Trip to Bali - Plan Your Bali Travel

Planning a trip to Bali doesn’t have to be overwhelming, it’s all part of the excitement! Whether you’re dreaming of spiritual temples, lush rice terraces, or lazy beach days, a little prep goes a long way. This guide breaks down the essentials: when to go, what to pack, how to get around, and a few tips you’ll thank yourself for later. So if you’ve been wondering how to plan a trip to Bali without stress, this is your go-to cheat sheet.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Bali?

Bali has two main seasons:

Dry Season (April to October): Sunny days, cooler nights, perfect for beaches, hiking, and exploring.
Rainy Season (November to March): Expect humid days with afternoon showers; ideal for fewer crowds and lush landscapes.

Best months for travel: May, June, and September, right before and after peak tourist season, with great weather and fewer crowds.

What to Pack for Bali

During Dry Season (April–October)

Light, breathable clothing (linen, cotton)
Comfortable sandals and walking shoes
Reef-safe sunscreen (strong UV index!)
Swimsuits + beachwear
Sunglasses & hat
Daypack for excursions
Lightweight jacket (for mountain areas like Ubud or early volcano hikes)

During Rainy Season (November–March)

Umbrella or lightweight rain jacket
Quick-dry clothing
Flip-flops (easy for temple visits in rain)
Mosquito repellent
Dry bags for electronics
Extra socks (for muddy trails)

Temple etiquette tip: Pack a sarong or scarf to cover knees and shoulders. Many temples also offer rentals at the entrance.

Getting Around Bali – Transport Options

Bali isn’t huge, but travel times can surprise you due to traffic and winding roads. Here’s how to get around:

Scooter Rental (most common)

Best for solo travelers or confident drivers.
Costs: ~IDR 60,000/day ($4 USD)
Helmets required. International Driving Permit strongly recommended.
Not ideal during the rainy season unless you’re experienced.

Private Driver (with car)

Ideal for couples or families doing day trips.
Full-day hire: ~IDR 500,000–800,000 ($30–50 USD)
Negotiate in advance or use a trusted local driver from your hotel.

Ride Apps: Grab & Gojek

Convenient in cities like Ubud, Seminyak, or Canggu.
Not allowed in all areas (some zones are “ride-hailing restricted”).

Shuttle Services & Tours

Affordable for specific routes (Ubud ⇄ Canggu, etc.).
Tour operators often include transport in group trips.

Bicycle & Electric Scooter Rental

Available in Ubud or beach towns for short rides.
Great for exploring local neighborhoods at your own pace.

Other Things to Know Before You Go

Visa: Many nationalities get a 30-day visa on arrival (VOA), extendable once. Check current rules before you fly.
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Cash is king in local areas; carry small bills.
Tipping: Not mandatory, but appreciated. Round up or tip ~5-10% at restaurants.
Drinking Water: Avoid tap water. Use bottled or filtered water, even when brushing teeth.
Local SIM: Prepaid SIM cards (Telkomsel, XL) are cheap and widely available at the airport or convenience stores.
Health: Travel insurance is highly recommended. Mosquito repellent is a must, especially in the rainy season.
Culture: Respect Balinese customs, especially in temples! Always ask before taking photos of ceremonies or locals.

Bali Travels

Plan Your Trip to Bali