Backpacker Tips

Sagada (November 2013)

30 Tips in Backpacking the Philippines

I was thinking about listing 50, but maybe not everyone would read all of it. I, myself, hate reading a list of a lot of things! So I decided to just sort it down to 30 that are more important and would be more helpful to some crazy backpackers out there who are planning to have the most out of their adventures in the country.

Here they are:

1. You will need a durable backpack that can carry loads of stuff and can survive the tropical climate. 
2. I tried, but the truth is, you really can't fit your entire life in a backpack. Just bring what you think are important and you won't survive without. 
3. It's more fun if you have a travel buddy (Not to mention you have someone who can take your pictures too!).
4. To stop and photograph the beauty you see. You may not see that again.
5. Sometimes you don't need an itinerary. An unplanned trip is usually the most exciting!
6. To ask the locals. They know better on which great places to explore.
7. To use public transportation. It's the best way to discover a place and its culture.
8. To read some blogs about a place you want to visit. It can help you a lot.
9. You don't really have to spend that much to have a great vacation. It's all about your way of having fun.
10. To bring a tripod or monopod always. This way, you can set up how you want to capture your photos. Admit it, most of the time you don't like the photos taken of you. 
11. You can actually live in a tent for a couple of days.
12. If you can't appreciate what you have, stay up on a mountain for 3 days. When you get back, you'll realize the things you've been taking for granted.
13. The best food to bring when camping is Adobo. The vinegar preserves it and it tastes better as time lapses.
14. To try the organic food cooked in the Mountain Province. It's delicious! (and healthy, ofcourse)
15. To always bring some food and water wherever you go. You might end up in an isolated place where the store is 3 kms away.
16. Always watch out for dogs, cats, monkeys, etc when camping. They may look charming but some of them may steal your food. Just be careful and don't leave your food unattended :)
17. To not be too picky - with food or shelter. If you are, then backpacking is not for you. 
18. To always watch the sunrise and sunset of every place you visit if you can. Also, take pictures of it. They make the experience extraordinary.
19. Always put on sunblock and wear shades - anything that can protect you from the sun.
20. To admit that you are lost when you got lost. Just be cautious who to ask instructions from. Some people may not be very nice.
21. You don't really have to be nice to everyone. Since some people may not be nice to you, accept that and move on.
22. When you ask directions from locals and they say it's just near, they actually mean it's 5 kms away. Prepare yourself for endless walks.
23. Make sure your body is prepared for the long walks. Exercise everyday at least a week before the trip.
24. A long bus trip is never boring when you have a great music or movies on the playlist.
25. You will definitely need a powerbank (for mobile or camera charging).
26. To try the delicacies of a particular place you visit. Again, ask the locals where you'll find the best place for that.
27. Make sure to get enough sleep. You never know what adventures await you the next morning!
28. Have a map and know where you are.
29. You don't always need a souvenir. The photographs will capture it all. Just bring home the memories with you.
30. When backpacking, prepare yourself for a life-changing experience. You'll never be the same when you get back.

I hope these tips help. If you have questions or comments, feel free to post it down below. Enjoy backpackers!