Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Philippines

Accommodation

$8-25 per night

Dorm beds in hostels, basic guesthouses, budget hotels with shared bathrooms, fan-cooled rooms

Food & Dining

$8-20 per day

Street food stalls, local markets, carenderias (local eateries), convenience store meals, occasional local restaurants

Transportation

$3-12 per day

Jeepneys, tricycles, public buses, walking, occasional habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) for short distances

Activities

$5-25 per day

Free beaches, hiking trails, public markets, occasional entrance fees to national parks or basic attractions

Eat at local carenderias and street food stalls instead of tourist restaurants (typically 60-80% cheaper)

Use jeepneys and public buses instead of taxis and private transfers (usually 70-85% savings on transportation)

Stay in accommodations outside main tourist areas for 30-50% lower rates while still accessing attractions easily

Book domestic flights 2-3 months in advance for 40-60% savings compared to last-minute bookings

Join group tours instead of private tours for 50-70% cost reduction on activities and island hopping

Shop at public markets and cook occasional meals if staying in places with kitchen facilities

Take advantage of free activities like public beaches, hiking trails, and cultural sites before paying for tours

Taking taxis everywhere instead of learning the jeepney and tricycle systems (can cost 4-6 times more)

Eating only in tourist areas and hotel restaurants instead of exploring local dining options (typically 100-200% markup)

Booking accommodation and tours last-minute during peak season (can result in 50-100% higher costs)

Not negotiating prices for longer stays or multiple services, especially with tricycle drivers and tour operators