What should I pack when moving to Philippines?
We asked people living in Philippines to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded...
"When moving to the Philippines, it is important to pack light but be prepared for all kinds of weather. Clothes and other items such as beachwear and raincoats should be included, as temperatures can vary widely throughout the year. Additionally, due to the tropical climate of the Philippines, it is important to pack insect repellent and mosquito nets. Be sure to bring basic toiletries, sunscreen, and any medications that may be necessary while living in the Philippines. Electrical adaptors and converters will also be needed to use any electronic items brought with you, such as laptops or phones. Finally, basic kitchen supplies and cooking equipment will help ensure a smooth transition once the move is complete," remarked another expat in Philippines.
"You can buy great generators, water heaters, and mattresses here, but surprisingly, they cost as much as in the USA. Leave winter garments, unless you're planning vacations to Europe or such. Transformers? Not where I live, which is basically Laguna. Nor should you need them in the National Capital Region. Your favorite toiletries? They have them where I live. I can even buy Vicks 44 and Robitaussin here. Some construction materials, car repairs, and kitchen equipment are cheaper, but not necessarily furniture. Cars cost the same as in the USA and are the poster child for horribly unfair wages vs prices. Once you hit the provinces on other islands, much of this goes out the window. Want to know why there are so many jeepneys and motorbikes? It's what people can afford. Sorry, getting carried away. In short, there is nothing in the USA you can't get here, whether in-store or online. One warning; traveling anywhere in the PI, bring paper or tissues. Also, even in some of the nice places, there are no toilet seats," said a member in Philippines.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Philippines?
- How do I meet people in Philippines?
- What is life like in Philippines?
- Is there a lot of crime in Philippines?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Philippines accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Philippines like?
- Is the cost of living in Philippines high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Philippines?
- What are healthcare services like in Philippines?
- Is the cost of living in Philippines high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Philippines?
- What is the weather like in Philippines?
- Are there good restaurants in Philippines?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Philippines?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Philippines?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Philippines?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Philippines?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Philippines?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What should I pack when moving to Philippines?
If you live in Philippines, newcomers to Philippines would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

