When moving to the Philippines, there are several essential items you should consider bringing with you. For Expats, many things can be purchased locally, and getting specific items from home can make the transition easier and, at times, cheaper. I commented on a few articles that I don’t think all the items are necessary, yet some are. Here is a list of things to consider when moving to the Philippines.
Packing List for the Philippine
- Valid passports and necessary travel documents are the most important things to bring. Make copies for safekeeping. Naturally, this is a must-have item.
- Important legal documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.). It depends on how long you are staying here and what your intentions are.
- Clothing suitable for the tropical climate (lightweight and breathable fabrics). Pack light; you can always purchase this item here. If you are into designer clothing, it will cost you more here.
- Comfortable shoes for walking in warm weather. The most popular shoe is flip-flops or beach sandals, which are called slippers in the Philippines. These are also available here.
- Personal hygiene products (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, etc.). Most of these products are about the same price here as back home.
- Prescription medications and copies of prescriptions are probably the second most important item to pack after your passport.
- A first-aid kit with basic medical supplies. You can get basic first-aid items here, but over-the-counter painkillers such as Tylenol are not available, so bring some.
- Electrical adapters and converters for your electronic devices. In the Philippines, the standard voltage is 220.
- Due to tariffs, a laptop, tablet, or other personal electronics is far cheaper in your home country than in the Philippines, so buy at home.
- Mobile phone and charger. Make sure it’s unlocked for all networks; otherwise, you can purchase a phone here.
- The power bank is for backup power, as we get brownouts here.
- Regarding travel guidebooks and maps, you can probably use Google on your phone for most navigation. However, if you are going to a remote island with no cell phone service, then you’ll need the maps.
- English-language books or e-readers. I suggest forgetting the books and checking out the Amazon Kindle. I have used a Kindle here in the Philippines, and it’s one of the first things I grab when packing.
- A travel-sized umbrella or raincoat is great if you have one; otherwise, you can purchase one here. Most go with a Pancho instead of a raincoat.
- Insect repellent. Get something like Deep Woods Off.
- Travel-sized sewing kit. I wouldn’t, brother, bring this.
- Travel-sized laundry detergent. Same for this item, you can get that product here in the Philippines.
- Snacks or comfort foods from your home country. Remember, it’s a tropical climate; chocolate will melt.
- International driver’s license (if you plan to drive).
- Are there any specific dietary supplements or vitamins you regularly take? Bring them.
- Significant contact numbers and addresses (embassy, local authorities, etc.).
- Travel insurance documents.
- Comfortable travel pillows and blankets are recommended for long flights. I don’t recommend bringing a blanket unless you are personally attached to it.
- Extra pairs of prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses and eye solution. You can probably skip the extra pair and take your chances unless you can’t see without them.
- Basic kitchenware if you prefer cooking at home (spoons, knives, etc.). You can get these here in the Philippines
- Favorite spices or seasonings that may be hard to find locally.
- Travel-sized tool kit (screwdrivers, pliers, etc.). Not sure I would pack this.
- Portable water filter or water purification tablets or buy bottled water here. Always drink bottled or filtered water, your stomach will thank you later.
- Travel-sized alarm clock or a reliable mobile phone alarm.
- Reusable shopping bags. I would personally skip this item.
- Suntan lotion 30SPF or higher. Suntan lotion is more expensive in the Philippines, so buy some in your home country.
Remember that it’s always a good idea to check the customs regulations of the Philippines to ensure that you can legally bring specific items into the country. Additionally, consider the practicality and weight of the items you choose to bring, as there may be luggage restrictions on your flights.
