Boracay Philippines: How To Visit On A Budget
Are you interested in seeing the stunning beaches of Boracay first-hand, but worried about the costs not being backpacker-friendly? You’re not alone; many travellers find themselves hesitant to explore this tropical paradise due to the much higher price tags associated compared to the rest of the Philippines.
The good news is that experiencing Boracay on a budget is entirely possible with the right tips and tricks! In this guide, we’ll share essential strategies to help you navigate your trip without breaking the bank. From the most affordable way to get around the island to free activities that showcase the island’s beauty, these tips will empower you to enjoy all that Boracay has to offer while keeping your expenses in check. Let’s dive in!
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You Can Also Check Out Our Complete Boracay Travel Guide On YouTube!
Boracay Philippines: 10 Money Saving Tips!
1. Visit During The Shoulder Season
The Philippines has two distinct seasons: the wet season and the dry season. However, some would argue there is an additional season: the shoulder season. If you still want to get sunny weather but lower prices and fewer crowds, consider visiting Boracay Philippines in the shoulder seasons of May or November. This is exactly what we did when we visited Boracay in May, and we were very lucky with the weather. However, there is always an increased risk of rain compared to the middle of the dry season. Like everything, it’s risk vs reward!
However, if you do take the risk and visit during the shoulder season, prices for accommodations and flights tend to be lower, and the island is less crowded. Below is a graph of average rainfall in the Philippines to help you make your decision:
Average Monthly Rainfall In The Philippines
2. Hop On Hop Off Bus
One of the most expensive things in Boracay Philippines is the transport. Taxis come with a much higher price tag compared to other areas in the Philippines, and the prices of rental scooters really blew our minds, haha! Therefore, one of the absolute best money-saving tips we can give for Boracay is to use the hop-on, hop-off bus.
3. Eat Local or Eat Off The Beach Front
You may wish to treat yourself to a meal on the seafront, and the beach is absolutely stunning. However, that view comes with a price tag! One of our best tips is to eat inland and then take a lovely post-dinner walk on the beach. The food is just as yummy but far more affordable!
One of our favourite places is called Falafel Boracay, which is about a 5-minute walk inland from White Beach. You can check out our first-hand experience eating here in this YouTube Video:
4. Book Flights In Advance
This one may seem obvious, but booking flights as far in advance as possible makes a huge difference! Look for budget airlines and book your flights early to secure the best deals. Use fare comparison websites to find the cheapest options. Our personal go-to is Skyscanner!
5. Bring Your Own Gear
This one can make a big difference… seriously! If you have your own snorkelling equipment, reef shoes or underwater camera, you will save a lot of money on rental fees. These are the types of things that can catch you out and add up! If you are interested in what we take on our adventures and recommend, you can check out our complete packing list for the Philippines here!
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6. Pick Affordable Accommodation
Boracay is full of luxury resorts which come with a hefty price tag! However, if you look hard enough, affordable accommodation does exist in Boracay! We love staying in hostels to meet other travellers, so if that is your vibe, we have included our top recommendations below:
Boracay Philippines Hostels:
7. Join Group Tours
Now, if you know us, you know we love a group tour! We find they are a great way to meet other travellers and see some of the highlights of a place on a budget. Often, we prefer them to private tours due to the social aspect, but we appreciate that it might not be for everyone. Many Places in the Philippines offer very affordable day tours to some epic locations, and Boracay is no exception! We did one of the more famous day tours to Puka Beach, Crystal Cove Island and Tambisaan Beach during our time in Boracay and had a great time! You can check out our full experience of the day on YouTube:
For reference, this tour cost us less than £20 each and included a delicious lunch, so group tours can really work for those on a budget! Here are some of our top picks for day tours in Boracay Philippines:
8. Take Advantage of Free Activities
There are sooo many amazing things to do and see in Boracay without spending a dime! Chances are, if you are heading to Boracay Philippines, you are interested in the amazing beaches this island has to offer. Boracay is small. Therefore, all accommodations on the island should be no more than a 10-minute walk from a stunning beach where you can enjoy your time free of charge!
Some of our favourite beaches were White Beach (the end near Willys Rock), Puka Beach, and Bulabog Beach! You can check out our complete guide on the best things to do in Boracay Here: 12 Best Things To Do In Boracay Philippines!
9. Limit Alcohol Consumption OR Take Advantage Of Happy Hours
You might laugh at this one, but not only will limiting alcohol help a sore head in the morning, but you will definitely save some change! Like many places in the world, alcohol is expensive! However, if you cannot envision your Boracay escape without some sunset cocktails, then our bonus tip is to take advantage of the many bars offering happy hours! A two-for-one cocktail always tastes a bit better, we think!
10. Negotiate prices
Negotiating prices is common practice in Boracay, especially when purchasing souvenirs, booking tours, or arranging transportation. Vendors and service providers often start with higher prices, expecting you to negotiate. As a budget-conscious traveler, don’t be afraid to politely haggle for a better deal.
We highly recommend researching typical prices beforehand so you have a good starting point for negotiations. Be friendly and respectful in your approach, and keep in mind that a small discount can make a big difference to local vendors. With some practice and a bit of confidence, you can often secure prices that better fit your budget without compromising the quality of your experience. Just remember to negotiate in good faith and be willing to walk away if the vendor is unwilling to meet you at a reasonable price point.
Conclusion
An adventure to Boracay doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. We hope this guide will help you experience the beauty, culture, and allure of Boracay while staying within your budget. From savouring local cuisine at affordable eateries to taking advantage of free attractions, each strategy is designed to enhance your travel experience without compromising on fun or quality. With a little planning and resourcefulness, this popular destination doesn’t have to break the bank!
Don’t hesitate to let us know any questions you might have in the comments below!
Big Love
Beth and Denz