Ultimate Bali Packing List: Essential Items And More To Pack For Bali

Packing for a Bali holiday should be fairly straightforward. The weather is warm, the dress code is generally casual, and if you forget something, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to buy it when you arrive.

Still, there are a few things you’ll definitely want to bring from home. Our complete Bali packing list covers the essentials, what to wear, useful extras and a few things you can safely leave behind.

TL;DR: Summary Of Bali Packing List

• Pack lightweight, breathable clothes for the tropical weather, along with swimwear, comfortable shoes and something suitable for temple visits.
• Keep your Bali travel essentials together, including your passport, visa documents, travel insurance, cards and some cash.
• Bring travel-size toiletries, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent and any medication you regularly use.
• Pack according to your plans, particularly if you’ll be taking day trips around the island or visiting during the wet season.
• Being organised and ready will make your trip easier, but don’t panic and overpack. Most things you might forget are easy enough to buy once you’re in Bali.

Essential Items To Pack For Bali

Before you start thinking about clothes, beach gear and everything else, there are a few essential items you really need to bring. Forgetting your favourite shirt isn’t much of a problem; forgetting your passport certainly is.

Travel Documents And Money

• Passport – This is probably the most important item! Make sure it has at least six months’ validity from the date you enter Indonesia and enough space for the necessary stamps.
• Visa – Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for a Visa on Arrival or e-VOA. Check the latest requirements before you travel to Bali.
• Return or Onward Ticket – You may be asked to show proof that you intend to leave Indonesia, so keep your booking in an easy-to-access place.
• Travel Insurance – Don’t forget travel insurance and keep a digital copy of your policy and emergency contact details on your phone.
• Accommodation Details – Have the address of your first hotel or villa handy upon arrival, as you may need it for immigration forms.
• Bank Cards – Cards are widely accepted, but we’d recommend bringing at least two and keeping them separately in case one is lost, blocked or swallowed by an ATM.
• Cash – Cards are widely accepted, but we’d always recommend bringing some local currency, just for when you first arrive. It’s also an idea to pack some cash in your own currency, which you can exchange in Bali if you have a problem with your bank or cards.

It’s also a good idea to keep digital copies of your passport, insurance and other important documents somewhere you can access them even if your phone or luggage goes missing.

Electronics And Chargers

Most of us travel with at least a few electronics these days, but there’s no need to bring every gadget you own. Think about what you’ll actually use during your trip to Bali.

• Phone and Charger – Probably the most useful bit of tech you’ll bring, whether you’re using it for maps, bookings, photos or keeping in touch.
• Travel Adaptor – Indonesia uses Type C and F sockets with two round pins. If your plugs are different, make sure to bring an adaptor. 
• Power Bank – Particularly useful on day trips or when you’re spending the whole day away from your accommodation – Check your airline’s size limits before flying, and always keep it in your carry-on, not your checked luggage.
• Headphones or Earbuds – Handy for the flight, transfers and whenever you want a bit of peace and quiet.
• Camera – If you’re into photography, bring it. Otherwise, consider whether your phone already does everything you need without taking up extra space.
• Laptop or Tablet – Useful if you’re working while you’re away, but probably unnecessary for most people on a family holiday or short break.

What To Wear In Bali

Bali is warm and humid throughout the year, so lightweight, breathable clothing will cover most of your trip. The island is generally pretty casual too, although what you wear in Bali will depend a little on where you’re going and what you have planned.

Everyday Clothing

For most days, comfort comes first. You don’t need to pack loads either, as laundry services are cheap and easy to find around the main tourist areas.

• T-Shirts and Tops – Lightweight cotton or linen works well in the heat, and you’ll probably get plenty of use out of them.
• Shorts – Ideal for everyday wear, exploring town or heading out for lunch.
• Light Trousers – Useful when you want a little more coverage without getting too hot.
• Dresses and Skirts – Loose, lightweight options are easy to wear during the day and can work for evenings too.
• Light Jumper – You won’t need this very often, but it’s handy for heavily air-conditioned places, early mornings or trips into the mountains.
• Comfortable Shoes – Flip-flops or sandals are fine for everyday use, but bring trainers or walking shoes if you’re planning plenty of exploring.

Beach And Pool Wear

You won’t need much for Bali’s beaches, pools and beach clubs, but we’d recommend packing at least two sets of swimwear so you always have a dry one available.

• Swimwear – Bring whatever you’re comfortable wearing at the beach or around the pool.
• Flip-Flops or Sandals – Easy to slip on and off and far more practical than shoes around the water.
• Cover-Up – A loose shirt, dress or other lightweight cover-up is handy when you leave the beach for lunch or drinks.
• Sun Hat – Worth having if you’re planning long beach days in the Bali sun.
• Sunglasses – Another obvious one, but also an easy thing to forget.

Nights Out And Fine Dining

Bali is pretty relaxed when it comes to dressing up, but you’ll still want something a little smarter if you’re planning a nice dinner or a night out.

• Smart-Casual Outfit – A lightweight shirt, dress or similar outfit should cover most restaurants and bars.
• Smart Shoes or Sandals – You don’t need anything overly formal, but it’s worth having an alternative to your beach flip-flops.
• Something You Feel Good In – You’re on holiday! Bring at least one outfit for those occasions when you actually fancy dressing up.

What To Wear To Bali Temples

Temple visits are different, and dressing respectfully is important. As a general rule, you should avoid revealing clothing and make sure you’re covering your shoulders and legs.

A sarong is useful to have with you, although many popular temples provide or rent them at the entrance. Both men and women can wear one, so there’s no need to buy anything particularly elaborate before your trip.

Toiletries, Health And Personal Care

You can buy pretty much all of this stuff in Bali, so there’s no need to fill your luggage with huge bottles and a medicine cabinet. Bring travel-size toiletries and the health essentials you might need, then if you’re staying for several weeks or longer, you can always stock up locally.

Toiletries And Personal Care

• Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Essential for Bali’s strong sun, especially if you’re spending plenty of time at the beach or in the water.
• Insect Repellent – Mosquitoes are common, particularly in the evenings and during the wet season.
• Deodorant – Bring enough to get you started and buy more locally if needed.
• Shampoo and Conditioner – Often provided by your hotel or villa, but bring your own if you have a preference.
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste – Easy to buy locally, but there’s no reason not to bring your usual ones.
• Feminine Hygiene Products – Available in Bali, although it’s worth bringing your preferred products from home.
• Moisturiser or After-Sun Lotion – Handy after long days out in the Bali sun.

Health And First Aid

Hopefully, you won’t need any of this while you’re in Bali, but it’s always better to be prepared.

• Personal Medication – Bring enough for your entire stay, preferably in the original packaging, along with any documentation you may need.
• Basic First Aid Kit – Plasters, antiseptic and a few simple supplies are plenty for most trips.
• Pain Relief – Bring whatever you normally use at home.
• Rehydration Salts – Useful after too much time in the heat, or if an upset stomach leaves you dehydrated.
• Stomach Medication – Nobody plans on getting Bali belly, but it’s better to be prepared with something you know and have used before.
• Insect Bite Cream – Worth packing if you tend to react badly to mosquito bites.

If you do need something you’ve forgotten, pharmacies are easy to find across Bali, particularly in the main tourist areas.

Luggage And Bags For Bali

What you bring will depend on the length and style of your trip, but try to avoid overpacking. Whether you prefer a backpack or suitcase, leave some room for anything you pick up along the way, especially if you plan on doing some shopping.

Day Bags And Packing Cubes

• Small Backpack Or Crossbody Bag – Ideal for day trips and beach days. A backpack gives you more room for water, sunscreen and whatever else you accumulate during the day. If you prefer travelling light, a small crossbody bag is ideal for your phone, wallet and other essentials.
• Packing Cubes – Great for keeping clothes organised and making better use of the space in your luggage.
• Laundry Bag – Keeps worn clothes separate, and it’s particularly handy if you’re using one of Bali’s many laundry services.
• Foldable Tote Bag – Takes up almost no room and can be useful for shopping, the beach or carrying a few extra things during the day.

Packing For Bali’s Weather

Bali’s tropical climate means that it is warm throughout the year, so you won’t need to make huge changes to your packing depending on when you visit. Lightweight clothes will do most of the work, although it’s worth bringing a couple of extras during the wetter months or if you’re planning trips into the mountains.

Check the Bali weather before you travel if you’re unsure what conditions to expect during your stay.

Wet Season Packing Tips

Bali’s wet season generally runs from around November to March. It’s still warm, so there’s no need for heavy waterproof clothing, but there are a few extras you might want to pack to make life easier when the rain arrives.

• Light Rain Jacket or Poncho – Keep it thin and lightweight; you’re trying to stay dry, not warm.
• Quick-Dry Clothing – Particularly useful for day trips, waterfalls and other outdoor activities.
• Suitable Footwear – Flip-flops are fine around town, but shoes with some grip are better if you’re heading somewhere muddy or slippery.
• A Few Extra Clothes – Things take longer to dry when it’s wet and humid, so an extra lightweight outfit or two can come in handy.

What To Pack For Day Trips

If you’re heading beyond your hotel, villa or the beach to explore more of Bali, it’s worth taking a few extras with you. What you’ll need depends on the day trip, but a small bag with a few practical items can make things much easier once you’re out and about.

• Reusable Water Bottle – Useful wherever you’re heading, particularly for longer days out.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes – Bring these for waterfalls, rice terraces, hiking or anywhere you’re likely to cover some distance on foot.
• Small Towel – Handy for waterfalls, swimming spots and more remote places where towels aren’t provided.
• Change Of Clothes – Worth throwing in your bag if there’s swimming, rain or anything particularly messy on the itinerary.
• Dry Bag – Useful for boat trips, waterfalls and water-based activities, although you don’t need to carry it on every trip.

What To Pack For Bali With Kids

A family trip means a few extra things in your luggage, especially with younger kids. You can buy most everyday essentials in Bali, but it’s better to bring enough of their usual products to get you through the first few days.

• Favourite Snacks – Bring a few familiar snacks for the flight, transfers and those moments when nothing nearby appeals.
• Kids’ Medication – Pack any medication you normally use at home, particularly anything specific to your child.
• Sun Protection – Children’s sunscreen, hats and lightweight clothing are worth bringing from home.
• Swim Gear – Along with their usual swimwear, consider armbands or other swimming aids if they normally use them.
• Entertainment – A tablet, headphones, colouring books or a favourite toy can make flights and long transfers considerably easier.

For nappies, wipes and other everyday supplies, there’s no need to pack enough for your entire family holiday. They’re widely available in Bali, so bring enough to get started and stock up once you’re settled.

Save Space In Your Luggage: What You Don’t Need To Bring To Bali

It’s easy to fall into the trap of packing for every possible situation, but really you can find almost anything you need in Bali, beyond your essential documents. There are a few things you probably don’t want to bring, though.

• Too Many Clothes – Laundry services are cheap and widely available, so you don’t need a fresh outfit for every day of a longer trip.
• Large Toiletry Bottles – Bring travel-size products to get you started and buy more locally when you need them.
• Heavy Clothing – You won’t need coats or thick jumpers in Bali. Even trips into the mountains rarely call for anything particularly bulky.
• Beach Towels – Your hotel, villa or resort will usually provide towels, while beach clubs provide them for guests too.
• Loads Of Cash – Bring some as a backup, as we mentioned earlier, but there’s no reason to travel with your entire holiday budget in cash.
• Things You Can Easily Buy Here – Hats, sarongs, flip-flops and other holiday basics are everywhere, and you might want to pick up a few souvenirs anyway.

Bali Packing And Travel Tips

Once you’ve worked through your packing list for Bali, there are a few final travel tips worth keeping in mind. Most importantly, don’t overthink it; millions of people visit Bali every year, and almost anything you forget can be found once you’re here.

• Check Your Entry Requirements – Before heading to Bali, check the latest Indonesian visa and entry requirements. If you’re eligible for a Visa on Arrival, you can arrange this online or at Bali Airport.
• Don’t Pack For Every Possibility – Think about what you’re actually doing on your Bali trip rather than trying to prepare for everything. If you’re travelling around Bali, you may appreciate packing light even more.
• Check Your Airline Allowance – Make sure your suitcase and carry-on meet your airline’s weight and size limits before leaving home, especially if you’re taking domestic flights during your holiday in Bali.
• Leave Room For Shopping – Clothes, handicrafts and souvenirs are easy to find, particularly in the main tourist areas. Some imported products can be expensive in Bali, but locally made goods can be excellent value.
• Don’t Panic If You Forget Something – Bali sells pretty much everything you’re likely to need on holiday. Pharmacies, supermarkets, shopping centres and convenience stores are widespread, so forgetting one item doesn’t mean ruining your trip.

FAQs

What Are Essential Items To Pack For A Trip To Bali?

Your passport, travel insurance, bank cards and any personal medication should be at the top of your packing list. Beyond those essentials, bring lightweight clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable footwear and the electronics you use every day.

What Should I NOT Pack For Bali?

Don’t pack too much! Heavy clothing and bulky items will only take up valuable luggage space, while everyday toiletries and other basics are easy to find once you arrive. Leave some room for anything you might buy during your holiday too.

What Tech Gadgets And Electronics Should I Bring?

Your phone, charger, power bank and headphones will be enough for most travellers. You may also want to bring a camera, tablet or laptop, depending on your plans. A travel adaptor is worth packing if your devices aren’t compatible with Indonesia’s Type C and F sockets.

Can I Rent A Scooter In Bali?

Yes, scooter rental is widely available across Bali, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best way to get around. Traffic can be chaotic, road conditions vary, and riding here can be very different from what you’re used to back home.

You’ll also need the correct licence and international driving permit to ride legally. Unless you’re already a confident and experienced rider, we’d recommend sticking to taxis, private drivers or ride-hailing services instead.

Final Thoughts On Bali Packing List

Packing for Bali is mostly about keeping things light, comfortable and practical. Bring the essentials you rely on, pack for the things you actually plan to do, and leave yourself a little space in your luggage.

Hopefully our packing list will help you decide what to bring, and make for some more stress-free travel. And don’t worry if you forget something; most everyday items can be found easily once you’re here, so get the important stuff right and enjoy your holiday.