Bali Travel Checklist

A thorough checklist for planning a trip to Bali, covering base selection, health risks, cultural etiquette, scam avoidance, and on-the-ground essentials.

travel, productivity, health

by Morris

Planning and Choosing Your Base

Pick the right area for your travel style before you book anything.

• Understand the main areas and choose your base(s)
• Decide your travel dates with seasons in mind
• Research specific activities and book in advance for popular experiences
• Check passport validity - must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates
• Book first night accommodation before arrival so you have an address for arrival forms
• Research neighborhoods within your chosen base area for proximity to main attractions

Visa and Entry

Entry requirements for Indonesia and Bali specifically.

• Check if your nationality qualifies for visa on arrival (VoA)
• Pay the Bali tourist levy on arrival
• Confirm onward travel - bring proof of a flight out of Indonesia
• If you need to extend your visa, visit an immigration office before your 30 days expire
• Make physical copies of your passport bio page and keep them separate from your original

Health Preparation

Essential vaccinations and health precautions for Bali.

• Book a travel health appointment at least 6-8 weeks before departure
• Get Hepatitis A vaccination if not already vaccinated
• Get Hepatitis B vaccination
• Discuss typhoid vaccination with your doctor
• Understand dengue fever risk and prevention
• Prevent 'Bali belly' from day one
• Understand the rabies risk from monkeys and stray dogs
• Pack a medical kit

Travel Insurance

Non-negotiable financial protection before you fly.

• Purchase travel insurance that includes medical and evacuation cover
• Confirm emergency medical evacuation is explicitly included in your policy
• Check if your policy covers scooter/motorbike riding
• Verify coverage for water sports and diving if applicable
• Save your policy number, insurer name, and 24/7 emergency line offline and as a screenshot

Money and Exchange

Managing your money safely in Bali.

• Use ATMs from reputable banks or authorized money changers for cash
• Avoid street money changers - use Authorized Money Changers only
• Decline dynamic currency conversion at ATMs and card terminals
• Carry small denomination IDR for temples, markets, and local transport
• Budget for your travel style
• Notify your bank of your travel dates and destination to prevent card blocks

Transport and Scooters

Getting around Bali - including the very real risks of scooter riding.

• Download the Gojek and Grab apps before arrival
• If renting a scooter, be honest about your experience level
• Consider hiring a private driver for full-day tours
• Understand that Bali does not have reliable public transport
• Avoid taking unmetered taxis from the airport - use a fixed-price counter or Grab

Cultural Etiquette and Temple Rules

Behave respectfully in a deeply religious Hindu culture.

• Wear a sarong and sash to enter temples - this is mandatory, not optional
• Step AROUND offerings on the ground, never step OVER them
• Understand menstruation restrictions at some temples
• Do not climb on or sit on temple statues or sacred objects for photos
• Dress modestly when visiting villages, markets, and non-beach areas
• Watch belongings very carefully at Uluwatu Temple - monkeys steal
• Learn a few words in Bahasa Indonesia

Scam Awareness

Common tourist scams in Bali and how to avoid them.

• Refuse street money changers - only use Authorized Money Changers
• Be alert to the 'taxi meter off' scam
• Verify prices before ordering at local warungs in tourist areas
• Be cautious of unsolicited offers and 'new friend' approaches
• Check for card skimmers at ATMs in tourist areas
• Confirm alcohol is from a legitimate source in bars and clubs

Packing

What to bring for Bali's tropical climate and activities.

• Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for 28-33C heat and high humidity
• Bring a sarong (multi-purpose: temple wear, beach towel, light blanket)
• Pack a rain poncho or compact rain jacket if traveling in rainy season (Nov-March)
• Bring DEET 30%+ insect repellent for dengue prevention
• Pack water shoes or reef-safe sandals for snorkeling and beach walking
• Include a portable water filter or purification tablets as backup
• Bring a dry bag for boat trips, snorkeling, and rainy season scooter rides
• Pack one smart-casual outfit for nicer restaurants and beach clubs

At-Destination Essentials

Things to sort out and know once you have arrived.

• Buy a local SIM card at the airport or a phone shop
• Download offline Bali maps before leaving your accommodation each day
• Drink only bottled or filtered water throughout your stay
• Register with your embassy or consulate for emergency contact if staying more than 2 weeks
• Know the locations of reputable clinics and hospitals at your base
• If renting a scooter, photograph it thoroughly before driving away

Returning Home

Final steps before and after departure.

• Check your visa - ensure you have not overstayed your permitted days
• Arrive at Ngurah Rai Airport at least 3 hours before international departure
• Be aware of customs restrictions when returning home
• Back up all photos and videos before flying
• Keep receipts for any significant purchases for customs declarations
• Notify your bank you have returned home to restore normal account activity