Going to Bali for the first time? With these practical tips you'll be well prepared — from visa and money to traffic, culture and health.
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Add it in the trip planner →There's no good public transport. Travel with a private driver or via Grab/Gojek. The traffic is busy and chaotic — with scooters, remember: you're often not insured. Read the guides on transport and renting a scooter.
Don't plan too much in one day and choose a logical route. With the trip planner you put together a complete trip plan in a few minutes — route, days, hotels and activities — and save it on your phone.
Bali is deeply Hindu, and a little respect goes a long way. At temples, cover your shoulders and knees and wear a sarong (usually provided or hired at the entrance). Don't step on the little palm-leaf offerings (canang sari) you'll see on the ground everywhere, avoid touching people on the head, use your right hand to give or receive, and dress modestly away from the beach. Ask before photographing ceremonies, and remove your shoes when entering homes and some shops.
Drink bottled or filtered water, ease into street food, and you'll likely avoid "Bali belly" — and if it strikes, rest and rehydrate with ORS. Wear strong sun protection, use mosquito repellent, and take real care in traffic: most tourist injuries happen on scooters, so only ride if you're experienced, licensed and insured, and always wear a helmet. Good travel insurance that covers medical care and evacuation is non-negotiable.
Get an eSIM before you fly so you have data the moment you land — we recommend MobiMatter (see our eSIM guide). Beyond that: carry small cash for warungs and offerings, agree taxi prices or use Grab/Gojek, don't over-pack your itinerary (distances are slow), and download maps offline. Bargain politely at markets, and always keep a photo of your passport and insurance saved on your phone.