The holiday season is here once again, bringing reunions, festive gatherings, and well-deserved getaways. It’s the time of year when families reconnect, friends meet up, and many Filipinos finally take a break after a busy year. According to Visa’s latest Green Shoots Radar Survey, December remains the busiest month for both domestic and international travel among Filipinos, accounting for 36% and 20% of trips, respectively.

Interestingly, more Filipinos travel during December compared to the Asia Pacific average, with only 22% traveling domestically and 20% traveling internationally in the region.

As travel picks up, Filipinos are becoming more mindful not just of where they go, but also how they spend. From choosing secure payment methods to exploring digital options like QR codes, the goal is clear: travel smart, enjoy more, and worry less.

Here are a few tips to help make your holiday trips smoother and more budget-friendly:

1. Swipe Smart, Travel Smart

Nearly half of Filipino travelers (49%) prefer using a credit card abroad, mainly because of its wide acceptance and added security. Beyond peace of mind, credit cards often come with rewards, promos, and installment offers that can stretch your holiday budget further.

For big-ticket expenses like flights, hotels, and shopping, using your credit card saves you the hassle of carrying large amounts of cash and lets you enjoy more of the trip without worrying about safety.

2. Don’t Fumble for Change—Just Scan

More than half of Filipinos (59%) now know they can use QR code payments abroad. With e-wallets and banking apps, paying for coffee in Seoul, souvenirs in Singapore, or snacks in Tokyo is now quicker and safer. No loose change, no stress—just a simple scan and you’re good to go.

3. Plan Your Budget and Track Your Spending

Popular destinations for Filipinos include Japan (37%), Singapore (20%), South Korea (19%), and Hong Kong (19%). Each has its own spending quirks—think transport passes, street food, shopping, or themed attractions.

A good habit is to plan your budget per stop before flying out. Allocate portions of your holiday funds and use your credit or debit cards for essentials like transport, meals, and key purchases. Tracking expenses through your card’s records helps you see where your money goes and whether you have extra to splurge on collectibles, skincare, or pasalubong.

4. Prioritize Moments, Not Money Worries

For most Filipinos, traveling during the holidays isn’t just about sightseeing. It’s about reuniting with loved ones (43%), finding time to relax (29%), or even visiting theme parks (28%). The less you stress about payments, the more you can focus on creating memories that last.

“Filipinos are becoming more intentional about how they travel, not only in where they go but in how they pay,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa in the Philippines. “This holiday season, Visa is here to make every trip simpler and more secure, so travelers can spend with confidence and focus on making memories that matter most.”

The Ber months remind us that travel and spending aren’t just about transactions, but about the experiences they bring. From family reunions to simple moments of joy, what matters most is being present. This holiday season, be mindful of your budget, plan ahead, and choose payment options that work best for you. After all, the best trips are the ones where you can enjoy fully—without worrying too much about your wallet.

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