Manila, Philippines: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Manila, Philippines? If you're planning to go to Manila, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Manila, Philippines

Based on the climate and weather in Manila, Philippines, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Manila, Philippines

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Manila, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Manila, Philippines by month

January

January in Manila is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to get the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

If you visit the National Museum of the Philippines, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you go to Manila in February, you will notice that it can be very hot and dry with little rain. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the National Museum of the Philippines, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March can be very hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to choose the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the National Museum of the Philippines, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

Traveling to Manila in April, you will notice that it is sweltering and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to find the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the National Museum of the Philippines, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Manila is sweltering. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the National Museum of the Philippines, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Manila is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to low 90s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you pick the right type. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the National Museum of the Philippines, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you visit Manila during July, you may find that it is really hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the National Museum of the Philippines, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

In August, Manila is really hot. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Manila, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you get the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the National Museum of the Philippines, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Manila can be very hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the National Museum of the Philippines, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you visit Manila during October, you are likely to find that it is constantly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the National Museum of the Philippines, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Manila is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the National Museum of the Philippines, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

In December, Manila is extremely hot. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Manila, with several of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manila. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the National Museum of the Philippines, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Manila, Philippines

Manila, the capital city of the Philippines is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in Asia. It is a city that offers visitors a unique blend of the old and new, the traditional and the modern. With so much to see and do, it's no doubt that tourists from all over the world flock to Manila.

Here are the top tourist attractions in Manila, the Philippines.

1. Intramuros

Intramuros, which means "within the walls," is a walled city within Manila. It is one of the most historic sites in the country, having been the center of the Spanish colonization in the Philippines. Visitors can take a stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit the old churches, and visit the museums to learn more about the country's history.

2. Rizal Park

Rizal Park, also known as Luneta Park, is the largest urban park in Manila. It is named after the Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal, and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city. The park features a monument of Rizal, fountains, gardens, and several museums.

3. Manila Ocean Park

Located in the heart of Manila, Manila Ocean Park is an oceanarium that offers visitors an immersive experience with marine life. Visitors can see over 14,000 marine creatures, including sharks, rays, and other sea animals. The highlight of the park is the underwater tunnel where guests can walk through and admire the marine life swimming around them.

4. National Museum of the Philippines

The National Museum of the Philippines is the official museum of the country. It houses a vast collection of artifacts, art, and archaeological finds that depict the country's history and culture. Visitors can see some of the oldest known human skeletons, ethnographic treasures, and indigenous artworks.

5. San Agustin Church

San Agustin Church is one of the most famous churches in Manila. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the oldest stone church in the country. Visitors can admire the intricate Baroque style architecture and the stunning interior.

6. Fort Santiago

Fort Santiago is another historic site located in Intramuros. It is a citadel that dates back to the Spanish colonial era and is a symbol of the country's struggle for independence. Visitors can walk around the fort, see the dungeons, and visit the Rizal Shrine, which is dedicated to the national hero.

7. Manila Bay

Manila Bay is a natural harbor that has been an essential part of the city's history. It is known for its stunning sunsets and is a popular destination for tourists looking to take a stroll along the promenade or enjoy a drink at one of the many restaurants and bars that line the shore.

In conclusion, Manila is a vibrant city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, art, culture, and entertainment. These top tourist attractions in Manila are just a few of the many reasons why the city is a must-visit destination in the Philippines.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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