✅ Bali Travel Checklist: What You Really Need to Know (Before You Go)

A quick-reference guide for first-timers and wanderers alike

Bali is one of the most magical places I’ve ever been—but let’s keep it real: even the dreamiest escapes come with surprises. While Bali offers breathtaking beauty, iconic stays, and spiritual depth, it’s still a developing country in many ways. That means some of the usual comforts we take for granted—like constant A/C, spotless sidewalks, or bug-free rooms—might not always be part of the experience. You may spot spiders, slugs, or geckos (they're harmless, promise), and you’ll need to approach each moment with flexibility and an open mind. That said, it's absolutely worth it.

This checklist is here to help you feel confident, prepared, and totally ready to experience Bali like a pro. Whether you're coming for a soul reset, an adventure, or just some well-deserved sunshine, this list has you covered. As far as packing, now this is a whole other checklist for you to check out here.

✈️ Entry & Visa

• ✅ Tourist Visa on Arrival (VOA) is required for U.S. citizens

• ✅ Cost: ~$35 USD (500,000 IDR)

• ✅ Can be purchased at the airport or online in advance

• ✅ Check the latest info or apply here

💵 Money & ATMs

• ✅ Use ATMs at trusted locations like the airport, inside banks, or major grocery stores

• ✅ Avoid sketchy street ATMs—they're known for card skimming

• ✅ You may need to do multiple withdrawals due to per-transaction limits

• ✅ Consider an international checking account like:

  • Capital One 360

  • Charles Schwab Investor Checking

  • Revolut (great for digital nomads)These typically offer no foreign ATM fees (or reimbursement!)

    
    

📶 SIM Cards

• ✅ Buy a local SIM card for reliable data (especially if you're island-hopping)

• ✅ Telkomsel and XL Axiata are great options

• ✅ You can grab one at the airport or at convenience stores like Circle K

• ✅ Bring an unlocked phone!

🚰 Health & Safety

• ❌ Don’t drink the tap water!

• ✅ Pack anti-diarrhea meds (hello, Bali Belly)

• ✅ Stick to fruit with skin you can peel

• ✅ Bring reef-safe sunscreen and bug spray- you will need the mosquito spray!

• ✅ Ladies- does not sell tampons due to religious belifs so pack appropriately if it's that time for you

🚖 Transportation & Scams

• ✅ Use Grab (like Uber) — walk a few blocks away from tourist spots before ordering

• ⚠️ Beware the Taxi Mafia — always negotiate and check rates on Grab for comparison. Don't get into a situation where they corner you- this has happend to me before and not going to lie, it was a little scary. Just be cautious and polite if taxi drivers approach you and you do not want a ride from them.

• ✅ Rent a scooter if you're confident riding in Bali traffic—otherwise, hire a private driver for day trips (very affordable and convenient!) Keep in mind this isn't your average traffic and tourists account for the majority of wrecks. I would recommend renting a scooter in Nusa Pineda and other areas that aren't too populated.

🌊 Nature & Adventure Tips

• ✅ Pay attention to ocean flag warnings — currents can be strong

• ✅ Watch out for sidewalk holes (seriously). Bali is still developing and you will be shocked when you realize there really aren't sidewalks. You will be walking on the edges of streets and some have huge holes so be mindful where you are walking.

• ✅ In the Monkey Forest: secure your phone, sunglasses, and snacks

• ✅ Pack a lightweight rain jacket and quick-dry clothes

🧘‍♀️ Bali Vibes

• ✅ Don’t overdo it—distances take longer than you think, so build in downtime

• ✅ Get lost in the rice terraces (Tegalalang is a fave!)

• ✅ Soak in a flower bath at a spa or join a yoga class at Yoga Barn

• ✅ You’ll want to come back—so don’t stress if you can’t fit it all in one trip

I hope this checklist helps you travel smarter and soak up all the Bali magic without the overwhelm.

✨ Ready to dive deeper? My Soulful Stamps: Bali Full Guide includes my favorite hidden gems, exact stay links, must-know apps, and even a packing list tailored for this tropical adventure. Grab your digital copy (coming soon) and start planning your dream escape—the easy way.