Your weekends are now probably spent shopping for things to pack in your maleta or the balikbayan box you’ll send ahead of your trip for family and friends back home in the Philippines. But don’t forget to make room for things you need, too! Check out this KUBO checklist to help you pack smart and ensure you have everything ready and prepped for your upcoming homecoming.
1. Local currency
While credit cards and e-wallets like GCash and Maya are widely accepted across the Philippines, cash remains essential for tipping, local transportation, and small purchases at boutiques or market stalls. If you’re planning on visiting more remote areas, beaches, or provinces, keep in mind that Internet connectivity can be unreliable and ATM access may be limited (machines also go offline unexpectedly), so make sure to carry enough cash to cover emergencies, essential services, transportation, and food. This way, you can also avoid any steep foreign bank fees and unfavorable exchange rates.
Run out of pesos during your trip? Click here to find an M Lhuillier branch where you can exchange your foreign currency to Philippine Peso near you.
2. Weather-friendly outfits
They say there are two types of seasons in the Philippines: rainy and hot. To stay comfortable, stick to fabrics that will keep you cool, like cotton and linen. Remember to pack a light jacket as well, since air-conditioning in restaurants and malls can get surprisingly cold, too. If you’re visiting during the rainy season, be sure to bring closed-toe sneakers and a water-resistant parka or hoodie to stay dry and comfortable. Heading to the beach? Click here for our essentials to make the most of your tropical getaway!
Are you a fitness junkie? Don’t forget to throw in some workout clothes and head to these top gyms so you can still stick to your routine.
Protect yourself from the sun with something lightweight and travel-friendly, like the Uniqlo Pocketable UV Protection Parka, PHP1,490.
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3. Essential gadgets
When you’re in the Philippines, you’re going to use and depend on your phone a lot more than you think. This is why it’s important to travel with a reliable charger, a travel adaptor, and a power bank, so you always have battery wherever you go. If you’re going to be out the whole day, power banks like the Anker PowerCore III 10,000Ah Wireless Power Bank will definitely come in handy.
KUBO tip: If you plan on using a local SIM card, make sure your phone isn’t locked to your local network. Otherwise, you might need to explore roaming plans or see if you can borrow or purchase an unlocked phone for your trip.
4. Pasalubong
Whether it’s delicious snacks or adorable trinkets, bringing home some pasalubong can add a special touch to your homecoming and spread happy vibes all around. These goodies can also spark fun conversations and make everyone feel a little closer, especially when they get to taste new flavors or admire the souvenirs you’ve brought from your part of the world. Don’t know what to bring? Aside from unique snacks, a souvenir shirt, magnet from your city, or entertaining toys for the kids are sure to be a hit.
Yummy snacks from Trader Joe’s will always be appreciated! For more ideas for what to put in your balikbayan box, check this KUBO list.
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5. Bathroom kit
If you’re hopping from one place to another, it would be wise to pack a few creature comforts. While you can easily buy soap, toothpaste, and shampoo from local mini marts or grocery stores, we reco going around with your preferred toiletries packed in tiny, carry-on-friendly tubes to avoid surprise hassles. As for makeup, check out this KUBO article to find out what’s best to pack for the tropical climate.
Another thing to consider bringing? A foldable travel towel. Smaller resorts and Airbnbs sometimes have limited towel options, so bringing your own ensures you have a clean and hygienic towel at all times.
6. Sun protection
Long days spent at the beach or exploring the cityscape can take a toll on your skin—especially if you’re not used to being so close to the equator. Avoid sunburn and sun damage by applying SPF regularly (our local recos here), packing a wide-brimmed hat, and wearing sunglasses to shield yourself from harmful rays. Don’t want to feel sticky or heavy? You can also consider packing clothes that offer UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) for extra coverage.
Protect your skin from redness and premature aging with Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF40, USD22.
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7. Special medication
You can easily buy paracetamol and cough syrups at the local drugstore, but you may want to get from where you’re based anything that needs a prescription—like antibiotics, high blood medication, allergy pills, or migraine and pain meds—ahead of time. Since formulations and brand names can vary per country, bringing your own medication ensures you get the exact treatment you need without searching for unfamiliar options or having to consult with a local doctor for alternatives in case something isn’t available.
Keep in mind that certain medications may have specific importation rules, so carrying your prescriptions and keeping them in their original packaging can help facilitate smoother customs and security checks.
Dust and pollution might trigger your allergies, so make sure you always have all meds you need, like Claritin Non-Drowsy RediTabs, USD15.39 at Target.
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8. Luggage locks
Thefts and petty crimes are, unfortunately, still common in the Philippines (or, let’s be real, almost everywhere we travel). That’s why it’s smart to bring locks for your bags and suitcases to ensure that your belongings have an extra layer of protection wherever you go. Opt for TSA-approved locks for any luggage you’ll check-in, and coded locks for any overnight bags or backpacks you may have (this is highly recommended if you’re staying in shared accommodations or planning on going backpacking).
If you’re worried about losing the key, keep your belongings secure with a combination lock like the Master Lock TSA Luggage Lock, USD13.67 on Amazon.com.
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Tip: If you’re planning on leaving behind any IDs, passports, or cards, always store them in a secure spot and have a digital copy in case anything gets lost.
9. Practical bag options
You might want to consider packing an eco bag and a crossbody/belt bag for your trip. An eco bag is a great option for beach outings, market runs, and carrying purchases discreetly while you explore more sights. Meanwhile, a crossbody/belt bag can keep your essentials—like your phone and wallet—secure and easily accessible, which can come in handy when navigating busy streets or taking public transport. Both are convenient to have if you want to keep your hands free while you make your way around.
Pacsafe has lots of cute options that can protect your cards from RFID scanners, and extra zipper locks to help deter pickpockets. Try Pacsafe CX Anti-Theft Convertible Crossbody, USD99.95.
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10. Travel insurance
It’s technically not something to pack, but this tiny investment is something you should have when traveling to a foreign country—especially if you’re going with children. It can help you manage any airport or hotel issues, such as flight delays, lost luggage, or cancelled bookings. It can also cover any medical emergencies, from COVID-19 to any mishaps that may happen during your hiking or beach adventures. And it allows you to feel at ease knowing that should anything unexpected happen, you’re protected.
You can purchase this online, too, like the Malayan Travel Master Worldwide Insurance on Lazada.
What other things do you always bring when you travel? Tell us in the comments section of this post on Facebook and Instagram.
