There are a lot of different backpackers out there in Southeast Asia. I think that when people think of a stereotypical Southeast Asia backpacker, they think of the 22-year old Brit or Aussie on gap year after University. They think of Khao San Road, the Full Moon Party, tubing down the Mekong River in Laos, and copious amounts of buckets. These backpackers generally stick to the typical Thailand-Laos-Cambodia-Vietnam circuit and might make a stop in Indonesia. The Philippines is not a typical destination for this class of backpacker due to a myriad of reason: Lack of backpacker infrastructure, lack of affordable partying destinations (Boracay is EXPENSIVE), and the need to book flights rather than cheap overland transportation.
Because of this, I’ve encountered a decidedly different backpacking crowd here in the Philippines. Everyone is slightly older and more traveled. They are more adventurous and they seek out isolated locations and unique experiences. Not to say that they aren’t seeking a party, but the backpacking crowd in the Philippines has been there, done that.
It’s great to be in a place where people are adventurous and fun to be around, but have life experience and a sophisticated world view. I’ve found this to be the case with the travelers to the Philippines. If you plan on doing an extended backpacking trip, definitely think about going to the Philippines. There is so much to do!!