Bali. The very word conjures up a sense of exoticism and other-worldly “foreignness.” This feeling often makes it hard to know what to take when you travel there, so I put together this Bali packing list!
I’ve also included a guide for what to wear in Bali, what NOT to bring, and common FAQs. Bring these physical items, but also arrive with an open mind, a friendly heart, a sense of humour, and a spirit of adventure. Bali will do the rest.
Pickpockets in Bali target tourists in places like Kuta, Seminyak, and crowded attractions. The #1 way to avoid becoming a victim of petty theft is to keep your valuables securely stored in a neck wallet. This one makes it easy to conceal your cash, credit cards, phones, passports, and important travel documents underneath your shirt – so you look less like a tourist, which deters thieves from preying upon you. It also comes in several cute colours and is designed with RFID-blocking material to stop modern thieves from scanning your financial data.
Whether you’re snorkelling at Pandawa Beach, soaking in Lake Batur’s Hot Spring, or chasing waterfalls in Ubud – you will need to protect your phone from moisture. Many activities in Bali are synonymous with water, so your lifeline will need an extra layer of defence. We love that this one allows you to take underwater photos and videos while protecting your device from water, scratches, dust, and sand. It’s too affordable and important to forgo.
Indonesia faced 361 million cyberattacks in the first 10 months of 2023 alone, according to BSSN. This is why a VPN is essential while travelling. It’s easy to assume you are safe on public Wi-Fi networks at cafes, coffee shops, Airbnbs, hotels, airports, etc., but this is not the case. A VPN will add a layer of encryption that secures your credit cards, passwords, financial information, and identity. I learned this personally when my banking info was stolen at an Airbnb in Paris.
Furthermore, Indonesia (including Bali) has “substantial” Internet censorship. If you plan on accessing all your favourite websites and staying connected while you’re there, then a quality VPN like NordVPN is needed to avoid getting blocked. It will give you access to 6,000+ servers in 100+ countries, so there will be very little on the internet that you cannot gain access to. It’s easy and incredibly affordable!
With the long travel time (nearly 20 hours to fly from the U.K. to Bali), bring along some jet lag relief patches to make the transition smoother. I used to suffer through major jet lag before discovering these, and now I don’t travel without them.
Crafted with vitamins and herbs, they soften headaches and relieve the exhaustion associated with international travel. Most visitors agree that 10-14 days is the ideal time to spend here for a worthwhile experience, use these supplements on those first couple of days arriving AND the first couple of days back at home.
Frankly, unless you’re a millionaire, you cannot afford to travel without insurance. Your domestic provider will not cover you overseas (including Medicare and Medicaid), and visiting a place like Indonesia without decent coverage would be a huge mistake. Travel insurance can protect you against losses incurred as a result of flight delays, cancellations, theft, baggage loss, medical emergencies, and more. As the main mode of transportation in Bali, you definitely should not ride on a motorcycle or scooter here without adequate travel insurance that covers you for that activity or you could easily end up paying out-of-pocket for expensive hospital bills if you had an accident.
We used World Nomads on our last trip to Bali because they cover more than 150 adventure activities and they’re backed by a suite of specialist travel insurers that provide 24/7 emergency assistance, customer service and claims support. We never leave home without travel insurance (particularly in SE Asia!)
Items get stolen from luggage every day in airports and crowded attractions. Don’t allow your memories of Bali to be tarnished by a preventable crime like pickpocketing. Secure your valuables with these luggage locks that can be placed on suitcases, backpacks, and any other creative base you can dream up. They are more secure than typical locks and TSA-approved for easy baggage checks. For peace of mind, pick up a set or two.
Bali mostly uses 230V/50Hz plugs with round pins, like much of Continental Europe. The most common plug types in Bali are C and F – this universal adapter covers you for both. It works in over 220 countries around the world, ensuring that you always have the ability to charge your devices.
Also note: many Southeast Asian countries can have power surges, so this adapter will prevent any detrimental damage with a double fuse to prevent any system overloads.
Since most of your activities will take place on or in the water, document memories with this awesome waterproof camera. It’s lightweight, versatile, and sturdy, so you won’t have to worry about damaging it easily. Plus, it’s a less expensive option than investing in a full-blown GoPro or a DSLR camera.
Gone are the days of carrying water-logged, bulky hotel towels to and from the beach! Waterfalls and diverse terrains can also be slippery and you don’t want to manoeuvre with oversized items. This quick-dry travel towel is a great alternative because it’s lightweight, compact, and dries 10x faster than typical cotton material. This means – less dampness, fewer odours, more reusability, and more time for adventure!
There are a few items more important on your packing list than this hanging toiletry bag. It will truly make your life easier when travelling to a foreign place since you never know what kind of bathroom you will run into. This bag will change your life because it keeps everything off the countertops, leak-free, and organized at eye-level so you can quickly find what you need.
If you don’t have any storage to work with, this will ensure you have a place to set your skincare, haircare, and personal hygiene items. And if you find yourself outdoors when nature calls, (or dealing with the traditional Balinese squat toilet) – I’d recommend keeping biodegradable toilet paper with you in case you’re in a zero-waste area. Hook this nifty bag on any door, shower pole, or branch if outdoors. You’ll have a built-in shelf that you can take anywhere!
If you’re going to bring your waterproof phone case or camera on the water, you really don’t want to lose it, right? Even if your device is waterproof, it could still drown or become irretrievable in deep swimming holes and sharp coral reefs. This flotation strap comfortably goes around your wrist and will keep your devices afloat should they fall into the water.
Not only will these luggage straps reinforce your zippers and strengthen your cases for the long journey to Bali and back – but! They will also deter theft since it’s less likely anyone will scramble through a bag that’s been doubled up with belts.
These are TSA-friendly for any random searches, but the heavy-duty belts are reliable against huge amounts of force tension (which you may need with the way that bags are handled these days!) Suitcases are also more likely to go missing or get damaged on an international flight versus domestic, but these have a built-in ID tag for quick contact. And the brightly-coloured straps ensure you will immediately know which bags are yours in a crowd!
While Bali temps aren’t sweltering, the air is thicker with dense humidity. And sun rays are more powerful here due to closer proximity to the equator. Thus, you will appreciate a self-cooling towel to beat the heat – these magical babies are heavenly! Simply add water, wring out, and it will become 10 degrees colder than the air temperature for up to an hour. It may seem like a luxury, but it won’t feel superfluous when you’re melting on a hike or want to spend more time outside.
All those beach barbecues and street food like babi guling and gado gado look tempting to eat. And are mostly safe… But nearly every traveller falls victim to a case of traveller’s diarrhoea at some point. Don’t limit yourself from enjoying the local delicacies (it’s one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the Balinese culture!) Just pack activated charcoal, a fast-acting and safe way to rid your system of the toxins that cause stomach upset. It’s even more necessary in cases of food poisoning.
The tap water in Bali is NOT safe to drink and will likely give your body a stomachache or worse. Bottled water is widely available, but who wants to spend a ton (and waste plastic) on bottles of water? This nifty bottle means that even if you wander off the beaten path, you’ll be properly hydrated. It uses a geopress filter to remove all viruses, bacteria, sediments, heavy metals, and so much more in only 8 seconds! It’s a simple but genius idea that comes in the form of a handy, reusable bottle. It could save you a trip to the hospital so it really pays for itself.
Forget the days of digging through a chaotic suitcase to find your buried items. Many people underestimate the power of packing with intention, but you will want to prepare for your life abroad with things that will make your experience easier. These packing cubes do just the trick, organizing your items into distinct packs (one for tops, one for pants, one for toiletries, etc.) and labels for each. This set also comes with two large laundry bags, so you’ll never have to mix dirty and clean clothes again!
With diverse landscapes like lush rice fields, peaceful jungles, looming volcanoes, and a surfer’s paradise – you’ll need to shift from land to sea with ease. Ultimately, regular hiking shoes are not going to cut it. They will get soggy, heavy, and slow you down. Skip sloshing around the whole time you’re on land and dragging your feet. Instead, bring a pair of these slip-on mesh water shoes that are breathable, fast-drying, and lightweight – plus, they don’t trap sand inside them!
Worldwide, beachgoers embrace the swimsuit cover-up as an acceptable daytime outfit, but this is especially true in Bali. The attire here is laid-back but fairly conservative, so use a cover-up like this one that you can wear from the beach to lunch or around the hotel. This crochet lace one is my wife’s favourite, and she always receive a ton of compliments on it. It’s a boho mermaid dream!
Get Your Guide is our preferred booking platform for discounted and well-planned excursions. And Bali is a location where you can build out a seriously incredible itinerary.
Swim with Manta Rays in Nusa Penida, walk through the Besakih Temple & Lempuyang Gates of Heaven, and take a Balinese cooking class at an organic farm. From river rafting to snorkelling – there are infinite possibilities in this spiritual place. Known as the ‘Island of the Gods,’ this site has a wealth of sacredness and humbleness to teach those that are open. Be sure to prioritize a trip to a Hindu temple and spend time in the luscious nature that will deeply rejuvenate your spirit.
I recently had my backpack soaked on a day trip because the boat got splashed by the waves and drenched the deck. Watching my cash disintegrate into nothingness was truly tragic… So now I don’t venture onto boats, rivers, or near the shore without a reliable dry bag. This one is inexpensive, and more importantly, it works! It’s been fully submerged and all cash, phones, snacks, outfits, etc. – came out 100% DRY. I promise you won’t be sorry to have this waterproof case in your travel arsenal.
Although I already knew these blood-suckers were drawn towards moist, tropical locations – I wish we had been warned about the Balinese mosquitos! Then we could’ve prepared better. Learn from our naivety and protect your family with these deet-free wristbands. They naturally repel mosquitos using citronella, lemongrass, and other essential oils (which is way better than spraying respraying toxic fumes all day!)
We never leave for vacation without this travel umbrella. The rainy season in Bali is from November to April, this period is known as monsoon season. This is why you’ll need a reliable umbrella that can withstand the elements and ensure your adventures aren’t put on hold by a few drizzles. We like this one because it’s higher quality than anything you can get at the airport or a souvenir shop, it weighs less than half a kilogram yet is resilient against gusts of wind, and it comes with a nice carrying case to keep other items dry.
Most tourists return home from Bali with a tan or looking like a tomato with a vicious sunburn! We would advise you to wear a full-coverage top at the beach, like this rash guard that will keep your skin safe from unforgiving UV radiation. Generously reapplying sunscreen is not enough to defend your skin in such a central hemisphere that points directly at the sun. Even a light tan is considered skin damage in the eyes of a dermatologist. Play it safe, and don’t forget the biodegradable sunscreen.
Sarongs actually originated in Southeast Asia, dating back to the 15th century in the Malay Archipelago. Besides being gorgeous and honouring the Balinese culture, sarongs are one of the most versatile things you can pack! Firstly, you will probably need them to enter the sacred temples and religious sites as a sign of modesty and respect. Secondly, a sarong can double as a beach cover-up, suitcase cushion, picnic blanket, and much more. Get creative, and this item can become your most useful travel companion.
Even the most experienced traveller may find themselves getting seasick on water transportation in Bali, and it’s never fun to have bouts of nausea and dizziness. Instead of using nap-inducing medications and chews, I highly recommend these patches. These have been lifesavers to me on many occasions! It’s hard to find a solution that consistently works, but they relieve my symptoms naturally without causing drowsiness.
It’s always a good idea to bring a separate, smaller bag for daytime use while travelling. In Bali, it’s pretty crucial that you have a daypack that can both hold all of the items that you’ll be carrying with you (think: sunscreen, water bottle, extra shoes, swimsuit, etc.) and still remains compact enough to tuck into a bicycle basket – cycling is one of the most common ways to get around in Bali.
While some destinations have tacky, cheap souvenirs – Bali offers beautiful, handmade goods and treats that your whole family will love! Use this “just in case” bag to bring some local goods like Balinese coffee, jewellery, sarongs, Batik textiles, spa items, ceramics, Arak (Balinese liquor), and more. This duffel counts as your personal item for the flight home and fits perfectly under your plane seat.
Inevitably, you’ll want to grab a cocktail or a nice dinner, and a swimsuit cover-up won’t quite be up to par, so I recommend bringing at least one nice outfit on your getaway. I love this dress (pictured) because it doesn’t wrinkle, covers my tummy in case I want to FEAST, and feels super sexy since it hugs my curves. It’s fairly modest too, so it won’t offend the locals who are more conservative and don’t like to see bare-naked tourists.
Temperatures are pretty stable year-round, though humidity and rainfall fluctuate. There are still technically four seasons, but the truly noticeable differences are between the wet and dry seasons. Keep your clothing breathable and comfortable and your luggage light – you won’t want a heavy load to carry with you, and you’ll want to dry quickly if you sweat or get wet.
It’s hot in Bali so you will want to wear comfortable and light clothing. Keep in mind that Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country, but Hinduism is more prevalent in Bali, so if you are planning to visit outside of the touristy areas, wear more modest clothing. In those areas, choose shorts or dresses that go down to the knee and cover your shoulders. At the beach, bikinis are preferred over one-piece swimsuits.
Pack some loose shorts, floral print tanks, kimono cardigans, and maxi dresses to wear on the beach and around town with sandals. If you are in Ubud, you’ll see tons of tourists wearing elephant pants. Also, if you are planning to do some yoga or go on a retreat, make sure to bring yoga shorts or capris, and quick-dry tops. A fedora hat is always a great accessory, as well as floral headbands and leather bracelets. Lastly, make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and a pair of shades that offer UV protection.
Dress for a tropical climate with plenty of light-coloured and moisture-wicking clothing. Boardshorts are the most popular choice on the beaches, but a pair of dry-fit chinos come in handy if you plan on going from a hike to the beach. Pack some tanks and tees to wear with your shorts. For an evening out, bring a couple of button-down, short-sleeved dress shirts. One pair of chino pants is good to pack for cooler evenings or if you plan on visiting temples.
For footwear, you will want a pair of comfortable sandals. If you plan on doing some hiking or other outdoor activities, bring hiking shoes and for any water activities, it’s useful to pack water shoes. A Panama hat and vintage sunglasses make great accessories. Lastly, you will also find it useful to bring a compact day bag to carry your things while exploring, and an anti-theft money belt to discreetly store your cash and cards.
Seasons in Bali are pretty straightforward but may be confusing to plan for. Here’s a quick guide to the weather, climate, and seasonal temperatures in the area so you’ll have a better idea of how to dress and what to pack for your trip.
Bring a sun hat, a swimsuit, a cute swimsuit cover-up, and good sunglasses. This is a place where protection should triumph over fashion – sport sunglasses that protect your eyes will help you a lot more than fashion shades.
Linen pants and shirts can’t be beat. Active sandals are ideal as well, as they can dry quickly but still provide support and security when you’re doing more strenuous activities. You will also need to bring quality eco-friendly sunscreen!
Temperatures average between 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C).
The wet season is… wet. Tropical storms are common, especially in the middle of the season (December through February), and rains dominate the season from start to finish. It’s still a gorgeous time to see Bali, but you’ll have to be very prepared for the incredibly humid heat, the rain, and the potential storms.
A rain jacket that allows your skin to breathe while still keeping you dry is really important in climates like that of Bali. You’ll be wearing it a lot, and if it can’t breathe, you’ll just get sweatier and even more uncomfortable from the trapped moisture. A windproof travel umbrella is a good idea, as is a reliable pair of active sandals that can get wet.
Amphibious mesh water shoes will be lifesavers, too, as they can be worn for land activities and water activities and help you maintain a non-slip grip while walking and hiking. A travel poncho will also come in very handy.
Temperatures average between 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C), just as they do in the Dry Season.
Beaches, Surfing & Scuba Diving: When you think of Bali, paradise may come to mind, along with the fantastic beaches and coral reefs. If you are looking to do a little surfing and sunbathing, check out Balangan, Bingin, or Balian beach. If snorkelling or scuba diving is your thing, try Amed Beach. or Padang Bay. Board shorts and bikinis are the norms. Don’t forget to pack a cover-up and bring lots of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. If you are surfing, you should wear a shirt or rash guard to protect yourself from a rash burn. We also recommended that snorkelers and scuba divers bring their own snorkels and masks. Lastly, it is handy to have a pair of water shoes if you plan on getting away from tourist-packed areas for swimming. They will protect your feet from unseen sea urchins and sharp coral.
Yoga & Meditation: In Bali, you’ll find plenty of places to practice yoga and meditation, go on retreats, or attend workshops and training especially in the town of Ubud. Wear a pair of comfortable sandals that are easy to take off. Make sure to pack moisture-wicking clothing like yoga capris or shorts along with tank tops or tees. Mats are provided but it’s a good idea to bring a water bottle and towel.
Spas: You will be amazed at how many spas are in Bali and how cheap it is to get a massage! Some places to try while you are in Bali include Madara Spa, Prana Spa, Body Temple at the Canggu Club, and Bodyworks Centre. Don’t forget to try some of the traditional Balinese treatments like the Balinese massage, shirodara, and hair cream baths. Choose loose, comfortable clothing to wear to the spa such as shorts and tees or maxi dresses. Just beware: if you are going for a massage, you will most likely be asked to strip down to your undies, as is the case with most professional massages in the US.
Wearing flashy jewellery can make you a target for thieves, and you don’t need it in Bali anyway.
Bali’s a great place to reflect and read, but heavy books are impractical for travelling. Opt for a Kindle instead, or try your luck with books left by guests in guesthouses.
Bali has pleasant and predictable weather, so you really don’t need much for this paradise. Local clothing is cheap should you find yourself in a pinch.
There is petty theft in Bali, and you may end up partying and forgetting to take good care of your things. There are ATMs, banks, and money changers so you don’t need lots of cash anyway.
Make no mistake about this: Indonesia routinely heavily prosecutes (and even executes!) foreigners for carrying drugs into the country. Even small quantities for personal use could result in you spending years in an Indonesian jail – not exactly the ideal vacation.
No. Locals often don’t drink the water without boiling it first, and their bodies have a lifetime of acclimatization that yours doesn’t. Drinking the water unboiled will likely give you serious diarrhoea or worse. Bottled water is widely available, and a LifeStraw personal filter is a fantastic addition to your travel kit. You may also want to bring a water bottle with a built-in filter so you will always have drinkable water with you.
Don’t worry – Bali is not especially dangerous, though you do need to keep an eye out for some tourist traps, such as payment scams, bag snatching, and petty theft. Traffic is chaotic and presents a risk as well. There are also some specific dangers lurking: surfing in some areas is for those with advanced skills only – check before you surf and know your limits!
Drug possession is treated severely, including up to the death penalty for foreigners and locals alike (YES, really!), and the local police aren’t known for their sympathy, so the safest path is to avoid all illegal drugs. Some areas, like Kuta, have worse reputations than others for such things.
Bali, specifically, and Indonesia in general have seen a number of deadly terrorist bombings aimed in part at foreigners, so it pays to be up to date and make your own assessment of the risk level. Do your research, avoid scams, and play it safe, and you should have nothing but enjoyment to look forward to on your journey.
In tourist areas, you’ll always find people who speak enough English to get by, although the conversation may be a bit slow from time to time. You’ll also see that those who do speak some English are more than happy to speak it and practice with you, so be sure to extend your own patience and graciousness. The local, official language is called Bahasa, and a simple Bahasa phrasebook will get you what you need and where you need to go.
In these areas, you’ll always find people who speak enough English to get by, although the conversation may be a bit slow from time to time. You’ll also see that those who do speak some English are more than happy to speak it and practice with you, so be sure to extend your own patience and graciousness.
The local, official language is called Bahasa, and a simple Bahasa phrasebook will get you what you need and where you need to go.
There are ATMs in larger areas. Some resorts are some distance from ATMs so it’s a good idea to visit while you are still at the airport after arrival. ATMs in Bali don’t take all cards, so if you have multiple cards, it’s good to have them as a backup and be prepared to try withdrawing multiple times, as the onscreen menu can be bewildering, and you may need to keep trying different options until one machine eventually dispenses your money.
Bali does not have a tipping culture and tipping is not expected. Restaurants often include a service charge in their bill. If you feel so inclined, a small tip for the cleaners at your accommodation would likely be appreciated.
Bali is fairly small so it’s hard to get totally off the beaten path. On the other hand, you’ll often feel that you’re in a different world, and if you go inland away from the main towns and big roads, you’ll find all kinds of things to explore.
Getting into the hills, you’ll feel more alone, and taking in the scenery and splendour of Bali’s volcanoes is a phenomenal opportunity.
Bali doesn’t have great transport. Taxis are decent if you’re able to find them and can be bothered with haggling. Motorbike taxis are common and convenient, though a little less safe. You can also rent your own motorbike or bicycle, which may be a great option if you’re not planning to be out on the roads much.
There’s a lot of Internet access all over Bali, so no worries there. Be sure to set yourself up with a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to be sure your browsing is safe and hacker-free.
Bali is part of Indonesia. Most Western passports entitle you to 30 days of visa-free access. UK citizens who plan to stay in Bali for longer than 30 days will need to apply for a visa at the UK consulate or an Indonesian embassy. You can check all up-to-day entry requirements for Indonesia on Gov.UK.
May, June, and July are ideal. By that time, the rainy season has ended and, at the beginning, you’ll still have more of the island to yourself. By July, it’s much busier since tourist season is in full swing, but with tourists comes the fun of a lively atmosphere.
Bali has become more expensive as its popularity has grown. To save money, choose a cheap place to stay in a cheaper area like Kuta or near Denpasar, eat at the local restaurants which may be off the main tourist streets, take public buses instead of taxis, and be prepared to bargain when you can.
YES. In fact, many people who work remotely while travelling make a stop in Bali on their journey. Just do a little bit of research on SIM cards before you go and get an appropriate one for your device(s). If you plan to use a computer, you’ll find decent connection speeds in cafes and other public hotspots, but you should absolutely use a VPN regardless of the device and network. You don’t want to risk your personal info and financial data being hacked! Trust me – it’s not easy to recover from. VPNs are super affordable on any budget and can cover multiple devices at once. Easy to use, powerful protection!
