Samal, Philippines: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Samal, Philippines? If you're planning to go to Samal, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Samal, Philippines

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

What to wear/what to pack for Samal, Philippines

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you vacation in Samal during January, you might see that it is really hot, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. 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 70 and 80% 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

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samal. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • 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. Take care to pick the necessary type. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

February

In February, Samal is consistently hot, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. 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 Samal, with several of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samal. 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

In March, Samal is constantly hot, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 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 Samal, with several of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samal. 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 airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you vacation in Samal during April, you will probably find that it is really hot and extremely hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 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 a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samal. 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

If you visit Samal during May, you will probably find that it can be very hot, somewhat rainy, somewhat stormy and extremely hazy. 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 regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samal. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave 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

June

Traveling to Samal in June, you will notice that it is consistently hot, somewhat rainy, somewhat stormy and extremely hazy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samal. 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 of 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

July

If you go to Samal in July, you will notice that it is extremely hot, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samal. 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

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you find the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

If you vacation in Samal during August, you might notice that it is consistently hot, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 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 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

    Philippines has some specific safety 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 Samal. 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 of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you get the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • 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 support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

September

Traveling to Samal in September, you will notice that it is really hot, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samal. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

October

If you go to Samal in October, you will notice that it is extremely hot, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Samal. 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 airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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. Make sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

November

If you are traveling to Samal in November, you will notice that it can be sweltering, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 Samal. 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 always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you find the right type. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • 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

December

December here is constantly hot, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Philippines has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 Samal. 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 prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • 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

What to do in Samal, Philippines

Samal, a tropical paradise situated in Davao Gulf, is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines. The island captivates visitors with its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush forests. But Samal is more than just a pretty face. The island also boasts a rich cultural heritage and is home to various attractions to suit every interest.

Here are the top tourist attractions in Samal, Philippines:

1. Hagimit Falls

One of the most visited natural wonders in Samal is Hagimit Falls. The waterfall is a four-tiered cascade, surrounded by lush vegetation and rock formations. Visitors can swim in the pool at the base of the falls, and there are also small picnic areas and cottages available for rent.

2. Monfort Bat Cave

The Monfort Bat Cave is home to millions of bats, making it the largest bat colony in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and witness the incredible sight of the bats flying overhead. The cave is also home to various other species of wildlife, including snakes and birds.

3. Pearl Farm Beach Resort

The Pearl Farm Beach Resort is the epitome of luxury and relaxation. The resort was once a pearl farm, but has since been transformed into a breathtaking island retreat. Visitors can enjoy the pristine beaches, go scuba diving or snorkeling, and indulge in world-class cuisine.

4. Maxima Aqua Fun

Maxima Aqua Fun is a water park located on Samal Island, boasting a variety of activities, including ziplining, kayaking, and banana boating. Visitors can also take advantage of the giant water slides and diving platforms, providing a fun-filled day for families and adventure seekers.

5. Samal Island Beaches

Samal Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, including the iconic Isla Reta Beach. The island has miles of pristine white sand shores, crystal clear waters and abundant marine life. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, beach volleyball, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

6. Giant Clam Sanctuary

The Giant Clam Sanctuary is an educational and conservation center located in Samal Island. Visitors can take tours to view the giant clams and learn about their habitat, life cycle and conservation efforts. This sanctuary also features an underwater viewing deck, making for an unforgettable experience.

Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, Samal, Philippines has something for everyone. With stunning natural wonders, historic sites, luxurious resorts and pristine beaches, Samal has become a top tourist destination in the Philippines. Plan your next vacation to this paradise island and create memories that last a lifetime.

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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