Written by Charlotte Lock
Posted, 25th September 2025
This Bali packing list will make sure you know exactly what to pack for your trip, whether you’re joining a group tour or setting off on your own backpacking adventure.
We travel to Bali dozens of times each year, so we know exactly what’s worth bringing and what’s best left at home.
With a tropical climate, chill vibes, and epic adventures waiting for you, you’ll have to balance practical essentials with Insta-worthy outfits.
To help you save on the guesswork and stop you from overpacking, we’ve made this ultimate Bali packing list to help you pack light, stay comfortable and make the most of your island adventure!
What To Pack For Bali
Packing for Bali is pretty easy when you know what to expect. With a warm, humid climate, you’ll want to prioritise light, breathable clothing and good swimwear for the beaches and pools alongside some more modest options for cultural visits.
You’ll also thank yourself for packing some practical items to keep yourself comfortable during your travels and for tackling hostel stays.
This guide ticks off all the items you should pack for your trip to Bali:
Bali Travel Docs
Having your travel documents in good order will ensure that you set off for your trip on the right foot and don’t run into any unexpected delays or entry issues. Make sure to have these items organised:
Passport: you’ll need your passport to enter Indonesia, and it must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you depart. Make sure you have some free space in the book for stamps!
Approved visa: many travellers require a visa to travel to Indonesia. While some nationalities, including those from the UK, can apply for a visa on arrival for a small fee, others need to apply in advance. Make sure to double-check the entry requirements for your nationality before travelling, you don’t want to end up stuck at the border!
Flight e-tickets: having a digital copy of your flight tickets is always handy for making it through the airport gates quickly. When you arrive in Indonesia, you may also be asked by immigration officers for proof of your return tickets, so make sure to have a copy of these too!
Travel insurance certificate: travel insurance is definitely something you do not want to be without in Bali. From illness to unfortunate accidents, having travel insurance will give some peace of mind and ease unexpected financial costs.
Prepaid travel card or bank card: having a prepaid card is a safer and often cheaper way of accessing money abroad. If you need cash for more rural locations during your trip, then you can use your card at an ATM or a currency desk at the airport.
Driving licence: if you’re planning on hiring a scooter or car during your travels, then you’ll need to bring your ID licence with you. An International Driving Permit is also needed for many travellers, so do your research before travelling!
It’s a good idea to keep digital and printed copies of your travel insurance certificate, flight tickets and visa for your trip. Having a backup makes life a lot easier if anything goes missing! A photocopy of your passport and driving license also wouldn’t go amiss, in case you need them for accommodation stays!
Toiletries For Bali
While you’ll be able to get a lot of toiletries in Bali, or they may be offered in your accommodation, it still helps to have a good selection of your home comfort toiletries with you. Here are some of the things you’ll want to pack:
Aftersun cream or aloe vera: a soothing after sun is a lifesaver if you spend a bit too much time in the sun, helping you cool down and ease any redness. It’s very easy to get sunburn sunbathing in Bali if you aren’t careful.
Reef-safe suncream: since Bali’s coastlines are bursting with marine life and reefs such as at Menjangan Island, it’s important you do as much as you can to limit chemicals leaching into the water while you’re swimming. A reef-safe suncream keeps both you and the plants and fish within the ocean protected.
Toothbrush and toothpaste: teeth cleaning essentials are a no-brainer for any trip, but they’re easy to forget if you’re packing in a hurry!
Bug spray and bite relief: Bali’s tropical climate means there are lots of critters waiting for human bait, including mosquitoes. Having a repellent spray can go a long way in avoiding bites, but a relief cream is also useful to have just in case!
Top Tip: Mosquitos are most common in areas with lush jungle such as Ubud.
Haircare products: With salt water, humidity and the sun all waiting in Bali for your hair to tackle, having some good quality shampoo and conditioner is a wise idea. Beware that the water in Bali is known for drying out longer hair, so you might like to consider bringing a hair mask or washing your hair with bottled water every so often. Solid shampoo and conditioner bars are a great way of going plastic-free and saving some space!
Menstrual products: while it’s the last thing you want to deal with on an island getaway, being prepared for that time of the month will help keep you comfortable, especially when menstrual products can be more difficult to find in Bali than back home.
Deodorant: deodorant is a non-negotiable for the hot and humid weather. You’ll definitely want a can or roll-on on hand to keep bad smells and sweat at bay. You do not want to be the one stinking up the coach on travel days!
Hand sanitiser: a bottle of hand sanitiser is a must for keeping your hands clean on the go if soap isn’t available. A few drops of sanitiser are very important before meals to help minimise your chance of the infamous Bali belly!
Razor and shaving cream: if you like to be hair-free, then bringing your own razor and shaving gel is a good idea, as you’re unlikely to find good-quality items on the island.
Clothing For Bali
Clothes are arguably the most important thing you need to consider for your trip to Bali, especially if you want to have some Insta-worthy pics! But choosing your clothes wisely is very important, so that you’re ready to tackle the heat, visit cultural sites and enjoy the amazing beaches.
Casual lightweight clothes: make sure to pack breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay comfortable in the blazing heat. They’re also easy to wash and quick to dry, which is great for travelling light. Shorts and T-shirts or vest tops are versatile basics that will keep you cool. Packing a good mix that you can alternate will help you avoid overpacking.
Dresses: dresses are ideal for evenings out or throwing on over your swimwear, particularly when leaving the beach, as modesty is expected away from the shore. They also take up less space in your bag!
Swimsuits or bikinis: Whether you’re relaxing by your hotel pool or island hopping around the Gili Islands, you’ll definitely want to pack a few different options for swimwear. Having a few handy will mean you’ll always have one in action while your others are drying off. A full coverage suit is also a must if you’re planning to surf at Uluwatu – string bikinis don’t last long in the waves!
Flip-flops or sandals: an easy slip-on pair of shoes is perfect for exploring beaches, heading to temples or lounging in hostels if you’re travelling solo. You’ll often find yourself needing to go barefoot in Bali, so shoes that you can easily ditch are handy.
Gymwear or activewear: regardless of your gym status back at home, you’ll likely find yourself needing some activewear while in Bali. Whether you’re taking on hikes, yoga classes or cycling along the coast, breathable fitness clothes will help keep you cool while you’re active.
Comfy sleepwear: nights in Bali can be warm and humid, so lightweight pyjamas or loungewear are best. Make sure to choose something comfortable for hostel and guesthouse stays.
Raincoat: the rainy season in Bali can bring sudden downpours, so having a raincoat or poncho will save you from getting completely drenched. Opting for a light coat that folds into a small bag is a great option for saving space.
Warm layers: while you might assume you can ditch the fleeces and hoodies at home, you should make sure you have an extra layer to throw on when the air-conditioning is too strong or the nights are chilly.
Underwear: underwear is easy to forget in the frantic packing stage, but it is essential! If you’re going for a week or two, then you could pack enough for each day, but any longer, you may wish to avail of the laundry services across the island to stop you from overpacking. Underwear can also be washed in the sink if push comes to shove!
Temple wear: if you’re planning to head to Tanah Lot, Taman Ayun or any other temples in Bali, you need to wear modest clothing, with your shoulders and knees covered. Make sure to keep to lightweight fabrics, though, as they’re still very warm!
Travel Essentials For Bali
Apart from your clothes and toiletries, there are several other travel gadgets and items that you’ll want to take with you for your trip to Bali:
Backpack/suitcase: backpacks are great if you’re prioritising moving around easily, while a suitcase is a better choice if you’re staying in one place. You may also prefer a suitcase if you struggle with carrying heavy weights for a long period of time.
Packing cubes: to keep your bag organised and make it easier to find things quickly, packing cubes are a great solution. Use them well, and you’ll also find they can help you fit more into your bag.
Small day/overnight bag: if you have day trips, hikes or short stays planned during your Bali trip, then it might be useful to pack a small day bag that will allow you to easily transport your essentials without dragging around your main luggage. This is especially handy for day trips to Ubud or chasing waterfalls like Banyumala.
Laundry bag: a separate bag for your laundry helps to keep dirty and clean clothes more organised and can make unpacking much less of a hassle.
Airtag or a similar tracker: having a small tracker inside your luggage can be a lifesaver if it gets lost in transit, allowing you to search for its location on your phone.
Quick-dry beach towel: you’ll often find yourself getting wet in Bali, whether it be on a hike through the jungle, going for a swim at Lovina Beach or surfing in Uluwatu. Taking a small, quick-dry beach towel will save you lots of space in your bag and time on drying after activities.
Hat and sunglasses: you’re not going to want to leave for Bali without a hat and a pair of sunglasses. Both are essential for keeping you comfortable in the sun.
Basic first aid kit: having first aid essentials like plasters, antiseptic cream, and some painkillers is an absolute must for travelling to Bali. While you hope you won’t need it, it’s useful to have!
Dry bag: on boat trips and beach days, a dry bag comes in handy for protecting your valuables from getting wet. They’re also useful for storing your gadgets and chargers inside your luggage so you can keep everything together.
Wet bag: just like a dry bag, a wet bag has a use in Bali. A wet bag is great for storing damp swimwear and your towel in your main luggage or day bag if you don’t have time to dry your items off.
Power adapter: if you want to have any luck in charging your devices while in Bali, then you’ll need to take a power adapter with you. A universal adapter is a great choice to ensure your plugs can fit all types of sockets, not just in Bali.
Power bank: having a power bank is also useful on the go, allowing you to keep your phone/tablet well charged when you don’t have access to mains power.
Extras
You might also consider packing a few extra items that will make your life easier during your trip to Bali, but aren’t essential:
Backpack rain cover: if you’re travelling during the rainy season, you might like to pack a rain cover to help keep your bag and belongings dry during unexpected showers. You could also spray your bag with a waterproof protector before your travels.
Reusable straw/water bottle: Bali is very big on cutting out single-use plastic, so bringing your own reusable bottle and straw is a great way of helping out – and encouraging yourself to stay hydrated!
Earplugs and eye mask: if you’re one of those unlucky souls who cannot catch a wink of sleep without silence and complete darkness, then having a pair of earplugs and an eye mask in your bag may come in handy – especially during travel days!
Combination lock: a combination lock is useful for securing your luggage or hostel lockers without worrying about losing keys.
Travel journal: keeping a travel journal is a nice way to record memories and experiences. It can also double as a space for jotting down travel plans or budgets!
Things Not To Bring To Bali
A lot of travellers heading off to Bali still assume that the island is like the “sticks”, with limited access to well-stocked shops and services – but nowadays that’s not so much the case.
With more and more international tourists arriving every year, Bali is becoming increasingly connected, and it’s no longer difficult to find your favourite brands. With that in mind, there are a few things you can skip bringing in your bag to Bali:
Too many toiletries: While you’ll want to be well-stocked with your go-to essentials in your toiletries bag, avoid overpacking if you don’t have the space. Shampoos, shower gels, toothpastes etc, are very easily available in supermarkets and convenience shops.
Bulky beach towels: most hotels, resorts and even guesthouses provide towels that you can use by the pool or on the beach – there’s no need to pack a bulky towel if you can get away with a small fold-up microfibre one.
Thick clothing: heavy jackets or denim jeans are bulky items that take up a lot of space in your bag. Given the tropical temperatures year-round, thin clothing that can be layered is much better for saving space – it also dries a lot faster if you’re caught in rain showers!
Too much cash: ATMs are widespread across Bali for lifting cash when you need it. Cards are accepted in most restaurants, shops and leisure facilities, especially in touristy areas. If you want to keep some cash on you, keep small-value notes and make sure to spread them out across wallets and bags to make it less of a loss if your bag goes missing.
How To Pack For Bali
Packing for a trip to Bali is all about weighing up comfort, style and space-saving clothing and gadgets to make sure you’re well prepared for all eventualities on your trip, without falling into the trap of overpacking.
Bali has a tropical climate and is warm all year round, even during the rainy season; therefore, you want to prioritise lightweight fabrics and items that will dry quickly so you aren’t stuck without clothing after a laundry run.
While shorts and t-shirts will likely be your go-to items for daily wear, you’ll also want to pack at least one modest outfit for visiting temples. You’ll want to make sure it covers both your shoulders and knees, but is still breathable in the sticky heat.
You may also want to pack a swim cover-up or sarong to keep yourself modestly covered when leaving the beach – walking about the streets in a bikini or swim trunks isn’t well-received.
Above all, pack with versatility in mind – choose items you can mix and match, and don’t worry if you forget something, as most essentials can be found easily on the island.
Keeping your luggage light will make travelling around Bali much easier, and you’ll appreciate having space for souvenirs or locally bought items to enjoy at home.
Bali Packing Tips
Here are some Bali packing tips we have to help you make the most of your packing space:
- Roll, don’t fold: rolling your clothes instead of folding them helps to save space, reduces wrinkles, and makes it easier to see what you’ve packed. Using packing cubes can also help to save some space and keep your bag organised while digging through for your go-to outfit.
- Pack multi-use items: packing a scarf that can be used as a beach cover-up, blanket and temple wear or sandals that can be used for the shower and for short walks can help cut down on your bulky bag packing.
- Pack for one week, not your whole trip: with cheap and fast laundry services everywhere across Bali, packing more than 7-8 days’ worth of clothes just weighs you down. If you choose plenty of mix and match items, your Insta followers will have no idea you only took a handful of outfits for your weeks long trip!
- Leave space for Bali buys: whether it’s handmade crafts, beachwear, or coffee, you’ll want room in your luggage for souvenirs without stressing about overweight baggage on the way home!
- Find a way to keep your electronics dry: no one wants to fork out hundreds for a new phone or iPad when the rain gets into your bag. Making sure your bag is waterproof or your keep your electronics an cables in a separate dry bag within your luggage could save you from disaster – especially during the rainy season!
What To Pack For Bali’s Rainy Season
Light layers are the key to tackling Bali’s rainy season. While you’ll likely prioritise staying dry, it’s still very warm, so you want breathable fabrics that you can layer to stay dry.
A light rain jacket or poncho is essential, as showers often come on suddenly and can be heavy. A waterproof cover for your backpack or suitcase will also save your belongings from getting soaked when you’re caught out.
Footwear matters too – sandals or waterproof shoes dry quickly and are better than trainers, which can stay damp for days. A dry bag is another smart addition to your packing list and is good for protecting electronics, money, or important documents when you’re out exploring.
Finally, don’t underestimate how handy a quick-dry towel can be after a downpour!
What To Pack For Bali’s Dry Season
Bali’s dry season is the most popular time to visit, thanks to its sunny days, lower humidity, and calmer ocean. You’ll want to prioritise staying comfortable in the heat, protected from the sun and ready to enjoy the ocean and waterfalls.
Cotton shorts, airy dresses, and loose shirts that allow your skin to breathe in the tropical heat will be your go-to. Don’t forget a swimsuit or two – whether you’re heading to the beaches in Canggu or relaxing by a hotel pool, you’ll likely be in the water daily.
You’ll most definitely want a suncream, sunglasses and hat packed to keep you safe from the strong UV rays too!
While you’re far less likely to be caught in a rain shower during the dry season, a light jacket or hoodie wouldn’t go amiss during the breezy evenings and just in case…
Make sure to pack some sturdy footwear for hiking, some flip-flops or sandals for temple visits, beach days and daily wear too!
FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions related to packing fro a trip to Bali along with our expert answers to each question.
For a 9 day stay in Bali, you’ll want to pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sandals, a modest outfit for temples, rain protection (if travelling in the wet season), and essentials like sunscreen and bug spray. Laundry services are very cheap, so no need to overpack!
Light, airy clothes like shorts, t-shirts, dresses, and swimwear work best – but make sure to have at least one modest outfit for temples, covering your knees and shoulders! A sarong is another good option for covering up and saving space!
Skip bulky clothes like jeans, heavy jackets, and too many toiletries when packing for Bali! Towels are usually provided, and shops stock most everyday essentials, so leave room for souvenirs instead – you’ll definitely want some!
Choose a repellent containing DEET or picaridin for the strongest protection from biting bugs in Bali. Natural options with citronella or eucalyptus work too, but stronger formulas are far better for repelling nasty bites!
Conclusion
Whether you’re setting off solo or joining a group tour, packing for Bali doesn’t need to be complicated; as long as you keep comfort, climate, and the local culture in mind, you’ll know exactly what you need for a smooth and enjoyable trip to Bali.
Stick to lightweight clothing, bring plenty of versatile essentials to mix and match, and remember that you can easily pick up extras once you’re on the island – especially in touristy areas!
So whether you are going off on your own backpacking trip or want to join a Bali group tour, with the right balance of practical items and a little bit of space left over for souvenirs, you’ll be perfectly prepared to enjoy everything Bali has to offer.
Whether you’re looking to travel solo or bring a friend along for the ride, our group tours in South East Asia & Australia are the perfect balance of culture, adventure, chill time & nightlife. You’ll arrive as strangers and leave as the best of friends.
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