Backpacker’s Guide to the Philippines on a Budget

The Philippines might look like a luxury postcard destination, but you don’t need deep pockets to experience its beauty. With smart choices, you can stretch your budget while still enjoying the country’s islands, culture, and adventures. Here’s the ultimate backpacker’s guide to doing the Philippines on a budget.

✈️ Getting In & Around
Flights: Book budget airlines like Cebu Pacific or AirAsia months in advance for ₱1,000–₱2,500 (£15–£35) domestic flights.
Ferries: Use ferries for island-hopping — slower, but cheaper than planes.
Transport: Jeepneys and tricycles are the cheapest way to move around locally (₱15–₱30 / 20–40p per ride).

🏠 Where to Stay
Hostels: Dorm beds start around ₱400–₱700 (£6–£10) per night.
Guesthouses: Private fan rooms from ₱800 (£12).
Airbnb: Monthly deals bring costs down to ₱15,000–₱20,000 (£220–£280).
Backpacker hubs: Siargao, Cebu City, Moalboal, Boracay (budget hostels still exist behind the beach), and Palawan (El Nido & Coron).
🍜 Eating on a Budget
Carinderias (local eateries): Meals for ₱80–₱150 (£1.20–£2.20).
Street food: Try barbecue skewers, lumpia, or banana cue for under ₱50 (70p).
Water: Refill bottles at hostels to save on buying plastic.
Skip Western restaurants — stick to local food for massive savings.

📶 Wi-Fi & SIM Cards For nomads and backpackers, connectivity is key.
Grab a Globe or Smart SIM for ₱50 (70p).
Load ₱1,000 (£15) for a month of data.
Wi-Fi is patchy outside cities, but mobile data hotspots usually work well.
🌴 Must-Do Budget Adventures
Siargao: Rent a scooter for ₱300/day, explore surf spots, and island hop cheaply.
Cebu South: Kawasan Falls and Moalboal sardine run for just entrance fees.
Palawan: Do a group island-hopping tour in El Nido for around ₱1,200 (£18).
Bohol: Chocolate Hills entry is only ₱100 (£1.50).
💰 Sample Daily Budget (Backpacker Style)
Hostel dorm: ₱600 (£9)
Meals (3x local): ₱400 (£6)
Transport & extras: ₱300 (£4.50)
Activities: ₱500 (£7.50)
Total: ₱1,800 / ~£27 per day (even less if you stay put longer).

⚡ Final Take Backpacking the Philippines is all about smart choices and local living. Travel slowly, eat where locals eat, and focus on budget-friendly destinations. You’ll not only save money — you’ll also get a more authentic experience.
👉 Next Post Idea: “Nomad’s Guide to Living Like a Local in the Philippines

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