What to Pack for a Philippines Island Trip: Beach, Boat and Surf Checklist

Packing for the Philippine islands should be easy. Swimsuit, flip-flops, done, right?

Almost. After years of welcoming travelers in Boracay, El Nido and Siargao, we’ve noticed that the same few things make the difference between a smooth trip and a “wish I’d brought that” moment. A dry bag on a boat day. Aqua shoes on a rocky beach. Small bills for a tricycle ride.

So here’s our friendly, tried-and-tested packing list for island life, whether you’re hopping between lagoons, riding an ATV or paddling out for your first wave.

The Golden Rule: Pack Light

Island travel often means boats, tricycles, vans and the occasional walk along the sand with your luggage. A smaller bag makes every transfer easier.

A good tip is to choose a backpack or soft bag you can carry comfortably for a few minutes. Most of what you’ll wear is light, quick-drying and easy to wash.

Clothes for Island Days

• Two or three swimsuits so one can dry while you wear another.
• A rash guard for snorkeling and surfing. It protects you from the sun and means you need less sunscreen.
• Light, breathable clothes like cotton or linen shirts, shorts and a sundress or two.
• Quick-dry clothes for boat days and adventures. Our Sohoton Cove tour page specifically recommends dry-fit clothing.
• A light cover-up or jacket for breezy boat rides and air-conditioned vans. Our Sunset Paraw Sailing page suggests one for the evening breeze.
• Something a little nicer for a sunset dinner.
• A light rain jacket, especially if you’re traveling during the rainy season.

Shoes: Fewer, But the Right Ones

• Flip-flops or sandals for everyday island life.
• Aqua shoes for rocky beaches, coral areas and boat landings. They’re on the “bring” list for our El Nido island-hopping tours and aren’t included, so pack your own.
• Closed-toe shoes for adventures on land. Our Boracay ATV ride and El Nido Canopy Walk both ask for closed-toe shoes or sturdy footwear.
• Sandals with grip for waterfalls and wet rocks.

The Boat Day Kit

Island hopping is a highlight in all three destinations. These are the things you’ll want in your day bag:

• A dry bag to keep your phone, cash and cards safe from splashes.
• A waterproof phone pouch or a phone strap for photos on the water.
• A quick-dry towel. Towels aren’t included on our El Nido Deluxe Tours.
• A refillable tumbler to top up drinking water.
• Snorkel gear, if you have your own. Mask and snorkel are included on our El Nido Deluxe Tours, but snorkels and fins aren’t included on our Siargao Tri-Island Tour, Booz Cruise or Sohoton trip.
• A hat and sunglasses. Some sandbars, like Naked Island in Siargao, have no shade at all.
• Light snacks for longer days.

Sun and Skin Care

• Reef-safe sunscreen. Please choose a reef-friendly formula. The coral will thank you.
• After-sun lotion or aloe vera for those “oops, I forgot to reapply” days.
• Insect repellent for land tours, waterfalls and evenings. It’s on the packing list for our El Nido land tours and Sohoton Cove trip.
• Lip balm with SPF.

Tech and Power

The Philippines uses plug types A, B and C, on a 220V supply at 60Hz. A universal adapter, or a type C adapter as a minimum, is a good idea.

• A universal travel adapter
• A power bank for long boat days and travel days. Power outages can happen on the islands, though all Happiness accommodations have generators.
• An action camera or phone with a strap for ziplines, ATVs and snorkeling.
• Headphones for flights and van rides.

Money Matters

• Cash in small bills. Tricycles, small eateries, local vendors and some fees are easiest to pay in cash.
• Money for local fees. El Nido has an Eco-Tourism Development Fee (₱400 at the regular rate, valid for five days), and Boracay has an environmental fee plus a terminal fee at the jetty port. Check current amounts before you go.
• Money for extras. Things like kayak rental, entrance fees not included in a tour, photos, and tips for your guide.
• A card for bigger purchases, as a backup.

Documents and Essentials

• Passport and a copy (digital and paper).
• Valid ID. Some activities, like our Boracay ATV ride, may ask for it at registration.
• Booking confirmations for flights, ferries, stays and tours.
• Travel insurance details. Insurance isn’t included on our tours, so it’s worth arranging your own.
• Entry requirements. Always check the latest entry rules for the Philippines with official sources before you travel.

A Small Health Kit

• Any personal medication, with a copy of your prescription
• Plasters and antiseptic for small cuts (reef and rock scrapes happen)
• Motion sickness tablets if boats or winding roads aren’t your friend
• Rehydration salts for hot days
• Hand sanitiser

Extra Items for Surfers

Heading to Siargao for waves?

• Rash guard or surf top
• Surf-friendly reef-safe sunscreen
• Booties if you’re surfing over reef
• Your own wax and leash if you’re bringing a board

If you’re joining the Happiness Surf Retreat, our team will help guide you on what to bring once you’re booked.

What to Leave at Home

• Single-use plastics. Bring a tote bag, tumbler and reusable cutlery instead.
• Heavy jeans and bulky jackets. You won’t miss them.
• Too many shoes. Three pairs is plenty.
• Expensive jewellery. It’s one less thing to worry about on boats and beaches. (And loose jewellery has to come off for activities like our Boracay helmet dive anyway.)

Packing with care is part of traveling with care. Our post on how to leave no trace has more simple habits for keeping the islands beautiful.

Forgot Something?

Don’t stress. Our Happiness shops in Boracay and Siargao stock island essentials and favourite brands, and our team at each location is always happy to point you in the right direction. Planning your stay? Explore Boracay, El Nido and Siargao, or browse our tours.