Santo Tomas, Philippines: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Santo Tomas, Philippines? If you're planning to go to Santo Tomas, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Santo Tomas
- Important essentials for Santo Tomas
- Activities for Santo Tomas
- Santo Tomas in January: weather and what to pack
- Santo Tomas in February: weather and what to pack
- Santo Tomas in March: weather and what to pack
- Santo Tomas in April: weather and what to pack
- Santo Tomas in May: weather and what to pack
- Santo Tomas in June: weather and what to pack
- Santo Tomas in July: weather and what to pack
- Santo Tomas in August: weather and what to pack
- Santo Tomas in September: weather and what to pack
- Santo Tomas in October: weather and what to pack
- Santo Tomas in November: weather and what to pack
- Santo Tomas in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Santo Tomas, Philippines
Based on the climate and weather in Santo Tomas, Philippines, the best time to go is February. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Santo Tomas, Philippines
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Santo Tomas, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Santo Tomas, Philippines by month
January
If you visit Santo Tomas during January, you are likely to see that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santo Tomas. 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 constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find 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
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers 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 locations.
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices 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
February
If you visit Santo Tomas during February, you might find that it is consistently hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisA rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santo Tomas. 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 things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
March
If you vacation in Santo Tomas during March, you might find that it is constantly hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s 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 60 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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 Santo Tomas. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A good option 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
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 get the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
April
April in Santo Tomas is blindingly hot. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Thin short sleeve shirts
Don't forget bring extra, as these get wet or dirty.
Sunglasses
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are developed to help you stay cool and include UV protection.
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are created to cool you:
Sun protecting pants
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Insulated water bottle
- this
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
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 airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santo Tomas. 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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to get the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require 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
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
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. Avoid surcharges with this
May
In May, Santo Tomas can be sizzling. Temperatures routinely are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C) and 5-10 days this month jump into the 90s F (mid 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Santo Tomas, with several of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Waterproof sandals
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to cool you and to provide UV protection.
Sunglasses
Thin short sleeve shirts
It's important bring additional, as these easily get wet or dirty.
Sun protecting legwear
These will keep you protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Skirts
- this
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are created for cooling:
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas 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 nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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 Santo Tomas. 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.
Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being 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 should work in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
June
In June, Santo Tomas is extremely hot. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (low 30s C) and occasionally jump into the 90s F (mid 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Santo Tomas, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisSkirts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Sunglasses
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring 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 choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can 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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santo Tomas. 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 surcharges with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to pick the right kind. Most adapters on sale 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 is sufficent for most locations.
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
July
July in Santo Tomas is consistently hot and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisA rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santo Tomas. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.
August
In August, Santo Tomas is consistently 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 Santo Tomas, 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
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santo Tomas. 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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
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. Save money with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to get the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
September
September in this region 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
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend 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 things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can 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 Santo Tomas. 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
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. The majority 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 burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
October
October in this region is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
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 important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santo Tomas. 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 constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
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 stuff.
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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices 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
November
November in Santo Tomas can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Skirts
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
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 product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags 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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santo Tomas. 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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to find the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
December
December in this region can be very hot. 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
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and guard against skin damage:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes contaminants:
thisA rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
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 take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santo Tomas. 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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel 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 Santo Tomas, Philippines
Santo Tomas, located in the province of Batangas in the Philippines, is a bustling town with a rich history and culture. It is a popular destination among locals and tourists alike, offering a range of attractions that appeal to all interests.
Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you should not miss when visiting Santo Tomas:
1. Sto. Tomas Aquinas Parish Church
This beautiful church is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates stunning architecture and religious history. It is one of the oldest churches in Batangas, having been constructed in 1669. The church has been renovated several times over the centuries, but it still retains its traditional charm.
2. Padre Pio National Shrine
The Padre Pio National Shrine is a popular pilgrimage site among Catholics. It is dedicated to Saint Padre Pio, an Italian Franciscan priest who was renowned for his stigmata and other miraculous occurrences. The shrine has a lovely garden, chapel, and museum that showcase the life and works of Padre Pio.
3. Mount Makiling
For nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, Mount Makiling is a must-visit destination in Santo Tomas. It is an active volcano that is also a protected nature reserve, offering a range of trails for hiking and outdoor activities. Mount Makiling is also known for its diverse wildlife and flora, making it a great spot for nature photography.
4. Tanauan City Lake Park
Situated adjacent to Santo Tomas, the Tanauan City Lake Park is a picturesque recreational spot that is perfect for families and nature lovers. The park features a large lake where visitors can rent boats or go fishing, as well as a playground, prayer garden, and scenic walking trails.
5. Taal Lake and Volcano
Taal Lake and Volcano are located a short distance from Santo Tomas, making it a great day trip destination. Taal Lake is the largest lake in the Philippines, while Taal Volcano is an active volcano that is renowned for its picturesque scenery and breathtaking views. Visitors can take boat rides or trek to the crater for an unforgettable experience.
Santo Tomas, Batangas, is a vibrant town that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, religion, nature, or outdoor pursuits, there are plenty of attractions to explore and discover in this beautiful part of 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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