From the white sands of Boracay to island-hopping in Palawan, the Philippines is packed with unforgettable experiences - whether you’re exploring bustling cities or switching off on quiet beaches. Our UK travel insurance for the Philippines can help keep your trip running smoothly, with cover for emergency medical care, cancellations and lost belongings. Your cover helps take care of the unexpected, so you can travel with confidence and make the most of every moment.
With Holiday Extras, your cover can help with emergency medical care, cancellations and lost or stolen items. With bronze, silver and gold options, you can choose the cover that fits your trip and travel with confidence. Cover and benefits are subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of your policy..
Why choose Holiday Extras travel insurance for the Philippines?
Holiday Extras helps make your trip run smoothly from start to finish. Travelling around the Philippines often means island-hopping and adventure, which can sometimes bring delays, lost bags, or changes to your plans. While it is tempting to just look for a cheap policy, it is much more important to make sure you have the right cover in place for your specific trip. With Holiday Extras, you can travel with greater peace of mind. Knowing you have that extra reassurance means you can simply focus on enjoying your holiday.
Holiday Extras travel insurance for the Philippines can cover things like lost luggage, illness and flight delays. It can also support you if your plans change or something unexpected happens, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Make sure you read your policy documents carefully for full details of what is and isn’t covered, and remember to declare any pre-existing medical conditions.
Compare travel insurance cover levels
Choose from three different levels of cover, each with its own cover limits. Ranging from a simpler 'Bronze' plan to a higher level 'Gold' plan, you can tailor your policy to suit your needs. Browse the key benefits below, or see the full breakdown in our cover-level table and Policy Documents.
Bronze
| £15,000,000 | Emergency medical and repatriation expenses |
| £1,000 | Cancellation & Cutting your trip short |
| £2,000 | Personal belongings |
| £500 | Personal money |
| £500 | Gadget Cover |
Silver
| £20,000,000 | Emergency medical and repatriation expenses |
| £2,500 | Cancellation & Cutting your trip short |
| £3,000 | Personal belongings |
| £750 | Personal money |
| £500 | Gadget Cover |
Gold
| Unlimited | Emergency medical and repatriation expenses |
| £5,000* | Cancellation & Cutting your trip short |
| £5,000 | Personal belongings |
| £1,000 | Personal money |
| £750 | Gadget Cover |
*Or as specified on your schedule
Do UK travellers need a visa to visit the Philippines?
British passport holders don’t need a visa for a Philippines trip under 30 days. You just need a passport valid for six months and a mandatory eTravel QR code before heading to the airport. Staying longer? You will need a visa extension. Of course, getting your entry sorted is just the first step. Having the right cover in place helps keep you protected while you travel. If something goes wrong, we’ll help take care of it, so you can relax and enjoy your trip with confidence. Check out the latest entry requirements on the UK Gov Philippines page.
Is the Philippines safe for tourists?
The Philippines is a popular and welcoming place for tourists. Many UK tourists visit famous spots like Palawan and Boracay each year. Staying safe just means taking a few easy steps. Keep your bags zipped up in crowded places, use the Grab app for city taxis, and always agree on a price before getting into a local tricycle. You will probably do lots of island-hopping on your trip. Make sure you only book boat tours with official companies, and always wear the life jacket they give you. Finally, remember to check the latest UK travel advice before you plan your route. A few specific areas in the far south of the country are currently not recommended for tourists to visit. You can read more here: Travel advice for the Philippines.
What is eTravel registration and is it mandatory?
The eTravel registration is the mandatory digital entry system for anyone heading to the Philippines. It officially replaces the old paper arrival cards, meaning every traveller, regardless of age, must fill it out online before they fly. You need to head to the official government portal within 72 hours of your arrival to submit your travel and health details. Once you’re done, you’ll get a personal QR code sent to your phone.
You may be asked to show this QR code at check in and on arrival to immigration officers when you land. It is a strict requirement, so if you haven't completed it, you might be denied boarding at the airport. The most important thing to remember is that the registration is completely free. If a website asks you for a fee, it isn't the official government site, so make sure you’re on the right one to avoid any unnecessary costs. Filling it out early just means you can get through the airport faster and get straight to your holiday.
What vaccines are recommended when visiting the Philippines?
When you travel to the Philippines, it’s worth checking which vaccinations you may need before you go. A quick chat with your GP or a travel clinic can help you get certified as fit to fly.
Some UK travellers may need travel vaccinations for:
- Tetanus
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis A
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Included FREE with every Holiday Extras travel insurance policy, it provides fast, reliable medical support for everything from minor illnesses to urgent concerns, keeping you supported along the way.
Does UK travel insurance for the Philippines include activities?
From island-hopping in Palawan to relaxing on the beaches of Siargao, the Philippines is perfect for outdoor adventures. There’s so much to see and do across the Philippines, from island-hopping to exploring local towns and beaches. With the right cover in place, you can enjoy activities knowing you’ve got cover in place if things don’t go to plan. Standard cover can include fun water sports like snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Many gentle activities on land like guided tours, local bike trips, and beach volleyball are also included in standard cover.
Water Sports
The coastlines in the Philippines are perfect for water sports. You can enjoy relaxed boat trips and go snorkelling in the clear sea. Your standard insurance covers most of these gentle activities. If you want to try higher-risk sports like sea kayaking, you will need an Extended Risk add-on. Always check your policy documents if you’re not sure.
Extended Risk add-on
If your plans include higher risk activities, you may need to add extra cover. With Holiday Extras travel insurance for the Philippines, you can easily choose the right protection before your trip.
Use our handy activity checker to see whether your chosen activity or sport is covered as standard, or if you’ll need to add extra cover.
Top tips for travelling to the Philippines
Travel InsuranceA trip to the Philippines is an amazing adventure. With the right cover in place, you can explore the Philippines knowing the important things are taken care of, even if plans change along the way. Your policy can help keep you protected, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
Travelling with medicationIt is always smart to pack your important daily medicines in your hand luggage. When visiting the Philippines, make sure all medication is in its original box with a copy of your doctor's prescription. Because you will be in a tropical country, it is also a great idea to pack plenty of mosquito repellent, high-SPF sunscreen, and basic stomach medicine for your boat trips!
TippingTipping in the Philippines is very welcome and appreciated! If a restaurant does not add a service charge to your bill, leaving a 10% tip is a lovely way to say thank you. You will also need to carry lots of physical cash, known as Philippine Pesos. While big hotels accept credit cards, you will definitely need cash to pay for local tricycles, street food, and small island tours.
Safety and awarenessThe Philippines is an incredibly friendly and welcoming place. To keep your trip safe and fun, just take a few simple steps. Keep your bags zipped up in crowded markets, and use the Grab app to book safe city taxis. Because the weather can change quickly, always listen to local advice about tropical storms. Finally, make sure you only book boat tours with official, licensed guides.
Staying connectedThe Philippines mostly uses type A and B plugs (the same flat-pin plugs used in the USA), so you will need to pack a travel adaptor. Wi-Fi can be quite slow on the smaller islands. To easily use the internet and maps during your trip, it is a great idea to buy a local tourist SIM card at the airport or download an e-SIM before you fly.
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Frequently asked questions about travelling to the Philippines
Can I get cover for pre-existing medical conditions in the Philippines?
We are able to offer cover for many pre-existing medical conditions, from high cholesterol to heart histories, through our quick screening process. Declaring your conditions helps ensure you have protection for specific, unexpected events while away. Every policy includes 24/7 access to our AnywhereGP app, connecting you with UK doctors for video consultations. With 40 years of experience, we provide award-winning expertise you need to explore with a greater peace of mind. Cover and benefits are subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of your policy.
Do I need travel insurance for the Philippines?
While it is not a legal requirement to have Philippines travel insurance to enter the country, it is highly recommended. Travelling around this beautiful country often involves multiple domestic flights and ferry rides between different islands. Because of this, sudden travel delays and lost bags can easily happen! Furthermore, if you get ill or have a minor accident, you will need to use private medical clinics, which can get very expensive. In more remote island areas, you might even need to pay for emergency transport to a bigger hospital. Having the right cover in place can help protect against unexpected medical bills and travel hiccups, so you can just relax and enjoy your trip.
What is the "e-Travel" system and do I need it?
Yes. All travelers (including returning Filipinos) must register via the official e-Travel portal within 72 hours before arrival. It is free and is incredibly important. Use the official site, as it does not cost a penny and this avoids third-party scam websites that try to charge you a fee. The form takes less than ten minutes to fill out, and you will just need your passport, flight number, an email address, and the name of your hotel. Once submitted, you will instantly receive a digital QR code. Make sure to take a screenshot of this code on your phone, as you will need to show it to airline staff to board your plane and to immigration officers when you land.
Do you have to pay airport fees in the Philippines?
Most international departure fees are now included in the price of your airline ticket (especially at Manila/NAIA). However, if you are flying out of Cebu-Mactan (MCIA), you may still need to pay a domestic or international terminal fee in cash (usually around 850 Pesos for international - £36.32). Always keep a bit of cash handy for island-hopping ferries as well.
When is the best time to visit the Philippines?
The best time to visit the Philippines is during the dry season, between January and April. During these months, you get warm, sunny days and calm seas. It is the perfect time for island-hopping in Palawan or relaxing on the beach! The wet season runs from June to October, which brings heavy rain and a higher risk of typhoons.
What is a "Jeepney" and how do I use it?
They are the colourful, iconic shared buses of the Philippines. You hop in the back, and to pay, you pass your coins to the person next to you and say, "Bayad po" (Here is my payment). They will pass it forward to the driver. It’s the cheapest way to get around! To get off a jeepney, clearly and politely shout "Para po!" (Please stop), or tap coins/metal on the railing. Once the jeepney stops, exit through the rear entrance, passing your fare to the driver if you haven't already.
Is there an "Environmental Fee" for Filipino islands?
Yes. Many popular spots like El Nido and Siargao charge a small "Environmental User's Fee" (usually 200–400 Pesos). This money goes toward reef protection and waste management. Keep your receipt; it’s usually valid for your entire stay in that area. (£8.50 – £17.10) It is highly recommended to keep small cash amounts available, as these fees are often not included in online booking prices.
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Holiday Extras Travel Insurance is sold and administered by Holiday Extras Cover Limited, registered office address: Ashford Road, Newingreen, Hythe, Kent CT21 4JF.
Holiday Extras Cover Limited is an insurance intermediary authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, registration number 828848. You can check this on the Financial Services Register by visiting: http://register.fca.org.uk
Holiday Extras™ is a Trading Name of Holiday Extras Cover Limited. The insurance is underwritten by Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited. Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited is a company incorporated in England and Wales with company number 13436330 and whose registered office address is 1 Fen Court, London, United Kingdom, EC3M 5BN.
Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Firm Reference Number 955859. You can check this on the Financial Services Register by visiting: http://register.fca.org.uk
Our flight delay cover is underwritten by Astrenska Insurance Limited and serviced by Collinson Insurance Services Limited.