travel

What to Pack for Bali: Essential Packing List for First-Time Travelers

Packing for Bali can feel overwhelming - this guide walks you step-by-step through what to bring, why you need it, and how to pack smart for the island’s tropical weather and cultural etiquette.

Stay connected from arrival: eSIM vs local SIM comparison (no airport queues needed)
Bali's year-round tropical climate requires breathable, quick-dry clothing.
Cultural etiquette demands modest clothing for temples.
A complete travel document checklist saves stress at immigration.
Footwear and accessories tailored for beaches, trekking, and scooters.
Health kit essentials to prevent "Bali Belly" and protect from insects.
Gadgets and travel gear that work well in humid and wet environments.
What to skip to avoid overpacking and wasted space.
Extra tips for families, adventurers, and eco-conscious travelers.

Planning your Bali trip? Beyond sarongs and sunscreen, there's one essential item that catches travelers off-guard: reliable internet access from the moment you land.

Picture this: You've just survived a long flight, cleared immigration, and stepped into Bali's arrivals hall. You need to book a Grab to your hotel, check your accommodation address on Google Maps, and access the mandatory Love Bali QR code on your phone. But you have no internet. Airport WiFi is packed with 300 other travelers. Your hotel is 45 minutes away. You're stuck.

The fix? Sort out your connectivity BEFORE you pack—just like you'd handle your visa, not scramble for it at the airport.

This guide covers the complete checklist: how to stay connected (eSIM vs local SIM), essential documents, temple-appropriate clothing, Bali Belly prevention, and smart packing strategies for tropical weather.

Let's start with what you'll need the moment you touch down.

Understanding Bali’s Weather and Culture

Bali’s Tropical Climate Explained

Bali’s average temperature sits between 26–32°C (78–90°F) with high humidity.
Two main seasons:

Dry season (Apr–Sep): Sunny days, lower humidity, occasional showers.
Wet season (Oct–Mar): Frequent tropical downpours, higher humidity.

For dry days, cotton or linen breathable tops keep you cool. Quick-dry fabrics help when humidity is high or after rain. Always carry a lightweight rain jacket or compact poncho in wet season — showers come fast.

Bali's climate means packing for hot, humid conditions year-round. The key difference between seasons is rainfall frequency—not temperature. Even during dry season, brief afternoon showers can occur, so always pack a lightweight rain jacket you can stuff in your daypack.

Season	Recommended Clothing	Extras
Dry	Breathable tops, shorts, skirts, sandals	Sunhat, sunglasses
Wet	Quick-dry shirts/pants, waterproof sandals	Rain jacket, dry bag

[Visual: Seasonal climate chart] [Photo: airy outfits + rain jacket]

Cultural Etiquette and Dress Codes

Temples require modest attire: shoulders and knees covered. A sarong is worn around the waist and secured with a sash.
How to wear a sarong:

Wrap fabric around waist.
Overlap edges in front.
Tie with sash or scarf.

Respecting dress codes is part of honoring Bali’s majority Hindu culture. Even outside temples, modest wear can help you blend in during village visits.

Step-by-Step Packing Preparation

Step 1 – Secure Essential Travel Documents (Updated 2025)

Getting your documents right is crucial to avoid delays and fines at Bali immigration. Here's your complete checklist with updated 2025 requirements:

Required Documents

Passport – Valid at least 6 months from your arrival date with at least 2 blank pages.

Visa Requirements – Depends on your nationality:
Visa-Free Entry: ASEAN citizens (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, etc.) get 30 days free, non-extendable
Visa on Arrival (VoA): Available for 90+ countries including USA, Australia, UK, Canada
- Cost: IDR 500,000 (approximately USD $35)
- Stay: 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days
- Apply online at [molina.imigrasi.go.id](https://molina.imigrasi.go.id) OR pay on arrival
Online application allows you to use autogate (5 mins vs 2 hours queue!)

MANDATORY: Bali Tourism Levy (NEW 2024)

- Cost: IDR 150,000 (approximately USD $10)
- Who pays: ALL international visitors including children
- When: Pay BEFORE arrival at [lovebali.baliprov.go.id](https://lovebali.baliprov.go.id)
- What you get: QR code to show at immigration
- Scam warning: Only use the official website above. Fake sites charge up to $45!

New Digital Requirements (September 2025)
- All Indonesia App: Download and complete arrival declaration through this app (replaces old Satu Sehat and Customs forms)
- SATUSEHAT Health Pass: Still required for health monitoring (Mpox prevention)
- Autogate Pre-registration: Optional but recommended at [autogate.imigrasi.go.id] for faster immigration

Return or Onward Ticket – You MUST show proof of departure from Indonesia. Airlines may deny boarding without this.

Accommodation Booking – Confirmation for your stay (hotel, villa, or Airbnb).

Travel Insurance – Not mandatory but HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Covers medical emergencies (hospitals require upfront payment), trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Ensure it covers:
- Bali Belly treatment
- Scooter accidents (if you plan to ride – see driver's license below)
- Medical evacuation (can cost USD $100,000+)

International Driver's License – ⚠️ MANDATORY if you plan to rent a scooter or car (see detailed section below).

Step 1.5 – Pack Your Internet Access (Do This Before You Fly)

Why This Belongs in Your Packing Checklist

You've sorted your visa. You've paid the tourism levy. Now handle the third essential: internet access.

The moment you land in Bali, you'll need data for:

Booking Grab from airport to hotel (taxis cost 3x more)
Google Maps to find your accommodation
Accessing mandatory apps: Love Bali QR code, All Indonesia declaration
Messaging your host that you've arrived
Emergency calls if something goes wrong

Hotel WiFi won't help—you're 45 minutes from your hotel, standing in a crowded airport with 300 other travelers fighting for the same slow public WiFi.

Smart travelers sort this out at home, like packing your passport—not scrambling at the airport while jetlagged.

Your Internet Options: Honest Comparison (2025)

I've tested all these options across multiple Bali trips. Here's what actually works:

Option	Cost (15 days)	Setup Time	Get It When?	Hassle
eSIM	$8.50 (5GB)	2 min	Before flight	Easiest
Local SIM (airport)	$10-15	30-90 min	At airport	Medium
Local SIM (store)	$5-8	20-30 min	In town	Medium
Pocket WiFi	$75-150	15 min	Airport pickup	Annoying
Hotel WiFi only	Free	N/A	At hotel	Very limiting
Roaming	$168+	Instant	Before flight	Expensive

Option 1: eSIM (Recommended for Most Travelers)

What it is: Digital SIM delivered via email. Scan QR code, activate—no physical card needed.

Why this wins:

Activate at home while packing (test it works—zero airport stress)
Instant connection upon landing (30 seconds to 2 minutes)
Keep your home number active (dual SIM phones handle calls + Bali data)
Skip airport queues (1-2 hour waits during July-August, December)
Can't lose it (digital—not a physical card you'll drop in a taxi)
Works across Indonesia (Bali, Nusa Penida, Gili Islands, Java, Lombok)

Requirements:

eSIM-compatible phone: iPhone XS+, Samsung S20+, Google Pixel 3+ (check compatibility)
Buy 3-5 days before departure (gives time to test)

How to "Pack" Your eSIM (5-Minute Setup):

3-5 days before your flight:

Step 1: Buy your plan

Go to theBitJoy.com → Indonesia eSIM
Choose data amount:
- 5GB/15 days ($8.50) ← Best for most travelers (navigation, Grab, social media)
- 10GB/30 days ($15) ← Digital nomads, video calls
- 3GB/7 days ($4.50) ← Short trips with lots of hotel WiFi

Step 2: Check email (instant delivery)

You'll receive QR code immediately
Subject: "Your Bali eSIM is Ready"

Step 3: Install at home (while on your WiFi)

iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR code
Android: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan code
Label it "Bali eSIM" (so you know which to turn on later)
Don't activate yet! Keep it toggled OFF until you land

Step 4: Screenshot the QR code

Backup in case you need to reinstall
Store in Photos or save email offline

When you land in Bali:

Turn off airplane mode
Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → Toggle ON "Bali eSIM"
Toggle OFF your home SIM for "Cellular Data" (keep it on for calls/texts)
Wait 30 seconds to 2 minutes
See "Telkomsel" or "XL" in status bar? You're online!
Open Grab app → Book your ride → Done

Real Traveler Data Usage (15-day trip):

Google Maps navigation: 300-500 MB
Grab/Gojek rides: 50-100 MB
Instagram stories (daily): 500 MB - 1 GB
WhatsApp messages/calls: 200-300 MB
Email/Slack: 100-200 MB
Total typical usage: 2-4 GB

5GB plan gives you buffer for unexpected needs (looking up restaurants, translating menus, booking last-minute tours).

Pro tip: Most travelers use only 60-70% of a 5GB plan with moderate use. If you somehow run out (rare), you can top up online—no need to find a store.

Option 2: Local SIM Card (For Long-Term Stays)

What it is: Physical SIM from Telkomsel or XL Axiata (Indonesia's main carriers).

Why some choose this:

Slightly cheaper for huge data (50GB+ packages)
Easy top-up at convenience stores (Alfamart, Indomaret everywhere)

The hassles:

Airport queue: 1-2 hours in peak season
Must swap physical SIM (lose access to home number unless dual SIM)
Passport registration required (data privacy concerns)
Tourist pricing at airport (2-3x more than stores)
Language barrier with staff

Prices (2025):

Airport kiosk: 6GB/30 days = ~$10-15 (tourist markup)
Convenience store: 6GB/30 days = ~IDR 75,000 ($5)

Best for: Stays longer than 1 month where setup hassle pays off

If you go this route: Buy at Alfamart/Indomaret in Canggu or Seminyak (cheaper + shorter line). Ask hotel staff to help with registration.

Option 3: Pocket WiFi Device

Cost: $5-10/day (total: $75-150 for 15 days)

Pros: Share with family (up to 5 devices)

Cons:

Another device to carry, charge (4-6 hour battery), return
Lose it = $200+ penalty
More expensive than eSIM for solo travelers

Best for: Families/groups of 4-5 people splitting cost

Option 4: Hotel/Café WiFi Only (Risky)

Cost: Free

Reality check:

Bali hotel WiFi: Usually 2-10 Mbps (slow), doesn't reach pool/beach
Villa WiFi: Often 1-3 Mbps (painful)
Café WiFi: Requires purchase, quality varies wildly
Zero internet while exploring = can't book Grab, use Maps, handle emergencies

Dangerous scenarios without mobile data:

Scooter breaks down in rice fields (can't call for help)
Lost in Ubud market (no Google Maps)
Bali Belly at 2am (can't access Halodoc doctor app)

Only viable if: Extreme budget AND staying in one small area AND pre-download everything

Option 5: International Roaming (Emergency Only)

Example costs:

AT&T International Day Pass: $12/day = $168 for 2 weeks
Verizon TravelPass: $12/day = $168 for 2 weeks
Vodafone: £6/day = ~$105 for 2 weeks

Horror story: Traveler forgot to disable background data → $400 bill from app updates

Only use for: 1-2 day emergency trips

Quick Decision Guide

Get eSIM if you want:

Zero hassle (2-min setup at home)
Instant connection on landing
Keep home number active
Trip under 30 days

Get local SIM if:

Staying 1+ months
Need 50GB+ data (heavy streaming)
Don't mind 1-hour airport setup

Get Pocket WiFi if:

Traveling with family (4-5 people)
✅ Cost per person < $3/day

Use WiFi-only if:

Extreme budget
Staying in one neighborhood
Comfortable with zero internet while exploring

Essential Apps That NEED Internet

Download these before your flight (while on home WiFi):

Mandatory Government Apps:

Love Bali - Pay tourism levy, get QR code (required at immigration)
All Indonesia - Arrival declaration (replaces paper forms from Sep 2025)
SATUSEHAT - Health pass

Transportation (CRITICAL):

Grab - Book rides (way cheaper than taxis)
Gojek - Alternative to Grab, plus food delivery

Navigation:

Google Maps - Download "Bali offline map" while on WiFi
- Real-time traffic, business hours still need internet
Maps.me - Backup offline maps

Communication:

WhatsApp - Free calls/texts (most Indonesians use this, not SMS)
Google Translate - Download Indonesian language pack

Health:

Halodoc - 24/7 doctor video calls + medicine delivery
- Bali Belly at 3am? Doctor arrives in 30 min
- Needs internet for video consultation

Your Connectivity Packing Checklist

Add these to your packing list:

Digital Items:

[ ] Bali eSIM purchased & installed (3-5 days before departure)
[ ] Screenshot of eSIM QR code (backup)
[ ] All 10 apps downloaded and logged in
[ ] Love Bali levy paid → QR code saved offline
[ ] All Indonesia app completed
[ ] Confirmed phone is eSIM-compatible OR carrier-unlocked

Physical Items (see Tech Gadgets section below):

[ ] Universal adapter (Type C/F plug)
[ ] Power bank 10,000mAh+
[ ] 2x charging cables (humid air damages them)
[ ] Waterproof phone case
[ ] Ziplock bags for rain protection

Common Mistakes (Learn from Others)

"I'll buy a SIM at the airport"
→ Reality: 2-hour queue, miss pre-booked Grab, pay 3x for taxi

"My hotel has good WiFi"
→ Reality: 3 Mbps max, doesn't work at pool, useless while exploring

"I'll use roaming for a few days"
→ Reality: $200+ bill for basic Google Maps + Instagram

"Offline maps are enough"
→ Reality: Can't book Grab, access Love Bali QR, call doctor, get real-time info

Smart move: Spend $8.50 on eSIM → Save 2 hours + massive headaches

Bottom line: Treat internet like your passport—essential, not optional. Sort it out BEFORE you start packing clothes.

Step 2 – Health and Safety Preparations

Vaccinations: consult your doctor.
Medications: labeled prescriptions in original packaging.
Bali Belly prevention kit: probiotics, anti-diarrhea tablets, oral rehydration salts.
Reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
Insect repellent to guard against bites.

Travel health kit checklist:

Bali Belly (traveler's diarrhea) affects approximately 30% of visitors. Prevention is key!

Essential Health Items

Bali Belly Prevention & Treatment:
- Probiotics – Start 3-5 days BEFORE your trip and continue throughout:
- Recommended strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG or Saccharomyces boulardii
- Available brands: Culturelle, Florastor, Align
- Anti-diarrhea medication – Imodium (loperamide) or Pepto-Bismol
- Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) – Hydralyte, Pedialyte, or WHO formula sachets
- Activated charcoal tablets – For mild food poisoning

Sun & Insect Protection:
- Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ – Regular sunscreen damages coral reefs (illegal at some beaches)
- Brands: Stream2Sea, Raw Elements, Badger
- Insect repellent with DEET (30-50%) or Picaridin
- Mosquitoes carry dengue fever (no vaccine, serious illness)
- Apply especially at dawn/dusk

Basic First Aid:
- Adhesive bandages (band-aids) – Various sizes
- Antiseptic wipes or cream
- Pain relievers – Paracetamol (acetaminophen) or Ibuprofen
- Motion sickness tablets – For boat trips to Nusa Penida/Gili Islands
- Antihistamine – For allergic reactions

Prescriptions:
- Bring ALL medications in ORIGINAL packaging with labels
- Carry a copy of prescriptions (in English if possible)
- Pack in carry-on (checked bags can get lost)

What If You Get Sick in Bali?

Mild Bali Belly (Most Cases):
- Rest and hydrate continuously (sip water/coconut water)
- Take ORS to prevent dehydration
- Eat bland foods: rice, toast, bananas (BRAT diet)
- Avoid: dairy, spicy food, alcohol, caffeine
- Usually resolves in 24-48 hours

When to See a Doctor:
- Symptoms persist beyond 48 hours
- High fever (>38.5°C/101°F)
- Bloody stools
- Severe vomiting preventing hydration
- Signs of dehydration (dark urine, dizziness, extreme thirst)

Medical Services in Bali:
- 24/7 English-speaking clinics: BIMC, Siloam, Bali International Hospital
- Doctor house calls: Available in most tourist areas
- Services: Trishnanda Care Centre, Halodoc app
- IV hydration therapy available (instant relief)
- Pharmacies (Apotek): Well-stocked, many medications available without prescription
- Emergency number: 112

Costs: Consultations start at IDR 500,000 (~$35). House calls more expensive but convenient. Travel insurance covers this!

Bali Belly Prevention Rules (MEMORIZE THIS)

NEVER:
- ❌ Drink tap water (even for brushing teeth - use bottled)
- ❌ Accept ice cubes (often made from tap water)
- ❌ Eat raw salads/fruits washed in tap water
- ❌ Eat street food from stalls with poor hygiene
- ❌ Eat undercooked meat or seafood

ALWAYS:
- ✅ Drink sealed bottled water (check seal is intact)
- ✅ Eat freshly cooked, hot food
- ✅ Choose busy restaurants (high food turnover)
- ✅ Wash hands frequently (carry hand sanitizer)
- ✅ Peel fruits yourself

Street Food Safe?
Yes, IF you choose wisely:
- Look for busy stalls (fresh ingredients)
- Food should be cooked in front of you
- Observe vendor's hygiene practices
- When in doubt, skip it

Pro Tip: Travel Insurance
Choose a policy that covers:
- Bali Belly treatment (common claim)
- Medical evacuation (critical for serious illness)
- Scooter accidents (if you ride - needs valid IDP!)
- Trip cancellation due to illness

Recommended providers: World Nomads, SafetyWing, Allianz (compare coverage)

What Clothes to Pack for Bali

Everyday Clothing for Tropical Comfort

Breathable tops (cotton, linen)
Lightweight pants or skirts
Casual shorts
Light poncho in wet season
Plan mix-and-match outfits to keep luggage light.

[Visual: flat-lay tropical outfit]

Beach and Swimwear

2–3 swimsuits
Cover-up or sarong
Quick-dry towel

Temple and Cultural Visits

Sarong
Modest tops covering shoulders
Closed shoes or sturdy sandals

[Visual: Temple entrance with attire requirement]

Evening and Cool Weather Options

Light sweater or cardigan for mountain areas and breezy nights.

Footwear and Accessories

Recommended Footwear Types

Everyday sandals – breathable, easy to clean.
Sneakers – for tours and light trekking.
Water shoes – for rocky beaches or waterfall trips.

Footwear	Pros	Cons
Sandals	Cool, lightweight	Less support for trekking
Sneakers	Good support	Hot for beach use
Water shoes	Protect feet in water	Not ideal for all-day walking

[Visual: footwear comparison table]

Essential Accessories

Sun hat
Sunglasses
Reusable water bottle
Anti-theft bag

Toiletries and Health Essentials

Basic Personal Care Items

Toothbrush, toothpaste
Deodorant
Travel-size shampoo/conditioner
Feminine hygiene products

Travel Health Kit

Include sunscreen, insect repellent, basic meds for stomach upset, and prescription items.

Tech Gadgets and Travel Gear

Must-Have Electronics

Power & Connectivity:

Universal travel adapter (Type C/F plug - Indonesia standard)

Voltage: 220V (your phone/laptop chargers work fine—they're dual voltage)
Don't need voltage converter, just plug adapter
Buy before you go (airport shops overcharge)

Power bank (10,000mAh minimum, 20,000mAh better)

Why: Full temple days (Uluwatu, Tanah Lot) drain battery by 2pm
Using Google Maps + Grab + camera + eSIM data = dead phone fast
Budget option: Anker PowerCore (~$25)
Charge it fully before flight

Phone with eSIM already set up (or unlocked for local SIM)

See "Step 1.5 - Pack Your Internet Access" above if not sorted yet
Test eSIM at home before packing

Protection Gear:

Waterproof phone case

Bali has random downpours even in "dry season"
Waterfall mist (Tegenungan, Tibumana) damages phones
Snorkeling/beach trips need protection
Budget hack: Ziplock bag works in a pinch

GoPro or action camera (optional)

For snorkeling (Nusa Penida manta rays, coral gardens)
Waterfall videos (hands-free)
iPhone 13+ is water-resistant to 6m (might not need GoPro)

Cables & Organization:

2x charging cables (bring backup!)

Bali humidity corrodes cable connectors FAST
Keep 1 in hotel, 1 in day bag
USB-C or Lightning depending on your phone

Cable organizer pouch

Waterproof is ideal
Humid air tangles cables, causes port damage
Keeps everything in one place

What NOT to Bring:

❌ Hair styling tools (curling iron, straightener) - Bali humidity destroys your effort in 5 minutes ❌ Laptop (unless remote working—café WiFi is decent, but bring eSIM backup) ✅ E-reader? Actually YES—Kindle > physical books (saves space, backlit for villa reading) ❌ Drone - Requires permit in Indonesia, many areas banned

What NOT to Pack for Bali

Heavy jackets
Jeans (slow to dry)
Hair styling tools (humidity kills curls)
High heels
Excess jewelry

[Visual: “Do Not Pack” image with red cross]

Bonus Packing Tips for Different Travelers

Families with Kids

Snacks from home
Stroller or carrier
UV protection swimwear

Adventure Travelers

Dry bag
Water-resistant backpack

Eco-Friendly Travelers

Reusable bottle
Biodegradable toiletries

Manage Weight Efficiently

Use Bali laundry services
Leave room for souvenirs

Before You Land in Bali - Final Checklist

24-48 hours before flight:

[ ] Activate your eSIM (toggle it on to test, then turn off until landing)
[ ] Pay Bali Tourism Levy at lovebali.baliprov.go.id (save QR code)
[ ] Complete All Indonesia app (arrival declaration)
[ ] Prepare small Indonesian Rupiah cash (IDR 100,000-200,000 for airport tips)
[ ] Download Bali offline maps (Google Maps → "Download offline area")
[ ] Confirm airport transport (pre-book Grab or hotel pickup)
[ ] Screenshot important QR codes (Love Bali, eSIM, hotel booking)

At the airport (before boarding):

[ ] Turn on airplane mode (keeps eSIM installed but not active)
[ ] Charge power bank fully
[ ] Pack medications in carry-on (checked bags get lost)

When you land in Bali:

[ ] Turn off airplane mode → Toggle on eSIM → Wait 30 sec → You're online!
[ ] Open Grab app → Book ride to hotel (avoid taxi touts)
[ ] Show Love Bali QR code at immigration

FAQs About Packing for Bali

Do I need to pay the Bali tourist tax?

Yes, ALL international visitors must pay the Bali Tourism Levy of IDR 150,000 (~$10 USD), including children of all ages. Payment is mandatory before entry through the official Love Bali website (lovebali.baliprov.go.id). You'll receive a QR code to show at immigration.

Can I get an International Driving Permit in Bali?

While some agencies in Bali offer same-day IDP services, it's strongly recommended to obtain one from your home country before departure (through AAA, Post Office, or your country's automobile association). This is cheaper ($20-30 vs $120-180) and ensures legitimacy. Without a valid IDP, you risk fines of IDR 300,000-500,000 and voided travel insurance.

What's the total cost for Bali entry requirements in 2025?

Most tourists pay approximately $45 USD total:
- Visa on Arrival: $35 USD (IDR 500,000)
- Bali Tourism Levy: $10 USD (IDR 150,000)
ASEAN citizens with visa-free entry still pay the $10 tourism levy. Additional costs may include International Driving Permit ($20-30) if driving.

How do I avoid Bali Belly?

Follow these rules strictly:
1. Only drink sealed bottled water (check seal integrity)
2. Avoid ice cubes in drinks
3. Don't eat raw salads or unpeeled fruits
4. Choose busy restaurants with hot, freshly cooked food
5. Take probiotics starting 3-5 days before your trip
6. Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer

If you get sick, stay hydrated with oral rehydration salts and see a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 48 hours.

Is travel insurance mandatory for Bali?

Travel insurance is not legally required but HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Bali hospitals require upfront payment (can exceed $100,000 for serious cases). Insurance should cover:
- Medical emergencies and Bali Belly treatment
- Medical evacuation
- Scooter accidents (only if you have valid IDP)
- Trip cancellation and lost luggage

Can I drink tap water in Bali?

No. Tap water in Bali is NOT safe for drinking or brushing teeth. Always use bottled water with intact seals, or water that's been boiled or filtered. Ice cubes are often made from tap water, so avoid them unless you're at a high-end restaurant or resort that uses purified water.

What clothing is appropriate for Bali temples?

Temples require modest attire:
- Shoulders covered (no tank tops or sleeveless shirts)
- Knees covered (long pants, skirts, or dresses)
- Sarong wrapped around waist with sash (often provided at temple entrance for free or small donation)

Women menstruating are traditionally not permitted to enter temples. This is a cultural/religious practice, not discrimination.

Do I need a visa for Bali?

It depends on your nationality:
- ASEAN citizens (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, etc.): Visa-free for 30 days
- 90+ countries (USA, Australia, UK, Canada, etc.): Visa on Arrival (VoA) for $35, valid 30 days, extendable once
- Other nationalities: Check [molina.imigrasi.go.id](https://molina.imigrasi.go.id) for requirements

All visitors must pay the $10 Bali Tourism Levy regardless of visa type.

What apps should I download before going to Bali?

Essential apps:
1. Love Bali – Pay tourism levy (get QR code)
2. All Indonesia– Mandatory arrival declaration (from Sep 2025)
3. SATUSEHAT – Health pass registration
4. Grab/Gojek – Transportation (like Uber)
5. Google Translate – Download Indonesian for offline use
6. Maps.me or Google Maps – Offline navigation
7. Halodoc – 24/7 doctor consultations and medicine delivery

Important: Most of these apps REQUIRE internet to function properly. Grab needs data to book rides, Love Bali needs internet to load your QR code, Halodoc requires connection for video calls. Don't wait until the airport to figure out connectivity—see "Step 1.5 - Pack Your Internet Access" below for your options (eSIM vs local SIM comparison).

Can I use my credit card everywhere in Bali?

Not everywhere. While hotels, upscale restaurants, and shops accept cards, many local warungs (small restaurants), markets, and street vendors are cash-only. Bring:
- USD $100-200 cash to exchange on arrival (better rates than home country)
- Notify your bank about travel dates to avoid card blocks
- Have a backup card in case of issues
- Use ATMs attached to banks (more secure, better rates than exchange counters)

What's the best time to visit Bali weather-wise?

Dry season (April-September): Best weather with sunny days, lower humidity, perfect for beaches and outdoor activities. Peak tourist season (July-August gets crowded and expensive).

Wet season (October-March): Frequent tropical downpours (usually short, afternoon showers), higher humidity, but lush green landscapes. Lower prices and fewer tourists. Note: 2024/2025 wet season was unusually harsh—not typical.

Pack accordingly: rain jacket mandatory in wet season, extra sunscreen in dry season.

Should I buy eSIM or local SIM for Bali?

For most travelers, eSIM is better:

✅ Activate before flight (2 min setup at home)
✅ No airport queue (save 1-2 hours)
✅ Instant connectivity upon landing
✅ Price similar: eSIM $8.50 vs local SIM $5-10

Buy local SIM if:

You're staying 1+ months (easier to top up at stores)
You need 50GB+ data (very heavy usage)
Your phone doesn't support eSIM

See "Step 1.5" above for detailed comparison.

What happens if my phone dies and I lose my eSIM?

eSIM is stored in your phone's hardware chip, not battery-dependent. If phone dies:

Charge it, turn on → eSIM still there
If phone completely broken → Log into theBitJoy account, download QR code again, install on new/backup phone

Unlike physical SIM: Can't physically lose it or damage it.

Can I use my eSIM for Grab/Gojek rides?

Yes! That's the main reason to get internet:

Grab/Gojek apps need constant data to:
- Book rides
- Track driver location
- Process payment
- Contact driver if needed

Without internet, you're stuck using expensive hotel taxis (3-5x more expensive than Grab).

Key Takeaways

Stay connected from day one: Get eSIM before departure (skip airport queues, instant internet)
Light, breathable clothes suit Bali's climate
Always bring modest wear for cultural visits
Health kit prevents Bali Belly and insect bites
Gadgets should be waterproof or humidity-resistant
Avoid overpacking with heavy/impractical items

Summary

Bali's constant warmth, occasional rain, and deep-rooted cultural traditions shape how you should pack. Start by securing your internet access—eSIM takes 2 minutes to set up at home and eliminates airport stress. Keep clothing lightweight and respectful, protect yourself from sun and insects, and carry reliable gadgets and travel documents. Skip heavy, bulky items and plan for laundry and souvenir space. Packing smart means you'll have more time to explore—and less time worrying about missing essentials or hunting for a SIM card while jetlagged.

Ready to explore Bali? Sort out your connectivity, secure your documents, pack light, and embrace the island's tropical rhythm. Your adventure starts with proper preparation.

Read more:

Wondering When Bali Is Most Beautiful?

Best eSIM for Indonesia 2025 - Cheap, Fast & Easy Setup

Bali Travel Requirements for US Citizens | Complete Guide

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Date created October 29, 2025