Complete packing list for El Nido — what to wear, what to leave behind, and the gear that makes island hopping comfortable. Updated for 2026.
Packing for El Nido is different from packing for a typical beach holiday. You'll be jumping in and out of bangka boats, hiking to viewpoints, eating at open-air restaurants, and possibly staying on a remote island resort with limited resupply. This guide covers exactly what to bring — and what to skip.
The Golden Rule: Pack Light
El Nido has no large luggage storage at the airport (it's a small airstrip). AirSWIFT direct flights have a 10kg checked baggage limit and 7kg carry-on. If you're taking the van from Puerto Princesa, space is tight. A 30–40L backpack or small soft-sided bag is ideal.
Clothing
What to Wear
- Swimwear (3–4 sets): You'll be in the water daily. Quick-dry rash guards double as sun protection on tours.
- Lightweight shorts (2–3 pairs): Linen or nylon dry fast and pack small.
- T-shirts / tank tops (3–4): Breathable fabrics only — cotton stays damp in humidity.
- One light layer: A thin long-sleeve shirt or light hoodie for air-conditioned vans and cool evenings.
- One smart-casual outfit: El Nido town has decent restaurants. One nicer outfit is enough.
- Flip flops + one pair of closed shoes: Sandals for the beach, shoes for town and viewpoint hikes.
What to Leave Behind
- Jeans — too heavy, too hot, too slow to dry
- Formal wear — unnecessary even at luxury resorts
- Multiple pairs of shoes — space and weight not worth it
Sun & Water Protection
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+): Non-reef-safe sunscreen is banned on El Nido tours. Bring enough — local options are limited and expensive.
- Rash guard / UV shirt: More effective than sunscreen for full-day boat tours.
- Polarised sunglasses: Essential on the water. Bring a strap so they don't fall overboard.
- Wide-brim hat or cap: Bangka boats have minimal shade.
- Dry bag (10–20L): Protect your phone, camera, and valuables on boat tours. Some tour operators provide them, but bring your own to be safe.
Electronics
- Waterproof phone case or pouch: Even if you have a dry bag, a phone pouch lets you take photos in the water.
- Action camera (GoPro or similar): The lagoons and underwater visibility are exceptional. Worth bringing if you have one.
- Power bank (20,000mAh): Island resorts may have limited charging. Some bangka boats have no power at all.
- Universal travel adapter: Philippines uses Type A/B sockets (same as US). Most modern chargers are dual-voltage.
- Headlamp or torch: Useful for island resorts with limited lighting and for early morning departures.
Health & Toiletries
- Insect repellent (DEET-based): Mosquitoes are present, especially at dusk. Dengue is a real risk in the Philippines.
- After-sun lotion: You will get more sun than you expect on boat tours.
- Seasickness tablets: Bangka boats in choppy conditions affect some travellers. Take tablets 30 minutes before departure.
- Basic first aid: Antiseptic cream, plasters, and blister pads for viewpoint hikes.
- Prescription medications: Pharmacies in El Nido town are limited. Bring enough for your trip plus a few extra days.
- Rehydration sachets: Heat and activity cause dehydration quickly.
- Hand sanitiser: Useful on boat tours where handwashing facilities are limited.
Documents & Money
- Cash (Philippine Pesos): El Nido has ATMs but they run out frequently in peak season. Bring enough cash from Puerto Princesa or Manila. Most island resorts accept cards, but tour operators and local restaurants are cash-only.
- Passport: Required for domestic flights and some resort check-ins.
- Travel insurance documents: Ensure your policy covers water sports and tour cancellations.
- Printed hotel confirmations: Mobile signal is unreliable at some island resorts.
What You Can Buy in El Nido
Don't overpack these — they're available in town:
- Sunscreen (limited brands, higher prices)
- Flip flops and basic clothing
- Snorkelling masks (rental available on tours)
- Water and snacks
- Basic toiletries
Packing List by Category
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Clothing | 3–4 swimwear, 3 shorts, 4 tops, 1 layer, 1 smart outfit |
| Footwear | Flip flops, 1 closed shoe |
| Sun protection | Reef-safe SPF50+, rash guard, hat, polarised sunglasses |
| Water gear | Dry bag, waterproof phone pouch |
| Electronics | Power bank, action camera, adapter, headlamp |
| Health | Insect repellent, seasickness tabs, first aid, rehydration |
| Documents | Passport, cash (PHP), insurance, confirmations |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much cash should I bring to El Nido?
Budget ₱3,000–5,000 per day for mid-range travel (tours, meals, accommodation). Island resort stays are typically card-friendly, but bring ₱10,000–15,000 in cash as a buffer for tour fees, tricycles, and local restaurants.
Can I rent snorkelling gear in El Nido?
Yes — all island-hopping tours include basic mask and fins. If you're particular about fit or hygiene, bring your own mask. Prescription dive masks can be rented from dive shops in town.
Is reef-safe sunscreen really enforced?
Yes. Tour guides check and will ask you to wash off non-reef-safe sunscreen before entering the lagoons. Bring reef-safe sunscreen from home — local options are limited.
Do I need a dry bag for El Nido tours?
Strongly recommended. Bangka boats take on spray and occasionally water. Your phone, camera, and documents need protection. A 10–20L roll-top dry bag is sufficient.
Browse our El Nido region page for hotel rates and island resort comparisons. See our How to Get to El Nido guide for transport logistics and our Best Time to Visit El Nido for seasonal planning.
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