9 Backpacker Tips to Explore the Wonders of Cebu

9 Backpacker Tips to Explore the Wonders of Cebu

Backpacking is something you can do when you intend to explore a place for a while and thoroughly. The Philippines is an ideal setting for a backpacking adventure because of the many islands to explore. It may take more than a lifetime for you to fully explore each of 7,107 islands, but you don’t have to fret over it. There are great islands in the Philippines that stand out when it comes to scenic views, tourist spots, grand festivals and great food – Cebu is between those islands. Before you venture to uncharted islands and territories, check out first the known and popular places like Cebu, to get a feel of the island experience.

Start off in the big city

Depending on where you came from, your trip to Cebu will most of the times let you arrive in the provincial capital, Cebu City. The best thing about arriving in the city is you have a cozy place to plan out your Cebu City tour itinerary DIY. You can buy a provincial map and ask the city tourism office for further details about the tourist spots you are planning to visit. At the comfort of your hotel, you can then strategically plan how you’ll be spending the next few days.

Bring the basics

You can never go wrong with bringing the things you need. Bring enough change of clothes, energy bars, packed food, water and hygiene kit. Although water and food may be available in the places you’ll stop by, your hunger and thirst may not be able to wait until you arrive. Bring packed meals, snacks and water as backup.  

Keep your backpack as comfortable as you can make it. Keep only a handful of things that you readily fit into the backpack. Safely place your utility knife and any hard object far from your back to avoid hurting yourself.

Bring sun protection

The Philippines has two seasons: Dry season (from January to May) and wet season (June to December). Being a country near the tropics, the days can be sunny and humid so you need to bring a cap or a sun hat, sunglasses and sunblock. Even if you plan to get tanned, it pays to be extra careful not to burn your skin.

Always include important documents

Always keep your important documents (passport, tourist visa, return flight tickets, etc.) tucked safely inside your backpack. If possible, choose a waterproof compartment or backpack. You can also bring a separate document folder bag for easier storage and location.

Bring a comfortable and durable footwear

Backpacking around Cebu can take a considerable amount of walking and exploring. You may also be encountering different paths and terrains so durability and comfort are key factors. For the beach, you’ll be needing flip-flops, so keep a pair stored in your backpack.

Book services in advance

Moving around Cebu can be quite hectic depending on how long you plan to go backpacking. In order for you to make the most out of your travel time, book hotel accommodation, transportation services and resorts in advance. This can also make your trips smooth and timely, and you can free up time for some side trips.

Keep a first aid kit

Remember that you are on a trip away from home. A lot of things can happen when you are on vacation. As a precaution, bring some medicine for fever, colds, diarrhea, cuts and burns. Another reason is the availability of pharmacies. Some tourist spots in Cebu are remote areas, and access to medical supplies may be difficult, so better be prepared.

Have enough money

Pocket money is important for your backpacking trip. It is recommended that you plan out the possible expenses for the entire trip duration. Again, we can’t emphasize enough the importance of advanced planning when it comes to the money you’ll be spending. If you have a pre-calculated amount of your projected total expenses, bring an extra mount and a credit card as a backup. Sometimes, there can be unexpected expenses and changes in projected prices that you did not anticipate.

IMAGE SOURCE; https://unsplash.com/photos/fJTqyZMOh18

Keep an eye on your belongings

Being careful and watchful of your backpack and important things can ensure a good backpacking experience from start to finish. You don’t want to have your backpacking trip ruined by losing some of your things, especially documents and money somewhere in one of your stops. Also, no matter how seemingly safe and secure a place is, the element of theft can still be a considerable threat.

If lockers or monitored baggage counters are available in the resorts or tourist spots, make sure to secure the key or instruct the baggage watcher to watch your backpack carefully. Never leave your backpack crowded with another group of tourist backpacks. Chances are, you may lose or interchange items with other backpacks. If police outposts are available in the vicinity, the better. You can always ask them to check out the place you’re visiting from time to time.

Backpacking can be an energy-draining, but fulfilling and memorable experience. Not only do you get to thoroughly explore the places in your itinerary, you also can get the most out of the time you spent in the exploration. You get the relative freedom to move around and appreciate the culture of Cebu. With a well-prepared backpacking, your trips in Cebu will be nothing short of amazing once you’re done.