What kind of shoes should I pack for Bali?

Pack comfortable sandals or flip-flops for daily wear, and one pair of closed-toe shoes if you plan to hike or do water sports. Heels are impractical — Bali has uneven pavements, temple steps, and sandy beaches. If you plan to trek Mount Batur or walk through rice terraces, lightweight trail shoes with grip are ideal.

Do I need a power adapter for Bali?

Indonesia uses Type C and Type F plugs (European-style two-pin round plugs) with 230V electricity. If your devices use different plugs (US, UK, Australian), bring a universal adapter. Most mid-range and luxury accommodations provide adapters upon request, but it is wise to carry your own.

Should I pack medications for Bali?

Bring a basic travel health kit: anti-diarrhoeal medication (Imodium), oral rehydration salts, paracetamol, antihistamines, insect repellent with DEET, and any prescribed medications you take regularly. Pharmacies (apotek) are available in tourist areas and stock most common medications, but brand names may differ.

Can I buy sunscreen and toiletries in Bali?

Yes, supermarkets like Pepito, Coco Supermarket, and Bintang Supermarket in tourist areas stock international brands of sunscreen, toiletries, and personal care items. Prices are slightly higher than in Western countries for imported brands. Local Indonesian brands are significantly cheaper and of decent quality.

What should I NOT pack for Bali?

Leave behind: heavy jackets or sweaters (it never gets cold in coastal Bali), excessive formal wear (Bali is casual), full-size toiletries (buy locally), valuable jewellery (petty theft risk), and too many books (Bali has plenty of book swap shops). Also avoid bringing drone equipment unless you have obtained the required Indonesian flight permits in advance.

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What to Pack for Bali — The Complete Packing Guide

Season-specific packing lists, temple dress codes, and essential items from people who live in Bali. Know exactly what to bring — and what to leave behind.

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Last updated: April 2026

Pack light, breathable fabrics for Bali's tropical climate (24-33 degrees C year-round). Essential extras: a sarong for temple visits, reef-safe sunscreen, and insect repellent. In the wet season add a compact rain jacket. Skip the heels entirely.

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Packing for Bali — What You Actually Need

Packing for Bali is simpler than most people think. The island has a tropical climate year-round with temperatures between 24°C and 33°C, so heavy clothing is unnecessary. The key is packing light, breathable fabrics that handle humidity, plus a few specific items for temple visits and the wet season. Most travellers overpack for Bali — laundry services are widely available and affordable ($2–3 per kilogram), and you can buy quality clothing, sunscreen, and toiletries locally at reasonable prices.

Bali has two main seasons that affect what you pack. The dry season (April to October) is sunny with low humidity — light cotton clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and sunglasses are the essentials. The wet season (November to March) brings afternoon downpours that are usually intense but short-lived. Mornings are typically clear. A compact rain jacket or travel umbrella is essential during this period, and waterproof bags for electronics are wise. Humidity is higher in the wet season, so quick-dry fabrics are preferable to cotton.

Temple dress code is the one area where specific packing matters. All Hindu temples in Bali require visitors to cover their shoulders and knees. A sarong (fabric wrap) is mandatory and can be borrowed or rented at major temples, but bringing your own is more comfortable and hygienic. Women on their menstrual period are traditionally asked not to enter temple grounds — this is a deeply held religious belief and is respectfully enforced. Light, loose pants or a long skirt paired with a t-shirt that covers the shoulders will get you into any temple.

Skip the heels entirely — Bali's terrain includes uneven temple steps, rice terrace paths, and sandy beaches. Comfortable sandals or flip-flops for daily wear plus one pair of closed-toe shoes for trekking or water sports will cover everything. If you plan to hike Mount Batur for sunrise or trek through rice terraces, lightweight trail shoes are recommended.

Season-Specific Packing Lists

What to pack based on when you visit and what you plan to do.

Dry Season Essentials (Apr–Oct)

Light cotton or linen shirts, shorts, and sundresses
Swimwear (2–3 sets — they take time to dry)
High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended)
Wide-brim hat and polarized sunglasses
Comfortable sandals/flip-flops for daily wear
Insect repellent with DEET for evening use
Reusable water bottle (refill stations are common)
Light cardigan for air-conditioned restaurants

Wet Season Additions (Nov–Mar)

Compact waterproof rain jacket (not a heavy coat)
Travel umbrella — collapsible and lightweight
Waterproof phone pouch or dry bag for electronics
Quick-dry clothing instead of heavy cotton
Waterproof sandals (Tevas or similar) for rainy days
Extra ziplock bags for keeping documents dry
Mosquito repellent (increased mosquito activity in wet season)
Lightweight long-sleeve shirt for cooler rainy evenings

Temple Visit Must-Haves

Sarong — required at all Hindu temples (buy locally for $3–5)
T-shirt or blouse that covers shoulders completely
Long pants, skirt, or dress that covers the knees
Comfortable closed-toe shoes for temple stairs
Small backpack (large bags may need to be checked at entry)
Cash for temple entry fees (IDR 20,000–50,000 per temple)
Camera without flash (photography rules vary by temple)
Respectful attitude — temples are active places of worship

Travel Smarter with Bali Malayali

We help you arrive prepared and stress-free.

Pre-Trip Packing Guide

Every guest receives a personalized packing checklist based on their travel dates, itinerary activities, and personal preferences. No generic lists — tailored to your trip.

Local Shopping Advice

Forgot something? We know exactly where to find quality sunscreen, sarongs, mosquito repellent, and adapters in every area of Bali — often at a fraction of hotel gift shop prices.

Temple Etiquette Briefing

Our guides brief you on dress codes, photography rules, and cultural etiquette before every temple visit. No awkward moments at the entrance — you arrive prepared.

Emergency Kit Provided

All our packages include a basic welcome kit with essentials like filtered water, local SIM card guidance, and emergency contact numbers so you are set from the moment you land.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions.

You can bring one or buy one locally for $3–5 at any market or shop near a temple. Major temples like Uluwatu, Besakih, and Tirta Empul also offer sarong rental or loan at the entrance. However, having your own is more comfortable and convenient, especially if you plan to visit multiple temples.