Packing for the Philippines

1. Your main dry bag (25-35L)

This is your everyday bag. It travels with you on the boat and comes ashore each night. Pack everything you'll need during the day and evening here. If you don't have a dry bag, these are for sale at the Tao office and you can buy one during check-in.

What to pack in your dry bag:

• Reef-safe sunscreen, sun hat or cap, and sunglasses

• Sarong – for everyone! It can also be used as a towel, sunshade and beach blanket

• Refillable water bottle (hydration is key)

• Small towel, toothbrush and toothpaste (note: towels are not provided). There is natural body wash and shampoo made by our Women's Association at all basecamps

• Flashlight or head torch for moving around at night

• Light clothes: shorts, vests and swimwear for the day

• Rash guard (highly recommended for sun and jellyfish protection)

• Lightweight trousers and long-sleeved top for evenings (to deter insects)

• Insect repellent – we sell Kwan Loong Oil, our preferred option, in our shop

• Sandals or reef shoes

• Lightweight rain jacket – just in case. But no warm clothes required

2. Your day bag (5-10L)

A smaller dry bag is ideal for items you'll use throughout the day – things like your water bottle, camera and a book – for easy access on shore and during island stops.

3. Your check-in luggage

Your larger luggage is stored safely in the boat's hold. You can access it occasionally to restock your main bag. Keep valuables (passports, wallets) tucked deep inside. The hold is kept dry, but if you're bringing a laptop, store it in a waterproof sleeve.

4. Forgot something?

Don't worry! You can find all the essentials for sale in the Tao office or nearby shops, including Tao rash guard, t-shirts, singlets and sarongs; aqua shoes; dry bags; refillable water bottles; fins, masks and snorkels.