Katie and Pierce
Planning a trip to Bali? This tropical paradise has so much to see and do, but there are some important things to know before visiting Bali that will make your trip much smoother. From visa requirements to local customs, these tips will help you avoid common mistakes and get the most out of your Indonesian adventure.
Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned traveler, these essential things to know before visiting Bali will save you time, money, and potential headaches. Let’s dive into everything you need to prepare for an amazing Bali experience.
1. Check Your Visa Requirements First
Before booking that flight, make sure you understand Bali’s visa requirements. Citizens from 169 countries can visit Indonesia visa-free for 30 days, while others need a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for $35 USD. The paid VOA can be extended once for 30 days, but the free version cannot be extended.
You can now apply for an electronic VOA (e-VOA) online through 86 countries, which saves tons of time at the airport. Don’t forget about the tourist tax of 150,000 IDR ($9.25) per person that you can pay in advance online.
2. You MUST Have An International Driving Permit For Scooters
Planning to rent a scooter in Bali? Getting an International Driving Permit before you leave home is absolutely essential. Police have seriously cracked down on tourists without proper documentation.
You need both your regular driver’s license from home AND an International Driving Permit. Most scooters in Bali are 110cc or 125cc, which means your regular car license won’t cut it. If you get stopped without an IDP, you’re looking at fines of 300,000 to 500,000 IDR per missing document. Always wear a helmet and proper clothing too.
3. Never Drink The Tap Water
This one should go without saying, but don’t drink tap water in Bali. You can brush your teeth with it, but drinking it will likely make you sick. Instead of buying endless plastic bottles, bring a reusable water bottle with a filter.
Many restaurants and cafes provide free refills for filtered water bottles. Ice in drinks at hotels, restaurants, and bars is usually safe since they use filtered water.
4. Drugs Will Land You In Serious Trouble
Indonesia has extremely strict drug laws, and the penalties are severe. You’ll see huge posters at the airport warning that drug trafficking is punishable by death. Even small amounts of cannabis can land you in prison.
People will try to sell you drugs on the street, especially in Kuta and Legian areas. Just ignore them completely. Some say every third person offering drugs is an undercover cop, so don’t take any chances.
5. Get An eSIM Before You Arrive
Having internet access in Bali is super important for navigation, contacting drivers, and staying connected. Skip the hassle of finding SIM card shops and get an eSIM before you travel.
eSIMs are easy to set up and much more convenient than traditional SIM cards. You’ll need data for Google Maps, ride-sharing apps, and keeping in touch with family back home.
6. Pre-Book Your Airport Pickup
The arrivals hall at Ngurah Rai Airport can be overwhelming with lots of drivers and taxi companies pushing their services. After a long flight, the last thing you want is to bargain with drivers.
Book your airport transfer in advance through a reputable service. They’ll wait for you with a sign and have fixed, affordable prices. This makes your arrival much smoother and stress-free.
7. Cash Is King In Bali
Bali still runs mostly on cash, especially for local warungs, street vendors, and drivers. While upscale restaurants and hotels accept cards, they often add a 3% credit card fee.
Always keep some cash on hand for daily expenses. The smaller local places that serve the best food usually only take cash anyway.
8. Sort Out Your Vaccinations Early
Check with your doctor about recommended vaccinations for Bali travel. Hepatitis A is highly recommended, and make sure your Tetanus shot is up to date (within 10 years).
Malaria risk is very low in Bali, but if you plan to do lots of mountain hiking or spend time in rural areas, ask your doctor about anti-malaria medication.
9. Police Interactions Require Caution
Unfortunately, tourists are often targeted by police for on-the-spot “fines” for various offenses. This is especially common if you’re riding a scooter without proper documentation or a helmet.
Always carry proper documents if you’re driving, wear your helmet, and be polite but firm. The standard fine is usually around 50,000 rupiah, but some tourists get charged much more.
10. ATMs Can Be Unreliable
While ATMs are widely available from Ubud down to the southern peninsula, they can be problematic in rural areas and on the Nusa Islands. They often run out of cash or have technical issues.
Withdraw money at the airport when you arrive, as those ATMs tend to be the most reliable. Always get your card back before walking away from the machine to avoid theft.
11. Beware Of Cheap Alcohol Poisoning
If you’re hanging out in budget areas like Kuta, be very careful of super cheap drinks. Anything priced around 25,000 IDR is too good to be true and might contain dangerous levels of methanol.
Methanol poisoning has caused deaths in Bali, and even small amounts can cause blindness. Stick to reputable bars and restaurants for alcoholic drinks.
12. Nothing Moves On Nyepi Day
Nyepi is Bali’s “Day of Silence” in March, and absolutely nothing moves on this day. The airport closes, power is shut down, and everyone must stay inside in complete silence.
This Hindu New Year celebration is dedicated to prayer, fasting, and meditation. Plan your trip dates carefully to avoid getting stuck during Nyepi.
13. Master The Local Transport Options (Grab, Go-Jek, No Uber)
Uber doesn’t operate in Bali, but Grab and Go-Jek work great for getting around. These apps can handle rides, food delivery, and even shopping runs.
In touristy areas like Seminyak, regular taxis are everywhere. If you use them, make sure they turn on the meter or agree on a price upfront. Bluebird taxis are the most reliable.
14. February To May Is The Sweet Spot For Visiting
The best time to visit Bali is February through May (except Easter). The island is still green from the rainy season, there are fewer crowds, and the weather is usually great.
The dry season (July to September) is now incredibly crowded and expensive. The rainy season (October to March) brings short afternoon showers but much better prices and fewer tourists.
15. Dress Codes Matter, Especially At Temples
Bali is pretty relaxed about clothing, but you need to cover up when visiting temples or going to more traditional areas. Bring a sarong and a shirt that covers your shoulders.
Don’t walk through villages wearing only swimwear. While locals are too polite to say anything, it’s disrespectful. Many temples provide sarongs to rent if you forget to bring one.
16. Never Take Shells, Stones, Or Coral As Souvenirs
Don’t pick up any natural items like shells, stones, coral, or leaves as souvenirs. Indonesian customs are extremely strict about this, and you can face heavy fines and possible detention at the airport.
This includes anything made from endangered species like tortoise shells or ivory. Stick to buying proper souvenirs from shops instead of taking things from nature.
17. Haggling Is Expected Everywhere
Besides restaurants, hotels, and convenience stores, the first price quoted is usually at least double what sellers will accept. Don’t be afraid to bargain!
Some vendors will even tell you what price to come back with. It can actually be fun once you get the hang of it. Start by offering half the asking price and work from there.
18. Respect Religious Ceremonies And Offerings
Balinese Hindu culture is still very strong despite all the tourism. You’ll see colorful daily offerings called “canang sari” everywhere on the streets.
Don’t interrupt people making offerings or participating in ceremonies. These rituals are important religious practices that take time and effort to prepare.
19. Beach Vendors Will Find You Everywhere
Even on tiny beaches, vendors will approach you selling sarongs, fruit, drinks, and massages. You’ll quickly learn the phrase “massage, maybe later?”
Support the local economy by buying fresh fruit like pineapples, mangoes, and coconuts. Just smile and politely say no if you’re not interested in buying anything.
20. Monkeys Will Steal Your Belongings
If you visit Ubud Monkey Forest or Uluwatu Temple, hide all your valuables. These monkeys are smart and will open backpacks, steal sunglasses, and even grab sandals right off your feet.
Leave everything you don’t need in your car or hotel room. The monkeys are looking for food and shiny objects, so don’t give them any opportunities.
21. The Nusa Islands Are Unmissable
Just 30 minutes by boat from Bali, you’ll find three paradise islands: Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan. These islands feel like a vacation from your Bali vacation.
The water is clearer, the beaches are less crowded, and the pace is much more relaxed. Nusa Lembongan is perfect for a day trip or longer stay.
22. Stray Dogs And Cats Roam Freely
Bali has thousands of stray animals, and while most aren’t aggressive, use common sense around them. There are several animal shelters working to help, but it’s still a big problem.
If you get bitten by any animal, see a doctor immediately. There have been rabies outbreaks on the island in the past, so don’t take any chances.
23. Tips Aren’t Required But Appreciated
Tipping isn’t expected in Bali, but it’s always appreciated. Even small amounts result in big smiles from service staff. The only exception is tourist restaurants that often add a service charge to your bill.
Local staff earn very little, so any tip you give makes a real difference in their day.
24. Learn Basic Indonesian Phrases
Learning a few words in Indonesian goes a long way with locals. They really appreciate the effort, even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect.
Start with basics like “selamat pagi” (good morning), “terima kasih” (thank you), and “tolong” (please). It helps when you venture outside tourist areas where English isn’t as common.
25. The Food Scene Is Incredible
Bali has amazing food ranging from cheap local warungs to high-end restaurants. Don’t miss trying Indonesian classics like nasi goreng (fried rice), rendang, and mie goreng (fried noodles).
Street food and local warungs serve the most authentic and affordable meals. Don’t be afraid to eat where the locals eat.
26. Surfing Opportunities Are World-Class
Bali is a surfing paradise with breaks suitable for all skill levels. You’ll see surfboards everywhere at the airport, and there are great spots all around the island.
Beginners should try Padang Padang, Nusa Dua, or Batu Bolong. You can rent boards and take lessons right on the beach at most surf spots.
27. Some Temples Ban Menstruating Women
This might sound strange, but many Balinese temples don’t allow women who are menstruating to enter. At popular temples like Pura Lempuyang, they’ll actually ask before you enter.
It’s part of traditional Hindu beliefs about purity. While it might seem outdated, it’s important to respect local customs and religious practices.
Final Thoughts
These essential things to know before visiting Bali will help you have a much smoother and more enjoyable trip. Bali is an incredible destination with so much to see and do, but being prepared makes all the difference.
Remember that Bali has changed a lot over the years, but it’s still a beautiful place with amazing culture, food, and natural beauty. The more you know before visiting Bali, the better your experience will be. Respect the local culture, stay safe, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the Island of the Gods!
