An expat guide to the Philippines: what to pack, flight tips, immigration, phone/sim and more

[@ChadFosterExplores]

My travel essentials on Amazon ➔ www.amazon.com/shop/chadfosterexplores Travel insurance from SafetyWing ➔ bit.ly/44DPvrn

[@Michail-z7p]

YOU ARE THE FIRST AND ONLY ONE WHO PROVIDES SUCH EXCELLENT, DETAILED INFORMATION. GOOD ON YOU AND THANK YOU SO MUCH

[@papadougsadventures]

Jollibee at the Manila airport near international baggage check is CASH only. Found that out the hard way as I had given my girlfriend all the pesos I had when she dropped me off at the airport. A very kind Filipina insisted that she buy my meal. Very kind people and I really appreciated it.

[@RealGaryGibson]

Definitely aisle seat on long flights. I get up many times during the flight to keep the blood circulating. On Singapore Air you can go to the rear galley and pick up some snacks and stretch.

[@ChadFosterExplores]

Yeah without a doubt, the frequent stretching saves me!

[@RT804]

Just be aware of turbulence. I had a neighbor who was a session drummer that was slammed into the ceiling during random, extreme turbulence and suffered brain damage. Was on disability the rest of his life. There are leg exercises you can do in the seat but I have no idea if they are as effective as walking around. Likely not. In a flying tube at 35,000ft I guess everything is a risk/reward proposition.

[@Coffewithsteve]

​@RJT80 I like window seat aile seats I get bang into and can't sleep

[@MrTuttiFrutti]

Exactly, don't forget to drink water, as the air on the plane is very dry. On my flight with Singapore Airlines I also got the aisle seat and I frequently got up to stretch and walk to the galley and ask for a glass of water.

[@BarefootVlogger]

I agree but one exception because I always like to sleep against the window. United has a Premium Plus with extra leg room for a worthwhile upgrade fee of like a couple hundred bucks. I got the window at the bulkhead just behind 1st class and can easily step around the aisle (no middle seat). This way I can get the best of both worlds.

[@jeffreyfletcher6631]

I’m going back in a few days. This will be my 4th trip since June of last year. Just wanted to say these are really good tips. I already do the majority of these but you brought up a few I haven’t thought of. I love the Philippines

[@ChadFosterExplores]

@@jeffreyfletcher6631 awesome glad it helped, safe travels in a few days I'm sure you're psyched to get back

[@rickypayne9192]

I don't understand why people have all those suitcases .I mail all my stuff over in advance. Just mail it to my wife house I never bring my suitcase back. Last time I sold all my clothes before I came home. Real Levi's are hard to find 200 dollars American in the Philippines in Europe you can get over 500 dollars. Only because of the laws I didn't come home named. In Norway we got 600 for a Hersey bar

[@rickypayne9192]

That's supposed to say naked

[@johnny_bravo9990]

4th trip from where

[@jeffsobey7380]

Flight booked for Cebu, will be there the whole month of Dec. First time, so this is helpful. Thank you

[@michaelpalosaari9460]

I’m in the last night of my first 29 day trip. Chad nailed it in this video! I have 2 phones. Worked great. Air BNB in The Mactan Newtown in Cebu (Belmont hotel - loved it! The Savvoy is right next door which is also good). Enjoy!!

[@bryancoverson1333]

Ayeee me too end of Oct. Safe travels

[@benyoung6655]

Hey Chad, thank you so very much for this video!!! Your timing is perfect! I’ve got 45 days before I head to Dumaguete. I will roll back through your video and make sure I’ve checked off everything before I take off. I appreciate all of your help and advice. Thank you for your open honest opinions and thoughts. I really appreciate you. Take care.

[@ChadFosterExplores]

Hey there well glad I could help out to give you some things to think about and help prepare, of course there's always more and I'll try to talk about other things to help people out in a future video. Thanks for supporting the channel and good luck with your travels coming up soon!

[@allenbrokeit]

I had the exact same experience with customs as Chad did on my last trip to the Philippines at the Manila airport. But also bear in mind, this was my third visit. I had gone twice last year and both times they asked for the e-Travel QR code on my e-Visa. The first time, they asked for my flight info leaving the country. The second time I gave it to them before they could ask. The third time, they never asked for the departure flight or for the e-Visa info. Also note: they keep notes on tourists. The customs officer can flag your ID and leave comments. What that means is, if you're in good standing, you are less likely to get hassled at customs. If you're in bad standing, then buddy, you are not getting in to the Philippines. Never ever give customs or Immigration officers a hard time.

[@thomasc4777]

Thank you, Chad. This is the first-time travel video I was looking for and unable to find. Everything, including the air travel, was extraordinarily well covered and immensely helpful. The information provided will just make it so much easier, at least for me. You're an honest guy and a forward thinker. That's why your channel is worthy of a subscription. I'm comfortably retired for life. Unlike others, comfort and convenience are most important to me. I'll gladly pay the premium for that. I especially enjoy the gym and outdoor fitness. I'm confident I'll be able to navigate that without guidance upon arrival in January. I'm excited about a 4-5 month winter stay in the Philippines. I'll never give up my little slice of enjoyment in the USA, particularly in the summer and fall. Thanks again for very appropriately addressing all of my travel concerns in the comments. Much appreciated. Stay well, my friend. Hope to see you eventually. My regards from FL.

[@henryyoung7184]

Pretty decent and comprehensive summary - good job.

[@floridaman6138]

I'm a big fan of PacSafe backpacks, and when I've been to the Philippines everything I had with me was in one or I was wearing it. No checked baggage. I wore Clothing Arts shorts as well. Both brands are designed to thwart pickpockets. Some of the quick-dry shirts out there have basically hidden pockets too. At least in my area of the US, Beall's stores have some good ones, my favorites are the Saltwater II series. Shirts designed for fishing are lightweight, designed to keep you cool (and often claim to have some sort of UV protection), and dry fast.

[@GUITARTIME2024]

I have one

[@JimboandGhen]

Welcome home 😀Good vlog and like you, I "ALWAYS" get an Aisle seat. Spot on with limiting stops and having been there 6 times, just go with the flow and sleep if your sleepy. Your body will eventually adjust and you will be fine. Looks like where you are staying is simple, clean and nice. Safe travels!

[@ChadFosterExplores]

great advice! thanks yea good to be here :))

[@garyzies3486]

The problem with aisle seats is that they always bump into you with the food cart or other passengers who move around in the aisle.

[@Not_A_Tourist]

No aisle seat for me, I'd be getting up three times as many times as I want to let others out.

[@WilliamFluery]

Been to Philippines/Thailand 30+ times since 2005. Bulkhead aisle seats in center section of cabin, limited sleep on flight, 9 PMish arrival time, go to bed right away, sleep through the night almost ALWAYS puts me on SE Asia time when I wake up.

[@ChadFosterExplores]

@@WilliamFluery great advice yeah that's the way to do it. 3:30 AM arrival is brutal!

[@FoundingYouTuber-2005]

My tips: - Get compression socks. Quite cheap on Am ah zon, your legs will appreciate it on the flight. - Take pics of your passport and also print a hard copy. If you lose your passport or it is stolen, getting a replacement is easier if you have a pic and paper copy to show the embassy or other officials. - On selecting a backpack, get one that advertises that it complies with the size requirements (of most airlines) for carry-on. Get a backpack that has theft proof zippers and that you can lock closed with those little TSA-approved locks. (I get the orange colored locks so my backpack is easy to spot.) - Chum wallets are good. But you also may want to consider a waist band satchel for your passport and cash, or a neck satchel. Bonus Tip: make sure the satchel is sweat proof, especially if your body does not handle heat and humidity well. - If you live in a major U.S. city go to your bank and get some Philippine pesos ahead of time. If you are taking U.S. $100 notes to the Philippines, have your bank give you fresh uncirculated notes (all banks have those available on request, simply ask for "new hundred dollar bills"). Why? As Chad says, a quirk in the Philippines, the $100 bills you are wanting to exchange for pesos must look as if you just had them printed on the plane ride to the Philippines. - Ditto on what Chad says about flying, additionally: Google Flights has REAL TIME data on the flights you are considering (destination, dates of travel, round trip or one-way, class, etc.) and the flights available will pop up in spreadsheet format. On the airlines you are considering, first thing, check KZbin for flight reviews on those airlines. There's hundreds of them, for all airlines. Do not select your flight on price alone, meaning endeavoring to get the cheapest flight. Consider an upgrade to "premium economy." Yes, it cost more, but search on KZbin; there's many many travelers who say they were glad they upgraded to premium economy. Be mindful of your Philippine arrival time. You do not want to arrive in the Philippines when everything is closed, or only minimal businesses and services are available. If you get up a lot when flying, or simply like doing so, get an aisle seat. But if you typically stay put, perhaps with only one or two bathroom breaks, then get a window seat for that more-privacy feeling. Avoid like the plague any flights that are longer than 20 hours (which may typically include one stop and a short layover), and NEVER EVER take a flight that has 2+ stops/layovers. Bonus Tip: Direct flights are typically more pricey, but something to consider. Assuming we are all in the same financial boat, fuhgeddaboud flying "business class" - unless you have $5K USD to burn.

[@BarefootVlogger]

Succinct, to the point and very useful information. That head restraint for an aisle seat on long overseas flights is genius

[@ThatWasThenThisIsNow-yn1eq]

Hmm, a couple of comments. Backpack(s) are best I find due to it allows me to have two hands free and try to have a rain cover for them. If one is traveling for months, two of them are a good idea and yes it is easier to travel on a scooter with them. Hard luggage on the mean streets of The Philippines is just asking for your luggage to get beat up. Another thing, pack lightly. Even for my upcoming two month trip to the PI and then Thailand, I'll have only two back packs of around 25 liters a piece or so ( the computer style/size that many get from work or for work to lug their stuff around, three pairs of shorts, 6 shirts, most of which are just new white t-shirts and a couple of dressier shirts, water shoes, flip flops and a firmer comfy shoe for lots of walking (potentially off on jungle treks to waterfalls etc.). As far as the toiletry bag is concerned. I use two old style shaving/toiletry bags. One holds my toiletries and the other is a medical kit. Razor(s), tooth brush/paste, some soap/shampoo, (in case one of the places that you are in doesn't offer it), sewing kit, sun screen, aloe vera, laundry soap bar in case you need to wash something by hand in a sink. In the medical kit have at least 5 large bandaids, the size that would cover a larger gash or some road rash should you fall and scuff up a knew/elbow, and then many other different sizes of bandaids, then some gauze bandage wrap and medical tape, a sharp blade that will make it through security (unless you are putting a bag in to checked luggage) then get a larger razor sharp bladed, small bottle of antiseptic of your choosing, small bottle of iodine, some sort of salve/ointment for itching and/or wounds, pain reliever (new and unopened travel size) and that's about it for me. Take a picture of the important pages in your passport and have it available on your phone. This one thing could diminish your stress levels should you lose your passport and need to get it replaced. Backup power is always good for phones etc. Portable solar about the size of my phone helps me and I just attach it to my back pack and let it hang in the sun when appropriate...plus a travel adapter for electrical and maybe an extra usb hub if you have many devices and there aren't many outlets like he says...that is a "problem" for sure. New $100 bills are very helpful also. No tears, folds, writing, blemishes....new! And don't leave your patience at home. Bring extra along with you on your trip. Pack a lot of it ;) If you can't bring patience with you, don't go!

[@MikeHoncho884]

Wow, that’s a great list. I wish I could copy that and have that as a hardcopy in my notebook. Good job man! I might have to come back to this and take some time and take some notes from the video and your comment. I think I might be making a mistake a small 20 inch carry-on hard suitcase. Along with a 20 L backpack I’m not even sure if the 20 L backpack can get on the flight as a carry-on?? It’s a tall skinny Vanquest backpack. And then a medium size cross chest man purse/satchel Carrie Bandelier style. I wasn’t not planning on checking any baggage just the backpack and the hard bag. I thought about buying a backpack system to put on the hard bag, but that’s just extra crap to carry. The roller with the backpack strapped to the handle is so easy for getting around airports. if I had to, I could put the small bag down low on a scooter and put the backpack on my back and get around. Like your idea about the backpacks though. Definitely going to bring my little medic kit along with a couple tubes of Neosporin. There’s a small plastic syringe looking thing called “the bug bite thing “ they amazing for mosquito bites bee stings anything that bites you you can draw a little vacuum on it and take the itch away. I used it this summer on a honey bee sting that got infected and it healed up so quickly I couldn’t believe it after pulling a slight vacuum on the sting area. I was able to draw some infection out over the first couple of hours. The bug bite thing. What a great piece of kit!

[@ThatWasThenThisIsNow-yn1eq]

@@MikeHoncho884 The 20 liter bags should be able to get on as a carry on...as I said, I use two backpacks about the size of a computer backpack..and those are around 20-25 liters each. I used to have a very large backpack for my back side and a smaller one up front but over time I have figured out that I just don't need all those clothes...and if I do, I'll buy a shirt for a couple bucks while on holiday. Even a small carry-on size hard luggage is a bummer if you are going to need to move it via your scooter to your new location...put the one backpack down between your legs as the host suggested and then wear the other on your back semi-loosely so that it is snug but still sits on the seat behind you. And don't forget the new bills...whether hundred dollar or hundred euro, whatever, make sure that they are new so that you can go to a money changer and get better rates. Every peso/baht/dong adds up when one is traveling for weeks/months. Carrying large amounts of cash stinks but the option is paying ATM fees, currently exchange fees etc. etc. For my two months gone, I will bring somewhere between 3-5k dollars...and then put them in my room safe or if no safe, carry it with me in my very secure leather bag that I never let go of. As far as medical, I can't count how many other tourist I've helped out because they were not prepared for wounds and there was no way to get to a pharmacy/hospital right away. People don't understand that one cut can lead to bad infection and bigger problems if not attended to in a timely manner....heat breeds disease and bacteria....good luck...and don't forget the rain covers for your backpacks(s). Fish head in a plastic bag that is then put into the compartment under your seats in a bus have been known to break open and spill their smelly contents all over luggage...and that one is never going to be cleaned and the smell gotten out of :) Voice of experience on that one. I soaked it in the ocean and still couldn't get dead fish smell out of the seems. Good luck!

[@MikeHoncho884]

@@ThatWasThenThisIsNow-yn1eq hell yeah you got lots of experience I can tell thanks for all the pointers. You should do a KZbin video. I’ve got a real nice little medic kit that I made up from Vanquest. It can actually hang on the outside of the backpack.. Yeah, money’s not really a problem once I get somewhere. I’m just going to buy clothes. I’m bringing very minimal stuff. No computer just iPad mini they’re coming out with new ones real soon. They haven’t updated the minis in quite some. I have Charles Schwab and Fidelity to get reimbursed from the ATMs , I’m looking to get a wise card. I’m on a waiting list in the United States for a wise card. Good call on the backpack covers. I just talked to a friend of mine. He is going to be traveling for business for the next six years. He can’t retire as early as me he agreed to buy my fancy hard bag roller. It’s made by SOLGAARD. It’s a sweet bag, but I definitely understand the need to carry to smaller size backpacks. I’m going to try to fit most everything in the one backpack and then the other one I should be able to bring flip-flops and water shoes and a really good pair of walking shoes. Along with some other clothes. How much weight can each each backpack be on the average Asian/European airline do you know? Hey man, thanks again. You got the creative juices flowing on a lot of things I wasn’t really thinking about. My trip is going to be six months to a year and Southeast Asia. It could go longer very easily. Once again, I do appreciate your help!

[@MikeHoncho884]

@@ThatWasThenThisIsNow-yn1eq I made a mistake. It’s a 26 L bag. It is 24 inches tall so it’s 4 inches tall from fitting in one of those airline containers for international travel. Or I could just not pack it completely full to the top and push it down when it goes into the container. Will they allow that? Chrome Industries makes some courier style backpacks. They have a 20 L out right now that is 19 inches tall and it’s not too wide. They’re $200. I was thinking about buying one of those but then what do I do with my 26 L bag? Give it away in garage sale?

[@MikeHoncho884]

The bag I have is called a Vanquest Ibex 26

[@jerrymarshall2728]

Glad to see you made it safely to Dumaguete! 👍 I use a backpack as carry-on. It holds a lot, has individual sections in case I need something, and fits in the overhead storage. I'm one of those melatonin guys. If I can sleep at least half of the 15 hour flight, jet lag is minimal for me. But I also try to land mid-day, if possible. Then, by normal bed time, I'm tired and can get a good night's sleep, to minimize jet lag. Yes, lightweight, breathable clothing is essential! I keep an airline supplied blanket handy, for nap time. The airlines can sometimes lower the cabin temperature, so passengers can sleep, and covering with the blanket before napping will be more comfortable. Good video, Chad 👍

[@The-Angry-Vet]

Great video please do more of these covering gear and other helpful tips!!!! Great content

[@Ryan-wi3ry]

Honestly I would pack light even for a one month trip. 6 pairs of boxers and socks. One pair of pants one hoody and 3 pairs of shorts and T-shirt. + toiletry items. One pair of shoes and buy anything I need while there like crocks. Keep it down to one bag so you don’t have to worry about luggage and baggage claims.

[@xUnic31x]

Thanks for the info! I’ll be flying to the Philippines soon after visiting 10 years ago. I’m excited to see my family and learn more about my culture as an adult. I didn’t get to appreciate it as much as a kid and teen 😊

[@MattMitche498]

I use Airalo on my phone as an E-sim. It worked everywhere I went and good rates and used my phone as normal. It integrated fine with the verizon service i had in PH. Just turn it on when you land and turn off when you leave.

[@vmaxrydr1]

If one is going to stay there for lets says at least 3 months can you discuss the variety ways of accessing your money from in my case USA? You mentioned going to an ATM for withdrawing PESO"s? Can you create a video about the options to access your financial account from another country? As you mentioned cash from ATM, how about the options of remitley, Zoom Wise? getting a bank account in the phillipines? Discuss pros and cons of each. Great content clear and precise. I have heard with US dollars you get a better exchange rate in a bank also.

[@generosabaculi4381]

Great info. Welcome back!

[@commonsenseisntcommon1776]

Good info thanks! 👍

[@jamesrecknor6752]

Very valuable, helpful information.

[@Nicholas-cn5vk]

Thank you very much. 👍 Perfect timing. 👌

[@vn6714]

Thanks perfect prep video traveling soon

[@bradleymiller7375]

Thanks, Chad, for the good information. I downloaded this so I can access it when needed!

[@alvahthompson7203]

Great video Chad, heading back for my second trip this year in Oct. Iloilo and El nido

[@Revfredtravels]

Wow great info bro I am going to save this Vlog for the helpful info in it. I am a Canadian in Ottawa but right now I am in Oklahoma.

[@MikeHoncho884]

Another great video Chad thanks so detailed. I downloaded this video so I can refer back to it just before I travel to the Philippines and Thailand. I definitely have to find some of those shirts. Where did you find that camel blue shirt that’s pretty cool. I plan on packing quite late because I can probably purchase just about anything. I need once I get there. I plan on hitting a market and just buying a couple of extra shirts once I get settled in somewhere and I’ll go through and throw away a couple of shirts before I pack up and move on. As I move from place to place I’ll just lighten the load each time and gain a little bit extra wherever I settle in I’m going to be slow traveling. Several different countries it should take me about six months to a year to complete my itinerary. Thanks again really appreciated this video!

[@timsretirementjourney8323]

Good video Chad. My wife and I are currently in Surrey and still have almost 2 months before flying back into Clark, Pampanga and then making our way to our home in the City of San Fernando. Your list of recommendations are all good ones.

[@jerrywilliams408]

For clothing, I recommend merino wool t-shirts. I know, wool sounds crazy for a place like PH, but the characteristics of the material are that it is moisture wicking, quickly dries, and it is naturally antimicrobial which repels odor. You can wear the same shirt several days without needing to wash. The downside is that it costs considerably more than cotton and synthetic fiber material. Also, NAIA terminal 3 has a One Stop Shop on the first floor to extend your visa if you're going to be staying more than 30 days. So, you can get an extension before you even leave the airport. Unless their policy has changed, you can only do this on day of arrival or else you will have to go to a regular immigration office.

[@michaelpalosaari9460]

Thanks Chad! Leaving tomorrow morning to head back to the States ( bummed! ) All your suggestions are spot on! This was my first trip and I had a blast! The Mactan Newtown area in Cebu I think is more convenient since the airport is so close. Enjoy your next round! Peace ☮️

[@ChadFosterExplores]

I know that feeling... you'll just have to come back!

[@Gurkha9]

Consider compression socks for long haul flights

[@Boopbbopp]

What’s the inconvenience of wearing white sketchers, brand, socks, or gold toe, black socks if you’re gonna be on a long flight? I’m not too sure because I only fly within US most of the time

[@Gurkha9]

@emmanuelmacias6959 it's not about the inconvenience of wearing regular socks. It's about the potential advantages of wearing compression socks when flying long haul flights

[@Boopbbopp]

@@Gurkha9 what are the upsides of them just wondering

[@Gurkha9]

@@Boopbbopp reduced swelling, improved circulation, reduced risk of deep vein thrombosis. Other advantages too. Google it.

[@axelortiz907]

@@Boopbbopp Compression socks help maintain blood flow, which can reduce the likelihood of blood clots forming in your legs.

[@spincube5734]

Thanks for the good tips, Chad !!

[@Joe-mz6dc]

Fantastic info Chad. Fellow Canadian here. If I visit the Phillipines I'll buy you a beer or coffee.

[@stanleysalters1195]

Very good video im moving to the Philippines in 2 years.

[@downthispath6538]

The etravel thing - they usually scan either your passport or boarding pass to check if you've filled in the etravel online. At least, in my experience.

[@legacyopp9318]

Afrer flying with cramped leg room shoulder to shoulder, I only fly business class with PAL. Their private lounge is amazing. Also inform your bank in advance of travel and only use credit card if necessary, never your atm. I bring cash and then exchange it at the mall. Then, get a temporary international on your cell. Pal would not board you until your etravel was properly completed.

[@Listener827]

Nice video. Keep 'em coming Chad.

[@Manila-sb3sn]

Welcome back to the Philippines. Thanks for sharing. Enjoy your stay.

[@ChadFosterExplores]

Thanks I appreciate it 🙏it's good to be back😎

[@BenjaminBeber]

You're in my province. Thank you for visiting my place where i grew up. Stay safe.🎉

[@makiavelli6101]

I'll start by saying that I have been to 67 countries over 4 decades....many times to developing nations and war zones.......the following is what works for me. I use two backpacks that are carry on size...30 and 40 liter; I always keep the one with snacks and electronics under my legs and stretch my legs out over the backpack and then stow it under the seat while taking off and landing. In my bags I have the following: Medical Kit Cotton balls, medical tape, roll of gauze bandage, aloe vera, razor, sun protection (that's expensive in the PI), large 3M waterproof bandages, moleskin for blisters, bio freeze pain relieving wipe, unopened bottle of pain reliever, iodine and hydrogen peroxide, ear protection for sleeping on flights and some sterile wipes. Toiletry Kit Small soap/shampoo for backup in case a place that I stay at doesn't provide it, razor/shaving cream, tooth paste and brush, sewing kit, pit stick, and a sponge etc. Clothing in these bags 4 white t-shirts and three dressier button shirts - all cotton or bamboo - four pair of shorts, a hat to keep the sun off my face, one pair of sock, flip flops, water shoes, a hand fan to keep cool(er), an umbrella, my glasses, my keys, passport, 5 dice for Yahtzee, a couple of pens, some goggles for swimming, a wash cloth to have in my pocket to wipe away sweat, a coozie to keep my beer cold :) , some floss, travel tooth brush for the flights/airport, a few extra carabiners, blow up travel pillow (takes less space),a long bungee cord to use as a clothes line, some leather weight lifting gloves to use while driving a scooter, travel knife, fork and spoon and some zip ties just in case (these really come in handy for me all the time)...and then of course the obligatory electronics such as all the chargers needed, head phones, converter to plug into the wall outlets, two iPhones for stateside and swapping out SIM cards for local calls in the area, a head lamp to use hands free lighting during brown outs or being out in the dark, my laptop or tablet. And I just bought a phone mount for the scooter. Hmmm, what did I forget? Oh, my favorite tea bags and some snacks for the trips through the air transportation system. This will be all that I pack for a two month trip to the PI and Thailand. For decades I used a 80-90 liter backpack for the back and one of my smaller ones for my front side. I'm to the point that I don't like to have to wait for bags, so I have transitioned to what I use above. Don't over pack. If you need some clothes, just buy them over there. It's very cheap to get a shirt or shorts etc. It cuts down on your weight and increases required space in your bags. I don't tend to stay in resorts unless they are very cheap. I look to spend no more than $30 a night for room and board....hopefully much less and still have hot water and a secure room. Hope that helps someone.......good luck in your travels.

[@Stagger-One]

Most excellent 👌 Thank you 😊

[@RoryWalsh-l1d]

Comprehensive, good tips!

[@richardwillis3304]

Good to see you're back in the philippines

[@chrisupao7300]

Yah, you're right bro it's more fun in the Philippines. Mabuhay ka.

[@Bitcoin1y]

Philippines Visa-exempt countries: Many nationalities, including citizens from the U.S., Canada, the UK, and most European countries, can enter the Philippines without a visa for an initial stay of 30 days. Extensions: You can apply for a visa extension to extend your stay beyond 30 days. It’s common to extend up to 59 days initially, and you can continue to apply for extensions for up to 3 years (if desired), but this requires visiting an immigration office.

[@AusValue]

you dont need to go to an immigration office to extend, you can do it online now

[@miguelc.819]

Excellent information, Thank you 🙏

[@FrankEncarnacion]

Hello, Thank you, that was very informative. I'm going thereto Cebu the 18th of sept. maybe we could meet and get more pointers.

[@stefansliwinski2093]

Thank you for the information and the guide to rhe philippines, because it be my first time in the Philippines and I'm from the UK and i am meeting my girlfriend that I have been talking to for 5 months.

[@aaaa1953]

One thing I will add to these great suggestions is be early for flights and get ECC exit clearance if you stay over six months. I got my exit clearance in terminal 3, third floor i think. Missed my flight so learned an expensive lesson about going early. ECC is available at immigration offices as well which might be a better choice.

[@brycem5462]

Thanks Chad - when I visited the Philippines in Dec 23, I arrived in Manila and got ripped off using a metered taxi instead of Grab, which I couldn't initially get to work. So a Grab fare to BGC that should have been 250 pesos ended up costing me 750 (plus another 50 peso toll). Lesson learned. Another tip is to use Sanry's Money Exchanger to convert your money to pesos. Make sure your currency is clean without wrinkles beforehand. Sanry's is in both Manila and Cebu - I've used the one in Market Market in BGC on the 2nd floor. Also compression socks are a MUST (and cheap) for long flights. Seattle is now flying direct to Manila (on PAL), but only on 3x a week when I made my reservation a couple of months ago. Thx for the info!

[@SirMountainpass]

Compression socks 👍

[@garyzeinert7126]

Great information. Thank you!!!!!

[@Connortravels]

I flew Manila to New York direct back in September last year. That was a long flight!!

[@lemaitrethemonk]

Phone charger and plug in adapters! 120 volts in US. 220 volts in the Philippines.

[@booyaah82]

Aren't the wall plugs/voltages different as well? Best to buy a power strip to plug all your stuff into?

[@mrc3458]

Good information, thanks. I will be headed over at the end of the year.

[@RatFink-nr5td]

When booking flights, keep in mind that traveling from East to West results in much less Jet Lag (maybe one day), as you are flying with the sun all the way. Flying to the East will result in passing the sun twice. Your body definitely does not like that (3-4 days Jet Lag).

[@ChadFosterExplores]

Oh that's the reason, yeah it makes a huge difference!

[@WilliamFluery]

Flying from the Philippines/Thailand to US ALWAYS requires me 3-4 days to adjust. Flying East to West, limited sleep on flights, arriving 9PMish and going straight to bed almost ALWAYS eliminates jet lag when I wake the next morning.

[@Chillin007]

This is nonsense. Your body doesn’t know or care what the sun is doing lol

[@JohnGreen-q2w]

So true .. the philippines and new Zealand were my were jet lag experience flying from uk. Thailand was bearable so beyond Thailand be careful ✨🙏🏻✨🙏🏻🥹

[@MrTuttiFrutti]

When I traveled to the Philippines, as soon as I got on the plane I started to adjust to their time zone. It also helped that the plane crew did day and night cycles to help us adjust, so when I arrived I didn't have jet lag. I don't know, maybe I was lucky, but on my return flight I made the same adjustment and again, I didn't have jet lag.

[@Russell-u5t]

I'm coming this month in October. Very nervous about the trip. I have never flown before, so talking about flooding.🥴😂Thanks for your channel and information.

[@normanmcleod7169]

If it is a long haul flight, particularly of this duration, don't just consider getting long compression stockings, GET THEM. Doesn't matter your age. Deep vein thrombosis is not fun and could be fatal !

[@teddykluk]

Add 1. Mosquito net 2. Mosquito cream and spay… Sawyer Picaridin is quite good

[@dsrrellgriffith1161]

you do not need a mosquito net in cebu city, unless u are staying in the province. I lived in condos for 7 years in cebu city. never had mosquitos in the room. But there were mosquitos in the lobby, and outside everywhere,,,,I used off if i was going to be outside for a long time,,,,

[@teddykluk]

@ I was in Dumagete, Valencia, San Carlos Negros Oriental and many of the beach resorts do have mosquitoes. Not heavy, better to have it and not need it than risk the bites. However when I stayed near Ayala Mall (Samar loop) , Cebu and Markati there was no mosquitoes. I've been around a lot of places in the Philippines

[@dsrrellgriffith1161]

@ oh please. No mosquitoes? Whatever. Another clueless vlogger.

[@AaronM-im2qc]

I would always ask for a window seat in the last two rows as there were only two in those rows, so my wife and I had more room and we had both a window and aisle seat. Also the restroom was right behind us with a nice little area in front to stand up and move around. The ride was a little more bumpy though. This was on the 747, don’t know if it’s an option on the newer planes. Thanks for the great videos Chad.

[@Dan-q6v1v]

Excellent info...I subscribed

[@craigellis6063]

Great content, brother

[@milespointshunter8602]

The longest flight from North America is the Singapore Airlines flight from Singapore's Changi Airport to New York's JFK, which is nearly 19 hours long and covers 15,348 kilometers

[@floridaman6138]

Pretty sure most know this, but when you're married to a Filipina you can enter the country on what is called balikbayan privilege and stay up to a year. Will not need to mess with onward tickets any more.

[@kevinacker9843]

It was easy as pie to get that one year extension.

[@geoffreysearle9066]

Only if your wife travels with you on the flight other wise your are given tourist visa

[@janhermanek2159]

Thanks for the useful info. As for the aisle or window, I would welcome the aisle seats any time, but I am also thinking about using sleeping pill (maybe just half to get me across the threshold), but I can imagine the situation, where I am sleeping and one of the neighbours needs to get up for whatever reason. I would really be pissed then 🤷‍♂

[@amigo2k10]

Also if you live in the usa look into TSA precheck when you travel out dont gave to wait on line

[@Will67267]

I saved a little and bought a business class seat, much more comfortable for long flights.

[@charliemulligan1988]

Wow, I just found you last night Chad. I subscribed and I’ve been watching you this morning in Boston USA . I will hold onto this video and look at it a couple of times before I bite the bullet on the Philippines. I’ve been in Mexico, most of the past two years Vietnam back in November, December, and again a few months earlier this year I returned to USA last week from Mexico, and I am working on my house in Boston. I will see my daughters for Christmas here and resume my travels in January. I am looking at the Philippines. It is so big and difficult to decide where but I guess I’ll just start in BGC Manila. I travel alone, but I find it the best way to travel. Can I just get a one-way ticket? I thought you said in this video I needed a return ticket to show immigration.? Not sure if I misunderstood that. I generally just get a one-way. Thanks for any information and thanks for what you do. You are very articulate genuine, and the most informative I have seen. 🙏 much appreciated.

[@joshuahanson5233]

When I was there, I couldn’t find any over the counter medication for minor stomach aches, even at the many 7/11’s, so pack some Pepto Bismol tablets or syrup before traveling. Also dental floss!

[@dave_in_florida]

HI Chad, flight booked for Cebu next month. Thanks for the tips. I fly new york to singapore 16 hours for firtst leg!

[@3mindgame]

Flight from Cebu to Chicago was crazy. Cebu to Taiwan , Taiwan to Chicago. Buy a battery charger for your phone once you get there. Voltages for the US 120vac , for the Philippines it’s like 150vac.

[@philipmasie]

Helpful video 😊

[@jaybrinkman2767]

I enjoy your videos. What and how much to bring. You only have a backpack and computer bag.? Guess it’s back to military type life 1 bag

[@Hilts931]

Sky scanner is good - avoid the U.S. if you can. Through Taipei with Eva Air I hugely recommend.

[@Gurkha9]

💯 EVA is a far better experience than PAL, especially their premium economy

[@garyzies3486]

Korean airlines is decent and Seoul Airport offers free city tours when layovers are longer than 5 hours.

[@axelortiz907]

momondo is the best service online to find cheapest airfare. beats sky scanner and google flights

[@wazInoz7009]

Good video Chad... I've been travelling to the Philippines for 7 years 3 to 5 trips a year... The main thing i would add is a Wise account and debit card... It makes life so much easier... Whether used as a debit card in pesos or as an ATM CARD.. ALSO TRAVEL VERY LIGHT Carry on only, all my shorts have zippers on pockets for security, Merino socks and underwear(never smells and dries quick) a Chromecast for watching sports or Netflix...

[@GannicusIsFree]

Are you able to access you US Netflix account on Chromecast while in the Philippines?

[@wazInoz7009]

Yes, although some shows are not available ie region based... However you can use a VPN if you watch something specific and not ​available@@GannicusIsFree

[@brianarguello2490]

Great video thank you

[@geoffreysearle9066]

It up to the airline that is flying you to philippines to make sure you have a out bound ticket. If philippines find out you dont have out bound ticket they can refuse you. Then charge the airline and they have to fly you back to were you got flight.

[@desert-fax-only]

Nowadays, eTravel is not asked for anymore if you have completed one. Immigration is able to pull it up quickly based on your passport ID. I know cause the one who helped me told me so.

[@enjoyingCyprus.]

Good information

[@fdmello]

Thanks for the travel tips. I’m leaving for Cebu in just a couple of days and so looking forward to it.

[@jsully4064]

Ohhhh I like the eyewear on the flight, that may work for my head bobbing also. Like arriving not too late also, right at 5pm the traffic is horrible though. Am thinking about 2 phones also, the dual sim cards are nice but usually can only operate one at a time, think 2 phones would be better. Awesome video, Chad. Thank you...Jim

[@markm2053]

Fresh clean $100 bills get the best conversion rate.

[@axelortiz907]

correct, but $50's are accepted

[@andrewtucker7437]

I'm heading back to Cebu on October 3. Going on a one way ticket (although I have an outbound flight for Bangkok for February) because when I return I'm going to marry my fiance. Also, I have a 15 year old daughter there, this gives me some special rights and access being the father of a Filipina. Love it, can't wait to return 🙂 P.S; Cebu is an awesome city.

[@GannicusIsFree]

What benefits do you get having a Filipina daughter? Would it matter if she was over 18?

[@lorandmagyar]

Ha ! I took a friend and an 11 year old to London recently. I chastised them as to passports, packing, etc. Of course my passport was expired and it cost $1500 to get one quickly.

[@patrickmchargue7122]

Video saved!

[@aaroncostello2984]

Great vlog ,,,,, enjoy your time there.

[@ChadFosterExplores]

Thank you I appreciate it 🙏😎

[@hanglee5586]

Heading back next month

[@PhoenicianinthePhilippines]

Thanks Chad! Excellent informative video! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@rusty-n4o]

GOOD VIDEO

[@ManWithNoName-t2d]

Buy a phone that can hold 2 sim cards at once, then you can switch between Philippines and foreign carrier at will if your foreign bank needs phone verification for transactions overseas

[@HunkyMan777]

From New Zealand, everywhere is a long flight

[@Jammer411]

Xtra long charging cords usually dont last a long time

[@raymundperalta419]

Hello welcome to my country enjoy n buy mosquito spray n go island hopping n many more N talk to locals n taste our food n culture

[@neil47412002]

Did they charge you extra for bringing two back packs on the plane? Thanks Chad, love your vids

[@axelortiz907]

I carried a big back pack and a sling. Won't do it again because it really was much weight to haul around. The answer is no, you can bring 2 if you wish. no extra charge

[@andyswan88]

I've never done this, but I've heard it is better to fly to Seoul because from there you can get a direct flight to Cebu and bypass Manila airport altogether.

[@woutergijs5246]

100% true! Seoul is a very cheap transit airport. I arrived by Air France and flew to Cebu by Asiana. But… you might have to change between T1 and T2 , takes quite some time. Second but: most flights from Seoul arrive after midnight at Cebu. But I enjoyed it

[@stevesilver7437]

I go from MSP to soul direct 14 hours then to Manila 😊

[@clrodrick]

Excellent video for newbs.

[@ChadFosterExplores]

Yea that was the idea... had some requests. cheers