The Philippines is one of Southeast Asia’s most affordable destinations, making it great for budget travelers. With beautiful beaches, rich culture, and friendly locals, there’s a lot to experience without breaking the bank.
How to Save on Accommodation in the Philippines
Accommodation is one of the biggest costs when traveling. Luckily, the Philippines has plenty of cheap options:
1. Hostels and Guesthouses
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Hostel dorms in the Philippines cost around $5-10 USD per night. If you want a private room, expect to pay around $15-25 USD per night. The quality is hit or miss, but you can get a decent place if you read reviews well.
Guesthouses are a good alternative too. They’re often family-run, and you can find rooms for as low as $10 USD per night.
2. Couchsurfing
If you really want to save money, try Couchsurfing. You’ll not only get free accommodation, but also insights from local hosts. It’s a great way to make friends and learn about the culture.
3. Airbnbs
If you’re traveling with friends, renting an entire apartment through Airbnb can be more affordable than booking multiple hostel beds. Rates start at around $25-30 USD per night for a small, simple place.
Budget-Friendly Food in the Philippines
Food is very cheap in the Philippines, especially if you stick to local eateries. Here’s how you can save:
1. Eat at Carinderias
Carinderias are local eateries where you can get simple, home-cooked Filipino food. Meals can cost as little as $1-2 USD, and the portions are pretty big. It’s affordable and gives you an authentic taste of the Philippines.
2. Jollibee
Jollibee is the most popular fast-food chain in the Philippines. It’s cheap, tasty, and you can get a meal for around $2-3 USD. Plus, trying their fried chicken is an experience every traveler should have at least once!
3. Street Food
Street food is everywhere. You can get skewers, rice cakes, and other snacks for less than $1 USD. Just make sure the food is cooked fresh and choose vendors with lots of locals eating there to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Getting Around the Philippines on a Budget
Transportation in the Philippines can be tricky due to its many islands, but there are still plenty of cheap ways to get around.
1. Jeepneys and Tricycles
Jeepneys are the cheapest way to get around cities for short distances. A ride costs less than $0.20 USD. For short inner-city trips, tricycles (motorbike taxis) are also cheap and plentiful. Expect to pay around $1-2 USD, but drivers might try to overcharge tourists, so haggle a bit before you get in.
2. Buses and Ferries
If you need to travel longer distances, take the bus. Air-conditioned buses are a little more expensive, but they are still cheap compared to Western standards. For inter-island travel, ferries are your best bet. They are much cheaper than flights, though slower. Prices vary depending on the route, but budget around $3-10 USD for a ferry ride.
3. Flights
If you’re short on time and need to fly between islands, several budget airlines operate in the Philippines, such as Cebu Pacific and AirAsia. By booking in advance, you can snag a ticket for as low as $30 USD.
Cheap and Free Attractions in the Philippines
The Philippines is known for its natural beauty, so you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a great time. Here are some budget-friendly things to do:
1. Enjoy the Beaches
The Philippines is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and most of them are free to enter! You can spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach. Popular spots include Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao.
2. Free Walking Tours
Some cities, like Manila, offer free walking tours where locals guide you around important landmarks and teach you about the history and culture. While the tours are technically free, it’s nice to leave a tip.
3. Hike Taal Volcano
For a small entrance and boat fee, you can hike Taal Volcano, one of the most iconic volcanoes in the Philippines. The views are amazing, and it’s a great adventure for budget travelers.
Best Budget-Friendly Destinations in the Philippines
The Philippines has over 7,000 islands, but not all are budget-friendly. Here are some of the best places to visit when you’re traveling on a tight budget:
1. Cebu
Cebu is a budget traveler’s dream. You can explore waterfalls like Kawasan Falls, go island hopping, and enjoy the city’s bustling markets. It’s also a hub for budget airlines, making it easy and cheap to fly to nearby islands.
2. Bohol
Bohol offers a lot of attractions for a low price. Visit the famous Chocolate Hills, see the tiny Tarsiers, or chill at Alona Beach. You can rent a scooter to explore the island, saving you money on tours and transport.
3. Siargao
Siargao is known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, but even if you don’t surf, there’s plenty to do that won’t cost you much. You can rent a scooter and explore the coastline, try local food, or hang out at the beach. Surf lessons and board rentals are also relatively cheap if you’re up for trying it!
4. Dumaguete
Dumaguete is a laid-back destination with affordable diving options, beautiful waterfalls, and a friendly community. You can visit nearby Apo Island for diving and snorkeling with sea turtles without spending a fortune.
Other Money-Saving Tips for Traveling the Philippines
Beyond cheap food, accommodation, and transportation, here are a few more ways you can save money while traveling in the Philippines:
1. Bring a Water Bottle
Buying bottled water every day adds up. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at your accommodation or safe water stations to save a few dollars daily.
2. Avoid High-Season Travel
The peak travel season in the Philippines is December to February. Prices for accommodation and transport are much higher during this time. If you can, travel during the shoulder months (April to June or September to November) to save money and avoid the crowds.
3. Use Local SIM Cards
Instead of paying for expensive roaming charges, buy a local SIM card when you land. Data in the Philippines is cheap, and you can get a load of 1-2GB for around $2-3 USD.
4. Bargain (But Politely)
Haggling is common in markets and with tricycle drivers, but always do it politely. You can usually bring down the cost of items or rides by 20-30%, but don’t forget that many locals live on much less than tourists.
Final Thoughts
Traveling the Philippines on a budget is 100% possible. With its cheap food, affordable transportation, and countless free attractions, you’ll still get to experience everything this beautiful country has to offer without spending a lot.
Stick to local experiences, haggle when necessary, and take your time planning to ensure you get the most out of every peso. Happy travels!
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