Every Filipino family living abroad has this thought at some point.
Uuwi ba tayo this year?
For us, a family of four, two adults and two kids, flying back to the Philippines is not a simple decision. It’s not only about booking tickets. It’s about planning, budgeting, and preparing for a big expense.
After living in the UK for years, I realised one thing.
Going home is expensive.
The Biggest Cost: Flights
Flights will always be the biggest expense.
For a family of four, ticket prices can vary depending on the season.
Off-peak months
Around £600 to £800 per person
Peak season, especially Christmas or summer
Around £900 to £1,500 per person
If we take an average:
£800 x 4 = £3,200
£1,200 x 4 = £4,800
That’s already a significant amount just for flights.
And that’s economy class.
Baggage Costs Add Up
As Filipinos, we don’t travel light.
Pasalubong is part of the culture.
Some airlines include checked baggage, but if you need extra luggage, you will pay more.
Extra baggage fees can range from:
£50 to £150 per bag depending on the airline
For a family, this can easily add a few hundred pounds.
Airport and Travel Costs in the UK
Before you even leave the UK, there are already expenses.
Transport to the airport
Parking fees or train tickets
Depending on where you live, this can cost:
£50 to £200 or more
Spending in the Philippines
Once you arrive, the spending continues.
Even if you stay with family, there are still costs.
Food and groceries
Transport
Eating out
Family gatherings
And of course, pasalubong and gifts.
For a short visit, many families spend:
£500 to £1,500 or more depending on lifestyle
Time Off Work
Another hidden cost is time off.
If your leave is unpaid or limited, taking a long trip means less income or using up all your annual leave.
For working parents, this is something to consider carefully.
Travel Insurance
Many people skip this, but it’s important.
Travel insurance for a family can cost around:
£50 to £150 depending on coverage
It protects you from unexpected situations like cancellations or medical issues.
Total Estimated Cost
If we put everything together for a family of four:
Flights
£3,200 to £4,800
Baggage and extras
£200 to £500
Airport transport
£50 to £200
Spending in the Philippines
£500 to £1,500
Insurance
£50 to £150
Total estimate
Around £4,000 to £7,000
That’s a big number.
DadBuhay Reflection
Going home is not cheap.
But it’s never just about money.
It’s about seeing your parents again.
It’s about your kids meeting their grandparents.
It’s about reconnecting with where you came from.
As parents, we weigh the cost carefully.
Because while the price is high, the value of being with family is something you cannot measure.
– Until then, love you bye! And that’s #Dadbuhay.
DadBuhay 
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