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

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

Contents

When to go to Metro Manila, Philippines

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

What to wear/what to pack for Metro Manila, Philippines

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you are traveling to Metro Manila in January, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Metro 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

If you vacation in Metro Manila during February, you might notice that it is extremely hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

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 bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room 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 Metro 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you pick the right type. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

March

March in Metro Manila can be very hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 80s 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 staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Metro 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

April in this region is extremely hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day.

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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Metro 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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

May

If you visit Metro Manila during May, you might find that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 Metro 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 you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

Traveling to Metro Manila in June, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Metro 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 recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

July

In July, Metro Manila can be very hot and somewhat stormy. 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 Metro Manila, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In July, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Metro 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

August

In August, Metro Manila is consistently hot. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Metro 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Metro 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 belongings.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

If you visit Metro Manila during September, you might find that it is really hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 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.

  • 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 frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Metro 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

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to get the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

October

October can be very hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 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.

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Metro 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you get the right kind. Many 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 be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good 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

November

November for Metro Manila is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Metro 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good 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

December

In December, Metro Manila is extremely warm. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Metro 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Metro 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 neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Metro Manila, Philippines

Metro Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, is a bustling and vibrant metropolis that boasts a rich history and culture. It is an exciting place to explore, with a diverse range of sights and attractions that will appeal to tourists from all walks of life. From historical sites and museums to theme parks and shopping districts, Metro Manila has something to offer every visitor. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the top tourist attractions in Metro Manila.

1. Intramuros - The Walled City

Intramuros is often considered as Manila's birthplace, as it is the oldest district in the city. It is a fortified complex that was built during the Spanish colonial era, and its walls have survived for over 400 years. Within the walls, visitors can explore a number of historical sites, including Fort Santiago, the Manila Cathedral, and the Casa Manila Museum.

2. Rizal Park (Luneta Park)

Rizal Park, also known as Luneta Park, is a sprawling green space that is located in the heart of Manila. It is named after the country's national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, and is home to several monuments, including the Rizal Monument, the Kilometer Zero Marker, and the National Museum of the Filipino People.

3. National Museum of the Philippines

The National Museum of the Philippines is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Philippine culture and history. Its collection includes artifacts and artwork from pre-colonial times to the present day. The museum is particularly famous for its collection of gold artifacts from the pre-colonial era.

4. Manila Ocean Park

For families with kids, Manila Ocean Park is a fun and educational destination. It features a wide range of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, and penguins. Visitors can also watch live shows and participate in interactive exhibits.

5. Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

Bonifacio Global City, also known as BGC, is a modern business district in Taguig that is home to some of Manila's best shopping, dining, and nightlife. It is particularly famous for its high-end shopping and dining options, as well as its vibrant nightlife scene.

6. Greenbelt Mall

Greenbelt Mall is a popular shopping destination in Makati that features a wide range of international and local brands, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes. Its beautifully landscaped gardens and parks provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

7. Divisoria Market

Divisoria Market is a bustling and chaotic street market that is famous for its cheap merchandise. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and accessories, but visitors should be prepared for crowds and haggling.

8. Manila Bay

Manila Bay is a beautiful natural harbor that is home to some of Manila's most iconic landmarks, including the Baywalk, the Manila Yacht Club, and the Cultural Center of the Philippines. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the sea breeze, particularly during sunset.

In conclusion, Metro Manila is an exciting destination that offers something for every kind of traveler. From historical sites and museums to theme parks and shopping districts, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this vibrant city. Whether you're interested in exploring Manila's rich history and culture or simply want to enjoy its modern amenities and attractions, there is no doubt that there is something in this bustling metropolis that will appeal to you.

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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