The Philippines is famous for turquoise water, white-sand beaches and more than 7,000 tropical islands. It’s often compared to Thailand or Indonesia, but many travelers wonder if the Philippines is still affordable in 2026.
The short answer: The Philippines can be very affordable, but travel costs depend heavily on how you move between islands.
This guide breaks down real travel costs so you can plan a realistic budget.
Average cost of a trip to the Philippines
Typical daily budgets in 2026:
• Budget traveler: $35–45/day (≈ 2,000–2,500 PHP)
• Mid-range traveler: $70–100/day (≈ 3,900–5,600 PHP)
• Luxury traveler: $150–250+/day (≈ 8,400–14,000 PHP)
Island transport is the biggest factor that makes the Philippines slightly more expensive than Vietnam or Malaysia.
For a regional overview read how much does a trip to Southeast Asia cost.
Daily cost comparison table (2026)
| Expense | Budget | Mid-range |
|---|---|---|
| Street food meal | $3 (≈ 170 PHP) | $8 (≈ 450 PHP) |
| Local transport | $1 (≈ 55 PHP) | $12 ride (≈ 670 PHP) |
| Beer | $1.50 (≈ 85 PHP) | $4 (≈ 220 PHP) |
| Room | $15 (≈ 840 PHP) | $60 (≈ 3,300 PHP) |
The Philippines offers great value once you arrive on an island.
Why island hopping affects your budget
The Philippines is not a single landmass like Thailand or Vietnam. Traveling between islands often requires flights or ferries, which adds to your daily spending.
Typical inter-island transport costs:
• Domestic flights: $40–100
• Ferries: $15–40
• Airport transfers and boats: $10–25
Slow travel significantly reduces overall costs.
Accommodation prices in the Philippines
Accommodation prices vary widely depending on island popularity.
Budget accommodation
• Hostels dorm beds: $10–18/night
• Guesthouses: $15–30/night
Mid-range hotels
• Boutique hotels: $45–70/night
• Beach resorts: $60–120/night
Luxury resorts
• 5-star resorts: $150–350/night
Popular destinations like El Nido and Boracay are more expensive.
Food prices in the Philippines
Food is affordable, though slightly more expensive than Vietnam or Thailand.
Local food prices
• Local meal: $3–5
• Fresh fruit shakes: $2–3
• Street snacks: $1–2
Restaurant prices
• Casual restaurant: $6–10
• Western restaurant: $12–20
Eating local keeps food costs manageable.
ATM fees and cash tips (important)
Foreign bank cards usually incur a 250 PHP ATM withdrawal fee (≈ $4.50). This fee applies almost everywhere.
Budget tip:
• Withdraw larger amounts to reduce fees
• Carry cash for island destinations
• Many small businesses remain cash-based
This is one of the most common hidden travel costs in the Philippines.
Grab vs Angkas: the 2026 transport insider tip
Grab works well in Manila and Cebu, but traffic can be heavy.
In 2026, locals increasingly use Angkas motorcycle taxis to move quickly through traffic at a lower cost.
Typical prices:
• Grab ride: $2–5
• Angkas ride: $1–3
Using Angkas can save both time and money.
Activities and tours prices
• Island hopping tours: $25–45
• Snorkeling trips: $20–40
• Diving trips: $60–120
• Surf lessons: $25–40
Tours often become the biggest daily expense after accommodation.
Philippines vs Thailand travel costs
Thailand is usually slightly cheaper due to better transport infrastructure, but the Philippines offers more remote island experiences.
Read is Thailand expensive to visit in 2026.
Philippines vs Vietnam travel costs
Vietnam is cheaper overall, especially for food and transport.
Read is Vietnam expensive to visit in 2026.
Total trip cost examples
2-week budget trip
Flights: $700–1000
Daily budget: $40 × 14 = $560
Activities: $250
Total: $1,510 – $1,810
2-week mid-range trip
Flights: $700–1000
Daily budget: $85 × 14 = $1,190
Activities: $350
Total: $2,240 – $2,540
How to travel the Philippines on a budget
• Plan island routes carefully
• Travel slowly to reduce flights
• Book domestic flights early
• Eat local food daily
• Stay in guesthouses or small resorts
The Philippines rewards slow travel.
FAQ
Is the Philippines cheaper than Thailand in 2026?
Thailand is usually slightly cheaper overall due to easier transport.
How much money do I need for 2 weeks in the Philippines?
Most travelers spend $1,500–2,500 total including flights.
Is the Philippines good for budget travel?
Yes, especially if you travel slowly and plan transport in advance.
Why is the Philippines more expensive than Vietnam?
Mainly because inter-island flights increase transport costs.
