Samal, Philippines: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Samal, Philippines? If you're planning to go to Samal, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Samal
- Important essentials for Samal
- Activities for Samal
- Samal in January: weather and what to pack
- Samal in February: weather and what to pack
- Samal in March: weather and what to pack
- Samal in April: weather and what to pack
- Samal in May: weather and what to pack
- Samal in June: weather and what to pack
- Samal in July: weather and what to pack
- Samal in August: weather and what to pack
- Samal in September: weather and what to pack
- Samal in October: weather and what to pack
- Samal in November: weather and what to pack
- Samal in December: weather and what to pack
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
January in Samal is really hot, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters contaminants:
thisSkirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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 bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
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.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters available 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 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
February
In February, Samal can be very 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
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
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. Ensure that you choose the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
March
March is consistently hot, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, 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.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties 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 support pillow
A great choice is this one
April
If you go to Samal in April, you will notice that it can be sweltering and extremely hazy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
Skirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, 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.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to pick the right type. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
May
May is consistently hot, somewhat rainy, somewhat stormy and extremely hazy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisTravel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Safety + Security
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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
June
In June, Samal is really hot, somewhat rainy, somewhat stormy and extremely hazy. 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 Samal, with several of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things 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.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
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. It's important that you pick the right kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
July
If you are traveling to Samal in July, you will notice that it is consistently 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
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
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 airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
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. Ensure that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
August
In August, Samal is extremely 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 August, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters harmful contaminants:
thisTravel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little 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.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is 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 pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now 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 should be appropriate for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
September
If you are traveling to Samal in September, 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
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters harmful contaminants:
thisSkirts
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, 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.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert 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
October
If you vacation in Samal during October, you will probably see that it is extremely 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 around 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
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from UV rays:
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you 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.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
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 get the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.
November
If you visit Samal during November, you are likely to find that it can be very 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 around 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
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
December
If you go to Samal in December, you will notice that it is constantly hot, somewhat rainy and extremely hazy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Safety + Security
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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.
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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
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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