Pack Light

Many people fear lacking necessities when traveling or returning home. So, they fill their suitcases. This habit can cause fatigue and inconvenience. Overpacking leads to excess baggage, with items often left unused. Therefore, one of the Bali travel tips I want to share is to only bring items that are truly necessary for the activities and weather here.

Bali Travel Tips

Pack your things wisely

Based on my experience in Bali, you should bring personal items such as:

  • Light fabric

  • Sport shoes

  • Sunglasses

  • A hat with a brim

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Necessary medications

  • Open-toe shoes

Carefully Check Visa Requirements

Currently, Indonesia offers visa exemption only for countries within the Southeast Asia region. If you're not a citizen of these countries, you will need to purchase a visa on arrival at the airport or through travel agents. The visa will be valid for 30 days, and if you plan to stay longer, you will need to extend your visa.

Bali Travel Tips

Check the visa regulations before you go

Each country may have specific visa regulations, so it's important to gather complete information by referring to official websites regarding visas in Indonesia. I have a recommendation for a website called "Bali Indonesia" where you can find relevant information.

Use Grab or Rent a Motorbike to Get Around

One of the best Bali travel tips for your trip is to rent a motorbike or use Grab for transportation. Traveling in this manner will give you flexibility in your movements and they are also the best means to enjoy the scenery and access special areas.

Bali Travel Tips

Bali travel tips: Book Grab for your journey in Bali

If you opt to rent a motorbike, ensure that you have sufficient experience and carry your driver's license with you. While on the move, don't forget to wear a helmet for safety. 

Based on my own experiences, picking a trustworthy motorbike rental service is key. Here are some in Bali that I've found reliable and would recommend:

  • Sewa Motor di Bali - Pakegoo. Tel: +62 819-9995-5227

  • Solbella Motor Bike Rental Pick-Up Airport. Tel: +62 852-1267-4175

  • Scoot Bali Bike Rental. Tel: +62 821-4511-2353

Stay Away from Wild Animals

Our next suggestion in the essential Bali travel tips is to keep your distance from stray animals. You might see stray dogs and monkeys in Bali because it's an island. They can attract your curiosity and delight. However, I advise you not to approach them, as they may carry rabies and other diseases that can be dangerous to you. 

In areas with monkeys, such as Monkey Forest, they can be somewhat aggressive and may steal your belongings, so it's best to avoid confrontation. 

Bali Travel Tips

Monkey Forest is full of lively monkeys

Watch Out for “Bali Belly”

"Bali Belly" is a familiar term among travelers in Bali. It refers to common issues such as stomach problems, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. These symptoms often arise from consuming unfamiliar food and using the local water supply. The bacteria that cause these symptoms are E. Coli and they can spread through contact.

Bali Travel Tips

Pay attention to the water source in Bali

As a tourist, you won't have the same immunity as the residents here. If you get Bali Belly, you'll need to treat it for a few days. To prevent your trip from being disrupted by this disease, here are some things to know before traveling to Bali:

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap.

  • Avoid eating unfamiliar food and raw food.

  • Use bottled water or boiled water for drinking, brushing your teeth, and washing your face.

  • Use medication to prevent digestive disorders.

  • Avoid using ice in your beverages.

Bring Some Cash

Carrying cash is one of the Bali tips for first-timers. In Bali, cash is still the preferred method for service payments. So, keep a suitable amount of cash handy during your trip. You should exchange currency at the airport or withdraw cash from ATMs. Changing money at other establishments may result in higher fees. So, you should consider this carefully.

Bali Travel Tips

Bali Travel Tips: Bring some cash

For a comprehensive look, don't miss our post on Bali travel guide!

Try Bekek Betutu

Bebek Betutu is a unique slow-cooked duck dish, marinated with an array of spices for hours, then fried to achieve a delightful crispiness. The yummy taste of this dish has received lots of compliments and holds a special place in Balinese cuisine. 

Bali Travel Tips

Bali Travel Tips: Try Bebek Betutu at a local traditional restaurant

The price of this dish will range from $12. Bebek Betutu is prepared with great care, so you don't need to worry about "Bali Belly." A Bali travel tip for you is to choose eateries with the word "Warung" in their name, as these are traditional and affordable dining establishments.

Feel Free to Negotiate Prices

When visiting Bali, you will find yourself in a souvenir paradise. You will surely be impressed by the intricately carved wooden crafts, handmade silver jewelry, pottery, Batik fabrics, and more. 

It's important to note that when purchasing these souvenirs, you may encounter higher prices than usual. Don't hesitate to bargain and negotiate with the sellers to get the best price. Ask for prices at different shops to determine a reasonable price range.

Bali Travel Tips

Bali travel Tips: Remember to bargain when you buy souvenirs

Don’t litter

Bali currently lacks a sophisticated waste management system, so it's important to be environmentally conscious and dispose of waste properly. I strongly advise you to be mindful of your plastic waste, particularly when it comes to items like plastic plates or bottles at the beach. Always make sure to dispose of them properly in designated bins. 

Discard your rubbish in the appropriate areas to help conserve Bali's beauty

Learn a Few Phrases in Balinese

Do you know the key to having the best travel experience in Bali? That's right, it's learning some basic Bali phrases before your trip. Mastering a few simple sentences can improve your relationship with the locals, and they'll appreciate your efforts. Don't worry, these phrases are quite easy to learn.

Here are some basic Bali phrases for you: 

Bali 

English

Pronunciation

Halo

Hello

Hah-lo

Selamat tinggal

Goodbye

Seh-lah-mat Teeng-gahl

Terima kasih

Thank you

Teh-Ree-mah Kah-see

Ya

Yes

Yah

Tidak

No

Tee-dahk

Maaf

Excuse me/Sorry

Mah-ahf

Murah

Cheap

Moo-rah

Mahal

Expensive

Mah-hal

Saya tidak mengerti

I don’t understand

Sah-yah Tee-dahk men-Gehr-tee

Bisa bicara Bahasa Inggris?

Do you speak English?

Bee-sah bee-Chah-rah Bah-hah-sah Ing-griss

 

Bali will indeed be a fantastic destination for your vacation. Understanding these Bali travel tips will ensure you have the best preparation when you arrive. If you need more information or have any inquires about Bali tour, don't hesitate to contact New Asia Tours. We are always ready to assist you.