The Essential Backpacker’s Guide for a Low Budget CDO to Cebu Escapade
Traveling from Cagayan de Oro (CDO)to Cebu for a fun vacation offers a blend of vibrant city life, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. However, the cost of travel can often be very expensive. But with careful preparation you can have an awesome adventure that is budget-friendly by backpacking.
Backpacking means traveling with all of your essentials into one bag you carry yourself. This helps to reduce any additional luggage costs and helps you save money for prioritizing unique experiences for your trip.
Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or new to this style of travel, these practical tips will help you manage your expenses, pack efficiently, and stay flexible throughout your journey. This guide is designed to help you navigate the challenges of budget travel while ensuring that you make the most of your CDO to Cebu trip. From saving money on accommodations to timing your travel for the best deals, these tips will equip you with everything you need to plan a low-cost, high-reward escapade.
Benefits of Backpacking:
- Saving Money – Backpacking inherently encourages a frugal mindset. By prioritizing experiences over luxury, you naturally find ways to save on accommodations, food, and transportation. The focus is on immersing yourself in each destination in your CDO to Cebu trip.
- Portable Necessities – With everything you need packed into one bag, backpacking forces you to prioritize essentials. This not only makes travel more efficient but also frees you from the burden of heavy luggage.
- Self-Sufficiency – Backpacking fosters a sense of independence and self-reliance. You learn to navigate new environments, solve problems on the go, and make decisions that enhance your travel experience. Whether it’s finding the cheapest route or adapting to unexpected changes, backpacking teaches valuable life skills.
- Flexibility – You’re not tied to a rigid itinerary, which allows you to stay longer in places you love or move on quickly from those that don’t meet your expectations. This freedom to explore at your own pace is one of the most rewarding aspects of backpacking.
7 Cagayan de Oro to Cebu Backpacking Travel Guide Tips
1. Get Travel Insurance
Getting travel insurance should be the first thing on your checklist before starting your journey. It helps to cover the financial costs of things such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. Before purchasing travel insurance, make sure it covers all the activities you plan to do, like hiking, diving, or other adventures in your CDO to Cebu trip. Research different providers and choose a plan that fits your needs and budget.
Remember to carry both physical and digital copies of your insurance policy, along with the emergency contact numbers of your insurance provider. Having these details readily available will allow you to act quickly and get the help you need.
2. Plan Your Budget-Friendly Route
Planning your route ahead of time is crucial for a successful backpacking trip, especially when traveling on a budget. Consider things such as travel timing, route options, and your planned destinations:
WHEN TO GO TO CEBU
For your trip from CDO to Cebu, the harsh wet months or the rainy months make traveling more challenging for backpackers. January to June is Cebu’s peak dry season while December to May is ideally the best time to visit.
HOW TO GO TO CEBU AND BACK
- By Airplane
Cheapest Round-Trip Flight – ₱2,258
- Take a flight from Laguindingan Airport going to Mactan-Cebu Airport
- Transit time will take around 1 to 2 hours depending on other flight conditions
- By Ferry
Cheapest One Way Trip – ₱1,405
- Book a trip from Cagayan de Oro to Cebu and a return trip back.
- Transit time can take anywhere from 9 to 11 hours depending on weather conditions.
WHERE TO GO IN CEBU
- Sirao Peak
This is one of the easiest trails for beginners and still offers some amazing views once you reach the top. There are also many interesting areas to visit as you hike up the trail such as Sirao Pictorial Garden or you can relax under the stars at the Mt. Kang-Irag campsite.
DIRECTIONS:
- Take a taxi to JY Square, Barangay Lahug
- Once there take a motorbike or habal-habal going to the start of Sirao peak trail near Ayala Heights which costs ₱150
- You will have to walk the rest of the way to the peak.
- Budlaan Falls Hike
A trail that leads you to a stunning waterfall site hidden away in Barangay Budlaan. The route is ideally for more experienced trekkers, so if it is your first time you might want to bring along a guide which costs ₱200.
DIRECTIONS:
- Take a taxi to Talamban Grand Mall
- In Talamban look for a motorcycle going to Barangay Budlaan. The fare will be around ₱30.
- Register your name in the logbook in the store near the entrance to the trail.
- Osmeña Peak
This is one of the easier hiking trails that usually takes you 15 to 20 minutes to reach the summit. The view is spectacular during the morning sunrise. It is advised that you be careful with the terrain as it is filled with sharp rocks and mud.
DIRECTIONS:
- From Cebu Pier take a bus going to Dalaguete.
- Once there get a habal-habal or motorcyclist to take you to the start of the trail.
- The trek will take about 25 to 35 minutes to reach the summit.
3. Pick Affordable Accommodations Nearby
Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses on any trip, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. When backpacking, look for affordable options like shared hostels, guesthouses, or even camping grounds. These not only save money for your CDO to Cebu trip but also provide opportunities to meet other travelers and share experiences:
NEARBY HOTELS
- Near Airport
a. Residenz Inn (₱810 – ₱1,600)
ADDRESS: S-36, San Jose Village, Mandaue, Cebu
b. Mactan-Cebu Budget Hotel (₱642 – ₱1,875)
ADDRESS: 103 Jeb Bldg, M.L. Quezon National Highway, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu
- Near Ferry Port
a. OYO 749 La Maria Pension And Tourist Inn Hotel (₱554 – ₱2,859)
ADDRESS: 1 M. L. Quezon Ave, Cebu City
b. Dragon Home Inn (₱829 – ₱1,250)
ADDRESS: 29 General Echavez Street, Cebu City
4. Pack Portable Supplies and Documents
When you’re backpacking, every item in your pack should serve a purpose. Focus on packing portable supplies that are essential for your journey. This includes basic climbing gear if you plan to explore mountainous areas, trail mix or other snacks to keep your energy up, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Additionally, never underestimate the importance of your travel documents. Bring and photocopies of your identification, travel itinerary, and any necessary permits or tickets. Store these in a waterproof pouch to protect them from rain or accidental spills. In case of an emergency, having these documents on hand can make a significant difference.
Consider packing a lightweight travel towel, a small flashlight or headlamp, and a multi-tool, all of which can be lifesavers in unexpected situations. Remember, it’s about carrying what you need without overburdening yourself.
5. Distribute Backpack’s Weight Evenly
How you organize your supplies luggage is important as an improperly packed backpack can lead to discomfort, pain, or even injury, especially on long hikes or treks. The key is to distribute the weight evenly to maintain balance and reduce strain on your back and shoulders.
Start by placing middle-weight items, such as clothes or small camping gear, at the bottom of your backpack. This creates a solid base. Next, place the heaviest items, like a water bottle, food supplies, or heavy tools, in the middle of the backpack, close to your back. This positioning helps you maintain stability and prevents the pack from pulling you backward.
Moderate-weight items, such as a jacket or additional gear, can go on the sides of the pack. Lastly, place lightweight items, like a map, snacks, or a first aid kit, at the top for easy access. This packing strategy not only makes your backpack more comfortable to carry but also ensures that you have quick access to essentials during your trip.
6. Wear Heavy Duty Boots
Footwear is one of the most critical aspects of your backpacking gear. Since you’ll be spending a lot of time on your feet, walking through various terrains, it’s essential to invest in a good pair of heavy-duty boots. Look for boots that offer excellent support, non-slip soles, and are waterproof for your CDO to Cebu journey.
Non-slip soles are vital for navigating slippery surfaces, whether you’re trekking through a rainforest or crossing a wet street in the city. A hard sole will protect your feet from sharp objects or rough terrain, while waterproof material ensures your feet stay dry, even if you encounter unexpected rain or need to cross a stream.
7. Water Seal Your Items
Weather can be unpredictable, especially in tropical areas like the Philippines. Protecting your gear from water damage is essential to ensure that everything stays dry and functional.
Buy waterproof bags or zip-lock pouches inside your backpack to store electronics, clothes, and important documents. These layers provide extra security in case you get caught in a downpour or accidentally drop your pack in water. Keeping your items water-sealed at all times ensures that they remain safe, dry, and ready for use, no matter what conditions you encounter.
Backpacking from CDO to Cebu Save Your Budget
Backpacking from CDO to Cebu on a budget is entirely possible with the right approach and mindset. By following these tips, you can enjoy a rich and rewarding travel experience without overspending.
Remember, the true value of your journey lies in the experiences and connections you make along the way, not in how much you spend. So pack light, plan smart, and embrace the adventure that awaits. Your low-budget escapade to Cebu is just the beginning of incredible memories.
ALSO READ: 3 Reasons to Explore Cebu Business Opportunities
Trans Asia Shipping Lines offers an easy ferry trip from Cagayan de Oro to Cebu City and back. Check out options for our various accommodations that can be adjusted to your required budget. Contact us if you need help in planning your trip today.
