The Travel Tips pages are full of details about everything you need to know when visiting Bali. This page is an at-a-glance checklist to help you plan and get the most out of your Bali travel. This also includes some useful phrases to try in both Bahasa Indonesia and Balinese – guaranteed to help you get a smile from the recipient!
Bali Travel Checklist
· Before You Go
o Passport valid for 6+ months with at least 2 blank pages
o Visa arranged (VOA, e-VOA, C1 or D1 depending on your stay)
o Return or onward ticket booked
o Travel insurance (including scooter coverage if riding)
o Vaccinations up to date (Hep A, Typhoid, Tetanus)
o Currency exchange app or travel card such as Wise or Revolut set up
o International Driving Permit (IDP) for scooter or car hire
o Health and Customs declarations completed
o Bali Tourist Levy paid (Rp 150,000)
o Offline maps downloaded (Google Maps or Maps.me)
o Download and set up Grab and Gojek apps (many say they cannot set up correctly once in Bali)
o Airport to hotel transfer planned or confirmed (Klook is an excellent way to prebook)
o Emergency contacts saved (embassy, travel insurer, driver)
· What to Pack
o Lightweight clothing and swimwear, a jumper for nights in the mountain areas
o Sarong (for temple entry)
o Sunscreen (quite expensive to buy in Bali)
o Sanitary products (tampons expensive in Bali)
o Power adapter (Type C or F, like what works in Europe)
o Reusable water bottle
o Flip flops (things) and comfortable walking shoes
o Copies of passport, ID, insurance and wallet cards
· Getting Around
o Use Grab and Gojek apps
o Know your Bluebird taxi from the rest
o Pre-book private drivers for tours and day trips
o Do not ride a scooter unless you are licensed, insured and confident
· While in Bali
o Be aware of your personal conduct – the latest rules from the Bali Governor can be read here – https://disparda.baliprov.go.id/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/SE-NO-7-TAHUN-2025-TENTANG-TATA-TERTIB-WISATAWAN-ASING.pdf
o Respect local customs
o Dress modestly at temples
o Stay hydrated and avoid drinking tap water
o Be cautious with street or opened alcohol
o Tip for good service (especially where “++” pricing is not used
o Always wear a helmet on scooters, as a driver or passenger
o Watch out for rip currents at the beach, swim between the yellow and red flags at surf beaches
o Plan your travel time as traffic can be slow even over short distances
o Try at least one local experience (cooking class, ceremony, market)
· Internet & SIM Cards
o Wi-Fi is reliable in most hotels, restaurnts and cafes. If speed is important, there are usually co-working cafes and offices available in the main tourist areas.
o For the best connection, buy a Telkomsel or XL SIM card at the airport or telecommunication stores. If staying less than 30 days, a Tourist SIM will be adequate. You will need to take your passport when purchasing a SIM.
o Data packages are very cheap.
· Useful Phrases
| English Phrase | Bahasa Indonesian | Balinese |
| Hello | Hai or Hello | Swastyastu |
| Good morning | Selamat pagi | Rahajeng semeng |
| Thankyou | Terima kasih | Suksma (informal) or Matur suksma (formal) |
| Goodbye | Sampai jumpa | Rahajeng rauh |
| Please | Tolong | Ampura |
| How much | Berapa harganya | Berapa harga |
| Yes | Ya | Nggih or Inggih |
| No | Tidak | Nenten or ten |
| Delicious | Enak sekali | Jaan gati |
| Where is | Di mana | Ring dija |
In Bali always try to relax and go with the flow. Things do not always go to plan and that is part of the magic. By all means take a watch, however do not expect everything and everyone to be on time. Definitely allow space in your itinerary for surprises, delays, and serendipitous events! A warm smile and respectful attitude are the most important things to bring. Hopefully by following these Travel Tips you will experience the true magic of Bali.
