⚡ Quick Answer
Before flying to Bali, complete your e-VOA (visa), All Indonesia Arrival Card, and pay the Bali Tourist Levy — three QR codes saved as phone screenshots. Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a universal power adapter, and your documents. Install a BaliSIM eSIM before departure so Grab, Gojek, WhatsApp, and Maps are live the moment you land at Ngurah Rai.
This isn't just a packing list. Most "what to pack for Bali" articles skip the part where you actually get into the country — the Arrival Card, the Tourist Levy, the visa process, the eSIM. Those things matter as much as what's in your suitcase, and forgetting any of them costs you time at the airport when you're already tired from the flight.
This guide covers everything in the order you need it: what to sort weeks before, what to do the day before, what to have on your phone when you land, and what to pack for the trip itself.
Before You Fly — Pre-Departure Timeline
📅 1 Month Before
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Check passport validityMust be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. Renew now if needed.
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Book travel insuranceInclude medical evacuation and adventure activities (scooter riding, surfing, hiking). Your insurance is void if you ride a scooter without a valid IDP.
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Apply for e-VOA if requiredAt evisa.imigrasi.go.id — same cost as airport VOA (IDR 500,000 / ~$32 USD) but unlocks the autogate at Ngurah Rai. Apply at least 48 hours before departure.
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Apply for IDP if riding a scooterInternational Driving Permit with motorcycle endorsement — from your country's motoring authority. Must be obtained before travel, not in Bali. See our Scooter Rental Guide.
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Book flights and accommodationConfirm all bookings. Save PDFs offline — you'll need them for the Arrival Card.
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Check carrier unlock on your phoneRequired to install a BaliSIM eSIM. Contact your carrier if your phone was bought on contract.
📅 1 Week Before
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Purchase and install BaliSIM eSIMInstall via QR code at home on Wi-Fi. Sets up in 2 minutes. Activates automatically on landing at Ngurah Rai. Guide: BaliSIM Activation Guide.
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Pay the Bali Tourist LevyRp 150,000 (~$10 USD) per person via lovebali.baliprov.go.id. Save QR code as screenshot. Full guide: Bali Tourist Levy 2026.
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Download essential appsWhatsApp, Grab, Gojek, Google Maps, Google Translate, XE Currency. Set up Grab before departure — it accepts international numbers.
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Notify your bankTell them you're traveling to Indonesia to avoid card blocks. Ask about foreign transaction fees and ATM withdrawal fees.
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Make digital copies of documentsScan passport, insurance, IDP, visa confirmation, hotel bookings. Store in cloud AND save offline on your phone.
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Book airport transferA pre-booked BaliSIM private transfer means a driver with your name at arrivals. No taxi negotiation after a long flight. Book here →
📅 24 Hours Before
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Complete All Indonesia Arrival CardAt allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id — fill in within 72 hours of your flight. Free. Save QR code as screenshot.
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Save 3 QR codes as phone screenshotse-VOA · All Indonesia Arrival Card · Tourist Levy. All three must be accessible offline.
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Online check-inDownload boarding pass. Screenshot it offline.
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Download offline Google MapsDownload Bali + your destinations while on Wi-Fi. Essential for navigating roads with no signage.
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Charge all devices + power bankPhone, laptop, camera, power bank — fully charged before departure.
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WhatsApp your airport driverConfirm your flight number and estimated landing time.
Travel Documents Checklist
✅
Passport (original)Valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival date. Do not hand over as scooter rental deposit — carry a photocopy instead.
✅
e-VOA QR codeFrom evisa.imigrasi.go.id — for biometric autogate access. Saves 30–90 minutes vs manual VOA counter.
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All Indonesia Arrival Card QR codeFrom allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id — mandatory for customs exit. Fill within 72 hours before flight.
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Bali Tourist Levy QR codeFrom lovebali.baliprov.go.id — Rp 150,000 per person. Each traveler needs their own.
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Travel insurance documentsPolicy number, emergency contact, and claim instructions. Required if you need hospital treatment or medical evacuation.
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Flight confirmation (offline)Screenshot your boarding pass — don't rely on email access at the airport.
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Hotel/villa booking confirmationRequired for the Arrival Card and may be requested at immigration.
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Home driving license + IDP (if riding)Both required to legally ride a scooter. IDP must have motorcycle endorsement. See Scooter Guide.
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Passport photocopyKeep one paper copy in your bag, separate from your passport. Keep digital copy offline on phone.
All Indonesia Arrival Card — What It Is and How to Fill It
Since 1 September 2025, the All Indonesia Arrival Card replaced three separate forms: the old paper immigration arrival card, the Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD), and the SATUSEHAT Health Pass. All three are now completed in one place, generating a single QR code.
1️⃣
Go to allindonesia.imigrasi.go.idOr download the All Indonesia app (iOS/Android). Available in English.
2️⃣
Fill in your detailsPassport number, full name, nationality, flight number, accommodation address, and customs declaration (alcohol, tobacco, items over $500 USD value).
3️⃣
Complete within 72 hours before your flightEarlier submissions are accepted but the window closes when your flight departs. It is free.
4️⃣
Save QR code as screenshotThe QR code is your customs declaration. Shown at the customs exit after baggage claim — not at immigration.
⚠️ Every traveler needs their own — including children Each passport holder must complete their own Arrival Card and have their own QR code. A family of four needs four separate submissions. Children's forms can be completed by a parent but each needs its own QR code scanned at customs.
Bali Tourist Levy — Rp 150,000 Per Person
All international visitors pay a one-time Rp 150,000 (~$10 USD) environmental and cultural levy per entry. It is separate from your visa fee. Pay in advance via lovebali.baliprov.go.id — you receive a QR code to show at a checkpoint between baggage claim and the customs exit.
💡 Pay before flying — it's faster and free The Love Bali website accepts Visa and Mastercard. iDEAL and other local payment methods don't work. If your card is declined, enable international online transactions in your banking app or pay at the QRIS counter on arrival. Full guide:
Bali Tourist Levy 2026.
eSIM & Internet — Why This Matters on Day One
Your first ten minutes in Bali require mobile data: confirming your pickup driver on WhatsApp, opening Grab if your transfer hasn't arrived, navigating from the airport — and all of that before you reach your accommodation. Airport Wi-Fi is slow and unreliable. A local SIM queue at the airport adds 20–40 minutes.
📱
Install BaliSIM before your flight — not at the airport
A BaliSIM eSIM on Telkomsel installs in 2 minutes via QR code at home on Wi-Fi. It activates automatically when your plane lands at Ngurah Rai — WhatsApp, Grab, Maps, and Gojek are all live before you reach immigration. No queue, no SIM swap, no airport panic.
How to install your BaliSIM eSIM
1️⃣
Buy at balisim.comReceive QR code by email within minutes of checkout.
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iPhone:Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM → scan QR code. Set as data line. Keep home SIM active for calls.
3️⃣
Android:Settings → Network & Internet → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → scan QR code.
4️⃣
Don't activate manuallyIt connects to Telkomsel automatically when your plane lands. Full guide: eSIM Activation Guide.
Money & Payments in Bali
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Always carry IDR cash. Warungs, local markets, street vendors, beach entry fees, and small shops are cash only. Carry at least IDR 200,000–500,000 in small bills at all times.
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ATMs are widely available in Canggu, Seminyak, Ubud, Sanur, and Kuta. Use ATMs inside banks rather than standalone machines to reduce skimming risk. Most allow withdrawals of IDR 1,250,000–2,500,000 per transaction.
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Wise or Revolut card — these give mid-market exchange rates with minimal fees. Much better than airport currency exchange or using a standard debit card abroad.
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Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most restaurants, hotels, and shops. AmEx has limited acceptance. iDEAL, Tikkie, and Bancontact don't work in Indonesia.
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Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. IDR 20,000–50,000 for a massage, 10% at restaurants without a service charge, IDR 20,000–50,000 for a driver who was helpful.
⚠️ Money changer scam alert Street-side money changers advertising unusually high rates often shortchange customers through quick counting tricks. Use licensed money changers (look for official signage) or simply use your Wise/Revolut card at an ATM.
Essential Apps — Download Before You Board
| App |
Why You Need It |
Notes |
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WhatsApp Must
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Everything in Bali runs on WhatsApp — villa check-in, drivers, restaurants, boat operators, tours |
Verify your number before departure. See: WhatsApp in Bali
|
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Google Maps Must
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Navigation across all of Bali — download offline maps before flying |
Download Bali offline region before departure |
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Grab Must
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Ride-hailing in southern Bali — accepts international numbers for registration |
Set up at home before arrival |
|
Gojek Must
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Rides, food delivery, and day-to-day Bali transport |
Requires +62 Indonesian number for new accounts — BaliSIM eSIM provides this. Guide: Gojek Setup
|
| Google Translate |
Basic Bahasa Indonesia communication |
Download Indonesian language offline |
| XE Currency |
Real-time IDR exchange rate reference |
Useful at money changers and for comparing prices |
| All Indonesia |
Complete your Arrival Card |
Or use the web version at allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id |
| Love Bali |
Pay the Tourist Levy |
Or pay at lovebali.baliprov.go.id |
| Your Bank App |
Enable international transactions before departure |
Prevent card blocks at Indonesian ATMs and payment terminals |
Bali Packing List — Women
☐4–6 t-shirts or light tops (cotton or linen)
☐3 shorts or lightweight trousers
☐2–3 sundresses or maxi dresses
☐2 playsuits (day + evening wear)
☐3 swimsuits / bikinis
☐2 long skirts or sarongs (temple visits)
☐1 light jacket or cardigan (highlands, AC)
☐1 light rain jacket (wet season)
☐1 pair light trousers or yoga pants
☐1 shawl or shoulder cover (temples)
☐1 pair flip-flops / sandals (daily)
☐1 pair trainers / sneakers (walking, hiking)
☐1 pair water shoes (waterfalls, reefs)
☐Sunglasses with UV protection
☐Wide-brim hat or cap
☐Small crossbody bag (day bag)
☐Reusable tote bag
☐Hair ties (humidity is real)
☐Feminine hygiene products
☐Hard to find in Bali — bring your own
Temple dress code — for women and men To enter any Hindu temple in Bali, shoulders and knees must be covered. Most temples provide sarongs at the gate, but sizes vary. Carrying your own lightweight sarong (doubles as beach cover-up) is the easiest solution. Tank tops and short shorts are not permitted inside temple grounds regardless of how hot it is.
Bali Packing List — Men
☐4–6 t-shirts (cotton, quick-dry)
☐2 light short-sleeved shirts (evenings)
☐2–3 shorts (beach + casual)
☐1 pair jeans or light trousers (hiking, fine dining)
☐2 swim trunks / board shorts
☐1 light hoodie or sweatshirt (volcano sunrise, AC)
☐1 light rain jacket
☐5–6 pairs socks (including 1 hiking pair)
☐1 pair flip-flops (beach, daily)
☐1 pair trainers / sneakers
☐Hiking shoes (if trekking Batur or Munduk)
☐Sunglasses (UV protection)
☐Cap or hat
☐Small day bag or waist pack
☐Sarong or light trousers for temple visits
💡 You can buy almost anything in Bali You don't need to bring more than the essentials — you can buy pretty much anything you need in Bali, and things like scuba diving gear or flip-flops are super easy to find. Laundry services are everywhere for IDR 10,000–20,000 per kg, usually same-day or next-day return. Pack light and supplement in Bali.
Universal Essentials — For Everyone
☐Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 30+ (waterproof)
☐Insect repellent with DEET
☐Lightweight microfibre beach towel
☐Dry bag (boats, waterfalls)
☐Waterproof phone pouch
☐Reusable water bottle
☐Snorkel mask (optional — available to rent)
☐Prescription medications (with documentation)
☐Paracetamol / ibuprofen
☐Antihistamines (insect bites)
☐Rehydration salts + Imodium (Bali belly)
☐Plasters, antiseptic cream, bandages
☐Mosquito repellent plug (for room)
☐Hand sanitizer
Electronics Checklist
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Universal power adapter (Type C / Type F)Indonesia uses Type C and Type F sockets (European standard). Australian and US plugs don't fit without an adapter. There are rarely any universal outlets on the walls in Bali.
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Power bank (minimum 10,000 mAh)Bali's outdoor lifestyle means you'll be away from power outlets for hours. A power bank is non-negotiable for a day trip.
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Unlocked smartphone with eSIM installedBaliSIM eSIM connects to Telkomsel on landing. No SIM swap needed.
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Laptop or tablet (if working remotely)Canggu, Ubud, and Sanur all have coworking spaces and fast café Wi-Fi. See nomad guides for each area.
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Camera + memory cards + external driveBack up photos daily — cards get lost and phones get wet. Bring more memory than you think you need.
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Action camera / GoProFor waterfalls, snorkelling, and surfing. Waterproof housing is cheap in Bali if you don't have one.
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Earphones / earbudsEssential on long flights and for video calls from Bali.
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Drone (check regulations before bringing)Indonesia requires registration. Never fly over temples, crowds, or restricted zones. Know the rules before you pack it.
What to Pack by Season
Dry Season
April–September
☀️Lightweight clothes only
🕶️Good sunglasses essential
🌊Best time for beaches, surfing
🧴High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen
💨July–Aug: cooler evenings in highlands — pack light layer
Wet Season
October–March
🌧️Light rain jacket (not heavy)
👟Water-resistant shoes
🦟Extra mosquito repellent
🌅Mornings often still clear
💰Lower prices, fewer crowds
Highlands
Ubud / Munduk / Bedugul
🌡️5–10°C cooler than coast
🧥Light jacket year-round
🥾Hiking shoes for treks
🌿Lush year-round — waterfalls great in wet season
Peak Season
July–Aug & December
📅Book everything early
🏖️Beaches crowded — go early
🚤Nusa Penida boats fill fast
💰Prices peak — budget accordingly
Airport Arrival Checklist — Landing to Hotel
With preparation done, your Ngurah Rai arrival should take under 30 minutes from landing to kerbside. Here's the exact sequence.
📱
BaliSIM eSIM connects automaticallyBefore you reach immigration, Telkomsel 4G is active. WhatsApp your driver: "Just landed."
🛂
Immigration — autogate (e-VOA) or manual counterWith e-VOA: scan passport chip + face scan = 15–30 seconds. Without: 30–90 minute queue. Full guide:
Bali Arrival Guide.
🧳
Baggage claim~15–20 minutes. Message your driver with carousel number and estimated exit time.
💳
Tourist Levy checkpointShow Love Bali QR code — 5 seconds if pre-paid. QRIS counter available if not yet paid (Visa/Mastercard accepted).
🛃
Customs — Arrival Card QR codeShow All Indonesia Arrival Card QR. Green channel (nothing to declare): straight through. Red channel: inspection.
🌴
Exit — driver or GrabPre-booked transfer: driver with your name in arrivals. Grab: pickup zone a short walk outside. ATM available before exit if you need IDR cash.
Common Packing Mistakes
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Packing jeans for beach days. You won't wear them. Lightweight trousers cover every situation jeans would handle — and take up half the space.
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No IDP for scooter riding. Your travel insurance is void in an accident without a valid IDP with motorcycle endorsement. Not optional.
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No mosquito repellent. Dengue fever is present in Bali. DEET-based repellent is the most effective. Don't rely on buying it at the resort gift shop.
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No universal adapter. Indonesian sockets are Type C and F. Australian and US plugs don't fit. Don't discover this at 11pm on day one.
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Relying on airport Wi-Fi for eSIM setup. Install your BaliSIM eSIM at home on stable Wi-Fi. Airport eSIM activation is stressful and unreliable.
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No offline Google Maps. Bali's best beaches, waterfalls, and restaurants have minimal road signage. Offline maps are the difference between finding the place and spending 20 minutes in the wrong lane.
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Overpacking clothes. Laundry in Bali costs IDR 10,000–20,000 per kg with same-day return. Bring half what you think you need.
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Handing over passport as scooter deposit. Never do this. A cash deposit or photocopy is the correct arrangement. See: Scooter Rental Guide.
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Forgetting sunscreen weight limits. Reef-safe sunscreen is more expensive in Bali than at home. Bring enough for your trip, accounting for airline liquid restrictions (100ml per container in carry-on).
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Not filling the Arrival Card before landing. The All Indonesia Arrival Card must be completed before customs. Doing it in the queue adds delay for everyone behind you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for Bali?
Essentials: lightweight clothing (t-shirts, shorts, swimwear), sandals and trainers, reef-safe sunscreen, DEET insect repellent, universal power adapter (Type C/F), power bank, microfibre towel, dry bag, and your documents. Don't overpack clothes — laundry is cheap and fast in Bali. You can buy pretty much anything you need in Bali when you arrive.
Do I need to fill in a Bali Arrival Card?
Yes — the All Indonesia Arrival Card is mandatory for all international travelers, including children. It replaced the old paper arrival card, electronic customs declaration, and health pass in September 2025. Complete at allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id within 72 hours before your flight. It's free and generates a QR code for customs.
Do I need cash in Bali?
Yes — carry some IDR for warungs, markets, and small vendors. Most restaurants and shops accept Visa/Mastercard. ATMs are widely available and Indonesian ATMs don't typically add a local fee. A Wise or Revolut card is the best option for minimising conversion costs. Avoid street-side money changers and standalone ATMs without bank branding.
Preparing for Bali is about much more than packing the right clothes. By organizing your travel documents, completing your Bali Arrival Card and Tourist Levy before departure, downloading essential apps, and setting up a reliable eSIM in advance, you'll arrive ready to enjoy your holiday instead of dealing with airport queues and last-minute hassles. Use this checklist as your final pre-flight guide, and you'll be able to start exploring Bali from the moment you land with everything you need already in place.
