Bohol Island, Philippines

What should I pack when moving to Philippines?

Answer this Question

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

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.

 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
Get Quote

Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.

 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.
Get Quote

Please login to continue reading this article.

Not a member? Join Today (it's free).

Other Questions:

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.

If your answer relates to a specific city or town in Philippines, please include the name of the city/town below:


About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

With PassportCard, you'll never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.
Get Quote

 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

With PassportCard, you'll never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.
Get Quote

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

Copyright 1997-2026 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal