Philippines Travel Checklist 2026

4+ Weeks Before (Documents & Planning)

7 items

Check passport expiration — must be valid 6+ months beyond your stay

Book flights

Search flights on Expedia →

Book first 2–3 nights accommodation

Find hotels on Expedia →

Get travel insurance

Get covered with SafetyWing →

Review eTravel requirements and set a reminder to complete it within 72 hours of departure — MANDATORY for all travelers

Go to eTravel.gov.ph →

Check if you need visas for other countries on your route

Read our Expat & Visa Guide →

Print or save copies of hotel confirmations, flight itinerary, and travel insurance policy

2–3 Weeks Before (Money & Banking)

5 items

Set up a debit/credit card with low foreign transaction fees or ATM-fee reimbursement

Consider a Wise card for competitive exchange rates and transfers

Sign up for Wise →

Check whether your bank/card issuer recommends a travel notice

Check current PHP/USD exchange rate

Bring $200–300 USD cash as emergency backup

1 Week Before (Tech & Connectivity)

5 items

Get an Airalo eSIM for Philippines data

Get your eSIM from Airalo →

Download offline Google Maps for your destinations

Download Grab app (Southeast Asia's Uber)

Save local emergency numbers: 911 and/or 117 (Philippine National Police hotline, depending on area). For U.S. travelers: U.S. Embassy Manila: (+63) 2 5301-2000

Charge power bank and all devices

Packing Essentials

8 items

Passport + 2 photocopies (one in luggage, one digital)

Power adapter — Philippines commonly uses Type A, B, and C outlets at 220V/60Hz. Check that your devices are dual-voltage. Bring a universal adapter if visiting other SE Asia countries.

Reef-safe sunscreen

See our recommended gear →

Mosquito repellent

Buy on Amazon →

Rain jacket or packable umbrella

Waterproof phone case

Prescription medications + copies of prescriptions

See full packing list

Full packing list →

Day Before Departure

6 items

Complete eTravel form if not done yet

Go to eTravel.gov.ph →

Screenshot or print boarding passes

Pack carry-on: meds, adapter, change of clothes, snacks, entertainment

Confirm airport transfer or transportation

Set auto-reply on work email

Double-check passport is in your carry-on (not checked luggage!)

At the Airport / On Arrival

5 items

Have eTravel QR code ready for immigration

Have proof of return/onward flight ready (Philippines may ask for this)

Activate eSIM when you land

Withdraw PHP from ATM — only enough for arrival transport and essentials (airport rates may not be the best)

Get taxi/Grab to your first hotel

Philippines Travel Checklist

4+ Weeks Before (Documents & Planning)

2–3 Weeks Before (Money & Banking)

1 Week Before (Tech & Connectivity)

Packing Essentials

Day Before Departure

At the Airport / On Arrival

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