consider the cost of accommodations. Thankfully, there are numerous affordable options available throughout the country. Here are some top picks for budget-friendly hostels/hotels in popular destinations:
Manila:
- Our Awesome Hostel (starting from PhP 700)
- Wanderers Guesthouse (starting from PhP 400)
- Pink Manila Hostel (starting from PhP 450)
El Nido:
- Amos Hostel (starting from PhP 600)
- Outpost Beach Hostel (starting from PhP 1,150)
- Where 2 Next (starting from PhP 700)
Baguio:
- Upstairs Bed and Bath Hostel (starting from PhP 1,500)
- Ashburn’s Transient Rooms (starting from PhP 800)
- Ibay Zion Hotel (starting from PhP 1,000)
Top Tips for Budget Travel to the Philippines
To ensure a smooth and affordable travel experience in the Philippines, follow these expert tips:
Book accommodations in advance: Due to the popularity of the Philippines as a budget traveler’s paradise, it’s essential to book accommodations well in advance to secure affordable options for your entire trip.
Compare tour operators: Before finalizing any tour bookings, take the time to compare prices and negotiate with different tour operators. Prices can vary significantly, and bargaining can help you secure the best deals, especially if you’re traveling with a group.
Opt for budget airlines: Utilize budget airlines like CebuPacific and SkyJet for domestic travel within the country. These airlines offer the most competitive rates, with SkyJet providing unbeatable prices for flights from Manila to popular destinations like Boracay, Siargao, and Coron.
Travel during the low season: Consider planning your trip during the Philippines’ low season, which falls between June and September. During this time, flights and hotels offer discounted prices. However, be prepared for more rainfall during this period. Avoid traveling during Christmas and Holy Week, as prices tend to skyrocket.
Embrace carinderias for local cuisine: To experience delicious and affordable local cuisine, dine at carinderias. These small food stalls can be found across the country, from bustling cities like Manila to remote provinces. Carinderias offer budget-friendly meals that allow you to savor authentic Filipino flavors without breaking the bank.
Haggling is key: In the Philippines, almost everything can be negotiated for a better price. Exceptions include shopping at malls, hotels, and services that issue receipts. Feel free to negotiate the price of packaged tours, produce at public markets, and thrift shop finds.
In conclusion, the Philippines is a beloved destination for budget travelers in Southeast Asia. From its welcoming locals to its breathtaking landscapes, the country offers a wealth ofexperiences without straining your finances. Embrace the spirit of creativity and open-mindedness as you explore the diverse sights and immerse yourself in the local culture. With careful planning, research, and the tips provided, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on an unforgettable budget-friendly adventure through the Philippines.
