Bali, the Island of the Gods, is a dream destination known for its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Whether youโre visiting for adventure, relaxation, or spirituality, these travel tips will help you explore Bali efficiently and affordably.
Getting From the Airport to Baliโs Main Areas
Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is the main entry point to Bali:
- Taxi:ย Official airport taxis have fixed rates (~IDR 150,000 to Kuta, ~IDR 300,000 to Ubud).
- Ride-Sharing Apps:ย Gojek and Grab are cheaper but restricted in some areas.
- Private Transfer:ย A good option if youโre traveling with luggage or a group.
- Shuttle Buses:ย Some hotels offer free pickups, so check in advance.
Our tip: Avoid airport taxis offering overpriced rides โ use Grab or book a transport service in advance.
Getting Around Bali
Bali doesnโt have a developed public transport system, but these options help:
- Scooter Rental:ย The cheapest and most flexible way to get around (~IDR 60,000 per day).
- Gojek & Grab:ย Affordable rides, but some areas restrict them.
- Private Driver:ย Good for full-day trips (~IDR 600,000 per day).
- Bluebird Taxis:ย Reliable metered taxis โ avoid unlicensed cabs.
Our tip: Traffic can be bad in tourist areas, so plan travel times wisely.
Where to Eat on a Budget
Bali has delicious, affordable food:
- Warungs:ย Small, family-run eateries with cheap, local meals.
- Nasi Campur:ย A mix of rice, meats, and veggies, often under IDR 30,000.
- Night Markets:ย Great for street food and snacks.
- Cafรฉs & Brunch Spots:ย Some offer affordable options if you avoid tourist-heavy areas.
Our tip: Skip Western-style restaurants in tourist zones; local food is cheaper and just as delicious!
Where to Stay Without Breaking the Bank
Bali has accommodations for every budget:
- Hostels & Homestays:ย Great for budget travelers.
- Guesthouses & Villas:ย Affordable private stays, often with pools.
- Canggu & Ubud:ย Good mid-range options with a mix of nature and nightlife.
- Kuta & Legian:ย Cheaper stays, but busier and more touristy.
Our tip: Stay near the attractions you want to visit to avoid long travel times.
Best Time to Visit Bali
Bali is a year-round destination. With that being said, letโs take a look at the perfect season for you:
- Dry Season (April-October):ย Best for beach activities, but peak season is July-August.
- Wet Season (November-March):ย Fewer crowds, but expect rain.
Our tip: Visit in shoulder seasons (April-June, September-October) for great weather and lower prices.
Affordable & Free Things to Do
Looking to explore without breaking the bank? Hereโs what you need to know:
- Temples:ย Many are free or require a small donation (e.g., Uluwatu, Tirta Empul).
- Beaches:ย Padang Padang, Bingin, and Sanur are great and free.
- Rice Terraces:ย Tegallalang is beautiful and has free viewpoints.
- Waterfalls:ย Tegenungan and Gitgit are budget-friendly.
- Sunsets:ย Free at Uluwatu, Tanah Lot, or Seminyak Beach.
Our tip: Start your day early to avoid crowds at popular sites.
Nightlife & Entertainment on a Budget
Baliโs nightlife is buzzing:
- Beach Clubs:ย Some have free entry (but require drink purchases).
- Sunset Bars:ย Affordable drinks with stunning views.
- Live Music & Markets:ย Canggu and Ubud have great free events.
- Fire Dances:ย Some temples offer low-cost performances.
Our tip: Enjoy happy hours (usually 4-7 PM) for cheap drinks.
Packing Tips for Bali
Here are some must-haves to include in your luggage:
- Lightweight Clothing:ย Itโs warm and humid year-round.
- Sarong:ย Required for temple visits.
- Mosquito Repellent:ย Essential, especially in jungle areas.
- Reusable Water Bottle:ย Many places offer refills to reduce plastic waste.
Our tip: Bring sunscreen โ itโs expensive in Bali!
Safety & Health in Bali
Before you go, take note of these last tips:
- Scooter Safety:ย Wear a helmet and drive cautiously.
- Money Exchange:ย Use official exchange offices to avoid scams.
- Medical Assistance:ย Dial 112 for emergencies.
- Travel Insurance:ย Essential for medical emergencies or trip cancellations.
Our tip: Use the Air Doctor app to find English-speaking doctors in Bali.
About the Air Doctor App
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can easily access medical care anywhere else you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Active in 91 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including pediatricians
Bali is a paradise that can be explored affordably with the right planning. Follow these tips to enjoy a seamless and budget-friendly trip. Happy travels!
