Well prepared for your trip? Work through this Bali checklist, from visa and vaccinations to insurance and eSIM. In the meantime, map out your route with the trip planner.
6–8 weeks before departure
- Make an appointment at the travel clinic for vaccination advice (some jabs need time).
- Take out good travel insurance — check cover for your activities (such as scooter).
- Check that your passport is still valid for at least 6 months.
- Put together your route and book flights and the first hotels.
1–2 weeks before departure
- Apply for your e-VOA (visa) via the official site, or arrange it on arrival.
- Arrange an eSIM for internet on arrival.
- Sort out some cash / a debit card that works abroad.
- Put together a travel medical kit (ORS, painkiller, anti-diarrhoea medicine, plasters, your own medication + note).
Packing essentials
- Light clothing + something to cover up for temples (shoulders/knees).
- Sunscreen, mosquito spray (DEET), a cap/hat and sunglasses.
- A universal travel adapter, power bank.
- A copy of your passport, insurance card and important numbers.
Just before departure
- Save your trip plan on your phone (offline/printed).
- Note the emergency number (112) and your insurer's number.
- Install Grab and Gojek for transport.
What to pack for Bali
Pack light and tropical: breathable clothes, swimwear, a light rain jacket, and one sarong plus a modest layer for temple visits (shoulders and knees covered). Bring reef-safe high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, a power bank and a universal adapter (Bali uses European-style type C/F plugs at 230 V). Slip-on sandals plus one pair of trainers or reef shoes cover most days, and a small first-aid kit with ORS/electrolytes, plasters and any regular medicines is worth its weight.
Sort your internet before you fly
Don't leave data to chance on arrival. The easiest option is an eSIM you install before departure and switch on when you land — no shop, no queue. We recommend MobiMatter, a well-priced eSIM marketplace with strong Bali coverage; see our full eSIM for Bali guide for how to set it up.
Health and money essentials
A little preparation saves a lot of hassle. In your day bag keep hand gel, ORS/electrolyte sachets, plasters, mosquito repellent and any prescription medicines (in their original packaging). For money, bring a debit/credit card that works abroad plus some cash, and withdraw from bank ATMs rather than street machines. Keep a photo of your passport, e-VOA and insurance policy saved offline and emailed to yourself, and note your insurer's 24-hour assistance number. Finally, check your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates — airlines will turn you away if it isn't.
Frequently asked questions
What should you arrange before going to Bali?
Vaccination advice and travel insurance (well in advance), a valid passport (6+ months), your e-VOA/visa, an eSIM, cash/debit card, and a travel medical kit. Also put together your route.
How far in advance should you arrange a trip to Bali?
Start 6–8 weeks ahead with vaccinations and insurance, and arrange the visa, eSIM and final bits in the weeks before departure.
What should you definitely bring to Bali?
Covering clothing for temples, sunscreen and mosquito spray, a travel medical kit, copies of your documents and your insurer's emergency number.
Plan your trip
