What to Prepare for Bali Trip

Planning for your Bali trip is just as important as choosing where to stay and what to see. This guide covers everything you need to prepare before your journey to ensure a smooth, stress-free vacation.

Travel Documents & Entry Requirements

Make sure your paperwork is in order before traveling to Bali.

Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date in Bali. This is strictly enforced, and you will be denied entry if your passport expires earlier. Also make sure you have at least 1-2 empty pages for stamps.

Visa Information

Visa-Free Entry (Visa Exemption Arrangement – VEA)

• Eligibility: Nationals of 10 countries only: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam
• Duration: Up to 30 days (including arrival day)
• Purpose: Tourism only
• Limitations: Cannot be extended or converted to another visa type

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

• Eligibility: Citizens of 90+ countries including USA, UK, Australia, and most European nations
• Duration: 30 days; extendable once for an additional 30 days (total 60 days)
• Cost: IDR 500,000 (~USD $35)
• Application Options:
  • Standard VOA: Available at major airports and seaports upon arrival
  • Electronic VOA (e-VOA): Apply online before departure through the official immigration website (evisa.imigrasi.go.id) to skip airport queues
• Required Documents:
  • Passport valid for at least six months
  • Proof of onward or return flight
  • Payment via credit card or cash

For longer stays or business purposes, apply for the appropriate visa through an Indonesian embassy or consulate before your trip.

Check the Indonesian Visa Requirements to determine the right visa for your trip.

Return or Onward Flight Ticket

You must have proof of a return or onward flight from Indonesia. This requirement is frequently checked by:

• Airlines during check-in (who may deny boarding without proof)
• Immigration officers upon arrival in Bali

Make sure your departure date falls within your visa validity period.

Customs Declaration

All travelers must complete the Customs Declaration form before arriving in Bali. This can be done online or at kiosks located within Bali Airport. If you submit the form online through the official Indonesian immigration website (ecd.beacukai.go.id), you will receive a QR code to present to customs officials upon arrival.

Bali Tourist Tax

Since February 14, 2024, all international visitors to Bali must pay a one-time tourism levy of IDR 150,000 (approximately USD 10). This fee:

• Supports environmental conservation and cultural preservation in Bali
• Can be paid online before arrival via the official Love Bali  website/app (lovebali.baliprov.go.id) or upon arrival at the airport
• Is separate from Indonesian national visa fees

Health Declaration

Effective Aug 2024, check the latest health declaration requirements before traveling, as these can change based on global health situations.

Packing Essentials

Pack smartly for Bali’s tropical climate and varied activities.

Clothing

Bali has a hot, humid climate year-round, so pack lightweight, breathable clothes:

• T-shirts, tank tops, and light shirts
• Shorts, lightweight pants, and skirts
• At least one or two modest outfits for temple visits (covering shoulders and knees)
• Light sweater or jacket for air-conditioned places or cooler mountain areas
• Swimwear (2-3 sets if you plan to spend a lot of time at beaches)
• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals

Temple Visit Attire

For temple visits, both men and women must wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. A sarong and sash are often required and usually provided at major temples, but having your own is convenient. Women on their period are traditionally not allowed to enter temple grounds according to Balinese Hindu custom.

Sun Protection

The tropical sun is intense in Bali. Don’t forget:

• High SPF sunscreen (reef-safe if you plan to swim or snorkel)
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Hat or cap for sun protection
• Rashguard for snorkeling or extended water activities

Health and Toiletries

Bring a basic medical kit including:

• Any prescription medications in their original packaging with prescriptions
• Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
• Anti-diarrhea medication like Imodium
• Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Motion sickness pills if you plan boat trips
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Basic first-aid supplies for minor cuts and scrapes

Electronics and Gadgets

Don’t forget these tech essentials:

• Power adapter (Indonesia uses Type C and F plugs, 230V)
• Portable power bank for charging on the go
• Waterproof phone case or dry bag for beach and water activities
• Camera equipment if you’re not just using your phone

Transportation Planning

Planning how to get around Bali will make your trip much smoother.

Airport Transfers

Arrange your transportation from the airport before arrival. Options include:

• Pre-booked hotel shuttles – Many hotels offer this service, sometimes for free
• Private drivers – Can be arranged through your hotel or online
• Taxis – Available at the airport but may be more expensive
• Ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek – Usually the cheapest option but may need to meet at departures due to airport restrictions

Getting Around the Island

Bali doesn’t have a public transportation system for tourists. Your main options are:

• Private Driver: The most comfortable option, costing around $40-60 USD per day for 8-10 hours. Drivers speak English and can suggest places to visit.
• Scooter Rental: The cheapest and most flexible option, but requires an International Driving Permit and good driving skills. Traffic in tourist areas can be chaotic and accidents are common. Always wear a helmet.
• Ride-Hailing Apps: Apps like Grab and Gojek work well in most tourist areas, offering both cars and motorbike taxis at very reasonable prices.
• Taxi: Blue Bird Group taxis are reliable and use meters. Available mainly in south Bali and Ubud.
• Shuttle Services: Shared shuttles connect major tourist areas like Kuta, Ubud, and Lovina.

Transportation Tips

• Traffic in south Bali and around Ubud can be very heavy, especially during peak tourist season. Allow extra time for journeys.
• For day trips to multiple locations, hiring a private driver is usually the most convenient option.
• Download maps for offline use as internet connection might be spotty in some areas.
• If renting a scooter, photograph any existing damage before accepting it, and only rent from reputable businesses.

Money Matters

Managing your money wisely will help you avoid unnecessary expenses.

Indonesian Currency

The currency use in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Notes come in denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 rupiah.

Be careful with the zeros – 10,000 rupiah is less than $1 USD, while 100,000 is about $7 USD. Always double-check your bills when paying and receiving change.

Money Exchange

Options for accessing money in Bali:

• ATMs: Widely available in tourist areas. Withdraw larger amounts to minimize fees. Look for ATMs inside banks or shopping centers for better security.
• Money Changers: Official money changers with digital counting machines and clear rate displays are generally safe. Avoid changers offering rates that seem too good to be true.
• Credit Cards: Major hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards, but smaller places and markets are cash-only. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than American Express.

Tipping Customs

Tipping isn’t traditionally expected in Bali, but it’s becoming more common in tourist areas:

• Restaurants: Many add a 10% service charge; if not, 5-10% is appreciated
• Drivers: For a full day, 50,000-100,000 IDR is appropriate
• Spa treatments: 10-20% for good service
• Hotel staff: 20,000-50,000 IDR for porters or housekeeping

Bargaining

Bargaining is expected at markets and with street vendors. Start at about 50% of the initial price and work your way up. Keep it friendly, and be prepared to walk away if you can’t agree on a price. Fixed-price shops and malls typically don’t allow bargaining.

Health & Safety

Taking precautions will help ensure a healthy and safe trip.

Water and Food Safety

• Drink bottled water only. Even locals don’t drink tap water.
• Avoid ice in smaller warung (local eateries) if you’re concerned, though most tourist restaurants use purified ice.
• Be cautious with street food – choose busy stalls with high turnover.
• Wash fruits and vegetables with purified water or peel them.
• “Bali Belly” (traveler’s diarrhea) is common. Bring medication and stay hydrated if it occurs.

Sun and Heat Protection

Bali’s tropical climate means:

• Apply sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Rest during the hottest part of the day (11 AM to 3 PM)
• Adjust gradually to the heat and humidity

Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

Dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases occur in Bali. Protect yourself:

• Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin
• Wear long sleeves and pants in the evening or in jungle areas
• Avoid standing water where mosquitoes breed

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential for any trip to Bali. Make sure your policy covers:

• Medical emergencies and evacuation
• Trip cancellation or interruption
• Lost or delayed baggage
• Adventure activities if you plan to participate in them

Emergency Information

Save these important contact numbers:

• Tourist Police: 110 or 0361-224111
• Emergency/Ambulance: 118
• Your country’s consulate in Bali
• Your hotel contact information

Recommended Hospitals

For serious medical issues, these hospitals in Bali have international standards:

• BIMC Hospital (Kuta and Nusa Dua)
• Siloam Hospital (Denpasar)
• Kasih Ibu Hospital (Denpasar)

Communication Essentials

Staying connected in Bali is relatively easy but requires some preparation.

SIM Cards and Data

Staying connected in Bali is affordable and you have several options:

Physical SIM Cards

• Available at the airport upon arrival (slightly more expensive but convenient)
• Find them at convenience stores like Circle K or Indomaret
• Purchase at official provider shops (Telkomsel, XL, Indosat)

A typical tourist SIM package costs around 100,000-200,000 IDR and includes enough data for a 1-2 week stay. Telkomsel offers the best coverage across Bali, especially in remote areas.

Important: Your phone must be unlocked to use a local SIM card.

eSIM Options

For greater convenience, consider using an eSIM:

• No physical card needed – activated digitally through an app
• Can be set up before you arrive in Bali
• Works alongside your regular SIM (no swapping needed)
• Data-only packages available from various providers
• Perfect for using apps like WhatsApp, maps, and social media

Most modern smartphones (iPhone 11 or newer, recent Samsung Galaxy models) support eSIM technology. Check your phone’s compatibility before traveling.

Since most Balinese use WhatsApp for communication, an eSIM with data may be all you need if you don’t require a local phone number for voice calls.

WiFi Availability

Free WiFi is available at most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in tourist areas, though quality and speed vary. Don’t rely on public WiFi for important tasks or sensitive information without using a VPN.

Useful Apps for Bali

Download these apps before your trip:

• Grab or Gojek for transportation and food delivery
• Google Maps with offline maps of Bali downloaded
• Google Translate with Indonesian language downloaded
• WhatsApp (the most common messaging app in Indonesia)
• XE Currency or similar for quick currency conversion
• A good VPN for secure internet access

Basic Bahasa Indonesia Phrases

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, locals appreciate when visitors make an effort with a few basic phrases:

• Selamat pagi – Good morning
• Selamat siang – Good afternoon
• Terima kasih – Thank you
• Sama-sama – You’re welcome
• Maaf – Sorry/Excuse me
• Berapa harganya? – How much does it cost?
• Tolong – Please/Help

Cultural Awareness

Understanding and respecting Balinese culture will enrich your experience.

Religious Customs

Bali is predominantly Hindu, with daily religious rituals an important part of life:

• Don’t touch or step over offerings (canang sari) placed on sidewalks and entrances
• Dress modestly when visiting temples or attending ceremonies
• Stand or sit lower than the priest during ceremonies as a sign of respect
• Remove your shoes before entering temples and homes

Temple Etiquette

When visiting temples:

• Wear a sarong and sash (usually provided or available for rent at major temples)
• Women on their period should not enter temple grounds according to tradition
• Don’t climb on sacred structures or touch religious objects
• Ask permission before taking photos of ceremonies or people praying
• Maintain a respectful volume when talking

Appropriate Behavior

The Balinese value harmony and respect:

• Speak calmly – raising your voice is considered very rude
• Use your right hand for giving and receiving
• Don’t touch people’s heads (considered sacred)
• Public displays of affection should be minimal, especially in villages or temples
• Point with your thumb, not your index finger
• Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home

Understanding Ceremonies

You might encounter various Balinese ceremonies:

• Odalan – Temple anniversary celebrations
• Galungan and Kuningan – Celebration of good over evil
• Nyepi – Balinese New Year and Day of Silence (the island shuts down completely)
• Cremation ceremonies – Often large processions through streets

If you encounter a ceremony procession, stop and wait respectfully until it passes.

Pre-Trip Planning Timeline

Use this timeline to prepare for your Bali trip.

3-6 Months Before

• Check passport validity and apply for renewal if needed
• Research visa requirements for your nationality
• Book flights (best deals often found 3-4 months in advance)
• Check vaccination recommendations and get any needed shots

1-2 Months Before

• Book accommodation
• Research activities and tours you want to do
• Create a rough itinerary
• Arrange airport transfers
• Check weather forecasts for your travel dates

2 Weeks Before

• Make digital copies of important documents (passport, insurance, etc.)
• Inform your bank of your travel plans to prevent card blocks
• Download useful apps
• Arrange house/pet sitting if needed
• Check baggage allowance on your flights

1 Week Before

• Begin packing
• Exchange some currency if desired
• Confirm all bookings
• Check local news for any events or issues in Bali
• Set up email auto-replies if needed
• Register for eVOA (if you plan to apply online)
• Get travel insurance

Day Before Departure

• Check in online for your flight
• Electronic Custom Declaration (if you want to register online – 48 hours before departure)
• Charge all electronic devices
• Pack essentials in carry-on (medications, valuables, one change of clothes)
• Double-check departure time and transportation to airport
• Set your home for extended absence (unplug appliances, set thermostat, etc.)

Being well-prepared for your Bali trip will help you relax and fully enjoy this beautiful island. With these essentials covered, you can focus on making amazing memories in this tropical paradise.

Don’t forget to check our guides on What to See in Bali for the best attractions and What to Do in Bali for exciting activities during your stay!