Home / Travel journal / Balabac without signal
At the campsite on Punta Sebaring there is no mobile signal at all. Not weak signal, not slow data – nothing. It is one of the first things guests notice, and one of the things they remember most fondly.
Why there is no signal
Punta Sebaring sits on Bugsuk Island in the Sulu Sea, far from any cell tower. This is not a policy we enforce to make you disconnect; there is simply no coverage out there. Whatever your network at home, it will not reach camp.
Prepare before you leave Puerto Princesa
- Download offline maps, music and anything you want to read
- Screenshot your booking details and your boat transfer times
- Charge power banks - generator hours at camp are 6 PM to 10 PM
- Buy anything you need in Puerto Princesa before the pickup
Tell someone at home
Send your itinerary to a family member or friend before you leave, including the dates you are on the islands and the day you return to Puerto Princesa. Since we cannot be reached mid-trip, this is the single most useful thing you can do to avoid worrying anyone.
What to do instead of scrolling
- Watch the sunset and the bonfire at camp
- Swim and snorkel at the sandbars
- Read a book, or just sleep - the boat schedule starts early
- Talk to your guide about the islands, the fishing and the tides
- Photograph the stars, which are spectacular without light pollution
Questions travellers ask
Is there really no signal at camp?
That is correct. There is no mobile signal at the campsite on Punta Sebaring.
Can I get signal anywhere on the trip?
Coverage can be patchy to non-existent around the islands. Treat the trip as fully offline and you will not be disappointed.
What if there is an emergency at home?
Tell your family your itinerary before you leave and agree how you will be contacted. You will have signal again on the return leg.
Ready to disconnect?
Tell us your dates and we will confirm availability on the next departures.
