Essential Bali travel tips: what to know before you go

From navigating the crowds to being monkey-savvy, there are a few tricks to getting the best out of a trip to Bali. We’ve rounded up 16 top tips to bank for your next visit to the Island of the Gods.

1. Expect crowds

In non-pandemic times Bali, as one of the most touristed islands on earth, is hardly an untouched paradise. It can be difficult to escape the throngs in southern Bali and Ubud, but determined solitude seekers will be pleased to find loads of secluded corners beyond these primary tourist centers. Head to the central mountains, or Bali’s more chilled-out north and west coasts.

2. Choose your base carefully

It pays to put some thought into your Bali base, as chaotic traffic and hot weather are likely to make you stick close to your hotel or guesthouse rather than wander far on foot or sit in stuffy taxis. If you’re looking for real R&R, Kuta probably isn’t your thing. If you want to shop up a storm and eat more than your body weight in fine food, a week on Nusa Lembongan isn't likely to leave you fully satiated. Find your perfect spot with the help of Lonely Planet's 'first time Bali' guide.

3. Don’t fret about "Bali belly"

Strict dietary habits are no longer required to prevent spending your Bali break within two steps of a toilet. Once upon a time, salads, cut fruit, ice cubes and most meats were on the danger list, but hygiene standards have improved markedly across the island, and many kitchens offer good quality organic produce. While dodgy prawns will always be out there, by staying hydrated, avoiding notorious local liquor arak, and consuming street food with a degree of caution, the dreaded Bali belly should be kept at bay.

Bali's food scene includes good quality organic local ingredients © Ariyani Tedjo / Shutterstock

4. Dress for the occasion

Beachwear doesn’t always cut it in Bali – many higher-end bars, restaurants and clubs enforce a dress code. If you’re unsure, call ahead to save the potential embarrassment of being turned away.

5. Respect religious customs

Religion rules the roost in Bali. Don’t get your knickers in a knot when a street is blocked off for a ceremony or your driver pulls over mid-trip to make a blessing – this is all part of the magic of the island. Plan accordingly if your travel dates fall on Nyepi when everything in Bali (even the airport) shuts down for the day, and always dress modestly (covering the shoulders and knees) and conduct yourself appropriately when visiting temples and holy sites.

6. Prepare for a mixed bag of price tags

It’s still possible to visit Bali on a shoestring by staying in guesthouses, dining at warungs and shopping at local markets, but you can just as easily blow your life savings. Drinks, meals, spa treatments and room rates at high-end establishments are priced similarly to that in Australia, the UK and the US. Look out for online discounts and happy hour deals to keep your bank balance happy.

Bali's monkeys are known for their thievery © Samantha Chalker / Lonely Planet

7. Be cautious of wild and stray animals

Give wild and stray animals a wide berth. They may look cute, but rabies and other diseases are serious risks in Bali and monkeys are notorious for their thieving ways. Bali’s stray dogs are numerous, and often in pretty bad shape. If you’re keen to make a difference, consider making a "doggy donation" to Bali Dog Refuge which helps to rescue and rehabilitate the island’s stray pups.

8. Avoid plastic water bottles

Bali’s heat and humidity call for constant hydration, but consider the environment before purchasing another bottled drink. Lots of plastic waste washes up on Bali's beaches, and local authorities report that they remove up to 60 tons per day in the monsoon season. Help reduce this figure by investing in a stainless steel bottle that you can refill; most good cafes and restaurants have a water filter available that you can use for free or for a small fee. 

9. Learn some local lingo

A few basic words of Bahasa Indonesia will take you a long way in Bali. Try selamat pagi (good morning), tolong (please) and terima kasih (thank you), for starters.

There are discounts in the rainy season © Bento Fotography / Getty Images

10. Remember that low season often means rainy season

Be mindful of Bali’s rainy season (January to April and October to November) when planning your trip. Discounts can be great, but if you end up spending your holiday cooped up indoors, you may be left wondering if making the trip was worth it. Fortunately, the rains are often limited to brief afternoon downpours, so your holiday isn't likely to be a total write-off.

11. Get your head around the current visa situation

The visa system for entry into Indonesia is under review, with the introduction of an electronic system. Be sure to check with your nearest Indonesian embassy or consulate to determine the latest requirements for your nationality before departure. 

12. Be mindful of Mother Nature

Bali's volcanoes are highly active and can have minor to very serious impacts on flights, hotel stays or movement throughout the country. Keep a close eye on travel advisories.

Follow Bali's rules, as strange as they may sometimes seem © Samantha Chalker / Lonely Planet

13. Play by the rules

The Indonesian legal system may seem confusing and contradictory, but it's best not to argue with police if you are accused of an infringement that may feel unjust, and pay "fines" with good grace. Do not expect any special treatment for being a foreigner, and it goes without saying that having anything to do with drugs is a very bad idea.

14. Bargain respectfully

You can bargain for many items and services in Bali, but do so respectfully and with a smile on your face. You’ll know when the vendor has reached their limit, and at that point don’t push it. When in doubt, walk away – if the seller doesn’t come after you, you can be sure they aren’t prepared to drop their price any lower.

15. Respect the ocean

Even if you’re an avid beach-goer and surf worshipper, Bali's powerful waves, strong currents and exposed rocks can be treacherous, so take care, and don't swim alone unless you are completely confident in doing so. Show equal respect for the beach by not leaving any garbage (including cigarette butts) behind – when the tide comes in, it'll be sucked into the ocean at great cost to the marine ecosystem.

Exercise caution when enjoying Bali's beautiful beaches © Arsirya / Shutterstock

16. Don’t stress, but be aware

There have been terrorist attacks and natural disasters in Bali, and with around six million tourists hitting its shores every year, it’s realistic that some travelers may run into difficulties. Party safe, always wear a helmet when riding a bike or scooter, be respectful, and don’t do anything you wouldn’t do in your home country – that way, you're on track for the vacation of a lifetime.