Packing for Bali can be deceptively tricky. On one hand, it’s just a tropical island—how hard can it be? But between the heat, the rain, temple visits, scooter rides, and beach days, it doesn’t take much to pack all the wrong stuff and spend half your holiday hunting for overpriced flip-flops or prescription meds in a minimart.
This Bali packing list covers everything you actually need, based on real experience—not just generic Pinterest inspo. Whether you’re coming solo, as a couple, or with kids in tow, you’ll find practical Bali travel tips on what to pack for Bali, what not to bother with, and a few “trust me” items you’ll be glad you brought.
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Travel Documents to Pack for Bali
Before you get lost in the excitement of tackling your Bali packing list, you will need the essentials that will actually get you into Bali without any hassles. A missing document or financial hiccup can turn paradise into a paperwork nightmare. From visa to cash and credit cards, this section ensures you have everything you need for a smooth arrival and stress-free Bali trip.
Passport
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months before your arrival date. This isn’t a loose guideline – Indonesian immigration is quite strict, and airlines may refuse boarding if your passport doesn’t meet this requirement.
Visa on Arrival
Depending on your passport, you will likely need a Visa on Arrival (VOA), an eVOA, or a pre-arranged tourist visa. Check my guide on getting your tourist visas for Bali. Sorting this out ahead of time can save you time spent at the airport.
Travel Insurance
Don’t skimp out on this. Medical care in Bali can be expensive, and mishaps (especially scooter accidents) are common. A good travel insurance plan covers medical emergencies, lost luggage, flight cancellations, and even stolen electronics.
Credit & Debit Cards
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at many hotels and restaurants in Bali, but always notify your bank before traveling to prevent your transactions from being flagged as suspicious. Some places may have international transactions fees, so to cut back on your expenses, I suggest getting a WISE debit card for Bali.
Cash
Bali runs on cash more than you’d think. Yes, cards are accepted at most restaurants, resorts, and shops in touristy areas, but once you venture out—to warungs, markets, or for things like parking and temple donations—it’s cash only. ATMs in Bali are common, but not always reliable, and some charge high fees or run out of money altogether.
Printed Copies of Bookings
This one is often overlooked in every Bali packing list. While screenshots and PDFs on your phone are great, having hard copies of your hotel bookings, visa documents, and flight details can be a lifesaver if your phone runs out of battery and you need to show them at immigration. It may seem a bit old-school but a couple of sheets of paper can go a long way to avoid complications.
What Clothes to Pack for Bali
The next step on tackling your Bali packing list is making sure you have the right clothing to stay comfortable and be prepared for any adventure the island throws your way.
Bali’s tropical climate means you’ll be dealing with high humidity, plenty of sunshine, and also plenty of downpour – depending when you visit Bali. Here’s how to prepare for what to wear in Bali.
Everyday Wear
- Light breathable tops – Cotton or linen work best.
- Casual shorts and skirts – Perfect for warm days on day tours and exploring markets.
- Loose-fitting pants – Trust me, you’ll regret skinny jeans.
- Flowy dresses or jumpsuits – Ideal for a night out or a nice dinner.
- Light hoodie or jacket – Some areas outside of South Bali can get quite cold, especially at higher altitudes like Besakih Temple area, Kintamani, or Bedugul.
Beach & Swimwear
- Swimsuits / Bikinis – Pack at least two so one can dry while you use the other.
- Cover-up or sarong – Easy to throw on between pool and lunch. Works for Bali temple etiquette too.
- Water shoes or sandals – Beaches, rocky spots, slippery steps—your feet will thank you.
- Dry bag or waterproof pouch – Great for tossing in wet swim gear and avoiding the dreaded soaked backpack situation.
- Small backpack or crossbody bag – You’ll need something easy to carry for day trips, markets, or scooter rides.
Accessories
- Sunglasses – A pair of UV protective sunglasses will shield your eyes from Bali’s strong sun
- Hat or cap – Keeps you cool, protects you from the sun, and you will maybe look awesome.
- Compact umbrella or poncho – Rainstorms come fast and hard, especially in wet season.
Tech & Gadgets for Your Bali Packing List
If you’re a techie like myself, this will be the most important section on your Bali packing list. Bali is made for digital nomads, content creators, and anyone who wants to keep their life (or business) running while catching sunsets.
Power Plugs & Adaptors
Bali uses the European-style two-round-pin plugs (Type C/F) with 230V voltage. If your gear doesn’t match, it’s useless. Bring a universal adaptor—bonus points if it has USB ports. And seriously, pack a mini power strip. One plug per hotel room is the norm, not the exception. See my guide on Bali Power Plugs.
Waterproof phone case
Between beaches, waterfalls, and sudden rain showers, Bali isn’t the place to leave your phone unprotected. A waterproof phone case or pouch is a simple but smart addition to your Bali packing list—especially if you’re planning boat trips or time near the water.
Power Bank
A reliable power bank allows you to stay charged and connected while on the road. While you can easily charge your phone with our drivers, you never know when you might need one during a trek or while on the scooter.
Power Strip
Another overlooked item on most visitors Bali packing list. A power strip, or anything with multiple inputs can come in handy when you have several electronics that need to be plugged in but your hotel or villa only has a few wall sockets. This way you don’t have to take turns charging your equipment and gadgets.
GoPro / Action Camera
iPhone and Android cameras these days can get the job done, but nothing beats the DJI Osmo Pocket. It’s a beautiful, compact camera with a built-in gimbal and a tiny screen. Trust me, there will be moments where you wish you had one. For ocean adventures, get yourself a GoPro Hero.
Essential Toiletries for Bali
Basic Toiletries
Don’t assume your villa or hotel will have everything you need. Pack the basics—deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, all that. Yes, you can buy stuff locally, but trust me, you don’t want to find yourself hunting for lotion in the middle of Seminyak after landing. Bring your own and keep it simple.
Mini First Aid Kit
Bali is paradise—until you trip on a temple step or get a little too adventurous with a scooter. A mini first aid kit isn’t dramatic; it’s smart. Band-aids, antiseptic cream, gauze, and maybe a little tape—done. You’re not building a mobile clinic, you’re just covering your bases so you don’t have to use a leaf and prayer when you get a blister from flip-flops.
Imodium
Bali Belly is real. You’ll hear people downplaying it…until they’re glued to a toilet and missing happy hour. Bring Imodium. Even if you never use it (lucky you), someone in your group will. Be the hero with the tiny packet of lifesaving pills.
Reef-safe Sunscreen
Don’t be that tourist—the one frying their skin and killing coral at the same time. Bali’s sun is no joke, and neither is reef damage. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, slap it on early, and reapply. Plus, local options are either overpriced or feel like you’re rubbing mayo on your skin. Bring a brand you trust and don’t cheap out.
Bug Spray
Mosquitoes in Bali don’t play around and Dengue is not a souvenir you want (as someone who had it twice!). Pack bug spray with DEET or picaridin and actually use it, especially around dawn and dusk. If you forget, you’ll be the person Googling “how to stop mosquito itch” at 3am while your partner sleeps peacefully under the fan.
Prescription Medications
Whatever you take at home—blood pressure meds, anxiety pills, cholesterol stuff—bring enough. And then some. Don’t bank on Bali pharmacies carrying your exact brand, and no, they likely won’t accept your doctor’s note as an international supply chain solution. Pack it, label it, keep it close.
Hand Sanitizer
It’s not about being a germ freak—it’s about being realistic. You’re going to be touching menus, temple gates, money, petting some street dogs, and maybe a few monkeys. Keep hand sanitizer in your day bag and hit it often.
Lip Balm with SPF
Lips get burned too, and in Bali that sun sneaks up on you. One day you’re sipping coconut water, next day you’re peeling like an overripe mango. Get a lip balm with SPF and reapply during the course of the day. Future You will be grateful.
What to Pack for Bali Scooter Rides
If you’ll be renting a scooter in Bali, this section of the Bali packing list should keep you prepared to explore Bali while being prepared for any weather. This applies mostly to the Wet Season when the rain can either be unpredictable or persistent.
Rain Poncho
An absolute essential on your Bali packing list during the rainy season. Whether you’re heading down the street for a coffee or going on a trip to the other end of the island, having a rain coat or rain poncho allows you to get there (partially) dry. If you can’t get one online, you can easily find them around Bali for around IDR 100,000.
Waterproof Bag
You’ll thank me later. Having a waterproof bag while traveling long distance on a scooter keeps the stress away. If you have your laptop, hard drives, or cameras, this will need to be protected in case of a downpour.
Phone Mount
The last thing you want is to be stuck in traffic while having to hold Google Maps open with one hand. Get yourself a quality phone mount for the scooter so you don’t have to multitask. Hint: Bikago offers the phone mount as an add-on so you don’t need to buy one.
AirPods / Wireless Ear Buds
Pair this with the phone mount and you’ll upgrade your navigation skills. Having in-ear audio while riding keeps you updated without having to stare at the phone. You don’t need to splurge on a nice pair of AirPods if you don’t have one. Grab a cheap pair for the trip. Don’t blast your music while driving because you’ll need to be aware of the traffic.
UV Protective Gear
This is for those who are sensitive to the sun. Scooter rides in Bali can be longer than expected so if you don’t want a rider’s tan, get yourself some sun protection gear.
- Arm sleeves – UV protective sleeves that also keep you cool.
- Riding gloves – Protects your hands
- Balaclava – To wear under your helmet to keep your face and neck from getting burnt.
Bali Packing List for Kids
When it comes to what to pack for Bali with kids, the basics like lightweight clothes, swimwear, and mosquito repellent are a given—you already know that. But there are a few kid-specific items that can make or break your Bali holiday. These aren’t just “nice to have” items—these are the kind of things that stop meltdowns, avoid sunburns, and keep the whole family sane on long days out.
Lightweight Stroller or Baby Carrier
With the exception of some parts of Sanur and Ubud, most of Bali’s terrain is not always stroller-friendly—sidewalks are narrow (if they exist at all), and you’ll be lifting it over curbs more than you’d like. That said, a compact, foldable stroller is still gold in airports, malls, and smoother areas.
Travel Games & Entertainment
There’s only so much “I spy” you can play before you go crazy. Whether it’s a coloring pad, a tablet loaded with shows (pro tip: download offline!), or a few simple card games, you’ll be glad you brought backup. Long drives, restaurant waits, and slow airport lines are much easier when your kid’s entertained.
Snacks from Home
Bali has snacks (tons of it), sure—but if your kid only eats one brand of crackers or has a meltdown if there are no “fruit squeezy pouches,” bring your own stash. Familiar snacks are also great for airport layovers and long car rides when local options just don’t cut it. Keep them sealed and lightweight.
Floaties or Swim Vest
If your little one isn’t a confident swimmer, pack their floaties, puddle jumper, or swim vest. Don’t rely on your hotel to have the right gear or sizes, especially in less touristy areas. Pools are everywhere in Bali, and having familiar float gear means less stress around water time.
Compact Night Light
Unfamiliar hotel rooms can feel a little spooky for younger kids, especially if they wake up disoriented. A small travel night light or a battery-powered LED lamp can help them feel at home—and stop them from waking you up every time they need the toilet.
What NOT to Pack for Bali
There’s nothing like overpacking to ruin your Bali vibe. You think you’ll wear everything in that neatly rolled-up suitcase? You won’t. I’ve been to Bali more times than I can count, and I still see people dragging around massive bags filled with stuff they never touch. Here’s what not to put on your Bali packing list.
❌ Heavy Jackets & Cold-Weather Clothes
Unless you’re planning a Mount Batur Sunrise Trek or staying in the mountains of Bedugul, Bali, leave the bulky sweaters at home. A light hoodie or jacket is all you’ll need—and even then, maybe once or twice.
❌ High Heels & Formal Shoes
Sorry ladies. You’ll spend most of your time in flip-flops or sneakers. Fancy dinners? Even high-end restaurants in Seminyak don’t expect stilettos. The roads and sidewalks in Bali aren’t heel-friendly anyway. Pack stylish flats if you must, but ditch the heels.
❌ Full-Size Toiletries
Yes, Bali has shops. No, you don’t need to pack a family-sized bottle of shampoo. Most accommodations provide the basics, and if not, you’ll find everything you need at local convenience stores or pharmacies. Travel-size is plenty.
❌ Too Much Cash
Bring some IDR for small expenses, but don’t carry hundreds of dollars in cash. ATMs are easy to find, and it’s safer to withdraw what you need as you go. Plus, if you’re using a Wise card for Bali, you’re getting better exchange rates anyway.
❌ Expensive Jewelry
Wearing flashy jewelry in Bali isn’t just unnecessary—it’s risky. You won’t need it, and it just makes you more of a target. While theft isn’t very common, you’ll definitely look like you have money for souvenirs. Stick to simple accessories, and leave the sentimental or expensive stuff at home.
❌ Hair Styling Tools
That hair straightener or curling iron? Pointless. The humidity will undo your styling efforts in five minutes flat. Most villas and hotels already have a hair dryer if you really need one. Embrace the beachy look—Bali is not the place for perfect hair.
❌ Books (Seriously, Just Bring One)
You’ll want to read, sure—but pack one good book and call it a day. E-readers are your friend. Books are heavy, and most villas have a book swap shelf if you really need a fresh read mid-trip.
❌ “Just in Case” Outfits
This is the biggest trap. That dress you might wear? Those pants you might need for that one perfect night? If you’re not 100% sure you’ll wear it, don’t pack it. You’ll end up wearing the same 4–5 pieces on rotation—and that’s totally normal.
Before You Land in Bali: What to Prepare
Now that you have a complete Bali packing list, you will need to sort out a few additional forms and documents before arriving at Bali Airport. This will significantly decrease the amount of time you spend after you get off your flight. Here are the essentials:
Bali Customs Declaration
Visitors to Bali can now fill out their Bali Customs Declaration Form online before arriving. This mandatory form is required for all travelers and even offers a convenient option for families to submit a single form together.
Bali Tourist Tax
As of February 2024, Bali has introduced a small tourism fee of IDR 150,000 per visitor. This Bali Tourist Tax can be paid in advance online or upon arrival at the airport.
Indonesia Health Pass
Anyone flying into Indonesia, including Bali, must complete the SATUSEHAT Indonesia Health Pass 48 hours before entry. This quick and simple form records recent travel and basic health details.
FAQs about Bali Packing List
What should I pack for Bali?
When preparing your Bali packing list, focus on essentials suitable for a tropical climate: lightweight clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and comfortable footwear. Don’t forget travel documents, a universal power adapter, and any necessary medications. For a detailed guide, refer to our comprehensive Bali packing list.
What clothes are appropriate to wear in Bali?
Bali’s climate is warm and humid, so breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal. Casual attire is acceptable in most areas, but when visiting temples or participating in religious ceremonies, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is required. A sarong and a light scarf can be useful additions to your Bali packing list for such occasions.
Is travel insurance necessary for Bali?
While not mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended for Bali. It can cover unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events. Given the prevalence of activities like scooter riding and water sports, having comprehensive coverage is a wise addition to your Bali travel preparations.
Can I use US dollars in Bali?
The official currency in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). While some larger hotels and tour operators may accept US dollars, it’s generally advisable to exchange your currency for IDR upon arrival for better rates and wider acceptance. Including local currency in your Bali packing list ensures smoother transactions during your stay.
What items should I avoid packing for Bali?
To keep your luggage light and practical, avoid packing heavy clothing, excessive jewelry, or items that are easily available locally, such as toiletries. High heels and formal wear are rarely needed. Instead, focus on versatile, comfortable items that suit Bali’s laid-back atmosphere.
Do I need a visa to enter Bali?
Visa requirements for Bali depend on your nationality. Many travelers can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA), while others may need to apply in advance. It’s essential to check the latest visa regulations before your trip and include any necessary documentation in your Bali packing list.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Bali?
It’s advisable to avoid drinking tap water in Bali. Instead, opt for bottled water or use a reliable water purification method. Including a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter in your Bali packing list can help you stay hydrated safely.
What should I pack for Bali with kids?
When traveling to Bali with children, consider items like sun-protective clothing, swim gear, snacks, entertainment for travel time, and any necessary medications. A lightweight stroller or baby carrier can also be helpful. Tailoring your Bali packing list to your family’s needs ensures a comfortable trip for everyone.
Are there any cultural considerations I should be aware of when packing for Bali?
Yes, respecting local customs is important in Bali. When visiting temples or attending ceremonies, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. Including a sarong and a lightweight scarf in your Bali packing list can help you adhere to these cultural norms.
More Essential Bali Travel Tips
First Time in Bali? Tips, Mistakes to Avoid & Must-Know Advice
Bali Power Outage Guide: What Tourists Need to Know
How to Get an International Driving Permit for Bali
Bali Luggage Storage Guide: 25 Best Self Storage in Bali
Tipping in Bali: When and How Much to tip in 2025
Bali Power Plugs – Adapters, Voltage & What You Need to Pack
Neil
I’ve been in Bali for so long I’ve grown roots (literally and metaphorically). For the past 10 years, I’ve experienced Bali from every angle. I’ve explored the temples, I’ve tried all the food, and I’m proudly fluent in the Indonesian language. I hope our website helps you get an authentic experience for your holiday in Bali, whether you’re here to enjoy the finer things in life, or to learn more about Bali’s rich culture.
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