What To Know Before Your First Trip to Bali

But Bali attracts travellers from all over the world, with everything from world-class beaches and lush rice terraces to ancient temples, intriguing wildlife, and friendly locals.

Still, Bali isn’t always what you expect it to be. An Instagram reel or TikTok video can never tell the full story of a place like this. When first-time visitors come here, they often find themselves disappointed when the fantasy doesn’t match the reality.

Let’s take a look at what you need to know before you visit Bali. Being prepared means you can avoid some of the hassles and enjoy what makes the island so incredible.

Check Visa Requirements

Lots of nationalities can enter Indonesia using a Visa on Arrival - but don’t be misled. The best way to get this visa is actually before you arrive, by applying online.

Australians are eligible, as are citizens of the EU, the US, the UK, Canada, Japan, India, and many other countries. The process for applying online is fairly easy, and it lets you stay in the country for 30 days. 

Before applying, you need a passport with at least six months of validity after your arrival in Indonesia, a passport-size photograph, an email address, information on where you will be staying in Bali, and a return ticket to prove you intend to leave.

If you’re not a citizen of one of the eligible countries, you’ll have to apply for a C1 tourist visa or something similar. This is a more complex application, so make sure you leave yourself plenty of time before your trip.

Bali is Bigger Than It Looks

OK, Bali isn’t massive. But it’s not as tiny as people often think. Plus, the traffic can be heavy in areas like Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta, and Ubud, so getting around can take a lot longer than you might expect.

Bali has lots to see, so it’s tempting to try and cram everything in, but that’s often a bad idea. It makes more sense to choose two or three things you really want to see and build your trip around those. 

You can also make things easier on yourself by staying in two or three different areas so that you can explore different sides of the island without spending too long in traffic.

Respect Local Customs

This is a big one. And it’s true everywhere you go, but Bali seems to suffer especially badly from the stereotypical Ugly Tourist. The people of Bali are generally welcoming and tolerant, but there are limits.

This is especially true when it comes to religion. Visiting the temples of Bali is an unmissable experience, but remember to respect these places of worship. You may be required to wear a sarong or cover your shoulders, or may be asked to remove your shoes. 

Don’t climb on religious statues and monuments. Don’t interrupt ceremonies. Don’t disturb the small woven baskets filled with flowers and incense you’ll find on sidewalks and outside businesses. They are daily religious offerings, so leave them alone.

Bring Cash

Your credit cards will most likely be accepted in hotels, bigger restaurants, and shopping malls. But local businesses tend to prefer cash. When shopping in local markets, buying street food, visiting small cafés, or making temple donations, cash is very much appreciated.

You’ll find ATMs all over

, but the safest thing to do is always use one attached to a major bank.

Renting a Scooter Isn’t Always a Good Idea

In the narrow, sometimes chaotic streets of Bali, scooters are one of the most popular ways to get around. Let’s face it, they can be a lot of fun. But the traffic here can make it challenging if you’ve never been on a scooter before.

I’m not trying to talk you out of it. But I am saying, if you do decide to rent a scooter:

• Wear a helmet
• Make sure you have the right license
• Make sure your travel insurance covers you to use
• Photograph any existing damage before leaving the rental shop
• Consider taking out third-party insurance in case of any damage.

Be Ready for the Tropics

If you’ve never been to a tropical destination before, the weather might catch you by surprise. Yes, Bali has warm temperatures year-round, but it has two distinct seasons: the dry season, from April to October, and the wet season, from November to March.

If you visit during the wet season, you can expect heavy tropical downpours. They tend to come in short bursts rather than lasting all day, but it’s something you need to be aware of when packing your bags. You may need to bring a waterproof jacket along with insect repellent, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing.

Be Careful with Tap Water

Tap water in Bali is not recommended. Most visitors drink bottled water or use filtered water stations to fill their own bottles. Usually, hotels will filter water for visitors, so no worries there.

Don’t forget about what happens when you’re out and about. Reputable restaurants will often filter their water, but smaller places, especially street food vendors, can’t usually do that. Nothing ruins a trip quicker than spending half the time on the toilet, so don’t get complacent when it comes to your drinking water.

Watch Out for Scams

Most Balinese are friendly, honest people, but anywhere that attracts the tourist numbers Bali gets is going to have a problem with scams.

Common scams you may encounter in Bali include taxi overcharging, money exchange tricks, scooter rental damage claims, and fake tour operators. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the most common scams so that you don’t get stung.

Staying Connected Makes Travelling Easier

No matter where you go, reliable mobile data will make your trip easier. A good network connection lets you book rides with ridesharing apps, check maps, translate signs, confirm accommodation, or find nearby restaurants.

Instead of getting ripped off by extortionate roaming charges, grab a Bali travel eSIM from ZenSim before you even arrive. That way, the moment you land, you’ll be connected to the strongest local network wherever you go.

Health and Safety Tips

You can avoid many common travel issues by following some simple precautions related to your health and safety:

• Drink plenty of water in the heat
• Use sunscreen
• Wear insect repellent, especially around dawn and dusk
• Respect warning flags at beaches
• Carry travel insurance that covers the activities you intend to do.

Enjoying Bali On Your First Trip

Bali deserves its popularity. The beautiful scenery, rich traditions, incredible food, and great hospitality make it truly unforgettable.

But if you want to make the most of the place, it’s important to be prepared.

Respecting the local culture, planning a realistic itinerary, and staying connected will go a long way to making sure you have an incredible time.

A travel eSIM from ZenSim makes staying connected so much easier. With access to maps, restaurant reviews, booking confirmations, and travel information, you can enjoy the Island of the Gods worry-free. And if you’re travelling from Bali to other places in Southeast Asia or beyond, we have the perfect eSIM for that, too.