🏝️🍹⛱️TRAVEL GUIDE ⛱️🌞 🌊
Planning a visit to a new country can be stressful, and there’s a lot to consider before you even depart. From finding a place to stay to checking ATM availability, dozens of questions will be running through your mind.
With our experience helping countless travelers vacation in Bali, we’ve compiled all our knowledge into this comprehensive FAQ for first-time visitors. So, whether you’re still in the planning stages or have already arrived, this guide will answer every question you have.
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Planning Your Trip ✍️
When is the Best Time to Visit Bali?
There’s no bad time to visit Bali, which is great news if your travel dates are dictated by work or school commitments.
If you’re flexible with your dates, we recommend visiting during the dry season (usually May to October) to truly enjoy your trip.
During this time of year, the weather will be hot, but not too humid, and the chance of rain is very low.
However, tourists often visit Bali during the rainy season (November to April). With fewer tourists and lower prices, you can still have a wonderful experience. Just pack a light rain jacket for brief but heavy rainstorms and try to avoid the highlands, which experience more rain than coastal areas.
Peak tourism periods are July to August (when many Western countries have their summer holidays) and late December to early January (when Australia has its summer holidays and festive celebrations take place).
Our complete guide to the best time to visit Bali has more details on what to expect in terms of weather during the rainy season and some cultural celebrations to consider.
Which Airport Should I Fly To?
Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is the international airport in Bali. It’s located in Bali’s capital city, Denpasar, so it’s also known as Denpasar Airport or Bali Airport.
Where Should I Stay in Bali?
The best area to stay in Bali really depends on what you want from your trip. Bali has beaches, jungle, lively areas, quiet areas, etc.
If you’re a first-timer, Ubud is always a fantastic option. Ubud is Bali’s cultural and spiritual hub with lots to see and do. It’s also perfectly located in the centre of the island, so there are dozens of great day trips.
If you prefer beach destinations, you could head down to Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, Sanur or Canggu.
For quieter spots, head further north to Kintamani, Sidemen, Amed, or Lovina. But thats Farway, and you will get extra charge for transport because farway.
What Are the Accommodation Options in Bali?
Here is a rundown of the main accommodation types in Bali:
- Hotels/Resorts – Hotels and resorts in Bali come in a wide range of sizes and levels of luxury, from budget to high-end all-inclusive resorts. Hotels tend to have a more formal atmosphere and amenities can include restaurants, bars, spas, pools, and room service. Find hotels here.
ㅤ - Homestays – These are smaller family-run guesthouses that are usually very affordable. Homestays are often quite basic, but some have pools, shared kitchens, and other facilities. Although the family who run the homestay usually live there, you will stay in a separate area allocated for guests. These are away from the main family living area so there is still plenty of privacy. Most long-termers in Bali choose to stay in homestays. Find homestays here.
ㅤ - Hostels – If you’re a backpacker or solo traveller, hostels are perfect for meeting other people to explore Bali with. By staying in a dorm room, you’ll get a better rate than a hotel or guest house and you’ll make some friends along the way. Ensure you get a hostel that matches your vibe. Some can be very boozy and party-oriented, whereas others are more chilled-out. Find hostels here.
ㅤ - Retreats – If you have an interest such as yoga, surfing, diving, or fitness, there are many specialised retreats across Bali where you can immerse yourself in that activity. Accommodation is provided (usually), but the main benefit is access to instructors and a community of like-minded individuals. See upcoming retreats in Bali here.
ㅤ - Villas – When you rent a villa, you’ll get the entire property to yourself. This is the most luxurious but also the most expensive option.
What Should I Wear in Bali?
Bali is a predominantly Hindu island, so locals dress quite modestly. Despite this, they are very welcoming to tourists. There’s no strict dress code, as long as you’re respectful.
Bali has a hot, tropical climate year-round, so we recommend bringing light, breathable clothing. Think island fare: shorts, t-shirts, vests, dresses, swimsuits, etc.
The weather typically stays hot into the evenings, so most bars, restaurants, and clubs don’t mind casual attire, like shorts and t-shirts. Our customers haven’t had any problems, but it’s best to double-check the dress code for more upscale establishments. Some high-end bars and clubs don’t allow flip-flops at night.
If you’re planning to visit mountainous areas, like Kintamani, Munduk, or Bedugul, you’ll want to pack layers, as it can get quite chilly at night.
What Plug Sockets Do They Use in Bali?
Bali uses type-C and type-F plugs. These are the same plugs that are used across most of mainland Europe with two round prongs.
What is the Currency in Bali?
The currency in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah. This can be written as 100,000 IDR or 100,000 Rp or 100 k for short.
Do I Need Cash and Where Can I Get It From?
Although card payments are widely accepted in Bali, you’ll still need cash for things like fuel, parking, eating at warungs (local Indonesian restaurants), and entrance fees to tourist attractions like temples or waterfalls.
You can bring cash from home and exchange it upon arrival in Bali. Exchanging money or buying a SIM card at the airport is not recommended, as the price difference will be significant.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE – Money changers in town offer better exchange rates than those at the airport or hotels. However, please choose a reputable money changer such as BHI, BMC, or a large exchange office with glass doors. You can consult our tour guide or call our 24-hour hotline.
You can also withdraw local currency from ATMs across the island using your debit card. This is how tourists access cash while visiting Bali.
If you plan to withdraw cash from an ATM, make sure your bank back home doesn’t charge fees for international withdrawals. If so, we recommend getting a travel-friendly card like Revolut or Wise.
There is usually a 4 percent fee for withdrawals using a debit card.
Do I Need Travel Insurance to Visit Bali?
Although it’s not mandatory to have travel insurance to enter Bali, it’s not something you should overlook.
Foreigners are disproportionately involved in road accidents, and associated medical bills can be as high as AUD$48,000 (source).
Some key things to look for in Bali include whether they pay upfront for emergencies, whether you’re covered for adventure sports such as ATVs, surfing, etc, and whether you’re covered for riding scooters.
We reviewed lots of travel insurance policies and recommend the following:
- For Aussies: Cover-More (AU)
- For Kiwis: Cover-More (NZ)
- For Brits: Cover For You
- For Americans: Generali
- For Digital Nomads: Safety Wing
Can Unmarried Couples Visit Bali?
Yes, unmarried couples can visit Bali and stay together.
The reason this has become a common question about visiting Bali is because the Indonesian parliament changed their criminal code to outlaw unmarried couples living together.
After the rule was passed, the governor of Bali intervened to assure tourists that their ‘marital status will remain confidential and that there will be no checking of their marital status upon arrival at accommodations on the resort island’ (source).
When this rule comes into effect (sometime in 2025), only a spouse, parent, or child will be able to bring about charges, so it won’t affect tourists.
Remember, Indonesia is a Muslim country which is why they have rules like this. But Bali is an exception as the island is majority Balinese Hindu.
Getting Into Bali ✍️
Can I Bring Alcohol, Cigarettes, or Vapes?
Customs are quite strict on the amount of alcohol and cigarettes you can bring in.
You are permitted to bring 200 cigarettes, 25 cigars, or 100g of tobacco per adult and up to 1 litre of alcoholic drinks.
Before leaving the airport, your bags must go through an x-ray and may be searched by an officer. They are pretty good at finding and confiscating these items.
There are currently no official restrictions on vapes so as long as you are bringing enough for personal use you should be okay.
However, be aware that vapes are illegal in Singapore, even during transit. If you have a change here, it’s best to avoid bringing vapes, especially if you have a self-transfer. Don’t worry – they are very widely available in Bali and cheap too.
Do I Need To Declare Medication?
Unfortunately, there is not one clear set of rules to refer to, so it is really at the discretion of customs officers.
But based on information provided by various embassies, this seems to be the general advice:
You can take over-the-counter medication, such flu, cough, or diarrhea medicine and most vitamins, without any documentation. We regularly carry things like ibuprofen and paracetomol with us – always in original packaging.
You can take most prescription medication into Bali, but you must adhere to these rules:
- You must have a prescription or doctors note stating your dosage. It should be in English or Bahasa and the name should match your passport
- You must only carry enough for personal use and it should be in the original packaging
- You should declare prescription medication on your electronic customs declaration – the section called drugs, also includes prescription medication
- It should not contain a prohibited narcotic
Indonesia is very strict on drug laws, so double check all your medicines for prohibited ingredients. We have found this page from Indonesian embassy in Copenhagen to contain a helpful list of what isn’t allowed (works best on mobile devices).
This page from the Indonesian embassy in Canberra is also a useful resource.
What Are the Visa Requirements For Bali?
For most travelers, we recommend obtaining a visa on arrival (VOA) or its electronic version, called an e-VOA. Both cost IDR 500,000 (approximately US$0.00)
(plus a transaction fee for card payments).
VOAs can be purchased at the airport using cash or a card. However, lines are often long.
That’s why we recommend choosing an e-VOA, which can be purchased online before your visit.
A VOA/e-VOA allows you to stay in Indonesia for 30 days. For an additional fee, you can extend it for another 30 days, for a total of 60 days. With an e-VOA, extensions can also be made online.
You can apply for an e-VOA on the official government website here.
You’ll also need to complete several other documents, including a customs declaration. We’ve created a comprehensive guide explaining everything you need to do before entering Bali.
Do I Need a Return Ticket For Bali?
Yes, an onward ticket is a compulsory requirement for entering Bali.
Some airlines have asked us to show proof of onward travel when checking in. However, we have never been asked for these documents at immigration in Bali.
For some visa applications, you’ll need to upload proof of onward travel as part of the application process.
Are There Any Vaccination Requirements for Bali?
No, there are no specific vaccination requirements for entering Bali. However, you should still consult your doctor to see what they recommend. I have a rabies vaccine which gives me peace of mind around Bali’s many stray dogs and wild monkeys.
How Do I Get From the Airport to My Accommodation?
The best way to get to your accommodation from the airport is to use our service, where a private driver will pick you up directly at the arrivals area. Gojek Taxis or online taxis cannot pick you up directly at the arrivals area. There is a dedicated Gojek pickup point less than 50 meters away, so you’ll have to walk outside.
This will be slightly more expensive than using an online app, but still quite affordable. Airport parking is included, whereas online taxis don’t.
Another advantage is that our cars are new, clean, and private. Pickups can be arranged in advance, so there’s no hassle upon arrival, and you won’t have to walk far to find an online taxi, Gojek, or Grab taxi point.
We recommend booking your transfer through Bugis Bali Tour and Travel, which offers reasonable prices.
During Your Trip ✍️
Is it Safe to Swim in the Ocean in Bali?
Yes, many of Bali’s beaches are safe for swimming, especially those on the east side of the island and down on the Bukit Peninsula.
However, the currents can be strong on some beaches, and accidents are not unheard of. Use caution and stay near the shore if you aren’t a strong swimmer.
If you see a red flag, this means that the current is too strong, so you should not enter the water.
Will I Get Bali Belly?
Bali Belly is the colloquial name given to Travellers Diarreaha when you get it in Bali.
Travellers Diarreaha comes from consuming food or drink contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites that our stomachs don’t like or aren’t used to.
The illness is not unique to Bali and can be caught in many developing countries. It’s the most common travel-related illness.
Unfortunately, it’s a rite of passage for most newbies in Bali. Surveys have found that around 60% of visitors will get it. Most people we know who visit Bali get at least mild symptoms. The good news is that it’s rarely serious and tends to pass within a day or two.
There are ways you can reduce your chances of catching Bali Belly, such as avoiding drinking tap water and being careful about where you eat. You can also take probiotics to help build your natural defences.
See our full guide to preventing, avoiding, and treating Bali belly for lots of tips.
Should You Tip in Bali?
Bali doesn’t have a strong tipping culture, so it’s not essential to tip.
However, we’d recommend tipping when you do receive exceptional service. For example, when a tour guide has gone above and beyond or when the food and service at a restaurant is exceptional.
There is no specific amount to tip, but adding 10% or rounding up is always a good place to start.
Some restaurants, typically those serving Western food, will add a compulsory tip to your bill. This should be clearly visible on the menu and your bill so make sure to check this.
Are There Rules for Visiting Temples in Bali?
When entering a temple or other sacred site, you should be respectful and ensure you cover your knees and shoulders. Most temples will provide free sarongs at the entrance or have somewhere nearby you can purchase them if needed.
Can You Drink the Tap Water?
No, you should never drink the tap water in Bali.
Many hotels and guesthouses will provide you with drinking water or have a refill station. Bottled water is also widely available and cheap to purchase in local shops.
However, the ice is safe to drink as rules in Bali mean that ice served in bars and restaurants must be commercial ice made using purified drinking water. We have always consumed the ice without getting ill.
Will the Water in Bali Damage My Hair?
The water in Bali can affect your hair—but it’s not as bad as some may suggest.
Bali is known for its hard water, which is rich in heavy metals, minerals, and chlorine. This type of water can strip your hair of natural oils, causing it to become dry, brittle, frizzy, and prone to breakage.
That said, most warnings you see online and on social media are greatly exaggerated. While the water is harder than some other destinations, it’s highly unlikely to cause severe or permanent damage. And don’t worry, you won’t go bald from it.
How is Bali for Dietary Requirements? (Gluten-Free, Vegan, etc)
Bali is one of the best countries when it comes to for catering to special dietary requirements.
Most international restaurants in Bali cater to diets including vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, etc. Almost every Western-style café has dairy-free alternatives for your coffee and it is very common for servers to ask about dietary requirements at the beginning of your meal.
In fact, there are a vast number of fully vegan cafes. A couple of our favourites are Kynd and I Am Vegan Babe in Canggu and Zest in Ubud.
When it comes to local Indonesian restaurants (called warungs), it’s less likely that they will be able to cater to special dietary requirements. It’s usually served buffet-style where you point to the dishes you want in a counter. It’s often difficult to know exactly what’s in them.
There are a wide range of vegetarian and vegan choices available at most warungs, including the local specialty of tempeh. But it’s a little more difficult to find dishes for other diets.
Is English Widely Spoken in Bali?
The official language of Bali is Bahasa Indonesia, or simply known as Indonesian. It is similar to the official language of Malaysia which is Bahasa Malaysia, also known as Malay.
However, English is widely spoken and understood by locals, especially in tourist areas. There is usually some level of English spoken in rural areas but it can be more limited.
I recommend downloading Google Translate on your phone and ensuring that you have downloaded ‘Indonesian’ before venturing out.
Are There Lots of Bugs and Spiders in Bali?
Yes, bugs are common in Bali due to the tropical climate. These are mainly mosquitos which are more active in the evenings and in the jungle areas.
Most mosquito bites are minor. At most, they’ll cause a small itchy bump that goes away after a day or two (our favourite hack is to warm a spoon in hot water and place it on the bite to reduce itching).
However, mosquitos can carry diseases such as dengue fever, so you should follow some simple precautions to reduce your chances of a bite. These include:
- Using insect repellent
- Wearing long clothes in the evening
- Keeping your doors/windows closed at night
Like most Southeast Asian countries, you might spot Geckos from time to time. These are tiny lizards that hang out on the walls and ceilings. They are harmless to humans and very afraid of us. Geckos are actually helpful as they eat mosquitos.
You do not need to worry about spiders in Bali. Unfortunately, a viral TikTok video showed a village with lots of spiders and caused worry among travellers. But this is just one small village that tourists rarely visit and is not reflective of Bali.
In built-up areas, we hardly ever see any spiders. You might spot some huntsman spiders in more rural areas or when walking through rice fields, but these do not pose a threat to humans and are actually quite interesting.
Safety in Bali ✍️
Is Bali Safe?
Yes, Bali is one of the safest destinations in Indonesia, and the Balinese people are some of the friendliest we’ve encountered in Southeast Asia. The country relies heavily on tourism, so every community has a vested interest in ensuring the safety of tourists.
However, Bali is not completely crime-free. While violent crime is almost unheard of, you should be wary of pickpockets and snatch theft.
The latter is when someone on a scooter passes you and takes your valuables before speeding off. This is rare, but you should remain vigilant and keep your valuables hidden when not in use. This applies whether you’re walking along the street or riding your scooter yourself.
How Can I Avoid Tourist Scams in Bali?
Bali is a safe place. The Balinese people, or residents who live there, are among the friendliest in Asia. However, like any popular tourist destination, there are those who try to take advantage of tourists.
We are a local agent who always helps our customers during their vacations in Bali, and to date, we have not received any complaints about the service we provide.
Just so you know,
Here are some scams to be wary of:
Booking accommodation without reviews – A customer of ours once booked an Airbnb with no reviews and discovered the place didn’t exist when she arrived. Of course, Airbnb refunded her money so she didn’t lose any money, but booking another place at short notice can be inconvenient and expensive, so be wary of this.
Being told you need a sarong to visit a temple – When you approach a temple, especially one that’s very busy with tourists, you may be told by locals that you need a sarong to enter, and they will then try to sell you one.
While you do need a sarong if your shoulders and knees are not covered by clothing, most temples will provide them.
Overcharging for a taxi – Being ripped off by a taxi driver happens in every country, including Bali. One of our customers reported that his drunken group was charged 100,000 IDR for a trip that should have only cost 15,000 IDR.
We recommend using a private car with a driver provided by a tour and travel agent or an online transportation app like Gojek or Grab.
If you need to take a taxi from the street, look for one with the Bluebird logo on the roof to ensure you’re being charged a fair price.
How Do I Call the Police in Bali?
If you are injured in Bali, the main emergency number (equivalent to 999 or 911) is 112.
If this doesn’t work, you may need to add the area or country code as follows:
If you are using a local SIM card, dial 0361 followed by 112.
If you are using an international SIM, dial +62 361 followed by 112.
You can directly call the police by calling 110 instead of 112.
You should only call the police if the threat is still present. If you have been the victim of theft, it is best to file a police report at the nearest station instead – more on this below.
What Should I Do If I’m Injured in Bali?
If you are seriously injured in Bali, the main emergency number (equivalent to 999 or 911) is 112.
If this doesn’t work, you may need to add the area or country code as follows:
If you are using a local SIM card, dial 0361 followed by 112.
If you are using an international SIM, dial +62 361 followed by 112.
You can directly call for an ambulance by calling 118 instead of 112.
Depending upon the injuries, it could be quicker and easier to flag down a taxi and have them take you to the nearest hospital or A+E instead.
For very light injuries such as wounds, you can pick up cleaning and dressing supplies at pharmacies such as Guardian (a chain all across Bali that we regularly use).
How Do I Report a Crime in Bali?
To report a crime in Bali as a tourist, you need to go to a police station. You can’t just do it at any police station; you have to go to a larger one, and there’s no definitive list of the best ones.
We recommend the Kuta police station for reporting thefts. Despite negative reviews of the tourist police online, the Kuta police service is fast, friendly, and helpful. There’s no fee to file a report.
Other recommended police stations, such as those in Nusa Dua, Sanur, and Ubud, are also good.
