It’s school vacation in the Philippines and most students would probably be going somewhere to spend their vacation. The beaches in the provinces are the most common destination. Those who can afford it might opt to go abroad to escape the heat.
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
Anywhere you may be going, it would be wise to remember a few budget travel tips to save you a few extra cash.
1. Plan your trips ahead. Even if you’re just going to another province, consider planning your trips ahead in order to get the best deals. Airlines usually have promos but for a limited time and seats only. Plan where you’re going and grab the next promo ticket on that destination. Planning ahead would also give you time to ask your friends and family to come along so that you can share the expenses.
2. Make use of the Internet. Don’t buy expensive guide books, maps and travel agents. The Internet is full of free and useful information if you know where to look. Travel agency operate for profit so if you are adventurous enough, avoid going through them. Some travel agents charge exorbitant fees and insert unnecessary itineraries on your trip. Search the web for information. Blogs provide more detailed and reliable reviews. Try to get the rates of car hire online for your reference. Getting directions and rates to a destination has become very easy through the internet.
3. Travel light. Pack only the necessities. We tend to bring along a lot of things in our bags that can only hamper our mobility and sometimes cost us extra if we have excess baggage. Again, know what to expect on your destination so that you know what clothes to pack.
4. Avoid making side trips. If you did not plan on going to another destination then you probably shouldn’t. Side trips would entail unplanned expenses and you do not know if you’re going to enjoy the place. The beauty of planning ahead is that you can choose the best itinerary that’s right on your budget.
5. Don’t spend too much on souvenirs and pasalubong. Pinoys when traveling would always bring home souvenir items and pasalubong for family and friends. More often than not, these items would only end up in shelves collecting dust. I would often buy small items for souvenir/pasalubong and keychain is a favorite. Food would also be good as long as it’s not bulky. When buying for pasalubong, the best place to get the best deal is at the local market. What’s more, you can always haggle at the market unlike at the malls.
Enjoy your vacation!
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Good advice, I especially agree on packing light. Too much stuff is a hassle, and there really is only a few things that one really needs when taking a trip. If you forget something, just make do without it.
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Thanks for visiting Mark. You see, it’s always a problem of mine before. I tend to bring a lot of stuff most of which I don’t use on the trip.
But, but, but sidetrips are fun!
Oh yes, they’re fun if you have the money to pay for it. But if the side trip will not cost you money then you’d probably consider it.
I’ve just came back from my trip in Manila! Your tips were very useful! Thanks!
That is why I always set aside some budget for sidetrips. Thing is, most of the fun I’ve had in vacations are in sidetrips. There is only so much you can do in one place. I realized this during my recent trip way down South. Had it not been for the unplanned sidetrips, I’d be bored out of my mind and would be on the first flight back to Manila. Personally, I’d rather cut down on souvenirs. But that’s just me.