Trip Planning
The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.
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Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.
Travel Essentials
You don’t need any special vaccinations for Guam if you’re up-to-date with routine vaccines like MMR, DTP, and flu shots. Consider Hepatitis A and B, especially if you’re planning adventurous activities or if it’s your first time to the Pacific region. Always check the latest health advisories before traveling.
vaccination requirementsWhen I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.
These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Guam, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.
There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.
Get your e-sim for GuamCulture & Customs
Respect the local Chamorro culture by showing appreciation for their customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or inside villages. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas or when visiting cultural sites.
While Guam is generally LGBTQ+ friendly, public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum to avoid any discomfort or misunderstanding. Women travelers should feel safe but remain cautious, as you would anywhere else.
Do greet with ”Håfa Adai” (hello) and be polite. Don’t interrupt someone who is speaking or be overly loud in public places. Remember that Sundays are often reserved for family and church, so expect some businesses to be closed.
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Guam.
- Kelaguen: A tangy and refreshing dish often made with chicken, although versions with seafood or beef exist. It’s marinated in lemon juice, coconut, and hot peppers. It’s popular because it’s a staple at any Guam fiesta, showcasing the island’s love for bold and fresh flavors.
- Red Rice: A must at any Chamorro gathering, this dish gets its vibrant color from annatto seeds. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a symbol of hospitality and celebration in Guam.
- Finadene: This spicy and sour condiment, made with soy sauce, vinegar, chili peppers, and onions, is drizzled over almost anything. It’s a staple that reflects the island’s love for strong, punchy flavors and is crucial for experiencing the true taste of Guam’s cuisine.
- Barbecued Short Ribs: These are marinated in a sweet and savory soy sauce mixture and then grilled to perfection. A popular choice at local BBQs, they emphasize the island’s communal dining culture and love for grilling.
- Chamorro Sausage: A spicy, flavor-packed sausage that embodies the fusion of Spanish influence with local tastes. It’s often enjoyed during breakfast or as a snack, and it’s a nod to the island’s colonial history and diverse culinary influences.
Locals in Guam generally drink tap water, but it might taste a bit chlorinated. Tourists are usually advised to stick with bottled or filtered water to avoid any potential stomach issues. If you’re staying for a while, consider getting a filter to save money and reduce plastic waste.
The main language in Guam is
Chamorro. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Chamorro skills have become a bit rusty.
Want to understand locals better?The complete Travel Guide for Guam includes 52 essential words and phrases — greetings, thank-yous, ordering food, transport, numbers, and common local expressions you'll actually hear.
Get your local basic phrases 👉
Get the Travel Guide - is widely spoken in Guam, making it an accessible destination for English-speaking travelers. As a U.S. territory, English is one of the official languages alongside Chamorro, the indigenous language. Most residents, especially in urban areas and tourist spots, are fluent in English, and you will find it used in government, education, and business.
In restaurants, hotels, and shops, staff typically communicate effectively in English, and signage is predominantly in English as well. While some locals may also speak Chamorro or other languages, English proficiency is generally high across different age groups.
Travelers can expect to navigate the island comfortably without language barriers. However, learning a few basic phrases in Chamorro can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture. Overall, English communication in Guam is straightforward, allowing visitors to enjoy the island’s attractions and hospitality with ease.
Money & Payments
The local currency of Guam is USD ($).
Guam uses the US dollar, so if you’ve got USD, you’re already set. ATMs are pretty widespread in touristy areas like Tumon Bay and Hagatna, but fees can add up. If you’re island-hopping or heading off the beaten path, grab some cash before you go. Most places accept credit cards, but smaller, local spots might be cash-only, so having some bills on you is smart. Euros aren’t accepted, and exchanging them can be a hassle, so leave those at home. If you need to exchange currency, check out the airport or major hotels for hassle-free service, though rates might not be the best.
In Guam, tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated. Restaurants usually expect around 10-15% if the service is good, and for services like taxis or bellhops, rounding up or giving a couple of extra dollars is common. Always check if a service charge is included in your bill to avoid double tipping.
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Over the years, I've learned the importance of packing minimally. It's so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you're headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
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Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.