When the Ber months roll in, you know what that means—holiday reunions, Christmas parties, and of course, much-anticipated trips both here and abroad. For Filipinos, December isn’t just the season of giving—it’s also the busiest travel month of the year. In fact, a Visa Green Shoots Radar Survey reveals that more Filipinos travel in December compared to the Asia-Pacific average.
But while the holiday rush is filled with excitement, it also comes with its share of stress—especially when it comes to managing money while traveling. The good news? Visa is sharing smart, practical tips to help Filipinos make the most of their holiday budget without compromising on the fun.
Credit Cards: Your Best Travel Buddy
Nearly half (49%) of Filipino travelers prefer using credit cards when abroad, and for good reason. With Visa, not only do you get wide acceptance in shops, hotels, and airports, but you also enjoy added security, rewards, and promos.
Instead of carrying thick wads of cash, use your card for major expenses like flights, accommodations, or shopping. It saves time, minimizes risk, and even gives you perks like purchase protection and flexible payment options. Think of it as your reliable travel companion—keeping your money safe while stretching your budget further.
No Loose Change? Just Scan and Go
Gone are the days of fumbling for coins in crowded markets. More than 59% of Filipinos now know they can use QR code payments abroad with Visa-enabled e-wallets and banking apps. Whether you’re sipping coffee in Seoul, buying anime collectibles in Tokyo, or picking up pasalubong in Hong Kong, a quick scan lets you pay securely and conveniently.
Globally, QR payments are becoming the norm—so if you want a smooth and modern travel experience, going cashless is the way to go.
Plan Your Budget, Track Every Peso
The survey also highlighted where Filipinos love to travel: Japan (37%), Singapore (20%), South Korea (19%), and Hong Kong (19%) top the list. Each destination has its own spending style—from shopping districts in Tokyo to skincare splurges in Seoul.
To avoid overspending, it helps to set a budget per destination. Use your Visa card for essentials like transport passes, meals, and hotel stays, then review your spending records through your bank app. This way, you’ll always know how much you’ve spent—and how much you still have left for spontaneous finds.
Focus on Moments, Not Money Worries
More than sightseeing, the Ber months are about connections—43% of Filipinos travel overseas to visit loved ones, while others do it for relaxation (29%) or theme park adventures (28%, the highest in Asia-Pacific!).
With Visa’s secure payment solutions, you can stop worrying about cash logistics and focus on what really matters: the joy of reunions, the thrill of adventures, and the memories you’ll bring home.
As Visa Philippines Country Manager Jeffrey Navarro puts it, Filipinos are becoming more intentional about travel—not just where they go, but also how they pay. With Visa’s support, you can travel with confidence, knowing every transaction is secure and seamless.
The Ber months remind us that travel is more than a transaction—it’s about experiences, connections, and celebrations. By swiping smart, scanning with ease, and tracking your spending, you can make your holidays both enjoyable and worry-free.
Before your next trip, set your travel budget, activate your card for overseas use, and explore QR options. That way, you can focus less on money and more on making memories.