Experience DIY island camping in Palawan’s hidden gem

Are you dreaming of a peaceful retreat to a quiet island, camping under a blanket of stars, and listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean? If so, Palawan in the Philippines is the perfect place for you! While popular spots like El Nido and Coron are famous among tourists, there are many hidden islands waiting to be explored that are perfect for your do-it-yourself (DIY) camping adventure. This guide will help you plan an amazing and budget-friendly camping trip to one of Palawan’s less-known islands, so get ready to pack your bags!

Choosing Your Island Paradise

Palawan is home to countless islands and islets, each one offering its own unique beauty and experience. When choosing your island camping destination, think about a few important things. First, how easy is it to get there? You should also consider whether there’s fresh water available, if it’s suitable for swimming or snorkeling, and how isolated you want to be from other people.

Keep in mind, some islands are privately owned. This means you will need to ask the owner for permission before you can set up your tent. Others are completely uninhabited, giving you a real Robinson Crusoe experience, while some islands have local fishing communities. Wherever you decide to camp, be sure to respect the local people and the environment.

Doing your research is really important! Look for islands known to welcome campers. Travel blogs, online forums, and social media groups talking about Palawan travel can give you lots of useful information and tips.

Gearing Up for Your Adventure

When you go for a DIY island camping trip, you are in charge of everything you will need! Here’s a list of must-have gear:

• Tent: A strong and reliable tent will keep you safe from rain and wind. Look for one that is easy to set up and pack up. It’s a good idea to choose a tent that comes with a rain cover, even during the dry season, because sometimes the weather can surprise you. Expect to spend about PHP 2,000 to PHP 5,000 (USD 35 to USD 90).
• Sleeping Bag & Mat: Having a comfy sleeping arrangement is key. An inflatable sleeping pad can help make your nights much more comfortable. You can find sleeping bags for about PHP 1,500 to PHP 3,000 (USD 25 to USD 55) and sleeping mats can range from PHP 500 to PHP 1,500 (USD 9 to USD 25).
• Cooking Equipment: A portable stove, cooking tools, utensils, and eco-friendly soap are essential for preparing meals. Don’t forget to pack fuel for your stove! A simple butane stove costs about PHP 500 (USD 9), but make sure butane canisters are easy to find.
• Food & Water: Bring plenty of non-perishable foods like canned goods, instant noodles, rice, dried fruits, and nuts. Don’t forget about water — decide how much you will need, or consider a water filter system. A gallon of water typically costs around PHP 40 (USD 0.70).
• First-Aid Kit: A good first-aid kit should have antiseptic wipes, band-aids, pain relievers, medicine for upset stomachs, plus any personal prescriptions you may need. Expect to pay around PHP 500 to PHP 1,000 (USD 9 to USD 18).
• Lighting: Flashlights or headlamps along with extra batteries are a smart choice. Additionally, consider getting a solar-powered lantern. You’ll generally pay about PHP 300 (USD 5) for headlamps and PHP 500 (USD 9) for lanterns.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen with a high SPF, a hat, and sunglasses are important to protect yourself from sunburn and skin damage. Sunscreen can cost around PHP 400 (USD 7) and sunglasses about PHP 200 (USD 3.5).
• Insect Repellent: Insect bites from mosquitoes and sandflies can be bothersome, especially during dusk and dawn. Expect to pay around PHP 200 (USD 3.5) for a bottle.
• Trash Bags: Remember to pack out whatever trash you bring in. It’s essential to leave nature as you found it.
• Knife/Multi-Tool: This tool can be very handy for many different tasks. You can buy one for about PHP 300 (USD 5).
• Rope: This can be useful for hanging clothes to dry, securing your tent, or for anything else you might need it for. It costs around PHP 100 (USD 2).
• Snorkeling Gear: If you’re visiting an island with great snorkeling, don’t forget your mask, snorkel, and fins. Renting gear generally costs about PHP 150-200 (USD 2.5 – USD 3.5) per day.

If you don’t have some of this equipment, consider renting it. You can find several rental shops in Puerto Princesa and El Nido that offer camping gear.

Getting There: Transportation Logistics

Getting to your selected island will likely require a mix of land travel and boating. From Puerto Princesa, you’ll need to catch a bus or van to the nearest jump-off point for your island adventure. Some popular jump-off spots include:

• El Nido: This is the best starting point for islands around Bacuit Bay. The bus or van fare from Puerto Princesa to El Nido is about PHP 500-700 (USD 9-12).
• Port Barton: Perfect for islands near San Vicente, the bus or van fare from Puerto Princesa is around PHP 300-500 (USD 5-9).
• Taytay: Located northeast of Puerto Princesa, this is a great launch point for many northern islands, with bus or van fares costing about PHP 400-600 (USD 7-11).

Once you reach the jump-off point, you will need to hire a boat (usually a type of motorized outrigger boat called a ‘bangka’) to take you to your chosen island. Be sure to negotiate the fare with the boatman before you leave and agree on a time for them to pick you up for your return journey. It’s important to make sure that the boat has life jackets! The boat fare will depend on how far you’re going, but generally, you can expect it to be around PHP 1,500-4,000 (USD 25-70) for a round trip. This might seem pricey, but if you can share the boat ride with other travelers, it’s much more manageable!

Setting Up Camp and Island Etiquette

Once you arrive at the island, picking the right spot to set up camp is crucial. Look for a flat area that is sheltered from the wind and away from the high tide mark. Before you set up your tent, clear away any debris from the ground, keeping the environment intact by avoiding damage to plants or trees.

Leave No Trace: This principle is incredibly important. Make sure to pack out everything you bring in. Avoid burying trash or leaving anything behind on the beach. Dispose of your waste appropriately, preferably by bringing it back to the mainland.

Respect the Local Environment: Refrain from using harsh chemicals or detergents in any water sources. If you’re allowed to make a campfire, take care when building it and ensure it’s fully extinguished when you leave. Don’t disturb the local wildlife or collect shells and corals.

If There Are Locals: If you find any local communities on the island, be respectful. Always ask for permission before camping on their property and consider bringing a small donation as a token of appreciation for their hospitality. Understanding and valuing their customs and traditions is essential.

Food and Water Considerations

As stressed before, bringing enough food and water is very important. Plan your meals ahead of time and focus on packing easy-to-cook, non-perishable items. Bringing a portable water filter or purification tablets is a good backup plan. If you’re there for multiple days, you might be able to buy fresh fish or vegetables from local fishers, but it’s wise to prepare and bring your own supplies just in case.

Food safety is crucial, especially in a tropical climate. Store food properly to keep it from spoiling. Make sure to fully cook any meat and seafood. Always drink safe, potable water only.

Safety First: Potential Hazards and Precautions

Island camping can be a fantastic adventure, but it’s important to be aware of certain risks and how to protect yourself:

• Weather: Palawan can experience unexpected changes in weather, particularly during the rainy season. Keep an eye on weather reports and be ready for sudden storms or heavy rain.
• Marine Life: Watch out for poisonous sea creatures like jellyfish, stonefish, or sea snakes. Wearing appropriate footwear when swimming or walking on the reef is crucial.
• Insects: Biting insects can be bothersome! Be sure to use repellent and wear long clothing when needed.
• Sunburn: The sun can be very strong! Use sunscreen, find a hat, and wear sunglasses—even if it’s cloudy.
• Dehydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially if you’re engaging in activities.
• Injuries: Always pack a well-stocked first-aid kit and know how to use the items inside it. Be careful when walking on rocky or uneven ground.
• Getting Lost: If you plan to wander around the island, tell someone your plans and your expected return time. Keep a map and compass or a GPS device with you.
• Theft: Although relatively safe, it’s wise to take precautions. Don’t leave valuables unattended and keep your tent closed and secure.

Be sure to inform someone of your trip details, including your destination, dates, and emergency contact info. This way, there will be someone who knows where to look if something goes wrong.

Sample Budget Breakdown (Per Person, 3 Days/2 Nights)

This budget is an estimate and will vary based on your personal choices:

• Transportation (To and From Jump-off Point): PHP 600 to 1,400 (USD 11 to USD 25).
• Boat Rental (Shared Round Trip): PHP 1,000 to 2,000 (USD 18 to USD 36).
• Camping Fee (If Required): PHP 0 to 500 (USD 0 to USD 9). Some islands may require a small fee to camp.
• Food & Water: PHP 1,500 to 3,000 (USD 27 to USD 55) depending on what you cook.
• Miscellaneous (Insect Repellent, Sunscreen, etc.): PHP 500 (USD 9).

Total Estimated Budget: PHP 3,600 to 7,400 (USD 65 to USD 135) per person.

Palawan’s Sustainability

Palawan is famous for its stunning landscapes and rich ecosystems. To help protect the beauty and natural resources of Palawan while camping there, follow these sustainability tips during your visit:

• Minimize Single-Use Plastics: Use reusable water bottles, utensils, plates, and containers. Avoid buying any products that have too much plastic packaging.
• Practice Proper Waste Disposal: Make sure to pack out all your trash and dispose of it correctly in designated waste bins on the mainland.
• Use Eco-Friendly Products: Choose biodegradable soaps, shampoos, and sunscreens that are safe for animals and the environment.
• Conserve Water: Be responsible with your water use and avoid any waste while washing or cleaning.
• Respect Wildlife: Always observe wildlife from a distance and avoid feeding or disturbing any animals.
• Support Responsible Tourism Operators: Try to choose tour groups and boat services that focus on sustainable tourism methods.
• Educate Others: Share what you learn about sustainable practices with other travelers, inspiring them to be responsible as well.

Call to Action

Going on a DIY camping trip in Palawan can provide you with unique adventures and memorable experiences. By planning carefully, packing wisely, and embracing your adventurous spirit, you can create unforgettable experiences. Just remember to respect nature, be considerate of the local people, and practice safety at all times. So, start your preparations, gather your gear, and set out to explore the hidden wonders of Palawan!