The Ultimate Bali Packing List — What to Bring (and What Not To)

Bali is hot and humid year-round, so lightweight, breathable fabrics are essential. Pack 4–6 t-shirts or tank tops in cotton or moisture-wicking material, 2–3 pairs of shorts, 2 pairs of lightweight trousers or joggers (for temples and evening dining), and 1–2 sundresses or casual dresses for women. Swimwear is crucial — bring at least 2 sets so one can dry while you wear the other. A light long-sleeve shirt or cover-up protects against sun and mosquitoes during evening outings. One smart-casual outfit is useful for upscale restaurants and beach clubs. A light rain jacket or packable poncho is essential during wet season (November–March) and useful year-round for unexpected showers.

Temples are a major part of any Bali trip, and all visitors must cover their knees and shoulders to enter. You can rent sarongs at temple entrances for 10,000–20,000 IDR ($0.65–1.30), but owning your own is more comfortable and hygienic. Buy a beautiful Balinese sarong from a local market for $3–8 — it doubles as a beach cover-up, picnic blanket, towel, and even a light blanket on air-conditioned buses. For shoulders, any t-shirt works. Women should avoid low-cut tops at temples. Menstruating women are traditionally asked not to enter the most sacred inner temple areas — this is a deeply held cultural belief that visitors should respect.

Bring three types of footwear for maximum versatility. First, comfortable walking sandals with good grip (like Teva or Birkenstock) for daily exploring, markets, and casual restaurant visits. Second, a pair of water-friendly shoes or reef shoes for rocky beaches, snorkelling entries, and waterfall visits. Third, lightweight trainers or hiking shoes if you plan to trek Mount Batur, walk rice terraces, or explore jungle trails. Flip-flops are fine for the beach and pool but inadequate for serious walking. Leave your heels at home — Bali's uneven streets, temple stairs, and sandy paths make them impractical and unsafe.

Indonesia uses Type C and Type F power outlets (European style, 230V). Bring a universal power adapter — this is the single most forgotten item by travellers. A portable power bank (10,000+ mAh) is invaluable for full days out when your phone is working overtime as camera, GPS, and translator. An underwater or waterproof phone case is essential for boat trips, waterfalls, and snorkelling. A GoPro or action camera is great for water activities and volcano treks. If you are a photographer, Bali is a dream — the golden hour light is exceptional, so bring whatever camera gear you can carry comfortably. A Kindle or e-reader is perfect for pool and beach days.

Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+) is non-negotiable — Bali's equatorial sun is intense even on cloudy days. Bring insect repellent with DEET or picaridin for evenings, especially in Ubud and rural areas where mosquitoes are more prevalent. Basic medications including paracetamol, ibuprofen, anti-diarrhoeal tablets (Imodium), oral rehydration salts, and antihistamines for allergic reactions save pharmacy trips and potential language barriers. Hand sanitiser is useful for markets and street food dining. If you take prescription medication, bring more than enough for your entire trip plus a few extra days, as your specific brand may not be available locally.

Leave these at home and save precious luggage space. Heavy jeans — you will never wear them in Bali's heat. Excessive formal wear — Bali is casually elegant at its dressiest. A towel — every hotel provides them, and many provide beach towels too. Expensive jewellery — it attracts unwanted attention and risks loss during water activities. A hair dryer — all hotels provide one, and the humidity makes elaborate hairstyles futile anyway. Excessive cash in one currency — ATMs are everywhere and give you better exchange rates. Books — they are heavy; use a Kindle instead. Finally, do not bring illegal drugs — Indonesia has extremely strict drug laws including the death penalty, and this is enforced regardless of nationality.