Sustainable Travel in the Philippines on a Tight Budget: Life on 600 PHP a Month

Travelling to the Philippines might seem like an expensive proposition, but is it possible to visit for a month and spend as little as 600 PHP (less than 600 USD)? This guide breaks down real-world costs to show that while it is feasible, a budget of 600 PHP will require a very frugal and basic lifestyle.

Accommodation Expenses

The biggest expense when visiting the Philippines is accommodation. A basic single room in a guesthouse or hotel might cost between 800 and 1000 PHP per night. For a budget traveller, a shared dormitory-style room can be found for around 350 to 500 PHP, which is more akin to a hostel. These rooms are quite basic, so if you can live simply, you can stay in the Philippines for a month with minimal costs.

Meals - The Cheap Option

When it comes to meals, the budget traveller has several affordable options. You can save a significant amount of money by eating basic street food or dining at food courts. A budget of 300 to 400 PHP per day can suffice, providing a balanced diet of local dishes.

Transportation Costs

Transportation in the Philippines, particularly around Manila, offers many inexpensive options. Local public transportation, such as the PNR, MRT, and LRT, can cost less than 100 PHP per day. When travelling outside of Manila, the cost varies by distance. Expect around 150 PHP per 100 miles for long-distance bus fares. Don't forget, some local buses may not have air conditioning and have open windows as the only cooling feature.

Surviving on 600 PHP a Month

With careful planning, you can indeed stretch your budget to cover all aspects of travel in the Philippines. However, it will involve living very frugally and limiting your expenses:

Accommodation:Choose the cheapest accommodation options available, such as dormitory-style rooms or basic guesthouses. Meals:Focus on street food and food court dining to keep costs low. Carry snacks for in-between meals to avoid spiking spending. Transportation:Prioritize public transportation to save money. Use them to get around within Manila and consider long-distance buses for trips outside the city.

Such a budget plan might work for someone who is willing to live simply, but it won't offer much room for entertainment or fancier dining experiences.

Conclusion: Your Mileage May Vary

While it is possible to live in the Philippines for 600 PHP a month, this scenario provides very basic living conditions. It will be a challenge to live comfortably or engage in any form of entertainment. If this type of lifestyle floats your boat, then go for it. However, don't expect to live in the Philippines on 600 PHP a month if you are envisioning more luxury and comfort.

For a pre-pandemic perspective, a budget of 1000 to 1250 PHP would have been sufficient, but since the pandemic, prices have increased significantly. Even with a tight budget, you need to ensure that daily needs, such as a coffee, are met to maintain a decent level of comfort and well-being.

For the budget traveller, the Philippines can still be a wonderful destination if you maintain a minimalist approach to your visit. However, setting realistic expectations and planning your finances carefully will make your trip more enjoyable and less stressful.