If you’re like me, I always like to pack lightly but efficiently for any trip, so today I want to share with you my Bali packing list.
I try to plan my packing list a few weeks before a trip starts. On my last trip to Bali, I managed to perfect my packing list, so I thought I would share it here with you today.
Of course, feel free to customize this list to meet your personal needs. These are the top items I recommend when asked what to pack for Bali.
Did you book your Bali stay yet? If not, check these water villas and bungalows in Bali before making any accommodation arrangements.
22Backpack
First up, you’re going to need a backpack to put everything in. I like to travel with a bag that’s around 60L in size. This is the perfect capacity to fit everything I need, while not becoming too bulky or heavy for carrying around.
My preferred brand is Osprey, and they have bags to suit females and males.
For females, I recommend the Women’s Osprey Ariel AG 65 Pack and for men the Osprey Atmos AG 65 Men’s Backpacking Backpack. Both have great harnesses that reduce the weight and pressure on your back.
If you prefer a more versatile travel bag, then you should check for a backpack with wheels instead.
21Sarong
Bali has many impressive temples to visit, but to enter, as a man or woman, you will need to cover your shoulders and knees. Pack a light sarong that will be easy to put in any day bag.
While they are quite relaxed in Bali, I believe it’s important always to be respectful of the local culture.
See also: Best Time to Visit Bali
20LifeStraw
The LifeStraw is a personal water filter that you can use if you are struggling to find bottled or filtered water.
It’s an environmentally friendly option that protects you against bacteria. It is durable, and it’s the ultimate tool for heading out on long treks and adventures.
I used this a lot on my trip, so it’s one of my Bali essentials.
19Padlock
One of the top safety items on my Bali packing list is a padlock. I recommend having a couple of these with you, one for your backpack and one for hostel lockers.
Even if you have a private room or are traveling by private transport, you need to be aware of your belongings at all times on your trip.
18Hand Sanitiser
One of the habits all of us have imbibed post the pandemic is to carry a hand sanitizer while travelling. One really useful one you would find is the Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Gel 1 OZ that has small single use sachets that are very convenient to carry, use and distribute amongst your co-travelers too. When packing for Bali I made sure to have a pack of these.
You never know when the water won’t work in bathrooms, or you end up in a mess after eating. The hand sanitizer will help keep you clean and germ-free on the go.
17Medication
Apart from any personal medication you take, I’d also recommend taking paracetamol and anti-diarrhea tablets with you.
Many people get the infamous Bali Belly, so be prepared, so you don’t have to scramble around town when you’re in a tricky spot.
16Money Belt
While I believe Bali is generally a safe place to visit, a money belt is always a good idea to use anywhere in the world.
This will keep your valuables such as cash, credit cards, and passports, close to your body. Wear it underneath your clothing, so no one will be able to see what you are carrying.
15Waterproof Phone Case
This phone case which can be purchased on sites like Amazon is excellent for any water-based adventure.
If you are going to visit waterfalls, but still want to capture some great photos, this will protect your phone from the water.
It also will stop any scratches and dirt. It is one of my essentials to take to Bali for all those days at the beach.
14Travel Adaptor
Bali uses a plug much like Europe with 230v/50Hz, with power sockets type C/F and round pins. Always travel with an adapter, as they are expensive to buy overseas.
You’ll need to charge all your electronics to make sure you’re capturing those great photos and memories.
13Smaller Backpack
I found this plug adapter to be the best overall for traveling in Bali and Southeast Asia.
Once again I recommend Osprey or alternatively North Face for a day bag. This will come in handy for all your tours, and can also be useful for overnight adventures.
Get a bag that you can pack inside your main backpack, but will still carry about 15-25L itself.
See also: Nightlife in Bali
12Flip Flops and Walking Shoes
For shoes, I’d recommend at minimum a pair of flip-flops, for beach days, and then something sturdier.
If you are planning to go on long treks, you may want traditional walking shoes. For just traveling around town, trainers will do.
Shoes-wise, if you are wondering what not to take to Bali, you will find there is no need for high heels or any uncomfortable shoes!
11Lightweight and Quick-Drying Clothing
When it comes to clothes in Bali, wear lightweight and quick-drying clothes at all times. You don’t need to pack extensive amounts of clothing, as laundry facilities are available at most hostels.
Materials such as cotton and linen are perfect for Bali, and these types of clothing can fold down easily. As far as what to wear in Bali, everyone is very relaxed here, mainly wearing beachy, summer clothing.
10Camera
A camera is the number one item on my packing list for Bali. I can’t imagine traveling all that way, and not capturing my memories.
Brand-wise, I recommend either Canon or Sony, which offer some compact models. As with any valuables, don’t flaunt them in public, and look at waterproof models or casing if you are planning active days out.
I personally use and recommend Sony A7RIII as I believe is the best camera for backpacking and Sony GMaster FE 24-70″ lens. You can check the reviews on any of these Sony A7RIII lenses to see which one fits better for your purpose.
If you find it too expensive then go for Sony A6000 and find the best lens for it.
9GoPro
As well as a traditional camera, I always travel with my GoPro Hero 11. These action cameras are so small yet mighty and take incredible videos.
I always have 2-3 spare batteries and a battery charger with me, and these are my top two accessories for GoPro.
Using this camera underwater captured some of my favorite photos ever! Travel smart in Bali and once again don’t advertise your electronics to strangers.
8Lightweight Rain Jacket
On my Bali checklist for the rainy season between October and April is a rain jacket. Find a lightweight option that can easily roll up to go inside your bag.
I also like the brand Marmot, which offers functional jackets for him and her.
7Sunscreen and After Sun
You will be spending plenty of time outdoors in Bali, so it’s wise to travel with these two items.
My Bali travel checklist always includes reef-safe sun cream which is best for the ocean and marine life, and Sun Bum Cool Down for after sun.
Bring one bottle of each, and you can always purchase more when you’re out there.
6Solid Shampoo and Conditioner
If you are swimming in the sea, you’ll want to take care of your hair. However, large bottles can be heavy and bulky to carry around.
Brands like Lush offer solid alternatives, that will last for a few weeks and is easy to carry. Get a small metal-carrying tin for them, and put this on your list of things to take to Bali.
5Dry Bag
For those days out diving and snorkeling, a dry bag is useful for storing your dry clothing and valuables.
Osprey once again offers a good option with their Ultralight bag. When considering things to take to Bali, this was one of my most used items.
Anytime you step on a boat, your belongings will get soaked. It’s always nice to have a dry and warm set of clothes at the end of the day.
4Travel Towel
I found that many tours and hostels didn’t offer free towels in Bali, so this was a well-used item in my bag.
Get a lightweight, quick-drying towel, that you can roll up to store in your bag when traveling between destinations.
3Insect Repellent
Finally, one of the least glamorous, but most useful items I packed for Bali was insect repellent.
Either in cream or spray form, protect yourself from pesky bugs and itchy nights by reapplying this regularly. When asked what to bring to Bali, this is always one of my top three items!
2Water Shoes
For anyone who plans to take part in lots of beach trips or water adventures, water shoes are a great thing to bring to Bali.
Some of the beaches in Bali have really painful rocks, that can cut up your feet. You don’t need to buy expensive, fancy shoes, just something that is secure and protects your feet.
1Travel Insurance
Never travel without travel insurance. This is the most important thing you should buy before traveling to Bali.
You might not need it, but an accident not only will ruin your trip but also your travel budget. Stay covered with Safetywing travel insurance, which covers covid-19 too.
LIKE IT? PIN IT
While this list by no means exhausts everything you could take to Bali, it’s a good starting point for what to take to Bali.
Add in your essential clothing and toiletries, and you’ll be good to go. As far as clothes to wear in Bali, remember that unless you are staying in luxury resorts, it’s a relaxed travel destination.
I hope this list has helped you to decide what to bring to Bali on your next trip. Remember, less is more when it comes to backpacking, so don’t weigh yourself down with unnecessary items and accessories!
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