Planning Tips & Packing Essentials for a Bali Adventure

Bali, the “Island of the Gods,” is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Although Bali is a popular destination, make sure to do your research before you go and most importantly, consider these essential packing items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience:  

Clothing:

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics: Opt for cotton, linen, or quick-drying materials to stay cool in the tropical climate.   
• Swimwear: Pack multiple swimsuits, such as a one-piece swimwear, for beach days and water activities. Keep in mind that some places in Bali are more modest. Check out this guide to better help you decide which type of bathing suit to pack.  
• Cover-ups: Sarongs, pareos, or light dresses are perfect for beach lounging and casual outings.  
• Casual clothing: T-shirts, shorts, skirts, and sundresses are suitable for daytime activities. 
• Modest clothing: While Bali is generally relaxed, it’s respectful to cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples or traditional areas.  * More on this below!
• Comfortable footwear: Flip-flops, sandals, and sneakers are ideal for various activities. 

Bali Packing Essentials:

• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the strong tropical sun with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF. Make sure your sunscreen is EWG Verified, which the sunscreen has been tested for toxicities. 
• Insect repellent: Keep mosquitoes at bay with a DEET-based repellent.  Bali does have reported cases of Dengue, and as there is no vaccine, your best bet is to use repellent and wear long sleeve clothing and pants when in heavily forested areas with mosquitoes.
• Hat and sunglasses: Shield yourself from the sun’s rays.
• Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste. Most resorts will offer purified water. It is important to ONLY drink purified water or bottled water while in Bali. You should use pure water to brush your teeth as well! This is a smart and easy thing to do in order to avoid ‘Bali Belly’ or traveler’s diarrhea.
• Travel adapter: Check the voltage and plug type in Bali and bring an appropriate adapter.
• First-aid kit: Pack essential medications and first-aid supplies. These items can be hard to find while out and about having fun, so it doesn’t hurt to have a few bandaids and travel packs of neosporin.
• Hand Sanitizer: It’s so basic, but please bring plenty of hand sanitizer. If you handle money or are out and about all day touching lots of surfaces and then eat, you are more likely to pick up a stomach bug. Get a hand-sanitizer with a loop that attached to your backpack or purse so it’s always accessible on the outside.
• Underwater camera: Capture stunning underwater moments. OR, consider a water case for your cell phone.
• Beach towel: A lightweight, quick-drying towel is convenient for beach days.
• Travelan pills: These can help prevent traveler’s diarrhea, a common issue when traveling to new places as our gut biome is different than that of a local.  Travelan is a natural, over-the-counter product designed to reduce the risk of the dreaded Bali Belly.  The bovine colostrum in the pills works by targeting and neutralizing bacteria before they can make you sick. I used these before EVERY meal in Bali no matter where I was and I avoided any gastro issues.
• • Azithromycin: This is a common choice due to its broad-spectrum activity and effectiveness against various bacteria.
  • Ciprofloxacin: This is another option, but its use is becoming more limited due to concerns about antibiotic resistance.Prescription medications: Ensure all prescription medications are in their original, labeled containers. It is not common for physicians in the US to prescribe  antibiotics for travelers to regions like Bali to take in case of emergency:

Documents:

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date and is in good condition with no rips, tears, or discoloration. Bali Customs is known to be super picky upon entry and have denied travelers for even the slightest passport flaw!

Cultural Considerations:

• Respectful attire: When visiting temples, PLEASE dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.   For women, I recommend flowy skirts and a button up blouse that can be thrown over a tank top in a pinch. I saw so many Russian tourists ignoring this with girls entering with bikini tops – this is just disrespectful and rude.
• Cultural sensitivity: Be mindful of local customs and traditions. Read signs. If it says don’t take a photo, do NOT take a photo!
• Learn basic phrases: A few basic Indonesian phrases can go a long way in showing respect and appreciation.
• Monkey Forest: The monkeys are cute, but PLEASE don’t attempt to touch and don’t offer food or even bring it inside! I saw a girl let one crawl up her and then it bit her on the neck and shoulder. They are not pets, they are not tame. Even direct eye contact or loud voices can upset them and they can act out. Walk through the forest peacefully and you’ll be fine. If you bring kids, definitely keep a tight reign on them for their safety.

Safe & Helpful Bali Transportation

Although you can grab a taxi by using a variety of apps, I recommend securing comfortable and safe transportation before you arrive. Having someone waiting for you at the airport is lovely and reassuring after a long flight. I highly recommend calling Nyoman at Dedari Transport based out of Ubud for airport pickup/drop offs and daily excursions.

Nyoman can recommend fun places to visit and interesting places to shop that are off the beaten path and she would be happy to make an itinerary for you! Are you a woman traveling solo? Definitely give Nyoman a call!

Click here to visit the Dedari Transport Facebook page or you may contact Nyoman Sujani via  – WhatsApp 0822-6611-3845

By packing these essentials and considering cultural nuances, you’ll be well-prepared to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Bali. Enjoy your tropical adventure!