Palawan packing list for families
Palawan is all about boat days, so your packing should handle wet landings, strong sun, and small planes. This list keeps your family comfortable from El Nido to Coron.
Photo by Mario von Rotz on Unsplash
Kristina's notes on Philippines: Palawan
- Island-hopping tours mean wet landings and climbing in and out of boats. I give each child a small dry bag for their towel, sunglasses, and snack, and everyone wears water shoes.
- Getting to El Nido by road from Puerto Princesa is a long drive. With kids, I prefer the small direct flights from Manila, but their luggage limits are tight, so pack light.
- June through November brings rain and rougher seas, and boat tours can be canceled. If you go then, give yourself extra days so a canceled tour is not the whole trip.
Philippines: Palawan
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Carry-on8
Clothing4
Shoes2
Beach & pool10
Little ones4
Health & toiletries5
Documents & tech3
Island whites
White, sand, sea glass, coral
For the grown-ups
- Linen shirt or linen set
- A white cover-up dress
- Leather slides for dinner
For the kids
- Seersucker or linen shorts
- Matching-print swimsuits
- Soft cotton sundress
For photos
- Everyone in white and one pop of coral
- Shoot at golden hour on the sand
Philippines: Palawan weather and what's happening
Typical daytime highs and what each month feels like with kids.
| Month | Typical high | What it's like | Don't miss |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 88°F 31°C | Dry season with breezy, slightly cooler days; seas can be choppy at times | Holiday weeks, the busiest time for flights and island tours |
| February | 88°F 31°C | Dry season with breezy, slightly cooler days; seas can be choppy at times | |
| March | 90°F 32°C | Hottest stretch, usually with the calmest seas for island hopping | Calm, glassy water and the best visibility for lagoon and reef tours Holy Week brings domestic crowds; dates follow Easter |
| April | 92°F 33°C | Hottest stretch, usually with the calmest seas for island hopping | Calm, glassy water and the best visibility for lagoon and reef tours Holy Week brings domestic crowds; dates follow Easter |
| May | 92°F 33°C | Hottest stretch, usually with the calmest seas for island hopping | Calm, glassy water and the best visibility for lagoon and reef tours |
| June | 89°F 32°C | Wet season with heavy showers, rough seas, and occasional typhoon disruptions | Baragatan Festival in Puerto Princesa, with parades and local food |
| July | 88°F 31°C | Wet season with heavy showers, rough seas, and occasional typhoon disruptions | |
| August | 88°F 31°C | Wet season with heavy showers, rough seas, and occasional typhoon disruptions | |
| September | 88°F 31°C | Wet season with heavy showers, rough seas, and occasional typhoon disruptions | |
| October | 88°F 31°C | Wet season with heavy showers, rough seas, and occasional typhoon disruptions | |
| November | 88°F 31°C | Transition month, with rain easing and seas starting to settle | |
| December | 87°F 31°C | Dry season with breezy, slightly cooler days; seas can be choppy at times | Holiday weeks, the busiest time for flights and island tours |
Philippines: Palawan with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit Philippines: Palawan with kids?
The best time is Dec–May. Dry season with breezy, slightly cooler days; seas can be choppy at times
What's the weather like in Philippines: Palawan?
Typical daytime highs range from about 87°F (31°C) in December to about 92°F (33°C) in April. See the month-by-month table on this page.
Do I need a passport for Philippines: Palawan?
Yes. Bring a passport for everyone, including babies, and make sure each one is valid for at least six months past your trip. Check visa and entry rules before you go.
What kind of plug adapter do I need for Philippines: Palawan?
Types A, B and C, bring an adapter.
What's your top tip for Philippines: Palawan with kids?
Island-hopping tours mean wet landings and climbing in and out of boats. I give each child a small dry bag for their towel, sunglasses, and snack, and everyone wears water shoes.
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I'm Kristina, and planning family trips is what I do.
As a luxury travel advisor with KM Luxe Travel, I plan the hotels, the flow of the days, and the little details, often with perks like breakfast and upgrades when available.