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How Much Does a Bali Trip Cost? (Prices for 2024/2025)

When considering a Bali trip, you may want to know how much it would cost. Is it expensive?

Here is a breakdown of how much it costs for flights, hotels, transportation, sightseeing, food, and activities.

Is Bali Expensive?

• Typical Costs for 1 Day, 1 Week, and 1 Month
• Cost of International Flights to Bali
• Cost of Eating and Drinking
• The Cost of Transportation
• Cost of Attractions/Activities
• Tips for Saving Money

Bali is not an expensive destination compared to other vacation spots in Southeast Asia .

• A private customized tour of the main attractions/activities in the south costs around US$120/person/day (2–4 people)*
• A private volcano and hot spring tour or a rainforest discovery tour costs around US$200/person/day (2–4 people)*

* Private guide, car, and driver, attraction tickets, activities, and lunch included

It is a cost-effective island for a tour partly because most of the best beaches, surfing beaches, scenic terraced rice fields, and sightseeing landmarks are in the central and eastern parts of the island within about an hour from the airport and main hotel locations by private vehicle at times of low traffic, so transportation costs and trip lengths are kept low.

Some of the best snorkeling/diving areas are also within this 1-hour driving radius . Some others of the best beaches, diving areas, terraced fields and waterfalls/sightseeing/hiking areas are in the northern and eastern parts of Bali within an hour and half to two hours travel time from the airport.

Moreover, Bali can suit all kinds of budgets, from economical to luxury . However, Bali is an expat enclave and has heavy tourism. So, this drives the prices up, but in the off season (November to March except during the major holidays), you can get better prices. 

With Asia Highlights , you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure ( detail⇒ ).

Get to know more details about  the cheapest time to visit Bali >>>

Typical Costs for 1 Week in Bali

Prices are going up, but Bali remains very good value compared to Western countries.

• For a comfortable private tour (2–4 people) : About 160–220 USD per day per person is typical with private guide, 4- or 5-star hotels, nice meals, and private transfers included. For this standard of vacation in the US, the average price is 500+ USD.

The typical cost for a person for a week in Bali is from 1,000 USD.

For more on planning a week's holiday, see How to Plan a Trip to Bali .

Comparison with Thailand

Similar to Bali, Thailand is also affordable for all budget levels. 2–3 plane journeys are generally needed for a classic Thailand tour from north to south (Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket or Koh Samui), which makes traveling in Thailand slightly costlier than in Bali by 20–30 USD per person per day. A 10-Day Private Classic Thailand Tour costs around 2,000 USD per person.

Check the sample itineraries of Bali for 10 days .

The Cost of International Flights to Bali

The only international airport in Bali is Denpasar International Airport (DPS). The cheapest months to visit are October to March (rainy season). Airline prices from the middle of December to early January are high for the Christmas and New Year season. The most expensive months are from April to September, especially the Easter vacation period and summer holiday season (June to August).

Airline Ticket Prices from Major Cities to Bali (round trip):

• New York , United States: From 1,500 USD . Flying to Bali from New York requires at least one stopover.
• Sydney , Australia: From 800 USD. Flying out of Sydney can be non-stop.
• London , England: From 900 USD. Flying out of London requires at least one stop.

For more on seasonal differences in Bali travel, see Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Bali .

Cost of Accommodations in Bali

Here are the approximate costs for a standard 2-person room in Bali for 2024. This is for reference only (prices fluctuate quickly due to various uncertainties related to changes in the epidemic situation):

* Low season : November to March except for around Christmas and New Year

* High season : April to September, Christmas and New Year season

During the busy months/weeks, we recommend you plan and book your accommodations well in advance.

Hotels are included in our itineraries and we can generally secure favorable prices. We recommend suitable hotels based on your budget, preferred location, room specification (e.g. no-smoking), and other requirements. Feel free to contact us .

The Cost of Eating and Drinking in Bali

• Budget : A meal in a cheap local-style restaurant can be as low as 25,000 IDR (1.70 USD or 1.70 EUR).
• Mid-range : A mid-range restaurant meal for two people with three courses costs about 21 USD or 21 EUR.

The Cost of Transportation in Bali

• Taxi: The price of a taxi in Bali depends on several factors. The taxi starting price is about 0.47 USD (7,000 IDR). For each additional 1 km you have to pay about 0.50 USD (7,500 IDR).

Traveling around Bali is usually by taxi or private transfer. It generally takes no more than 2 hours of driving from Ubud in central Bali to the most southerly beaches.

Public buses and scoooter/bike hire are obviously a lot less efficient, convenient, and comfortable. While you could save most of your transport costs, it would mean less time at the attractions and hence less value-for-money on your tour time, so we don't recommend them generally.

The Cost of Attractions/Activities in Bali

Beaches : Public beaches are free, but you may need to pay to enter a private beach. See Best Beaches in Bali: How to Choose the Right One for Your Trip .

Rice terraces : The less popular rice terraces are generally free to visit. The most popular ones such as Jatiluwih and Tegallalang have entrance fees of about 4 or 5 dollars for tourists. The ticket sales help locls to cultivate the land and build concrete paths for better access to the rice fields.

Tips for Saving Money in Bali

• Traveling during shoulder/low season (November to March helps to reduce airfare and touring costs substantially.
• Use bicycle/scooter hire. Take the public buses. Share taxi rides with others.
• The biggest tourist areas around Denpasar, on the southern and southeastern coasts, and around Ubud are the most expensive touring areas. For lower prices, you can go to the north coast, and the least expensive and least touristy area is western Bali.
• Eat at small, local, inexpensive restaurants called warungs for authentic and cheap Balinese food.
• Shop at fresh food markets for fruits and vegetables instead of supermarkets.

Touring Bali with Asia Highlights

All our tours linked above can be adjusted as much as you like. We aim to create your ideal itinerary based on your interests, group size, budget, and other requirements. Contact us for inquiries.

Get some inspiration from our Bali tours to create memories together in one of the world's best honeymoon and family vacation destinations.

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• 7-Day Private Bali Natural & Cultural Immersion
• 10-Day Family Fun Trip to Bali
• 12-Day Thailand, Singapore, and Bali Tour
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• How to Plan a Trip to Bali
• How to Plan a 1–2-Week Itinerary to Bali
• How to Plan a Trip to Singapore and Bali 2024/2025
• How to Plan a Trip to Thailand, Singapore and Bali 2024
• Bali Weather in January: Temperature and Best Places to Go
• Bali Weather February: Best Places to Visit
• Bali Weather in March: Best Places to Visit and Travel Tips
• Bali Weather in April 2024: Best Places to Go & Travel Tips
• Bali Weather in May 2024
• Bali Weather in June 2024: Best Places to Go & Travel Tips
• Bali Weather in July 2024: Best Places to Go & Travel Tips
• Bali Weather in August 2024: Best Places to Go & Travel Tips
• Bali Weather in September 2024: Temperature and Best Places to Go
• Bali Weather in October 2024
• Bali Weather in November 2024: Temperature and Best Places to Go
• Bali Weather in December 2024: Best Places to Go & Travel Tips

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• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Bali Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Bali?

How much does a weekend trip to bali cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to Bali cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to Bali cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Bali

A journey to Bali will usually cost from $26 to $226 for an individual and $52 to $452 for two people. The mid-range tends to hover around $73 (Rp1,176,938) per person daily, as calculated from our travel cost data from fellow travelers covering food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation expenses. This is a fairly wide price range, and your individual expenses will vary by the level of luxury and travel style that you choose. For those seeking a balance between comfort and budget, booking standard accommodation and eating at typical restaurants, your expenses will be close to this calculated average. Read on for a detailed breakdown of travel expenses by category and a comprehensive overview of accommodation and activity costs tailored to your visit.

Budget travelers to Bali often spend around $26 per day. This usually includes a stay at a hostel and meals at affordable restaurants around town. Many budget travelers also prefer free activities over those that cost too much money. If you have a bit more money to spend, you should budget around $73 (Rp1,176,938) per day. This average includes a mid-range hotel and more meals in restaurants, along with a higher budget for entertainment and activities. Luxury travelers should plan to spend around $226 a day which includes higher-end accommodations, restaurants, tours, and activities. For more details, see our average travel costs for Bali here .

Travelers spend, on average, $219 per person on a three-day trip to Bali. This includes sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. You can stick close to this average price by staying at mid-range hotels and eating at mid-level restaurants, while also paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. If you wish to travel cheaper, it's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities. It's also common for many visitors to have a much higher travel budget, as many high-end hotels and restaurants can be found around town.

How much does a five day trip to Bali cost?

With five days in Bali, you can expect to spend about $365 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Bali cost?

Most visitors spend between $182 and $1,583 for a one week trip to Bali, with the average being $511 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Bali. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hotel Prices in Bali

The average price for a hotel room in Bali is $81 per night. This average is based on our detailed analysis of available hotels in the area. If you want to save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by location and amenities. You can see more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Bali here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Should you do a tour in Bali?

You'll find a wide range of guided tours in Bali and many visitors enjoy the convenience of having an expert guide leading them through the chosen activity. Tours range in price from $27 for the Tanah Lot Bali Temple Sunset Small Group Tour – Half Day to $148 for the Buggy Driving .

• Bali Instagram Private Tour (All-Inclusive) Viator $ 99
• Bali Instagram Private Tour (All-Inclusive): $99
• Bali Best Of Ubud Tour Private and All Inclusive: $127
• Best of Ubud Full Day Private Guided Tour: $19
• Bali ATV Quad Bike Adventure and Snorkeling Tour: $99
• Bali ATV (Quad) Adventure - Best and Challenging : $90
• Jungle Swing ATV Rice Terrace Waterfall Private Guided Tour: $74
• Bali Traditional Purification And Sightseeing Private Guided Tour: $17
• Bali : ATV Quad Bike and White Water Rafting Adventure with Lunch: $50

More for Bali

If you're planning a trip to Bali, Indonesia, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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BALI TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget

When I think of Bali, the first word that comes to mind is “honeymoon”.

After all, in the book and movie “Eat Pray Love,” Bali represents love. And in many other films and TV shows, it is depicted as a romantic setting. Growing up, I always imagined it as a destination mainly for special celebrations. Back then, there were no direct flights from where I’m from to this Indonesian paradise. At least, no low-cost flights. A trip to Bali was a trip that you prepare for, you save a lot for. Of course, a lot has changed since.

Today, most of us know that Bali is not just a lover’s paradise. The island has something for travelers seeking nature, culture, and adventure. It is also an ideal choice for family trips, solo travels, group holidays, and even company incentive tours.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING BALI

Bali is Indonesia’s most famous tourist destination. The tourism industry is the province’s main source of income, fueled by tourism-related businesses like hotels and resorts, tour agencies and operators, etc.

Aside from making up the majority of the province’s economy, tourism also led to the development of more sophisticated arts and crafts. It also revived some of the traditional dances and customs that are otherwise left buried and forgotten. Natural attractions also abound in Bali — both on land and underwater. Rice terraces, mountains, islands, beaches, jungles, caves, waves, and marine life are the draw for the adventurous. All these and more propelled Bali to rise as one of the world’s top destinations.

Essential Information:

• Language: The most widely spoken languages are Indonesian/Bahasa Indonesia and Balinese. Most people understand and speak English too.
• Religion: Over 80% of the residents practice Balinese Hinduism, which is unique in Indonesia, a predominantly Muslim country. It is important to be respectful of their way of life, especially when visiting spiritual sites like temples. The island also observes Nyepi Day (Day of Silence), which we will discuss below.
• Time Zone: GMT+8 (Central Indonesia Time). Bali is in the same time zone as Manila, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur; and an hour ahead of Jakarta.
• Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR, Rp). USD 1 is around IDR 14,000; PHP 1 is around IDR 278; EUR 1 is around IDR 15,500 (as of November 2019)
• Modes of Payment: Most of the stores and restaurants transact in Rupiah, but major credit cards are accepted by most hotels, fine-dining restaurants, and souvenir shops. I noticed that quite a number of establishments have large signs that say they prefer Mastercard. Others like Visa and American Express are accepted too.

WHERE TO STAY IN BALI

Bali Province is composed of Bali Island and other smaller islands clustered on the southeast portion, namely Nusa Penida, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Lembongan. The city of Denpasar is the provincial capital.

Bali has the most diverse options in Indonesia when it comes to accommodations. There are guesthouses, inns ( losmens ), hostels, budget hotels, high-end hotels, resorts, and villas.

The island can be split into four regions: South, North, Central/East, and West Bali. Although it is possible to stay in other regions, the southern portion is the most popular tourist hub. The majority of the accommodations, restaurants, cafes, bars, shopping areas, and attractions are located here.

As you can see on the map, most of the island’s tourist attractions can be found in the South. Most visitors choose to stay in the south because of the tourist-friendly services and amenities. Furthermore, it’s accessibility makes it a good base and jump-off point to other tourist destinations in Bali. For me, the most ideal places to stay in the south are the following:

• Seminyak. Seminyak is located further north of Kuta. It is like the high-end version of Kuta. Seminyak has plenty of luxury hotels, villas, and spa resorts.
• Legian. Legian is a suburb located between Kuta and Seminyak. It offers the best of both worlds — budget and luxury. This area is tamer compared to both Kuta and Seminyak.
• Kuta. Kuta District in Badung Regency has the highest concentration of accommodations in Bali. Although there are high-end hotels here, the town is known for its budget- and backpacker-friendly accommodations.

But if you’re after peace of mind or a more cultural experience, Ubud in Central/East region is also a great choice. It’s not as accessible as the beach towns, but it offers a relaxing Balinese getaway.

We’ve discussed these areas in detail in a separate article: BEST AREAS TO STAY IN BALI!

Top Budget Hotels in Kuta

• Cara Cara Inn. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• H-Ostel Bali. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Praba Guesthouse. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Kuta Beach Stay. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Yans House Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• D Beds Hostel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Budget Hotels in Seminyak

• Balinea Villa & Spa. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Semimpi Basecamp. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Room & Vespa Suite 2. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Ibis Styles Bali Petitenget. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Arana Suite. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Seminyak Square Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Bali Hotels!

How to get to bali.

The primary gateway to Bali is Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar Airport or Bali Airport. It is situated in the southern part of the island near the capital, Denpasar, and located between Kuta and Jimbaran. The airport is one of the busiest in Indonesia and connects to major cities and airports, both domestic and international.

Manila is directly connected to Bali. The travel duration between Manila and Bali is approximately four (4) hours.

Travelers arriving in Bali are requested to fill out two forms: Custom Declaration Form and the yellow Health Declaration Form . No need for Arrival Card. If you are arriving as a family, you need to fill out only one Custom Declaration Form. Our forms were given to us onboard.

Bali Airport to Kuta, Legian, Seminyak or Canggu

A majority of tourists choose these four areas as their bases: Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and Canggu. All of them are located north of the airport on the southwest coast of Bali. Estimated travel duration:

• To Kuta – 30 minutes
• To Legian – 1 hour
• To Seminyak – 1 hour
• To Canggu – 1.5 hours

Here are your options for the mode of transportation from the airport to any of these tourist areas:

• Arranged Transport Services (Example: hotel service and tour operators)
• Airport Taxi
• Metered Taxi
• Ride-sharing Apps
• Public Transportation (Example: Angkot/Bemo and Trans Sarbagita)
• Tourist Shuttle (Example: Kura Kura Bus and Perama Bus)
• Online Booking

For the detailed post on how to get to Bali and its tourist centers, we created a separate article for that. You may read it here: Bali Airport to the Tourist Centers.

If you’re a group, a convenient option to consider is a private transfer. An indication that it’s one of the most trusted airport transfer options is the significant number of Klook-affiliated drivers waiting at the Arrival Lobby. All of them, wearing the orange Klook uniform, are clustered in one area. Some transfer packages on Klook also include data SIM cards.

HOW TO GET AROUND BALI

There are choices aplenty for the modes of transportation to get around Bali. Here are your options:

• Joining a group tour. Most tourists prefer to join group tours to get to famous attractions. These tours are offered by hotels, travel agencies and tour operators. You can also book the tour ahead online through Klook. We will tackle more of this later on the Things to Do in Bali section of this guide.

• Tourist Shuttle. Well, from the name itself, this option is more tourist-friendly than the regular public buses in Bali. These shuttles cover the main tourist destinations in Bali. Kura Kura Bus and Perama Bus are popular among tourists. To contact them, you may check their official websites and social media accounts. Kura Kura Bus has a mobile app too!
• Regular Bus. Trans Sarbagita is Bali’s bus rapid system that serves mainly Denpasar and the southern Bali area. It has fixed routes but no fixed schedule. Other regular buses normally cover long-distance routes. The fare depends on your destination. However, this is not recommended to take if you are pressed for time.
• Bemo or Angkot. These are local minivans. They are normally open and non-airconditioned. They look like vans but they work like Philippine’s jeepneys.
• Taxi. For short-distance travel, tourists hop on a taxi. Taxis are relatively cheap in Bali compared to other countries. The meter starts at IDR 7,000 (PHP25/USD.50/EUR.45) and IDR 6,500 (PHP24/USD.46/EUR.42) per succeeding kilometer. As a rule of thumb, always insist on using the meter.
• Ride-Sharing App. Or a ride-hailing app. This should be the most convenient option BUT it’s a bit tricky to use ride-sharing apps like GoJek and Grab in Bali. There are certain streets that don’t allow these vehicles to pass and certain hotels that discourage their guests from hailing a ride using the app.
• Motorcycle or Car Rental. Some travelers who like to be in total control of their time and itinerary opt to rent a car or a motorcycle. A motorcycle is the main mode of transportation used by both locals and tourists. The tourist hubs are bombarded by lots of motorcycle-for-rent ads/signboards. The rental rates range from IDR 70,000 (PHP250/USD5/EUR4.5) to IDR 150,000 (PHP540/USD11/EUR10) per day, depending on the type of motorcycle.

Learn more about the rules when driving a car or motorcycle in Bali and other important details here: HOW TO GET AROUND BALI!

POCKET WIFI RENTAL & LOCAL SIM IN BALI

There are many available local SIM and pocket WiFi rentals in Bali. You can also get your SIM card or pocket WiFi from Klook!

Having a reliable internet connection while traveling is beneficial. It will help you save time and money as you explore. You can access Google Maps, a language translation app, and the currency conversion app. And should you decide to book tours or private car with a driver, you can communicate with the local drivers, tour operators, and tour guides via online messaging apps.

THINGS TO DO IN BALI

The good news is, Bali has a lot to offer. A LOT. You’ll never run out of things to do and places to discover even if you stay for weeks. I have friends who are now based in Bali and they still haven’t explored many parts of the island.

The bad news is, well, Bali has a lot to offer. With so many options, it can be quite challenging to pick attractions and activities, especially if you have limited time. If you’re building a Bali itinerary, it will help to look at them as tour packages. Many tours bundle tourist sites according to proximity (attractions closer to each other) or according to your interests. You’re in Bali to see the temples? There are tours for that. Food? There are tours for that. Beaches and waterfalls? There are tours for that. Instagrammable spots? You bet there are tours for that, too!

Important! If you’re booking multiple pre-arranged tours, compare itineraries first and check if there are repetitive items. You probably don’t want to visit the same attraction twice.

Bali Instagram Tour

For Instagrammers, Bali is the promised land. Its every nook and cranny has an Insta-worthy spot. No wonder a lot of Instagram tours have sprouted over the past few years. If you’re the type who always wants the most memorable photos from your trips, this may be for you.

Klook offers a tour that will take you to the island’s most Instagrammable spots with a professional photographer to ensure you have pictures worth sharing. The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, English-speaking driver, entrance fees, parking fees, and service fee for the photographer. My only request is, take some time to appreciate each of the spots you will visit and experience them fully, not just as a backdrop.

Anyway, you can choose between BALI IG TOUR, NORTH BALI IG TOUR, and UBUD IG TOUR.

Lempuyang Temple and East Bali Tour

You might recognize Lempuyang Temple by its iconic, Instagram-worthy Gate of Heaven , which frames the majestic Mt. Agung in the background. But this temple, more formally called Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang, is definitely more than just a selfie spot. Standing on the slope of Mount Lempuyang, it is one of the six holiest places in Bali, which are believed to maintain the spiritual balance in the island.

If you want to take the photo at the Gate of Heaven, prepare to wait for a long time, unless you’re visiting early. You can book a private SUNRISE TOUR on Klook, which also includes a stop at Virgin Beach and Asah Hill. Sunset tour is also available.

If you’re not the early morning type, you can also book a regular DAY TOUR with stops at Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung water palaces. Join-in and private options are available for this.

Important! If you’re also going to book the BALI INSTAGRAM TOUR (see above), these tours might feel repetitive because they both make a stop at Lempuyang Temple. It’s best to choose just one.

Ubud and Central Bali Tour

Ubud is the heart and soul of Bali. Although it has become busier as more tourists flood in over the years, it remains the island’s cultural core. It has a lot to offer: breathtaking scenery, nature, temples, and the traditional Balinese way of life. Although it is possible to stay in Ubud, most tourists visit only on a day tour. Klook has a lot of Ubud offers, but the two with the best itineraries are the following: a join-in shuttle service and a private tour package .

JOIN-IN SHUTTLE SERVICE The shuttle service includes only the transfers for the full day, driver fee, and insurance, but NOT the entrance fees. It does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You will need to meet up with the driver. There are meetup locations in Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Ubud, and Sanur. This is a join-in tour, so you will be sharing the vehicle with other tourists.

Here are the stops and the corresponding entrance fees (which you will need to pay for at the site).

• Tegenungan Waterfall – IDR 15,000
• Sacred Monkey Forest – IDR 80,000
• Ubud Art Market or Ubud Royal Palace
• Tegalalang Rice Terrace – IDR 20,000
• Swing at Alas Harum – IDR 150,000 to 300,000

PRIVATE TOUR PACKAGE This is a private tour that includes hotel pick-up and drop off, transfers and driver fee, all entrance fees, and a bottled water. What’s not included is the optional swing fee. The places to be visited are the same as the shuttle service but with additional stops at Tirta Empul Holy Springs and Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah). Here are the usual stops:

• Tegenungan Waterfall
• Elephant Cave
• Tirta Empul Holy Springs
• Tegalalang Rice Terrace (optional jungle swing experience)
• Ubud Monkey Forest
• Ubud Art Market

Because it’s a private tour, the price per person depends on how many you are in the group.

Nusa Penida Tour

Nusa Penida is a breathtaking island off the southeastern coast of Bali. It is best known for the dinosaur-shaped Kilingking Beach, which is just one of its many spectacular sights. Nusa Penida tours are categorized into three: West, East, and South. Here are the main stops per tour:

• West Tour: Kilingking Beach, Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, Crystal Bay
• East Tour: Teletubbies Hills, Thousand Island viewpoint, Tree House, Diamond Beach, Atuh Beach
• South Tour: Tembeling Beach, Banah Cliff

If you don’t know how to drive, you have two options. You can travel on your own to Sanur Harbor, where you’ll catch the boat to Nusa Penida. Once on the island, you can charter a private car with driver. You can book with Klook. See link below.

The second option is to join a group tour from your hotel in Kuta, Denpasar or Seminyak. They will pick you up at your hotel, transfer you to Sanur Harbor, get you on the boat to Nusa Penida, tour you around the island, and take you back to the hotel at the end of the day. It’s more expensive but hassle-free because you don’t need to worry about anything.

If you do know how to drive and you have a license, you can also rent a motorcycle or car on the island.

Uluwatu Temple

Pura Luhur Uluwatu is a Hindu sea temple that sits atop a cliff. It is one of the six key temples that make Bali’s spiritual pillars. The main temple is open only to worshipers. However, visitors are treated to a spectacular view of the sea from outside the temple.

The temple ground is visited by monkeys dwelling in the forest that surrounds it. These monkeys are known to snatch things from visitors so take care of your belongings, especially your accessories like sunglasses. There’s a cliffside pathway also that gives visitors different viewing points of the Indian Ocean, the tides, and the sunset. You need to wear sarong and sash to enter the temple ground. These are provided at the temple for free. The best time to go is early afternoon, just before the crowd thickens, as it is one of the best places to see the sunset on the island. In fact, the famous Kecak Dance, a Balinese art form, is performed daily starting at dusk, affording the audience to watch two beautiful masterpieces — the dance and the sunset.

At around 6 PM, Kecak (pronounced “ke-chak”) Dance is performed daily on a cliffside open-air venue within the temple grounds of Uluwatu Temple. It is based on the epic Ramayana, focusing on how Rama and his brother rescued his abducted wife, Sita, with the help of the monkey king and his troops.

Kecak Dance is characterized by the chanting and dancing of 75 men while the performers re-enact some of the scenes from the epic tale. It is recommended to go there early at least an hour ahead to secure a good spot. You can purchase your ticket in advance too.

• Admission Fee: IDR 30,000
• Kecak Dance Fee: IDR 100,000
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM; 24/7 for worshipers
• Kecak Dance Schedule: Starts at 6:00 PM daily

Lines can be too long. But you can book your ticket in advance through Klook. You can also join a tour which includes a Kecak Dance ticket via Klook. The tour package includes roundtrip transfers (hotel pick up and drop off). If you’re a private group, the itinerary also includes a stop at Padang-Padang Beach .

Ulun Danu Beratan, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, and Tanah Lot Tour

This tour features three of Bali’s most iconic sites:

• Ulundanu Beratan Temple. Located on the shores of Lake Bratan in Tabanan, this is a major Hindu Shaivite water temple. Just like the other water temples Uluwatu and Tanah Lot, Ulun Danu Beratan offers a dreamy tableau when the tide is high and the lake water borders the temple on all sides.
• Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. Bali’s map is striped by a lot of terraced hills, but this is one of the best representations of Bali’s Cultural Landscape, which was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Tanah Lot. One of the icons of Bali, Tanah Lot is a temple perched on an islet, 300 meters off the coast of Beraban, Kederi in Tabanan. The actual temple is open to worshipers only, but visitors can enjoy the scenic setting. Best enjoyed at sunset!

Bali Food Tour

One of the ways to immerse yourself in the culture of the place is through the local cuisine. Indonesian food is generally spicy; Bali is not an exception. Here are some dishes to dig into when in Bali.

• Ayam/Bebek Betutu. This is a spicy smoked chicken or duck seasoned with bumbu betutu (spicy paste) served with mixed veggies, rice, and sambal.
• Bebek Bengil/Goreng. This is a crispy duck marinated in Indonesian spices, then steamed, and finally fried.
• Sate. Pork satay or chicken satay are common, but lamb satay is also available.
• Babi Guling. This is like Philippine’s lechon . Also called Balinese suckling pig, Babi Guling is usually served with stewed vegetables, rice, crispy pork skin, and pork sausages. The pig is seasoned with local spices so it’s spicy.

You can join organized food tours not just to have a taste of Balinese food but also learn about them. There are 2 foodie tours available on Klook: a more general food tour and a street food tour.

Other Places to Visit in Bali

Here are other tourist attractions in Bali.

• Seminyak. Seminyak is Kuta’s less popular but cleaner, calmer and classier seatmate. It is lined with high-end shops, chic bars, and trendy spots. Like Kuta, it is a surfer’s paradise. It’s also located along the same coast, so they share the same view of the sunset.
• Kuta Beach. Also called Sunset Beach, it has fine cream-colored sand where tourists laze around or watch the sun go down. It’s also a popular surfing place and the epicenter of the island’s vibrant nightlife.

• Taman Ayun Temple. Taman Ayun means “Garden Temple in the Water”. The living legacy of the Mengwi Empire, this family temple is also one of the six royal temples in Bali. Admission Fee: IDR 20,000 Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily)
• Saraswati Temple. Located in Ubud, Pura Taman Saraswati is another Hindu water temple. The most prominent feature is the foyer with lotus ponds. During the evening, a traditional dance performance is held at the open stage. Admission Fee: FREE Dance Performance: 7:30 PM, IDR 80,000/pax Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Di Kubu Strawberry. A fruit farm in Tabanan Regency, where you can pick your own strawberries. The place also has a relaxing ambiance and presents a view of the lake too. Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Sukawati Art Market. Locally called Pasar Seni Sukawati, it is said to be the most established art market in the island. It is where both locals and tourists shop; locals for their everyday needs, tourists for souvenirs. Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

If you want to see more places to visit or learn more about each item above, we created a separate, more detailed post for it. READ: PLACES TO VISIT IN BALI!

SAMPLE BALI ITINERARY

This is a sample 4-day 3-night Bali itinerary with budget breakdown.

As always, feel free to make necessary adjustments to match your flight schedules, hotel location, and preferences.

Easy Itinerary for 2 Pax

This is a comfortable itinerary that entails booking organized tours with Klook. It assumes you’re a group of 2 pax , splitting the cost of transportation and some tours. The costs indicated below are per person .

For this itinerary, we set the food budget to Rp 100,000 per meal per person. In reality, you can easily find dishes at a much lower price. A meal from a warung (local food stall) can go as low as Rp25,000. But we want it to be more flexible. You can use the leftover money as your budget for your snacks that day or breakfast the next day.

DAY 1 – ULUWATU TOUR 07:50 am – Arrival in Bali 09:00 am – Taxi/Grab to hotel, Rp35,000/pax 09:30 am – Baggage drop or check-in (if possible) 10:00 am – Explore Kuta Beach 12:00 pm – Lunch, Rp100,000 01:00 pm – Walk back to hotel 02:00 pm – Uluwatu Tour, Rp390,000 08:30 pm – Dinner, Rp100,000 10:00 pm – Back to hotel

DAY 2 – INSTAGRAM TOUR 04:00 am – Wake up call 05:00 am – Bali Instagram Tour, Rp605,000 + Lunch, Rp100,000 + Swing, Rp150,000 06:30 pm – Back to hotel, freshen up 07:30 pm – Dinner, Rp100,000 09:00 pm – Back to hotel

DAY 3 – NUSA PENIDA TOUR 06:00 am – Wake up call 07:00 am – Nusa Penida Tour, Rp610,000 + Lunch, Rp100,000 06:00 pm – Back to hotel, freshen up 07:00 pm – Dinner, Rp100,000 09:00 pm – Back to hotel, pack

DAY 4 – DEPARTURE 03:30 am – Wake up call 04:30 am – Hotel check out 05:00 am – Airport transfer, Rp35,000/pax 05:35 am – Flight check in 08:35 am – Fly out

If you’re able to book a twin/double room at a hotel for Rp360,000 per night, the itinerary above will cost you Rp3,300,000 (USD236, EUR213, SGD320, PHP12,000) per person, excluding airfare, travel tax and tips, but including some allowance to cover incidental expenses, future price movements, and other possible expenses we might have missed.

Note that you can significantly reduce this further if you’re part of a bigger group or if you’re willing to rent a motorcycle instead of joining tours.

Budget Itinerary for 4 Pax

This itinerary is best for friends traveling together because it assumes you’re a group of four.

If you’re traveling solo, you can form a group with other backpackers and split the cost of transportation.

For this itinerary, we lowered the food budget to only Rp70,000 per meal, which can still afford you a full meal from a warung (local food stalls) and other cheaper establishments.

DAY 1 – SEMINYAK & KUTA 07:50 am – Arrival in Bali 09:00 am – Taxi/Grab to hotel, Rp20,000/pax 09:30 am – Baggage drop or check-in (if possible) 10:00 am – Taxi to Seminyak, Rp15,000/pax 12:00 pm – Lunch, Rp70,000 02:00 pm – Continue exploring Seminyak 03:00 pm – Taxi to hotel, Rp20,000/pax 03:15 pm – Hotel check in, freshen up 04:30 pm – Explore Kuta 05:40 pm – Watch sunset from beach bar + Food & drinks budget, Rp200,000 08:30 pm – Back to hotel

DAY 2 – UBUD TOUR 07:00 am – Wake up call 08:00 am – Walk or taxi to meet up point, Rp15,000/pax 08:30 am – Ubud Sightseeing Shuttle, Rp105,000 + Lunch, Rp70,000 + Tegenungan Waterfall – Rp15,000 + Sacred Monkey Forest – Rp80,000 + Ubud Art Market or Ubud Royal Palace + Tegalalang Rice Terrace – Rp20,000 + Swing at Alas Harum – Rp150,000 06:00 pm – Back to Kuta 06:30 pm – Dinner, Rp70,000 07:30 pm – Walk back to hotel 08:00 pm – Rest

DAY 3 – EAST BALI 05:00 am – Wake up call 06:00 am – Start Private Car Tour, Rp125,000/pax 08:10 am – Lempuyang Temple, Free entrance + Sarong rental: Rp10,000/pax + Donation, Rp10,000/pax 10:30 am – Drive to Tirta Gangga 11:00 am – Tirta Gangga, Rp30,000 11:45 am – Lunch, Rp70,000 12:30 pm – Drive to Tukad Cepung Falls 02:00 pm – Tukad Cepung Waterfall, Rp10,000 04:00 pm – Drive to hotel 05:30 pm – Back to hotel + Tip driver, Rp20,000/pax 05:45 pm – Rest, freshen up 07:30 pm – Dinner, Rp70,000/pax 09:30 pm – Back to hotel, pack

DAY 4 – DEPARTURE 03:30 am – Wake up call 04:30 am – Hotel check out 05:00 am – Airport transfer, Rp20,000/pax 05:35 am – Flight check in 08:35 am – Fly out

If you are able to book a dorm bed for Rp140,000 a night, the itinerary above will set you back Rp1,900,000 (USD138, EUR125, SGD187, PHP6,900) per person, excluding airfare and travel tax, but including some allowance to cover incidental expenses, future price movements, and other possible expenses we might have missed.

MORE TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Try a warung in your area for authentic and delicious but budget-friendly meals. A warung is a local food stall, usually serving traditional Indonesian cuisine. You can have a tasty dish for only Rp15,000. Some dishes are more expensive, some are cheaper.
• When paying using credit cards, note that most have 3-5% surcharge. Always check with the restaurant or the business establishment you are transacting with.
• Indonesians are friendly and hospitable. Most can speak and understand English, so don’t hesitate to ask if you get lost.
• Have enough cash on hand, especially if you are traveling to remote areas or the southeastern islands. You might have a hard time finding ATMs or even transact using your credit card when you go to these far-flung places.
• Purchase travel insurance. As we always recommend our readers, this is something you won’t need to use but you’ll be grateful you did in case something happens.
• If you are staying in Ubud, keep in mind that some taxis will charge big because, by certain regulations, they are not permitted to pick up passengers, only drop them off. Also, ride-sharing service is not allowed in Ubud. You might want to book your airport transfer to and from Ubud through Klook.
• Always insist on using the meter when riding a taxi.
• It’s best to carry small bills with you should you decide to take the taxi so you can pay the exact fare and not fall for the rampant no-change excuse.
• Wear sash and sarong inside the Hindu temples. These are normally provided by the temple management.
• Strict observance of Nyepi Day. Nyepi Day or Day of Silence is an important public holiday in Bali, celebrated every Saka New Year. It is observed by fasting and meditating and doing less or nothing at all. The observance period is 6AM – 6AM (the next day). During this time frame, locals AND tourists are expected to follow the restrictions such as no working, no lighting of fires, no lights (or used rarely), no traveling, and no entertainment. For some, they can even go with no talking. Even Bali Airport is closed the entire day. No one is allowed outside the streets except the security people and when there’s an emergency. Nyepi Day usually happens in March.
• Galungan. It happens twice per year (every six months). It is characterized by bamboo poles with offerings attached at the end.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BALI

When is the best time to go to bali.

April, May, June — just before the peak season.

The peak or high season is from July to early September. These are driest months. But it’s also the busiest, most crowded. It coincides with Australian winter, and many of them escape the cold to Bali. Late September is also a good time to visit, when the crowds start to thin.

Christmas and New Year seasons (December-January) are also busy months for Bali. Expect airfare, hotel rates, restaurants, tours, and other services to skyrocket.

Lean months are February to June and October to November. Prices are cheaper and the tourist attractions are less crowded, but these months also record the highest rainfall.

Bali has a tropical climate; hot and humid all year round, especially in the coastal and low areas. Elevated and mountainous Central Bali area has a cooler temperature.

Do I need a visa to visit Bali?

Indonesia is one of the most open countries in terms of visa policies. Citizens of 170 countries and territories, the Philippines included, can visit Indonesia VISA-FREE for stays of up to 30 days.

To be sure that your country is included in the visa-exempt countries, check the website of the Indonesian Embassy where you are or contact them.

Do I need polio vaccine to visit Bali?

Recently, Indonesia has required a Polio Vaccination certificate from certain nationalities who wish to travel to Indonesia.

For travelers from the Philippines, you only need to secure a Polio Vaccination Certificate IF you are planning to stay for FOUR WEEKS or longer. If you fall under this category and you don’t have said immunization requirement, Indonesia’s Port Health Office at the port of entry will give you polio vaccination. A fee of Rp45,000 (PhP165) will be charged.

What plug type is used in Bali?

Types C and F. Most establishments have two-pin round plugs at 220 V and 50 Hz.

Where can I exchange my money in Bali?

Our preferred method of securing local currency is by withdrawing from the ATM. Most ATMs, however, have a withdrawal limit of Rp2 million to 2.5 million.

For tourist hotspots like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud, money exchange kiosks in Bali are plenty. You can also exchange at banks. Some hotel fronts also have money exchange stalls installed.

If you transact with money changers, check their online reviews first and check the rates carefully because some establishments have records of scamming tourists.

Where can I find ATMs in Bali?

ATMs abound in Bali, particularly the most visited areas. Choose the safest place to transact, usually well-lit areas like malls and commercial complexes or those attached to the bank establishments. Bank Central Asia (BCA), Bank Mandiri, and Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) are some of the most trusted ATMs to withdraw money from. Other shopping malls provide international ATMs like HSBC.

ATMs in Bali dispense Rp50,000 and/or Rp100,000 notes. The withdrawal limit is usually Rp2 million or 2.5 million.

Is it safe in Bali?

It is generally safe in Bali. Just like in other foreign countries, there are scams so you need to be aware of the correct rates and prices. Be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings as always. Bali also has world-class yet relatively inexpensive hospitals and medical services. Know the local emergency services contacts such as the ambulance, the fire department, and the police.

Additional words by Yosh Dimen Additional photos by Kara Santos, Glenn Ituriaga, and Klook

2019 • 12 • 22

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thanks for this best and useful Bali guide also the pictures are looking good.

I think that this blog better and detailed guide for our adventure trip Bali.Thanks for the blog

Very colorful pictures and detailed description

Amazed to read the blog. That is interesting and very amazing.

Thanks for this wonderful article

Great article, will try after the pandemic.

Hey, I have been to Bali and it proved out a bit costly to me. Next time i visit the same place again i will make sure i follow your post. Thanks

once this corona time is over. Bali is 1st on my list.

I just say your blog, very good! Thank you so much for writing about bali. It was 4 years ago, I used to live there, but now I am back home to my home island to help my local village. Covid hurt tourism, so we are trying to tell people to come and support local villages. Thank you blessing. 

Thank you, this is very helpful. I wish to visit Bali in the future, for now, just doing Google walk of one of the itineraries you have provided.

Hi there, We were in Bali Nov 2019, it was our last international trip before everything shut down :( I love the suggested itinerary and I love how you included a guide on the electric plugs – I’ve never seen that before. Nikki

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How Much Is a Trip To Bali? (Full Breakdown 2023)

Table of Contents

If you’ve been daydreaming about a trip to Bali, you’re not alone.

This Indonesian paradise island is a hugely popular destination for travelers from all over the world. But how much does it really cost to take a trip to Bali?

In this blog post, we’ll give you a realistic estimate of what you can expect to spend on a trip to Bali.

How Much Does It Cost to Go To Bali?

The average cost of a trip to Bali is around $3000 USD for two people for two weeks. This budget includes flights, accommodation, food, activities, and transport within Bali.

Of course, this is just an estimate and your actual costs may be higher or lower depending on your specific travel plans.

Listed below are some of the things that will affect the cost of your trip.

The 3 Top Things to Do in Bali

How Much Are Flights to Bali?

If you’re flying from the United States, you can expect to spend around $1,500 on return airfare. That number will vary depending on your departure city and the airlines you choose, but $1,500 is a good average.

For example, flights from New York tend to be more expensive than flights from Los Angeles. And if you’re looking to travel during peak season (generally June through August), you can expect to pay even more.

If you’re flexible with your travel dates, try to book your flights well in advance—you may be able to snag a cheaper seat.

If you’re flying from Europe or Australia, your airfare will be cheaper depending on your route and layovers.

For example, return flights from London to Bali start at around $700 , but can go up to $1500+ if you’re looking for a more direct route.

How Much is Accommodation in Bali?

There are accommodation options for every budget in Bali.

For example, hostels start at around $15 USD per night while luxury hotels can cost upwards of $300 USD per night. There are also plenty of mid-range and budget hotels starting at $20-50 per night.

Airbnbs are a popular option and prices start at around $50 USD per night.

The standard of accommodation you can get for under $100 a night is truly incredible, so in our opinion, there is no need to spend the big bucks.

If you’re traveling on a tight budget, we recommend staying in hostels or Airbnbs so that you can save money on accommodation and use that extra cash to do more activities or try more local food! 

How Much is Food in Bali?

Eating out in Bali is relatively inexpensive.

The cost of food in Bali definitely depends on where you eat.

Street food is incredibly cheap (you can get a meal for as little as $1 USD!) while sit-down restaurants tend to be more expensive (a meal for two with drinks can easily cost $30 USD or more).

Our advice is to try as much street food as possible—it’s delicious and one of the best ways to experience Balinese culture!

You can also try a Balinese cooking class to get a real understanding of the local flavors.

How Much is Beer in Bali?

You’ll be pleased to know that beer is also relatively cheap in Bali.

A small bottle of Bintang, the Indonesian beer, will be around 30,000 IDR in a restaurant, which is roughly $2.

The larger bottle of Bintang, for the heavyweights among us, will usually set you back 55,000 IDR, or roughly $3.50.

Of course, don’t forget to factor in the cost of cocktails!

A cocktail at a bar or nightclub will set you back around $8-$10 on average.

How Much Are Activities in Bali?

There are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your trip to Bali.

Many of them are free, like spending time at the beach, exploring the ricefields around Ubud or going on some of the island’s scenic hikes.

Most sights that require an entrance fee, for example the Ubud Monkey Forest , are relatively inexpensive – you will not spend more than $10 USD for an entry ticket.

If you want to do something more unique like the ATVs around Mount Batur , or try scuba diving in Bali , be prepared to spend around $50-$100 per day for each activity. 

How Much Is Transport in Bali?

Getting around Bali is relatively cheap and easy – the most popular way to get around is by scooter which you can rent for as little as $5 USD per day.

You can also take public buses which only cost a few dollars per journey or hire a private driver for about $50 USD per day. 

Grab and Gojek are also great apps for shorter distances, and they work exactly the same as Uber. Just be careful, as sometimes the drivers will not be able to pick you up in certain areas (close to the tourist beaches, for example).

How Much to Tip in Bali?

Tipping is generally not expected in Bali.

However, if you feel that the service you have been offered is worthy of a tip, then please feel free to add 10-15%.

A lot of the restaurants in the more touristy spots, such as Canggu or Seminyak, will already include a service charge in the bill – so make sure to check if you don’t wish to tip twice.

How Much to Budget For Two Weeks in Bali?

On top of flights, if you budget around $100 per day for your trip to Bali it would be more than enough.

This amount would enable you to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat out for every meal and enjoy some of the island’s best activities.

Therefore, $1500 per person (plus flights) would be plenty for two weeks in Bali.

Bali Budget Breakdown

Accommodation: Budget hotels can be found for as little as $10 per night, while a room in a midrange hotel or resort will be $30-$50 per night. Luxury hotels can be upwards of $300.

Food: Local food is very affordable, with meals costing as little as $2-$3. Western food is more expensive, with main courses starting at around $10. 

Transport: A taxi from the airport to Ubud, for example, will cost around $40. A day of sightseeing using taxis and private drivers can easily come to $100+.

Activities: You could pay anything from $10 to $50 per activity, depending on what you’re doing. Most days it will be the lower end of that scale.

As you can see from this breakdown, a trip to Bali doesn’t have to be outrageously expensive – you can definitely visit on a tight budget if you’re careful with your spending!

There are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing quality or experiences either.

Traveler & Content Creator

My name is Jordan Simons and over the past few years I've learned how to travel the world continuously. Now I want to show you how to do the same.

You might want to update that budget a bit. I’m flying there in April and it cost me $2962.24 (to be exact). This is from Boise ID, USA, standard fair. That alone blows your budget. Thanks for all the information though. I’m looking forward to the trip.

Yes, please update your budget. Economy class is $2,000 from Phoenix to Bali in September. I opted for Premium Economy, not an extravagant upgrade but for the length of the flight – it will definitely be more comfortable. This pushed the ticket to $3,400.

I’m not sure what websites are you guys using to book tickets but mine was $695 The itinerary is LA- Tokyo- Seoul- Manila- Puerto princesa (for el Nido) -back to Manila- Bali and leaving in 2 weeks.

Wow where did you book?

Yeah sorta same thread as above – are you sure this cost breakdown includes flights because it doesn’t seem accurate

I’ll chime in. Cheapest airfares from NY are $1752. Rest of costs have to be at least another $1000 for 2 weeks WITH activities .

I plan to take my husband to Bali in December of 2025 to celebrate his retirement! Ive priced an Airbnb for 15 days which is super affordable and contacted the host for info on how to lock the price in. We plan to take 2 additonal couples with us which fares out to about $1425.00 per couple. After pricing flights for 2, the cheapest was $1500 for economy but will more than likely have to upgrade as my husband is 6’6! I am so hoping that I can make this trip a reality (the current economy has me on edge).

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Bali Trip Cost: A Comprehensive Guide for Budget Travelers

by Trip.com

March 10, 2023

TANAH LOT TEMPLE / Source: Trip.com'

Introduction: Bali - The Island Paradise

Nusa Lembongan / Source: Trip.com

✅ Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Bali has something to offer everyone. So come and experience the magic of Bali for yourself - you won't be disappointed!

Bali Trip Cost Breakdown 2024

Kuta Beach / Source: Trip.com

Flight Costs to Bali

Here is a table outlining the approximate flight times and costs from various US states to Bali:

Accommodation Costs in Bali

The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali / Source: Trip.com

👉 If you prefer a more luxurious stay, you can find hotels and resorts starting from $100 per night.

Best Hotels in Bali

Family friendly, the palms ceningan hotel, bagus cottage, the oberoi luxury villas seminyak, the darling ocean view villa, sense sunset hotel seminyak.

Swimming pool

Harper Kuta Hotel by Aston

Quest san hotel denpasar bali by aston, renaissance bali uluwatu resort & spa, element by westin bali ubud, kenran resort ubud by soscomma, 1. mulia resort nusa dua bali.

Mulia Resort Nusa Dua Bali - Royal Suite Ocean Court

Mulia Resort Nusa Dua Bali

Airport pickup service

Check Availability

2. Komaneka at Bisma Ubud Bali

Komaneka at Bisma Ubud Bali / Source: Trip.com

Komaneka at Bisma Ubud Bali

3. w bali - seminyak.

W Bali - Seminyak / Source: Trip.com

W Bali - Seminyak

4. ayana resort bali.

AYANA Resort Bali / Source: Trip.com

AYANA Resort Bali

5. potato head studios at desa potato head.

Potato Head Suites and Studios - Oceanfront Studio / Source: Trip.com

Potato Head Suites and Studios

👉 Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary depending on the time of year and availability.

Transportation Costs in Bali

Karma Kandara / Source: Trip.com

Food and Drink Costs in Bali

Fat Chow Kuta / Source: Trip.com

Top 3 Restaurants in Bali 🔥

1. warung babi guling pak malen.

• Address: Jl. Sunset Road No. 5, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia
• Price range: $ (inexpensive)
• Signature dish: Babi Guling (spit-roasted pork)

2. Locavore

• Address: Jalan Dewi Sita, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
• Price range: $$$ (expensive)
• Signature dish: Chef's Tasting Menu

3. La Plancha

• Address: Jalan Mesari Beach, Seminyak, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia
• Price range: $$ (moderate)
• Signature dish: Seafood Paella

Sightseeing and Activities Costs in Bali

1. tanah lot temple.

• Address: Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121, Indonesia
• Price: IDR 60,000 (approx. $4.20 USD)

TANAH LOT TEMPLE / Source: Trip.com

2. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

• Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
• Price: IDR 80,000 (approx. $5.60 USD)

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary / Source: Trip.com

3. Mount Batur

• Address: Kintamani, Bangli Regency, Bali 80652, Indonesia
• Price: Varies depending on the tour package and guide.

Mount Batur / Source: Trip.com

4. Bali Safari and Marine Park

• Address: Jl. Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra Km, 19.8, Serongga, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80551, Indonesia
• Price: Starts from IDR 180,000 (approx. $12.60 USD)

Bali Safari and Marine Park / Source: Trip.com

5. Tegalalang Rice Terrace

• Address: Jalan Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561, Indonesia
• Price: IDR 20,000 (approx. $1.40 USD) for entrance and parking.

Tegallalang Rice Terrace / Source: Trip.com

Shopping Costs in Bali

Tips to save money on a bali trip.

• Travel During the Low Season : Bali's peak season is from June to August and during the Christmas and New Year holidays, so traveling during the low season (from September to December and January to May) can save you a significant amount of money on flights, accommodation, and activities.
• Book Accommodation in Advance : Booking your accommodation in advance can help you save money. Many hotels and resorts offer early bird discounts, so booking your stay ahead of time can save you some cash.
• Use Local Transportation : Instead of taking taxis or hiring a private car, use local transportation like buses or motorbikes. They are much cheaper and can be a fun way to explore Bali.
• Eat at Local Warungs : Bali has a lot of local eateries known as warungs that serve traditional Indonesian dishes at affordable prices. Eating at these places can help you save money while enjoying the local cuisine.
• Bargain While Shopping : Bali is famous for its street markets where you can find great bargains on souvenirs and clothing. However, don't be afraid to bargain with the vendors to get a better deal.
• Choose Free Activities : Bali offers a lot of free activities, such as visiting temples, watching traditional dance performances, and exploring beaches. Take advantage of these opportunities to save money on your trip.
• Stay Hydrated with Refillable Water Bottles : Bali's weather can be hot and humid, and buying bottled water can add up quickly. Instead, bring a refillable water bottle and fill it up at your hotel or in local shops to save money and reduce plastic waste.

Best Time to Visit Bali for Budget Travelers

Uluwatu Temple / Source: Trip.com

👉 During the low season, you can find great deals on flights, accommodation, and activities. Hotels and resorts offer lower rates during this time, and you can often find discounts on activities and tours. Additionally, the beaches and tourist spots are less crowded during the low season, which can make for a more relaxing and enjoyable experience.

👉 However, it's important to note that the weather can be unpredictable during the low season. There may be occasional rain and thunderstorms, but they typically don't last long and can even add to the charm of your Bali trip. Just make sure to bring a raincoat or umbrella and plan your activities around the weather forecast.

How to Plan a Budget Trip to Bali

Ubud Palace / Source: Trip.com

1. Research and compare flights:

• The cost of flights to Bali can vary depending on the time of year and the airline. Be sure to research and compare flights to find the best deal. Consider flying during the low season to save money.

2. Choose affordable accommodation

• Bali offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. To save money, choose affordable accommodation such as hostels or guesthouses. Websites like Trip.com offer a variety of affordable accommodation options.

3. Use public transportation

• Taxis can be expensive in Bali, so consider using public transportation such as buses or the local shuttle service called the "Bemo." You can also rent a motorbike for a more affordable and convenient way to get around.

4. Book tours and activities in advance

• Many tours and activities in Bali can be booked in advance for a discounted price. Research and book tours and activities in advance to save money and ensure availability.
• Bargaining is a common practice in Bali, especially at markets and small shops. Don't be afraid to negotiate for a better price, but remember to be respectful and polite.

Travel Insurance for Bali Trip

Ubud / Source: Trip.com

Dream Beach / Source: Trip.com

Safety Tips for Travelers to Bali

By following these safety tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Bali. Here are some safety tips for travelers to Bali:

• Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in crowded areas.
• Keep your belongings close and use a money belt or secure bag to avoid theft.
• Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics in public.
• Use reputable transportation services and avoid traveling alone at night.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them in secluded or poorly lit areas.
• Stay up to date on any potential natural disasters, such as volcanoes or tsunamis, and follow local authorities' advice.
• Be respectful of local customs and dress appropriately when visiting temples or other sacred sites.
• Stay hydrated and use sunscreen to protect against the sun's rays.
• Avoid drinking tap water and stick to bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
• Research any potential health risks or necessary vaccinations before your trip and take appropriate precautions.

Top 10 Free Things to Do in Bali

Turtle Island / Source: Trip.com

• Watch the sunset at Kuta Beach : Kuta Beach is a popular spot for tourists, but it's also a great place to watch the sunset for free.
• Visit a temple : Bali is known for its beautiful temples, and many of them are free to visit. Some popular ones include Uluwatu Temple and Tanah Lot Temple.
• Hike to the top of Mount Batur : Mount Batur is an active volcano in Bali, and while you can take a tour to hike it, you can also do it for free on your own.
• Take a stroll through Ubud Monkey Forest : While there is an admission fee to enter the monkey forest, you can still walk around the outside and observe the monkeys for free.
• Visit the Tegalalang Rice Terraces : These stunning rice terraces are a must-see in Bali and can be explored for free.
• Explore the beaches of Nusa Dua : Nusa Dua is known for its high-end resorts, but the beaches are open to the public and can be enjoyed for free.
• Watch a traditional Balinese dance performance : Many temples and cultural centers offer free Balinese dance performances for visitors.
• Visit the Bali Bombing Memorial : This memorial honors the victims of the 2002 Bali bombings and is a solemn but important place to visit.
• Walk along the Campuhan Ridge : This scenic trail in Ubud offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is completely free to hike.
• Visit a local market : Bali is home to many vibrant and colorful markets, and exploring them is a great way to experience the local culture and pick up some souvenirs.

👉 By checking out these free activities in Bali, you can experience the beauty and culture of the island without breaking the bank.

Devil's Tears / Source: Trip.com

Pura Taman Ayun / Source: Trip.com

👉 Overall, with careful planning and research, a Bali trip can be a memorable and affordable adventure for any traveler.

How much does it cost to fly to Bali?

What is the average daily cost of accommodation in bali, how much does transportation cost in bali, what are some free activities to do in bali, is travel insurance necessary for a bali trip.

Bali Travel Cost

• 1. Introduction: Bali - The Island Paradise
• 2. Bali Trip Cost Breakdown 2024
• 3. Flight Costs to Bali
• 4. Accommodation Costs in Bali
• 5. Transportation Costs in Bali
• 6. Food and Drink Costs in Bali
• 7. Sightseeing and Activities Costs in Bali
• 8. Shopping Costs in Bali
• 9. Tips to Save Money on a Bali Trip
• 10. Best Time to Visit Bali for Budget Travelers
• 11. How to Plan a Budget Trip to Bali
• 12. Travel Insurance for Bali Trip
• 13. Safety Tips for Travelers to Bali
• 14. Top 10 Free Things to Do in Bali
• 15. Conclusion

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Bali Budget per Day – How much does a 13-Days Bali Vacation cost?

Updated: September 8, 2022

Indonesia , Asia , Travel Budget Guides

written by: Steph Kloeckener

Bali is a dream destination. This guide will show you how to explore Bali on a Budget.

Visiting Bali is a must if you want to see all that Asia has to offer. And while the island is not the cheapest destination, it is possible to explore Bali on a budget even if you want to stay in amazing accommodations. This Bali trip budget will tell you what your Bali budget per day will be like so you can plan an epic trip during which you can observe amazing sunsets at the beach, chase waterfalls, and explore temples.

Just like my budget guides about Vietnam and Sri Lanka , this Bali budget guide gives a general estimate of the costs based on my own spendings as well as some tips and recommendations. I wrote down every rupiah I spend because I might be a little freaky as I love knowing how much I spend while traveling.

The prices in this guide of Bali vacation costs are in Indonesian Rupiah and in Euro. The exchange rate as of September 2022 is as follows: 100.000 IDR is 6.70 EUR, 6.70 USD, 5.81 GBR, or 9.92 AUD.

Table of Contents

Bali Budget per Day

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see the full disclosure for further information.

Accommodation: 1.005K IDR / 64,68€

Your daily budget in Bali can be relatively small even if you decide to stay in more luxurious accommodations. However, those places right or near the beach tend to be a lot more expensive. So just look for a place a little bit further away from the ocean if you plan to rent a scooter while in Bali.

Just like in Bangkok, I decided to stay in hostels that allowed me to have my own personal space. Both hostels I stayed in were amazing with their capsule-style rooms and amenities, so I can only recommend them to you.

The hostel I stayed in while in Canggu was Kultur Umalas and the one in Ubud was G ypsy Lust Hostel . They are my favorite shared accommodations and I would stay there again if I want to explore Bali on a budget and if I want to meet fellow travelers.

Hostel Room

Canggu: 73,5K IDR – 85K IDR

Ubud: 110 IDR

Private Villa on Gili T

The night on Gili T is not listed as the accommodation was included in the costs of my Gili trip.

But if you do not mind splurging while there, I can only recommend the Kelapa Villas to you. The prices range from 1.410.000 IDR for a 1-bedroom villa to 7.740.000 IDR for a 7-bedroom villa.

Food & Drinks: 1.624K IDR / 104,52€

While exploring Bali I ate both local food and at those trendy instagrammable places. And my food budget admittedly was the largest part of my daily budget in Bali.

Cheapest Meal: 65K IDR

Most Expensive Meal: 175K IDR

Average Cost per Day: 125K IDR

Bali Buda 128K

Kynd Community 175K

The local food is amazing and you will want to eat a lot of it. It is cheaper and perfect if you travel to Bali on a budget. But if you also want to see the expat side of Bali, you should check out other restaurants. There are several amazing international restaurants in Canggu and Ubud.

Transport: 525K IDR / 33,79€

Airport transport: 230k idr.

Upon arrival, I did not get a sim card right away and therefore I had to rely on the airport wifi to order my transport to Canggu. But the drivers kept canceling the trips as I never got their messages and was therefore unable to answer in any way. Eventually, I just thought ‘damn it’ and took a taxi that was way too expensive. The way back to the airport was the exact same route and it only cost me 53% of the price I paid upon my arrival in Bali.

So if you want to save money, I can only recommend getting a sim card at the airport. Just ensure that you get a tariff plan that works everywhere in Indonesia and that you can easily recharge.

Grab 525K IDR

Getting around in Canggu: 65K IDR

Canggu – Ubud Return Trip (0.5x): 460K IDR

Try to find someone that is willing to share a Grab with you if you decide to take one between Canggu and Ubud.

Scooter: 400K IDR / 25,74€

During my two weeks in Bali, I rented a scooter on 5 different days. Hereby, the price for a good and reliable scooter is usually between 60K and 70K a day and will therefore only be a small part of your daily budget in Bali. I saw offers for less, but from what I saw, those scooters did not look as safe. If you rent a scooter for less, you should check if the scooter is in a good condition and take pictures from all angles to avoid any potential issues and scams.

Scooter Rental: 340K IDR

Fuel: 50K IDR

Parking: 10K IDR

If you plan to stay in Bali for more than 14 days, it might be cheaper to rent a scooter for an entire month. Enquire about the price before you rent it and ask if you can potentially switch to a monthly rental plan after trying out the scooter for a day or two. That way you can be sure that the scooter is okay.

If you know how to ride a scooter and do not mind driving on the left side of the road, a scooter is the best way to explore Bali. On some days I drove more than 100km and it was perfect. Using a scooter allowed me whenever I wanted to enjoy the view and to explore the picturesque rice fields .

Just keep in mind that no insurance will cover you if you do not have the correct motorbike license. A simple 45CC one will no suffice in Bali as all scooters have more power.

You can pay ‘a fine’ if the police stop you, but the moment you crash, you are screwed. Whether you decide to do so is up to you, but I wanted to give you all the important facts. Please be careful and have fun exploring Bali!

Entrance Fees: 250K IDR / 16,09€

Bali has many temples and waterfalls and visiting most of them costs a small fee.

Monkey Forest: 80K IDR

Tirta Empul Temple: 50K IDR

Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfalls : 30K IDR

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: 50K IDR

Tirta Gangga Temple: 40K IDR

Bali Budget for Activities: 1.000.000 IDR / 64,36€

Gili t trip.

I booked a trip to Gili T and spend two days there. As it was a special photographer trip, I cannot recommend a specific company in case you want to book the trip as a package. However, the price of the transport to the ferry port, the ferry rides, and accommodation on Gili T should cost approximately the same. You can b ook the ferry ride to the Gili Islands on 12GoAsia. Alternatively, you can book it at the departure location, but the ferry can be full so it is best to buy your ride in advance.

Alternatively, you can book a group trip to Gili T. Hereby, you can choose between a day trip full of snorkeling or multi-day trips.

My Bali Trip Budget Recommendation:

If you do not mind splurging for a night and want a bit of luxury, the Gili Islands are perfect. There are many private villas with pools and everything for fair prices. The experience is worth it. The Gili Islands are a paradise.

Sim Card: 180K / 11,58€

I ended up getting a rather large amount of data that is valid in all of Indonesia. Tell the salesperson what your plans are and they will recommend the best data plan. Keep in mind, that many phone tariffs are regional and that your Bali data plan might not be valid if you plan to visit the Gili Islands and Lombok.

It is a lot cheaper to get a local plan upon arrival than to buy a worldwide plan with your usual provider.

Additional Bali vacation costs

Washing: 59k idr / 11,58€, souvenirs & shopping: 405k idr / 26,06€.

Bali offers many amazing souvenirs and handmade things, so just add a certain amount of money to your Bali budget when you plan your Bali vacation cost. You are bound to find something that you will want to buy, so also consider leaving some space in your suitcase or backpack when traveling there.

For the number of money listed, I got three bracelets, two magnets, five sarongs, a bowl made of coconut, and fish food at Tirta Gangga.

Spendings that are not a part of my Bali trip budget

Pharmacy costs.

I decided not to include these costs in my Bali travel budget, as I hope that you will not be as dumb as I was. I managed to get a ‘Bali Kiss’ when I burned myself on a motorbike’s exhaust. And let me tell you, that getting what I needed at the pharmacy was not cheap when compared to other prices in Indonesia. However, the service I received at two different pharmacies was amazing.

Pharmacy #1: Gaze and tape – 161K IDR

Pharmacy #2: Gaze, disinfectant, and two waterproof bandaids – 102,3K IDR

Do yourself a favor and be careful when you get off a motorbike. And bring basic first aid utensils when visiting Bali.

My Bali budget per day

Daily Budget in Bali: 419K IDR / 26,97€

Bali Vacation Cost (13 days): 5.448.000 IDR / 350,62€

Planning a trip?

Check out these useful websites and resources I use to plan my own adventures.

Roundup: Bali Vacation Cost

While more expensive than other Asian countries, it is possible to have a rather low Bali budget per day while staying in unique or luxurious accommodations. If you want to enjoy the local cuisine, you are bound to spend less than if you eat at international restaurants.

More about Bali

If you are making plans for your Bali, you might also want to check out these Indonesia Travel Guides : Hidden Gems in Bali Things to do in Canggu Things to do in Ubud Pasut Beach

Will your Bali Budget be lower or higher than you expected it to be?

And if you have already explored Bali: what was your Bali Budget per day? Let me know in the comments down below!

Love this Guide About Bali Vacation Costs? Pin it for later !

I am the founder of A Nomad's Passport and a solo traveling digital nomad, photographer, and writer. Originally from Germany, I have lived in several countries including Australia & Mexico.

As an outdoor lover and culture enthusiast, I love writing about all forms of adventure travel ranging from outdoor activities like scuba diving and hiking to cultural experiences, alongside road trips and itineraries that combine these elements.

A Nomad's Passport is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

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10 thoughts on “Bali Budget per Day – How much does a 13-Days Bali Vacation cost?”

Being a solo budget traveler, this guide is really helpful as I am planning to visit Bali in the near future. Very well written.

It sounds like you made the most of your money and had an amazing adventure in Bali!

p.s. It’s pretty interesting that food and drink cost almost double what you paid for accommodation. It always seems to be the other way around when we travel here in Canada!

I really do not know why that’s the case, but the food > accommodation situation was my general experience in Asia. The food was always cheap by international standards, but still my highest expense

I keep track of my expenses just like you do – gives me great satisfaction somehow! Your guide was quite useful to gauge how much to budget – I want to visit Bali soon now! Tough about you getting burnt – hope it didn’t affect your trip much.

wohoo! I’m not the only expense tracker around here. Glad to hear that this guide is useful for you. 🙂 I’m a diver (that really wanted to dive) & wasn’t allowed to enter the ocean after the burn. Let’s just say it was not the highlight of my trip

This is a great and helpful post for those budget travelers. The plane tickets alone can be costly the best way to do it is to do backpacking around the neighboring country at once to make use of your big $$$ plane ticket.

The daily costs are low, which is good, but getting there and flying back will be a big expense, especially for someone like me who comes from the US.

Can’t wait to visit Bali! It’s definitely on my bucket list

Wow you managed to stick to a great budget without missing out on yummy food and amazing adventures! Bali is one of the cheapest places we have visited. We pre-booked a taxi from the airport which is another way to not pay too much at the airport 🙂

While Bali was still cheap by international standards, it was the most expensive place I’ve been to in Asia. Haha

I should have done the same, or gotten that wicked sim card right away. I absolutely overestimated how good the wifi connection at the airport would be. Oops

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Home » Southeast Asia » Indonesia » Bali

Is Bali Expensive? Learn How to Save Money in 2024

Visiting Bali is every travelers dream, but is it out of reach? Is Bali expensive?

Well tropical islands do have a reputation for being on the pricey side with their luxurious accommodations and rich fine dining.  Then, Bali in particular has become something of a victim of its own success and prices have really soared in recent  years.

However, compared to the Caribbean or even European Islands,   Bali is a budget destination…. if you do it right that is..

I have visited Bali several times and spent well months backpacking the ‘Island of the Gods’. As such I have a pretty good grasp of what it costs to visit Bali for all budgets. Keep on reading to discover the cheapest street food options, the best hostels to stay in on a budget as well as some other cost saving hacks. My personal  insider tips cover everything for sleeping, eating, drinking, shopping, and sightseeing on the cheap. We’ve got plenty of examples and recs!

Let’s dive into it, here’s everything you need to know about how to travel to Bali on a budget!

So, How Much Does a Trip to Bali Cost on Average?

Cost of flights to bali, price of accommodation in bali, cost of transport in bali, cost of food in bali, price of alcohol in bali, cost of attractions in bali, additional costs of travel in bali, some final tips for saving money in bali, so, is bali expensive.

You’ve bitten the bullet and finally decided to visit Bali – great, you are guaranteed a holiday you will never forget.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Here is the thing, the Bali digital nomads may have claimed a lot of the diverse and tropical landscapes as their own, creating a spike in prices for just about anything in those areas, but there are still so many hidden gems among the jungles and rice paddies. It’s pretty easy to explore the island on a budget.

From cheap local food stalls to high class 7-course fine dining, quaint friendly hostels to lavish and extravagant beachfront villas, no matter your wallet size there is a place for you in Bali. The island doesn’t judge – there’s a reason this has become a nomad haven and backpacker paradise.

I have put together some average costs for everything that may cross your path. And, I’ve even gone and converted everything into USD to make it super easy peasy for you – aren’t you lucky. Remember prices change, as do conversion rates! As of April 2023 it is IDRp.14,955 to $1 USD.

For a quick reference, here is a basic summary of vacation costs for a single day and a two-week trip.

14 Days in Bali Travel Costs

ESTIMATED EXPENSE:  $500-$800 for a round trip ticket

First things first – airfare. It’s going to be your biggest expense for your trip, but will be totally dependent on where you are flying from and what time of year.

There is only one airport in Bali, it’s located in Bali’s capital city of Denpasar. The airport’s official name is I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, but it’s more commonly referred to as Denpasar Airport.

Generally, the cheapest time to fly to Bali is October to November as peak season has finished and rainy season is beginning. However, consider a more expensive time of year if you want the best weather!

These are average prices from select destinations – subject to change .

• New York to Bali: USD433 – 700
• London to Bali: GBP501 – 560
• Sydney to Bali: AUD289 – 514
• Vancouver to Bali: CAD625 – 1,631

You will be paying more for decent flight times, routes and seats. If you aren’t fussy then you can pick up pretty great deals! Airlines frequently promote special deals, and there’s always the chance of grabbing a deal from error fares !

ESTIMATED EXPENSE:  $7-$50/day

Next up we have accommodation! Deciding where to stay in Bali is dependent on what you want to get out of your trip. The island has it all – hostels, Airbnbs, guesthouses and hotels, budget accommodations aplenty!

Accommodation in Bali is generally very affordable, unless you are looking for spectacular luxury – then you’ll be forking out some big bucks. Here are some of our favourite places to stay.

Hostels in Bali

It’s not surprising, backpacker hostels in Bali are cheap and quite excellent. The average budget hostel will cost between $7 and $10. They can come with great money-saving perks too, like self-catering kitchens and free breakfast! There are also some boutique and trendy spots for those who have a bit more to spend.

Hostels in Bali are known for having an exceptionally social atmosphere. They often feature swimming pools and bars – they’re all about making your vacation as chilled-out and relaxed as possible.

Our favourite hostel in Bali is Tribal Bali – Bali’s first custom-designed, purpose-built co-working hostel and definitely where you want to stay. This is the place where backpacker babes, aspiring entrepreneurs, adventurous explorers and vagabond hustlers alike come together to work, eat, play and fall in love… well, at least with the absolutely fantastic coffee and beautiful views!

Mingle, share inspiration and find your tribe whilst working in the TREMENDOUSLY FUCKING HUGE co-working space and shooting a game of pool on Tribal’s electric pink billiards table. There’s a gigantic pool as well so it’s always time for a refreshing dip to break up the day’s hustle, brainstorming, work, and games… 

With epic food, legendary coffee, awesome cocktails (Tribal Tonics are the best signature cocktails you’ve ever had in a hostel – I guarantee you that!) and a dedicated co-working space , this is the place where you want to be when visiting Bali.

Here are a few more cheap hostels, located in three of Bali’s most popular areas for backpackers: Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak.

• Puji Hostel:  This Ubud hostel has an outdoor pool that’s perfect for hot days, and the free breakfast will fuel you for a busy day!
• Last Day Surf Hostel:  With four pools, an all-day bar, and a super laid-back vibe, this Canggu hostel is perfect for a relaxing vacation.
• Kosta Hostel : A chic and modern design with a glistening swimming pool and onsite restaurant, this Seminyak hostel is an ideal place to stay.

Airbnbs in Bali

Airbnbs in Bali are also pretty affordable! Although they’ll cost more than hostels, you can find some amazing spots for a fraction of what they would be in other countries. If you’re traveling with friends, you can end up saving money by splitting the price between you.

You’ll have more privacy and access to home amenities, like a kitchen, dining area, and a lounge – perhaps a private pool and garden if you’re lucky!

Within our Airbnb category, we have the different types of places you can find –

Apartments – Airbnb is the best site to use when searching for an apartment. A budget apartment on Airbnb will cost between about $20 – $30 a night, plus the service and cleaning fee.

• Seminyak Flat This spacious apartment bungalow is a quiet oasis in bustling Seminyak. It fits perfectly into Bali’s tropical setting, and even has a swimming pool!
• Scenic Rice Paddy Hideaway : This Ubud villa exudes beauty and tranquillity. You’ll have picturesque panoramic views of the surrounding rice paddies right from balcony.
• Entire Apartment – Good Location: Although close to beaches, shopping centers, and Bali nightlife, this cozy apartment is a peaceful reprieve. It can sleep up to three guests.

Private Villas – Starting from $50 per night, private villas in Bali don’t have to be crazy expensive, although they’re generally more expensive than apartments. If you can afford it, take your trip to the next level and rent out a private villa for your stay. For a couple of hundred dollars a night, you could be in INCREDIBLE luxury.

Here are three awesome options:

• Stunning Private Villa: This private villa in Ubud is perfectly blended with nature, and Bali’s lush tropical landscape. Lounge in the sun beside the shared pool and sip cocktails as the sun sets behind the rice paddies.
• Stylish Interior and Pool Villa: Restaurants, bars, and markets are walking distance from this central villa. The beach is just a short drive away!
• Romantic Pool Villa In Seminyak: Lay by the pool with a cold drink and great book, or use the free scooter to zip around the island.

Hotels in Bali

Normally, hotels come with a much higher price tag than hostels, however, in Bali, this isn’t always the case. Budget hotels in Bali can cost between $20 to $40 a night – extremely cheap!

Here are a few Bali hotel options to consider for your stay:

• Grandmas Plus Hotel Seminyak: This modern hotel is super affordable! It’s just a two-minute walk from Seminyak Beach, and has an on-site restaurant and bar.
• Pertiwi Bisma 2: Tucked into a the jungles of Ubud, with beautifully landscaped pools and spa services, this hotel will put you into full vacation mode!
• Koa D Surfer Hotel: With beautiful bamboo architecture, walkable beach access, and a rooftop lounge with a swimming pool, what more could you ask for on your Bali vacation?

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

ESTIMATED EXPENSE:  $2-$30/day

Let’s take a look at prices for getting around Bali!

You have a few options for exploring the island during your stay – rental scooter, private drivers and taxis/ride services. Scooter rental is the most popular option for visitors, and renting a scooter is relatively easy – even if you haven’t driven one before.

How you choose to venture around the landscapes of Bali will depend on what you are doing, and who you are traveling with. Here’s a deeper dive of each!

Renting a Motorbike/Scooter in Bali

From the moment you step out of the airport in Bali, you will hear the toots and revs of the millions of scooters that populate the island. It is the easiest and quickest way to get around, and is the most affordable.

There are so many scooter rentals in every area of Bali that offer cheap and cheerful rentals. We would suggest going off recommendations for a good rental spot, as there will be the occasional business who rents out scooters that haven’t been serviced or well looked after.

Expect to pay between $3 to $5 a day, or $15 – $20 for a week. With the price of petrol as little as $1 per litre, it is understandable why its the most common way to travel.

It’s important to note that it’s not for everyone. Bali has heavy traffic and road rules aren’t enforced . If you’ve rented a motorbike in an Asian country before, you’ll know what to expect. If you haven’t, consider giving it a try for a day on quiet road and see how it goes, before you commit to a full week or two.

Taxis in Bali

Metered taxis are a common way of getting about in the South of Bali. They’re convenient and easily found in the thriving tourist hotspots. The Blue Bird Taxi company is the most reliable with its own app and guaranteed metered service (dodgy taxis will try to negotiate the price rather than stick to the meter).

Fares can vary, but to give you an example, riding from Bali airport to Ubud takes a little longer than an hour, and costs between $25 and $30.

Indonesia has its own version of Uber for ride services. Both Grab and GO-JEK are must-have apps for booking car and motorbike taxis – as well as many other services. You will see the driver approaching, have an agreed price as per the app, and be able to share your journey with friends. It’s ideal for solo women travelers !

Renting a Car in Bali

Renting a car in Bali isn’t strongly advised for foreigners. If you want to travel by car, consider looking into hiring a driver (who normally come with their own vehicle). This will allow you to leave the driving and navigating to someone more familiar with the roads.

Costs for a full day average between $30 and $50. If you’re traveling solo, this might not be in your Bali budget but if you’re part of a group, you can split this cost.

Hiring a driver is common in Bali, and everyone has their favourite to recommend. Make sure you check with your accommodation if they have one on speed dial, or ask your friends who have traveled to Bali previously!

A bonus to hiring a car with a driver is that you’ll be cruising around Bali with a local. They can provide valuable insight and give you advice on local hidden gems and the best places for Bali sightseeing .

Bus Travel in Bali

Public bus services in Bali aren’t very common, but there are a few in operation.

• Kura-Kura Bus is a public shuttle bus service covers areas of South Bali and Ubud. They operate every day and have free Wi-Fi onboard. A one-way ticket can cost between $2 – $6, depending on the distance.

If you plan on traveling a lot during your trip, you can pick up a one-day, three-day or seven-day pass which provides for unlimited travel.

• Perama Bus: This tourist-bus operator provides transfers and tour bus services. It tends to be more expensive than the other bus option, but it’s still relatively affordable. For example, a one-way transfer from the Denpasar Airport to Ubud will cost $4. Day tours start at about $21 per person.
• Trans Sarbagita: This bus service links some of Bali’s less visited areas. Tickets are super cheap and can cost $1 – $5 for a one-way ticket. However, delays are frequent and the service isn’t known for being the most reliable.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $6 – $15/day

Ah, my favourite part – Bali food! My mouth is already watering. From traditional street food gorengan and nasi jinggo to fancy babi guling , there isn’t one dish you shouldn’t try at least once.

Overall, the price of food in Bali is low . There are expensive restaurants on the island, of course, but for the most part, it’s all very affordable. If you stick with local options, you can expect to spend as little as  $2 – $4 per meal! Western dishes can start from $5.

Here are some traditional Indonesian dishes to look out for – and we HIGHLY recommend;

• Sate: Tasty grilled skewers of chicken, beef, goat, or pork, sate is served on sticks and found all over the island. They’re marinated with spices, sometimes coconut milk, and served with rice (nasi) or rice cakes (lontong).
• Nasi Goreng: A simple dish of fried rice has never tasted so good. With the option of veg, chicken, seafood or pork, nasi goreng is found everywhere is can be one of the most affordable ways to eat throughout your Bali visit, without getting bored!
• Urap: This veg-friendly meal is rich in flavour and nutrients. It’s a type of salad that includes spinach, cabbage, green beans, bean sprouts, and cassava leaves. It’s served with a rich coconut dressing.

Where to Eat on the Cheap in Bali

As a general note, travelers in Canggu  and Ubud will find cheaper eating, whereas Uluwatu and Seminyak tend to be more expensive. With that being said, it’s still possible to find cheap meals all over Bali – especially if you are willing to eat street food.

Now that we’ve covered Bali’s street food, here are a few popular restaurants that offer Western dishes at affordable prices.

• Mozzarella Ubud: This small pizza and pasta restaurant offers large portions at very reasonable prices. You can expect to pay just $4 – $5 per meal!
• Yoshinoya: This Japanese style eatery is one of the cheapest places to eat in Bali. A filling rice and beef bowl costs just $3.
• Suka Espresso: This cozy restaurant offers different kinds of western and Indonesian food – including vegetarian options.

Shopping at supermarkets is another way you can save some money on food costs. You’ll find big stores all over the island with very cheap groceries, as well as many local markets with locally grown produce. Pepito Supermarket is one of the most popular stores with a large variety. However, with restaurant and street food prices so low, it’s worth taking advantage of the local cuisine as much as possible, and save the hassle of cooking your own meals.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $2-$25/day

Nothing beats a fresh fruity cocktail or ice-cold beer on the beach at sunset. Thanks to its swim-up bars and endless nightlife, Bali has a notable drinking culture. Party hostels contribute to this, as do buzzing beach clubs and a lively music scene.

Similar to food prices, alcohol in Bali can be pretty affordable, depending on your tipple of choice. It’s easy to find in restaurants and supermarkets, as well as bars and clubs.

• Beer: Beer is the cheapest alcohol in Bali, with Bintang being the most popular local brand. A bottle of domestic beer at a local restaurant or bar will cost $1.50 – $2.50. If you buy it from a supermarket or a convenience store, it will be slightly cheaper, at about $1 – $2 per bottle.
• Cocktails: If you’re a cocktail person, expect to pay about $5 – $7 per drink. But, to save a bit of money, look out for bars and beach clubs that offer two-for-one cocktail specials!
• Wine: Wine is the quite expensive in Bali. A bottle of local wine will cost about $15, while a bottle of mid-range imported wine will cost between $30 – $50.
• Spirits: Import taxes are wild, and most noticeable on spirits. Marked up at least 20%, you are better off trying local brand spirits rather than the name brands.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $0-$8/day

With stunning waterfalls, beautiful beaches, and endless rice paddies, the island has a naturally stunning landscape. There is a magnificent list of things to do in Bali , but are they expensive?

The public beaches in Bali are mostly free to visit, but there are spots that will ask for a small donation. If you want to rent a surfboard, you’ll pay between $6 – $8 per day, and a surf lesson will be about $25 for a two-hour session. Exploring all the beaches is great for those traveling Bali on a budget.

Most of Bali’s top attractions do ask for an entrance fee, but they are incredibly reasonable. As an example, this is a few of the best spots and their prices;

• Uluwatu Temple: $2
• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: $5
• Ulun Danu Beratan Temple: $5

If you’re an aquatic enthusiast, Bali is a great place for snorkeling and scuba diving. There are epic dive spots all over,  heavy with coral and calm waves. For a scuba diving or snorkeling tour expect to pay between $75 – $115. You can even rent snorkel equipment for about $3 – $5 per day!

Visiting Bali is a budget backpackers dream as adventures, tours and experiences don’t need to cost an arm and a leg!

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As well as our outlined costs, there are always some hidden and unexpected costs that come with traveling. Along with our guide, be sure to budget some extra dosh for when things get tight – or for when you want to splash out on a night in a 5* hotel.

If you want to get technical, save up an additional 10% as a little emergency/treat fund. If you’re planning to visit Bali on a longer term, there is a whole different cost of living . Island life isn’t all coconuts and hammocks.

Tipping in Bali

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Bali, but it is very much appreciated. Considering most service workers don’t earn a decent wage, a small tip can make a big difference!

If you feel like you’ve received good service, let the server keep the change or hand over an extra IDR50,000 – they will beam!

Don’t feel like you need to do this everywhere you go, it’s totally up to you, and as we said, tipping in Bali is not required – or expected.

Get Travel Insurance for Bali

While Bali is pretty safe , you still never know what could happen. Grab some travel insurance before you go for peace of mind!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Before we head out, we have some final must-know Bali budget tips that will make your holiday even more frugal.

• Live within your means: Bali is very affordable, but make sure to keep your spending in check. It’s very easy to have a ‘living large’ mentality when the prices you’re used to paying back home are much lower – especially when you’re on vacation. Just remember that the little things can add up fast.
• Take advantage of the free stuff first: Tours are great, but try out the free stuff first. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet a group of friends at the hostel you’re staying at that want to go on a group hike. Or, maybe there’s a sweet snorkeling spot right next to your accommodation.
• Bargain buy: If you’re planning to go souvenir shopping at the local markets, don’t be afraid to bargain . Don’t worry, the vendors are used to it – they even enjoy it!
• Happy hour: These magical hours are very common in Bali, with many bars and beach clubs running regular daily specials.
• Pack the essentials for Bali : Things like sunscreen are expensive on the island. Really expensive. Save some money and plan ahead!
• Have a water bottle :  Don’t waste money on plastic, bottled waters; carry your own and refill it in the fountains and the tap. If you’re worried about potable water, get a filtered bottle, like the GRAYL, which filters out 99% of viruses and bacteria.
• Earn money while you travel: Teaching English while traveling is a great way to make ends meet! If you find a sweet gig, you may even end up living in Bali.
• Become a volunteer with Worldpackers : Give back to the local community and volunteer in Bali , in exchange, your room and board will often be covered. It’s not always free, but it’s still a cheap way to travel in Bali.

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Ultimately, the price of your trip will depend on you and your Bali itinerary . But, we think it’s safe to say that exploring Bali doesn’t need to cost you your life savings.

Just to recap, here are our five top tips for saving money:

• Eat and drink like a local – the street food is incredible!
• Stay in a hostel, or split the cost of a hotel, apartment, or villa with friends
• Take the bus or hire a motorbike
• Take advantage of Bali’s free attractions, like public beaches and free hiking trails
• Bargain when you shop for souvenirs

Bali is a very accessible island destination. It’s stunning, beautiful, and there’s an incredible amount of activities, culture, things to do, and festivals to celebrate on a trip to Bali. It’s an affordable island paradise that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Even solo travelers can visit on a shoestring budget.

With such great deals, there’s no reason not to go!

We think an average daily budget for Bali should be: $30

Rose Wilson

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We didn’t find Bali very expensive when we went. But we went on our honeymoon, so we weren’t trying to pinch the pennies too much. We enjoyed trying the street food.

Yeah, Bali is one of the most beautiful destinations where everyone can visit and make their journey happy in a Sufficient amount. Even i am also making a plan to there with my friends. Thanks for sharing this interesting article.

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Bali On A Budget: The Ultimate Guide To Saving Money When You Visit Bali

Travelling Bali on a budget isn’t as easy as it once was, but you don’t have to spend a fortune if you know what you’re doing, either.

We’ve got 20 amazing tips to help you save cash on your trip and some sample budgets to help you plan your time in Bali so that it’s as kind to your bank account as it is to you.

Is It Possible To Have Fun In Bali On A Budget?

Yes! Bali is in Southeast Asia and while it’s not as cheap as it used to be here, compared to most of the Western world, Bali is a low-cost destination.

Sure, you can’t spend every day in fine-dining restaurants and 8-bedroom villas with private pools and expect to spend less than $10 a day but if you’re realistic about visiting Bali, and you take some of the tips below which were generated by your fellow travelers (based on real experiences here in Bali), you can spend much less money than you might expect here.

Our 20 Top Money-Saving Tips For Visiting Bali On A Budget

Look at flight deals.

Flight prices used to be really dependable. You could book 6 weeks in advance of travel and be reasonably certain that you were getting the best deals, sadly, this is no longer true.

Airlines now use a thing called “dynamic pricing” which means prices vary depending on the current demand.

They combine this with tracking how often you look at a flight online, so they know that you’re interested in travelling to a destination before you book and the more you look, the more they figure you will be willing to pay.

That means your best bet to booking a flight, for a Bali on a budget holiday, is simply to hunt around for the best deal when you want to book and if you’re looking online, you should clear the cookies in your browser before you make any kind of commitment to booking.

You are most likely to get the best prices during the low season here in Bali (that’s September to April) but not during school holidays (Christmas and Easter, in particular) when demand goes shooting up.

In the main, you’ll find that budget airlines will be the cheapest carriers, but make sure you’re comparing “like with like” as many of these airlines now hit you with a bunch of surprise charges at the last minute during the booking process for luggage, meals, seat bookings, etc.

Note: We have a guide to the airlines that fly to Bali to make it easier for you to check and compare prices.

That’s why we use the Bali Res Centre (find their details below) for our bookings because they do all the hard work of comparing costs for us.

Find Out If You Can Travel Visa-Free

For many visitors to Bali, there’s a $35 (USD) visa fee and the new tourist tax that must be paid before you can enter the country.

However, while the tourist tax (of $10 USD) is mandatory for every tourist, the visa fee is not and people from other countries in ASEAN do not have to pay.

It’s easier to do Bali on a budget with an extra $35 in your pocket. This fee is supposed to soon be withdrawn for Australian passport holders too, but for now, it remains.

Always Eat Local Food Or Hit Up The Markets

One of the best ways to get the cost of being in Bali down is to avoid Western restaurants. While you may fancy a burger or a pizza, it’s probably only because you have discovered how amazing Indonesian food can be.

Warungs & Street Food

Don’t be fooled, some Indonesian dining experiences can still be pretty pricey. There are plenty of fine dining Indonesian and Balinese restaurants here on the island and they cost just as much as their Western equivalents.

However, the humble warung and the street food stalls at night markets and in popular tourist areas are much cheaper to eat in. Some of them even offer a few international options for the less adventurous eater.

Why travel Bali if you’re not going to experience the local food culture? Even in popular destinations, you will find that local prices at Warungs are much cheaper than in other restaurants.

Markets & Cooking At Home

Of course, the cheapest way to live (though many will, wrongly, insist otherwise) is to cook for yourself and even if you need cooking classes before you start visiting local markets here in Bali to find ingredients, you can save quite a lot of money compared to eating out.

Just make sure that your guest house or accommodation offers cooking facilities if you want to cook your own meals.

Villas Are Not The Only Place To Sleep

We all dream of spending our nights in a tropical paradise in a luxury villa that could grace the cover pages of Vogue Magazine with Jerry Hall standing in front of it.

Unfortunately, the number one Bali cost is going to be accommodation and budget travel won’t usually stretch to a three-bedroom villa in Seminyak or Canggu.

The good news is that guesthouses are much cheaper than villas and you can stay in the busiest parts of the island in these accommodations. They often look great and they nearly all have free WiFi.

If you really must include a night or two in a villa on your Bali itinerary , we’d recommend that you stay in some of the less visited parts of the island.

You can still squeeze a villa into doing Bali on a budget but you will have to work a bit harder for it than you once would have done.

Check out this list of fantastic  hostels in Bali  for some ideas. You might also check out the  all-inclusive resorts , they’re not as cheap but can help you lock all your spending into a tight budget. 

Book Accomodation And Tours In Advance

We think one of the keys to successfully spending time in Bali on a budget is to fix as many of your costs as possible before you come to the island.

Yes, we know, there are lots of people who will advise haggling on the doorstep of a guesthouse for 3 hours in the boiling heat to save $2-$3 on a week’s stay, but we don’t.

We think when you come here, you’re on holiday, you want to spend the time you do have to have fun, seeing the sights and getting a tan on the beaches, you don’t want to spend it wandering around with a giant backpack on and arguing over pennies on the doorstep of a guesthouse.

Sometimes, it’s worth paying a little extra for convenience and this is one of those times. So, book your flights, hotel and tours in advance and you will already have most of your spending locked in.

Of course, you should hunt around for the best deals on these things but overall, you’re going to be happier if you know your budget before you fly than trying to desperately get a good deal in Canggu in peak season.

Consider Your Local Transport Options Carefully

You’re going to see a lot of advice that says “Save cash by getting an international license (International Drivers Permit) and hire a scooter”.

That’s not one of our favourite money-saving tips. Even if you have travel insurance, it often doesn’t pay out in the case of an accident on a scooter (and accidents are very common due to the state of the roads and local driving standards) because it’s not so easy to be road-legal here.

The easiest way to bust your Bali travel budget is to end up in a hospital facing a huge medical bill.

We prefer to recommend Grab or Go-Jek (the local versions of Uber) for short journeys and hiring a car and a driver for long drives or to see many different places in a single day.

It might be slightly more expensive than a scooter but it’s much cheaper than taking a cab or hiring a rental car at home and it’s way safer.

Use Cash Not Cards

You can use cards in Bali though you may find that your favourite beach bar only accepts cash still, but it’s not very convenient and many stores will add on a percentage fee (even though they’re not supposed to) if you want to pay by card.

However, using cash means working out with your bank (or getting a new bank account) low or no-fee use for ATMs overseas. Either that or you bring a huge bundle of cash with you.

You also need to be careful when you withdraw money because Bali suffers from scammers that modify card readers on ATM machines so that they can copy your card and PIN number.

We always recommend that you take out cash from an ATM in a bank or inside a store or mall where the ATMs are covered by CCTV cameras. Budget travel gets expensive if somebody else empties your account while you’re traveling Bali.

See our guide to  Bali currency  and money on the island for more tips. 

Beware Of Scams

We cannot stress enough that your travel insurance is very unlikely to pay out if you fall victim to common scams in Bali or anywhere in Southeast Asia.

Now, because Balinese culture leads to the people here trying to live in harmony with their neighbours, the good news is that scams are not as common here as they are elsewhere in the region.

However, they’re not non-existent, either. The best way to avoid a scam is to ask yourself, “Does this sound too good to be true?” and if it does, it probably is.

The hardest scam to avoid here is the taxi scam. You can find out more about Bali taxis and how to stay safe when using them in our guide to Bali Taxis .

The other popular scam is the money exchange scam. This is a “too good to be true” moment. Use an official money exchange and you won’t be cheated.

The exchange rates don’t vary very much between the official exchanges and anyone offering a better deal than standard is going to try and cheat you.

Use The Internet To Find Great Deals On Entertainment

One of the real secrets of budget travel is to learn to use the internet to unlock a few options on the places that you visit.

For example, if you want a lovely day bed at FINNS Beach Club , you can often reduce the minimum spend required to secure one by booking online on our website, particularly in the low season.

The same is true for everything from entry fees to hot springs to package deals on scuba diving among the local marine life.

If you want to see famous sites in a budget-friendly manner, then there’s almost always a deal to be had on the internet.

Now, the exception to this is during the peak season when there are queues down the road outside of the most popular destinations here, at those times, you may find that no matter how many travel tips you read, there just aren’t any discounts to be had.

Hit Up Lesser Visited Spots

If you head out to the Eastern coast of Bali, you will quickly find that it’s a much more budget-friendly area than the South.

That’s because fewer people head out that way and therefore there’s less competition for hotel rooms and restaurant seats.

These areas are still full of friendly locals who will be only too happy to see you in their neighbourhood and some of the most interesting tourist sights on the island and are off-the-beaten-path too.

We find the best local markets are out of the main tourist areas too.

Denpasar , Bali’s capital city, is also a great low cost option for bargain hunters. 

However, your airport transfer might take a few hours longer than it does to Batu Bolong Beach, for example, because it’s a lot further away.

We should also note that if you stay in less visited places, that you will save money on everything, from accommodation to food. The more popular an area is in Bali, the more expensive it is as a rule of thumb.

Happy Hours Are Your Friend

If you come to FINNS we have an amazing happy hour every single evening but we’re not the only place in Bali with a happy hour.

In fact, Bali is full of happy hours and you can get discounts on drinks and quite often on food too. We’ve got a round-up of what we’d consider to be the best happy hours in Bali .

One of our top travel tips is that taking a holiday on a budget doesn’t mean giving up all the experiences that you want to enjoy – it’s learning to get those experiences for less money than normal.

Instagram Is A Great Source Of Discount Drinks & Food

Every country has its preferred social media platform and in Indonesia to the largest extent that platform is Instagram.

That means many businesses offer their best deals and latest promotions on their Instagram accounts.

Interestingly, some of the smaller businesses (often where you get the best prices in the first place) will only have an Instagram account, no Facebook and definitely no website.

So, if you want to tap into the best deals here in Bali, you need to be on Instagram. Follow the places you’d like to visit, eat, drink, etc. at and visit their profiles when you’re here.

Make sure to check out the “stories” each day, that’s often where the deals are.

Discounts for Drinks & Food Using Delivery Apps

Grab and Gojek are the two big food delivery platforms here in Bali and you will want their apps on your phone as they’re the best way to get around Bali.

However, when you order food on these platforms, they’re packed with discounts that you may not see at first.

If you spend a tiny amount to upgrade to their “premium” offering, you get access to a much higher tier of discounts, the last time that we did this, it more than paid for itself with a single order for two.

These savings can be so substantial that you’re essentially getting free delivery and a large chunk of the cost of the meal discounted.

However, the savings are not added automatically, when you check out, you need to look for the offers tab, click on it and pick your savings. Otherwise, you pay the standard price.

Learn To Haggle

Balinese shopping culture is all about haggling and if you don’t learn to get the best price on the things that you buy, you’re going to find your costs go through the roof without you even realizing it.

Haggling here is always done in a good-natured fashion. You can haggle at any market stall and even in local shops unless they are international brands or have clear “fixed price” signage.

It begins with the vendor offering a price. This price is almost always outrageously expensive and the most that the vendor could dream of anyone paying for the item.

You then make a counteroffer. We’d start at 25% but we know people who go lower with their first price too.

You then begin a series of back-and-forth discussions until you reach a price that you’re willing to pay or you walk away.

It’s fine to walk away at any time in the negotiations up to the point you agree on a price, if you shake on it, you’re meant to buy the item.

Ignore any comments from other people that “haggling is unfair”. Never in the history of mankind has a Southeast Asian trader agreed to any deal that didn’t make them a profit.

That’s why haggling is such a good-natured affair in this region. The vendor will simply refuse to sell at a loss.

Come In The Off Season

Eight out of ten dollars in the Balinese economy come from tourism. The whole island’s economy depends on visitors from overseas and so do many jobs and livelihoods.

In the busy season, there is a lot of competition for access to hotel rooms, restaurants, etc. and prices are high.

In the off-season, some places are still very popular and their prices won’t change very much but others will need to offer discounts to keep the rooms or seats, etc. full and that’s ideal for a budget holiday.

Beach Days Are Practically Free

One of the biggest reasons that people come to Bali is to spend time on the beach and access to beaches, throughout Indonesia, is free or very low cost. You may also be charged a small parking fee for leaving your vehicle in beach parking.

You won’t spend more than $1 per person to get onto a beach and if you take your own snacks and drinks, a towel and some shade, then you don’t need to spend any more money.

But please keep a careful eye on your belongings, it’s not a good idea to leave your things unattended on a public beach.

If You Can, Use Public Transport

We have to stress “if you can” here. Public transport isn’t Bali’s strong point. There’s not much in the way of a local bus service. The bemos (the local equivalent of a tuk-tuk or Jeepney) are gone. There is a rail project due to commence soon but the first train journeys are, at least, a decade away.

However, there are some buses and if you can catch one, it’s the cheapest possible way to get from A to B. Ask around near to where you are to find out what’s available.

Note: It’s a bit of a pain to use the local buses too. You can’t just get on and pay. You need to buy a card to pay for the journeys from the local Indomaret.

Check Out The Laundry Fees Before You Commit

There are many laundries in Bali. In fact, it’s pretty hard to walk down a street here without finding one. That means there is plenty of competition for your business.

If you’re doing Bali on a budget then small savings add up. You don’t want to pay too little but you also don’t want to pay too much. Typically $1 USD per kilo is about right in all but the very busiest tourist areas.

Seek Out Spa Deals

Want to spend time in a spa? Bali has plenty of spas for you to choose from and that means they have to work for your business as not everyone needs to use a spa.

If you check out a Spa’s Instagram profile or contact them directly, you can often find out if they’re running any promotions that will get you the pampering you deserve for much less money.

Use A Local SIM Not International Roaming From Your Home Network

Unless you have money to burn, you don’t want to use your home country’s SIM in Bali . It’s going to cost a lot more than buying a tourist SIM and using that for data.

However, you must make sure that your phone is unlocked and can be used on a Balinese network before you travel. Otherwise, the local SIM won’t work on your phone. So, call your usual telecoms provider and check before you fly.

Get The Best Deal On Travel Insurance

We’re big fans of travel insurance. We can’t imagine anything worse than getting seriously injured somewhere remote, like the Nusa Islands or the Gili Islands , and then having to foot the costs of getting you back to Bali out of your own pocket.

But you don’t have to settle for the first policy you come across, shop around, check the coverage carefully and make sure you get the coverage you want at a sensible price.

Reusable Water Bottles For The Win

Bali and Indonesia are desperately trying to cut down on single-use plastics, partly because they have a horrible habit of washing up on the beaches and putting tourists off from coming.

Even places like the Gili Islands which are a long way off-the-beaten path have some problems with plastic.

So, in order to encourage people to stop buying plastic water bottles and throw them out, most destinations including FINNS Recreation Club now have endless supplies of free water available as long as you have a reusable water bottle handy.

Sure, you won’t save much more than the cost of a plate of Mie Goreng (fried noodles) or Nasi Goreng (fried rice) but sometimes, the best tips help to save the planet as well as your cash.

So, please, bring a reusable water bottle with you.

Is $100 A Day Enough For Bali?

It depends on how you want to spend your time in Bali but there’s no doubt that $100 a day is enough for Bali in most circumstances.

You can easily rent private rooms for under $500 for a month, which then leaves you plenty of money to do more than eat fried rice in local restaurants.

You won’t be able to spend every night downing cocktails in a beach bar , but you will be able to explore the island, do a bunch of interesting activities (including spending a day at FINNS Beach Club), and eat and drink well every day.

Can You Live Off $1,000 A Month in Bali?

Yes, you can live off $1,000 a month in Bali. In fact, we recently explored the cost of living in Bali on our blog.

However, for most people, $1,000 a month might feel a little restrictive and we’d say that $1,500 a month is a more reasonable amount for a single person.

What Is The Cheapest Way To Go To Bali?

Bali is an island a long way from nearly everywhere except other parts of Indonesia. That means the cheapest option to visit Bali is to fly using a budget airline.

If you opt to travel during the rainy season (low season here in Bali) you will usually save money on your booking too.

However, if you are coming from other parts of Indonesia, you may find that you can use a train or bus plus a ferry to reduce your travel expenses. This may require a much longer period of travel than flying.

How Much Money Do You Need For 2 Weeks In Bali?

If you want to do Bali on a budget but without compromising on days out and having fun, we’d bring about $1,000 for two weeks. However, we recommend $1,500-$2,000 if budgeting is less of an issue.

Of course, there’s no upper limit to what you can spend when you visit Bali and if saving money is not your priority you can easily spend $1,000 a night or more. Bali has more $1,000+ hotel rooms than anywhere else on Earth!

Is Bali The Cheapest Place To Visit?

No. Bali is not “the cheapest” place to visit. Karachi in Pakistan is commonly considered to be the cheapest place to visit, however, Bali is great value for money and you can enjoy cocktails on the beach in Bali whereas you can’t drink alcohol at all in Karachi (which might explain, to some extent, why it’s so extremely cheap).

Bali was once one of the cheapest holiday destinations in Asia and even today, it’s much cheaper than most Western countries, however, Bali is now a very popular destination and that means higher prices as more visitors compete for rooms, flights, restaurant seats, etc.

If you get off the beaten path here in Bali, though, there are still plenty of bargains to be found and if you want to visit Bali with just $1,000 in your pocket for a month, you could still eat traditional Indonesian food, stay in a private room and enjoy some of the local sights and culture.

How Much Will A Bali Trip Cost?

We have a full guide to “what does a Bali Trip Cost “, but in that guide, we stress that it’s important for you to set your own budget.

Your Bali trip can cost as much as you’d like it to cost, of course, but we usually recommend $1,500-$2,000 for a 2-week stay for one person but you can do Bali on a budget of $1,000 for the same time period and still have a great time, particularly if you’re not drinking very much.

Is Bali Cheaper Than Thailand?

Assuming that you will stay in equivalent areas and equivalent accommodation and do similar things, you will find that these two Southeast Asian countries are roughly the same cost.

You can certainly spend more money in Bali than in Thailand or in Thailand than in Bali by varying your activities, accomodation, etc. but overall, which is “cheaper” for most people will boil down to the cost of the flights.

Australians will find Bali is usually cheaper because Indonesia is much closer to Australia than to Thailand and thus, flights are cheaper.

Is Bali Cheaper Than Singapore?

Yes, Bali is cheaper than Singapore.

Singapore is one of the most expensive destinations in Southeast Asia and while it is possible to spend time in Singapore on a budget, budget travel in that country is going to be far more expensive than in Bali.

Having said that, Singapore has good public transport and that’s relatively cheap.

Is Bali Cheaper Than The Philippines?

Yes. Assuming that you’re going to expect the same standards for food, accommodation, etc. in the Philippines as in Bali, Bali is going to work out cheaper.

That’s because flights from most places are more expensive to the Philippines and high-quality accommodation in the Philippines is more expensive than in Bali.

However, alcohol is less expensive in the Philippines than it is in Bali and that might factor into some people’s holiday cost calculations more heavily than it does in others.

How Should I Book A Bali Trip?

If you’re visiting Bali and you want to save money on your trip, one of the easiest ways to do so is to contact the Bali Res Centre .

That’s a locally owned and operated travel service that can use its relationships on the island to get you the most competitive deals on flights, hotels and tours.

It’s also an ethical choice as the Bali Res Centre is local and that means when you buy from them, your holiday spending stays in Bali to support the local economy, it’s not handed to a multinational company overseas.

Final Thoughts On How To Save Money On A Bali Vacation

Yes! You can do Bali on a budget. It may not be as cheap to visit Bali as it once was but if you save a few dollars here and a few dollars there, it quickly adds up.

Just avoiding peak season, for example, can ensure you get cheap flights and see a mid-range hotel drop its rates to the same as a budget hotel in the busiest part of the year.

The weather’s lovely all year round too, this is the tropics, and even in the wet season , we get 8+ hours of sunshine nearly every day.

And, of course, if you want to come to FINNS, the world’s best beach club, you can check out our website to find all of our latest budget-friendly deals and book in advance to secure your good time for less money.

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Alright, guys. Let’s put all preconceptions aside and get down ‘n’ dirty with some real Bali prices – is it really as cheap as everyone raves on about?

Forgive me for being cliché AF but I have to throw it out there. Bali can be as  expensive or as  cheap as you want it to be. Of course, if you don’t budget carefully and have zero self-control like we do when it comes to things like food, coffee and cute animals – then you’re gonna have a hard time. But, if you can set aside your glutton temptations and firmly say “hell naw” to the most delicious looking food you’ve ever seen in your life, then you’re good.

I’m not even gonna lie – I never really understood what all the hype about Bali was and why literally everyone keeps returning each year despite having been there 55 million times already. Not that that’s scientifically possible, but it makes me think – is there an addictive substance in Bali’s humid air? Are the people ridiculously good-looking? Or, is it just  that cheap?

Well, after popping my Bali cherry earlier this year, safe to say – I got hooked. I was ready to pack our lives up and move to this happy island. You will be, too.

NOTE:  All dollar values stated are in USD

Looking for more travel cost guides in Asia? Take a look at these posts.

• How Expensive is Japan? A Guide to Costs for Families.
• How much does it cost to live in Thailand as a Family?
• Travel Inspo: 12 Mystical Places in Asia that will Blow your Mind

Bali: The Must Knows

When is the Best Time to Visit?

March and   September  are the best months of the year to visit if you want optimal weather (as in, won’t melt into the ground from the heat) and somewhat fewer crowds.

October to November  gives you the best Bali prices for hotels and tours. BUT, be aware that this is also rainy season, so prepare for some potential downpour. Or, you might get lucky.

June to August  is peak season – avoid. Unless you bask in blistering heat, inflated prices, and mosh pit-like crowds (as in – the wild Aussie ones), then there’s no problem there.

Visa Requirements

If you’re visiting Indonesia for less than 30 days and you belong to one of these 140 nationalities – you won’t need a visa. Otherwise, check your local Indonesian embassy for visa requirements.

Travel Insurance

I know living life on the edge is exhilarating and all, but don’t be that person (or family) who goes on holiday without travel insurance. I worked at a travel agency for 2 years and have heard enough horror stories to direct a sequel to the Final Destination movie franchise. So, make sure this is the first thing you do before booking anything else for your trip.

We use and recommend World Nomads,  because, quite frankly – they’re the cheapest and cover a large variety of incidences. They’ve covered my derriére on numerous occasions from stolen iPhones to damaged suitcases.

Get a quote below – you won’t be disappointed!

Food safety.

Ever heard of the notorious  Bali Belly ? Well, I can confirm that it’s not a myth – it’s  real . And, it’s nasty . And, much more common than you think.

Our youngest fell victim to this unpleasant bug which lasted for a good 4-5 days. In most cases, it’s harmless and just a matter of waiting for it to pass. Still, not something you want to deal with on your much-anticipated vacay.

The best thing you can do is read up on reputable eateries in Bali and check their reviews. Also, avoid drinking tap water and buy bottled water (even to brush your teeth).

Best Areas to Stay in Bali for Families

Sanur  offers an affordable east coast experience, drawing fewer party crowds and more family travellers. The area is home to a diverse range of accommodation ranging from private villas to guesthouses and apartments. Although the beach is nothing spectacular, it’s perfect for kids due to its calm and shallow waters.

Nusa Dua  is a stunning secluded beach resort complex in the south of Bali comprising of a strip of 5-star resorts. Located away from the craziness of Kuta, it’s the ideal place for families who seek to solely relax and chill.

Jimbaran  is famous for breathtaking sunsets and some serious legit seafood restaurants. It’s great for families who don’t want to be completely isolated from the hustle and bustle of Kuta, but don’t want to be  too close to it either.

Legian  is a central place to stay for a myriad of food and shopping options. Nestled between Kuta and Seminyak, Legian has fewer crowds and a variety of hotels to accommodate all budgets.

Ubud   is for the ultimate nature lover and families who aren’t all too fazed about being by the beach. Afterall, Ubud has some ballin’ villas and resorts that come with swimming pools anyway. The area is home to ancient temples, waterfalls and the famous Monkey Forest – a definite hit for the little ones.

Amed is, arguably, the prettiest beach town in Bali. Laid-back resorts, black sand beaches, snorkelling and breathtaking views of Mount Agung – this is the perfect area to retreat with the family. For more on this area, take a look at this list of blissful things to do in Amed .

How long to spend in Bali?

Bali is the perfect destination for short or long holidays – it all depends on how much of the island you intend on exploring. If you’re only planning to base yourself in one area (eg. Seminyak), then one week will probably suffice. If you’re looking to explore more areas, and perhaps even take a day trips out to other islands, then you’ll probably need 10-14 days, or more.

If you’re planning a longer holiday to Bali, take a look at this 2-3 week Bali itinerary to plan your trip.

Bali Prices: Our 2-Week Expenses

Our expenses in Bali are based on a family of 4 over a 2-week travel period outside of peak season. And.. We like to eat, a lot.

Just to make things clear – I’m trapped in a life with 3 perpetually hangry boys (hence the name of the blog), so in essence, our life savings go towards food. I mean, not gonna lie – I love to eat, too. So, most of our Bali expenses went towards accommodation and food.

We also had to make two trips to international doctors when our 3-year old came down with some kind of mosquito-borne virus which required blood tests and medication, hence the $152 that went towards healthcare.

All in all, Bali prices are still significantly lower than most western countries, which is what makes the island one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Find out how Thailand compares – read the Cost of Traveling Chiang Mai as a Family .

Getting to Bali: Flight Route & Costs

If you’re flying in from Europe or North America, sorry folks – there’s no direct route to Bali. You’ll most likely face at least one or multiple stops before reaching the island. The most direct route from Europe is with Garuda Airlines departing from Amsterdam.

Luckily for us Aussies – Bali is one of the easiest destinations to get to from our shores, which is why you find our friendly faces and wild (questionable) antics all over Bali. Jetstar, Qantas and Garuda offer direct flights to Bali from major cities in Australia.

TIP: Use  monthly search option on Skyscanner to find the cheapest dates to travel. Try Momondo  to find the best deals on domestic flights.

Average cost of flights (off-peak) to Bali from:

• Sydney to Bali –  $305 return per person
• Los Angeles to Bali –  $900 return per person
• London to Bali  – $640 return per person
• Hong Kong to Bali –  $320 return per person

Cost of Accommodation in Bali

We did the accommodation ‘works’ in Bali, staying at villas, apartments and resort during our 2-week stint. Here’s a breakdown of how much each place cost us.

If you can afford it – or, if you have another family travelling with you, villas are a top option in Bali. The villa in which we stayed at in Ubud could’ve accommodated 2 families, so if we had friends travelling with us, we could’ve easily saved half the cost making it super affordable at $52 per night a family. And trust me, a villa experience is  definitely  one you want to have at least once in Bali.

Take a look at all the villa options in Bali .

If amenities, such as a fully-equipped kitchen and washing machine are important for you, then choose apartments. In most cases, they’re cheaper than resorts or villas and are a great option for families who need to whip up quick meals for young kids or do loads of laundry. The apartment we stayed at in Sanur came with a pool, 24-hour security, and even housekeeping. It’s like living at home but with luxury services.

Browse all the apartments in Bali and find the perfect one suited for your family.

Compare the best accommodation deals in Bali below:

Want to know how we snap up the best flight & accommodation deals? Take a look at our Travel Resources .

Cost of Food & Groceries

Food  is cheap in Bali. It all comes down to where you eat – the key is to stick to local eateries called  ‘Warung’ where you can get tasty and authentic. But, you can also blow your family budget on food if you constantly eat at western restaurants or you have a fetish for brunch and specialty coffee (eg. me).

How much does it cost to eat out?

While it might seem like a good idea to cook your own food, it’s actually  much cheaper to eat out than to buy ingredients to whip up a meal. For the most part, supermarkets in Bali stock imported goods at inflated prices, making them even more expensive than products back at home.

Warung (local eateries)

Hit up a  Warung in your local neighbourhood for authentic and  crazy cheap food. Prices for a single dish will usually range between 70 cents to $5, easily feeding a family of 4 for less than $20.

If you’re unsure of which Warungs to visit, take a look at Mark Wiens’ Street Food Tour of Bali for some of the best and cheapest Indonesian food. Alternatively, if you’re based in Seminyak, make sure to check out these Western and Indonesian eateries that won’t break your budget .

Western & Seafood Restaurants

Although Balinese and Indonesian food is delicious – there’s not a whole lot of variety. Let’s be honest, there’s only so much Mee Goreng and Crispy Duck you can eat before you start craving more diversity.

Don’t hesitate to try that Italian joint or Japanese restaurant – they are really good and seem to be able to whip up some pretty authentic food (better than many in Australia even, go figure). Although prices are dearer, it’s usually worth it. Expect to pay between $6 to $27 a dish for pizza, pasta and seafood.

Breakfast & Cafés

I’m calling it – brunch is better in Bali than in Australia. Guys, that’s a huge call because coffee and brunch is, like, Australia’s pride and joy. The Balinese have everything down pat from artisan coffee to some of the prettiest smoothie bowls and breakfast dishes your eyes have ever seen. You’ll feel bad ruining the aesthetics of your dish by eating it.

Of course, if you do this on the daily – it could potentially hurt your budget. Artisan coffee will cost around $2 and breakfast anywhere between $5-12 per dish.

For ideas on where to eat with little ones, take a look at this list of kid-friendly restaurants and cafés in Bali .

Average daily food expenses:  $13 per person

Supermarkets & Baby Essentials

For the most part, we ate out or had food delivered to our accommodation – the only grocery run we did was for breakfast when we stayed at an apartment. Bear in mind that most of the supermarkets and convenience stores in Bali are made for foreigners, meaning that most of their products are imported and expensive.

We also had to buy some baby essentials for our 1-year old – all of which you can acquire from a supermarket so you don’t need to pack an entire suitcase full of diapers for your trip. One thing I would suggest bringing is pouch food for your baby if he’s on solids because there’s very little variety in Bali.

Below is a table outlining the average costs of basic groceries and baby necessities.

Best Travel Guides for Bali & Indonesia:

Cost of transport.

When it comes to transportation in Bali, you’re probably going to get ripped off  at least once. Unless you can avoid taxis and private driver altogether in Bali, then you’re totally winning at life.

Renting a scooter is by far the cheapest and most convenient way of getting around, but not everyone is comfortable doing so, especially if you’re travelling as a family. We  maybe sorta completely embraced our Asian and squeezed our entire family of 4 on a single scooter.

Grab or GoJek was our next best choice because we had some trust issues with taxis in Bali based on what we had heard from others. The price is set and you can either choose to prepay with your saved credit card details via the app or pay in cash. Just be aware that some hotels, restaurants and central areas don’t allow ride-sharing services to pick up from certain locations (or at least you’ll be the recipient of some serious frownage). Take a look at this guide to transportation in Bali for more details.

The notorious T-A-X-I  is not known to have a good rep in Bali. In fact, it has a terrible rep. Kind of like how the world feels about Kanye. Your safest bet is to try and find a  Blue Bird as they are the most reputable and known for turning on the metre. If you’re stuck out in Woop Woop and have to resort to a private taxi, just make sure you put your haggle pants on and pitch at least half the price of what they’re calling out to you.

HOT TIP: When jumping in a cab – insist the driver turn on the metre. If not, be prepared to haggle your pants off.

Bemo is kind of like a throwback to before ridesharing apps existed – it’s the O.G. way of hitching a cheap ride. You’ll spot them as yellow or orange painted vans – they mainly operate in rural areas and are a super cheap option for short distance trips.

Renting a bicycle can be a very cheap mode of transport, but as you may be aware – Bali is butt-sweat-drippin’ hot, so if you don’t fancy arriving at your destination a sweating mess of a human, then go for gold.

Hiring a private driver is one of the best ways of exploring the island for a day or even multiple days. Hiring a driver for one day costs between $40-60 USD and you get to bask in air conditioning from one sight to the next.

Cost of Activities & Leisure

A trip to Bali is an exhilarating blend of culture and touristy fun that truly is for all members of the family. There’s an endless number of things to do in Bali with kids , from animal parks to beach clubs – you won’t even find enough time to experience them all. That’s why most visitors keep making return trips to this happy island because you never run out of activities.

Some temples are free to enter, but the popular ones, such as Tanah Lot and Gunung Kawi charge a very small entry fee. The same goes for nature parks in which you’ll find some of Bali’s most breathtaking waterfalls.

The more popular tourist attractions in Bali come at a higher price, but they are  so worth a visit. Most of the time, we found it cheaper to purchase tickets online than at the door, sometimes saving us up to 20% on entry. We pre-purchased all of our tickets from Klook who seemed to have the best deals for  Bali Zoo , Waterbom and even Bali Safari and Marine Park .

For a rough idea of how to make the most of Bali’s best attractions, take a look at this comprehensive 10-day itinerary for inspiration.

Cost of Phone & Internet

If you’re planning to use apps like Grab and GoJek on the fly, it’s best to get a SIM card. Although WiFi can be found in most cafés, restaurants and even some shops, there were times we found ourselves stranded and needing to book a Grab but we couldn’t because we didn’t buy a SIM card. Derp.

The safest place to purchase a SIM is at the airport in the arrivals hall. A basic plan for calls, texting and 4gb of data to blow should cost between Rp 70k-150k ($5-10) valid for 30 days. Be wary of buying from independent shops as they tend to overcharge. Like, by a lot.

Some shop owners we encountered in Ubud claimed that the cheapest SIM only serviced a certain area and they’ll attempt to persuade you into buying a more expensive option covering all of Bali. Just.. don’t fall for those mind games.

Book a hassle-free Bali SIM card & pick up when you arrive:

Health & Medical Expenses

A visit to the doctor or hospital is  definitely way cheaper than most western countries. You’ll probably even get better service. Our doc in Seminyak even let us eat Nasi Goreng inside his office while waiting for blood test results.

International Doctors

You’ll find international medical clinics in most major tourist area where staff and doctors speak fluent English and you’ll feel at ease knowing that you or your family is in the best possible care. A single consultation can cost anywhere between Rp 400k-600k ($27-40), with prescription medicine and blood tests incurring extra costs. Some clinics even offer free pick-ups and drop-offs as part of their service.

South East Asia is renowned for cheap dental work – you just need to find a reputable one based on reviews online. If you’ve been holding off that filling back at home – get it done in Bali. For the same kind of work back at home, you’ll pay between Rp 450k – 1m ($30-66) per filling, usually including X-rays, pain relief, and sometimes even a clean.

Average Daily Cost of Travelling Bali as a Family

We suck at budgeting, which is why budget travel doesn’t usually work for us, as hard as we try. We just have zero self-control when it comes to, well, food. But, then again – who does? In all honestly, Bali can absolutely be done on a tight budget, but you can also ball out hard and live it up. It’s all possible in Bali.

Our average daily expenses:  $39 per person (inclusive of accommodation, food, transport, attractions and other things)

Looking for ideas on how to spend your time in Bali? Take a look at this adventure-filled one week itinerary .

Tips for Saving Money in Bali

• Plan your trip for low season to snap up airfare bargains and accommodation deals.
• Eat at  Warungs   in your local area for authentic and cheap Balinese food.
• Shop at fresh food markets for fruits and vegetables as opposed to supermarkets.
• Purchase tickets online on sites like Klook where you can save up to 20% on entry tickets.
• Haggle your pants off  because there’s always room for a bargain. Pitch half the amount of what the vendor is offering.
• Stay in guesthouses or apartments – they are the most cost-effective accommodation options in Bali.
• Download the Grab or GoJek app to get around and avoid having to haggle over cab fares.

I hope this article has provided you with a little more insight into Bali prices and roughly how much monies you’re going to have to splash out for a family trip. It’s definitely possible to spend much less than we did – it really all comes down to the type of accommodation you choose and… how much you enjoy eating 😉

WATCH: How Expensive is Bali for Families?

Travel resources to help save you money for your Bali trip

Visit our Travel Resources to find the best deals on flights, accommodation and attractions. We love and use these services ourselves to plan all of our family trips – they save us a ton of time and money.

Sweet deals for you:

• $15 USD OFF your reservation on Booking.com
• $40 USD OFF your first Airbnb booking  

For ideas on what to pack for a family trip, check out  gear and accessories we take with us on every single trip.

Come say hi to us on YouTube , Instagram and Facebook . I promise we’re funny. At least, I like to think so.

If you found this post helpful – please share it below (many virtual hugs for you in return).

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10 comments.

Dying over here. I am.a glutton just like you and loved the you comped the taxis to kanye. Yeah, no bueno. Great advice with some great laughs. Saving this when I finally get there!

It’s more affordable than I was expecting! I’ll definitely have to visit Bali with my family in the future! 🙂

This guide is perfect! Suuuper helpful even without traveling with a family. So glad I found this, thank you!

Thanks so much – I’m glad this helped you plan your travels!

Thanks for this – might be the most useful post I’ve found – appreciate the detail. I’m suggesting my travel girls follow you for sure!

Thanks so much for taking the time to read it and I’m glad you found it useful 🙂

I need a quick reply please. Is there any local/cheap way to go Mount Batur from Kuta (One way) I’m planning to stay there for a night. Also, what is the best way to move Munduk from Mount Batur? I have a plan to stay one night there too.

Hi there! Unfortunately, I have no advice for travelling to Mount Batur from Bali as we didn’t make it there on our trip. I hope you managed to find an answer to your question.

• Pingback: 4 Days in Bali Itinerary - Guide for Your First Visit

cheers mate we going next april from uk…your page has helped me convince the missus so sweet deal

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Is Bali Expensive To Visit In 2024?

Written by Josh Band

Posted, 22nd September 2023

Find yourself asking the question, “Is Bali Expensive?”?

It’s one of the most common questions people have before booking a trip to Bali.

Bali is a must-visit destination on many travellers’ bucket lists. If you’re in the process of planning a trip to South-East Asia, then you’re probably considering staying in Bali for a while.

The island is absolutely beautiful, and it’s not hard to see why so many couples are opting for Bali on honeymoon trips, and solo travellers are making room in their itinerary to visit the island.

With Bali looking like the destination of dreams for most travellers, it can often leave you wondering, “ Is Bali expensive? ” No one wants to leave the bank empty after a trip, right?

We host Bali group tours all throughout the year, so we consider ourselves experts when it comes to anything to do with Bali, and we know how much things cost.

So, we have created the ultimate guide with everything you need to know when budgeting a trip to beautiful Bali and give all the answers you need to figure out for yourself, “Is Bali expensive?”.

Is Bali Expensive?

It sounds obvious, but your budget for Bali will depend greatly on what you intend to do while you’re on the island, where you want to stay and how much you’re willing to spend on food, drink and transport.

Thankfully, Bali’s tourism industry is very open, and there is availability in most sectors to fit whatever budget you’d like.

Hardcore backpackers will typically spend $10-20 per day in Bali. This includes staying in hostels, eating street food, doing free activities, etc.

If you are on a medium budget, then you can certainly get away with spending around $50 per day, but if you’d prefer to have a luxurious stay, then you’ll naturally need a bigger budget than that.

The cost of living in Bali is quite low. It isn’t a very rich region, but the economy has seen a huge increase in recent years from tourism. Locals live on around $750-$2,000 per month, so it is very achievable to get by on a budget when visiting the island.

Costs for two people for two weeks average at around $3,000 for the entire trip. But every traveller is different, and how you choose to spend your time and money will greatly affect your budget.

Finding the best deals for flights , accommodation, and activities is a great way to reduce your costs. Making sure you do plenty of research on prices is the best way to save money.

Another great way to save money is by booking one of our tours . We’ve visited Bali hundreds of times collectively, and we know all the best areas to visit and how to make the most of your money.

Not to mention that the cost of activities like taking a boat tour in Lovina or taking a cooking class in Ubud are all included in our price. And we even provide some meals too!

To summarise, budget between $20 and $200+ per person per day, depending on how you like to travel. Bali is such a beautiful island and deserves to be enjoyed no matter your budget.

Price of Food in Bali

As with every country, food prices in Bali vary significantly, depending on where and what you eat. If you’re on a tight budget, then you can certainly get away with spending less than $10 a day in total.

Local and street food price s can be as low as $2-$4 for a decently sized portion. And don’t believe all the negative stigma around Southeast Asian street food; you aren’t guaranteed to get food poisoning .

If you’re looking for something a bit more familiar and something that you know that you’ll like, then prices do rise slightly. Typical Western foods like fries or battered chicken will set you back around $5-$8 per dish.

If you’ve time for a sit-down meal in a nice restaurant, it will fit nicely into any budget. You can expect to pay anywhere from $15-$20 for a meal – rising to $20-$30 if you want to get alcoholic drinks like wine or cocktails.

Finding healthy foods while travelling can often be neglected by many travellers. When you need a bit of pick-me-up or something with some more vitamins and minerals, then typical options are smoothie (perfect for breakfast) and poke bowls.

They’re two of the best traditional Bali foods . Smoothie bowls cost around $4-$6, while poke bowls are slightly more expensive at $5-$7.

Price of Drinks in Bali

Staying hydrated while on the go is very important – particularly in hot destinations like Bali. While bottled water (side note- you can’t drink tap water in Bali ) should also be your go-to method of hydration, treating yourself to an alcoholic beverage here and there is the perfect thing to help you relax after a long day of exploring.

As with most countries, you’ll have to pay more for alcohol in restaurants and bars than if you were to buy bottles yourself from stores. Beers and ciders are far cheaper in Bali than wines and cocktails, so you often get more for your money.

A good beer in a restaurant with your meal will likely set you back $1.50-$3, which is very affordable and unlike anything you’d find in the West. If you head to a local store to buy beer yourself, then you’ll likely only have to spend $1-$2 per bottle.

Cocktails in Bali are delicious – they are some of the best around, and the attention to detail is incredible. They are beautifully presented no matter the price and are a great, refreshing post-dinner drink.

The only downside is that cocktails are the most expensive of all the alcoholic drinks in Bali (though, to be fair, this is the same in most places). They typically cost around $4-$8 but are worth the price.

Wine prices vary the most. Glasses in restaurants tend to cost around $4-$6, and if you want to buy the bottle, then the price will depend on where in the world the wine is from. Local bottles of wine will cost about $15, while imported ones can cost upwards of $30.

Price of Transport in Bali

Getting around Bali is really easy, especially if you book one of our guided Bali tours 😉.

Nonetheless, there are so many transport options available, and locals are always willing to help you find your way about.

Taxi fares in Bali can vary massively. Transfers from the airport to Ubud will cost approximately $30-$40, for example. Be sure to always check the price with your driver before getting in, as some drivers will take advantage of travellers and push the price upwards if you seem oblivious.

Taxi companies Grab and GO-JEK are popular in this part of the world. They are the equivalent of Uber in Bali. If you’re travelling around Denpasar, Kuta, Seminyak Canggu or any of the popular spots in Bali then you’re in luck, as the companies have drivers in these areas.

Most travellers will likely take the ferry to the Gili islands at some point during their trip. Transfers on the ferry cost between $30-$60 for a one-way ticket . We told you that our tours are a great way to save money!

Renting a scooter or motorbike while in Bali is extremely common and popular. And it’s a cheap mode of transport too!

Most rental companies will do daily and weekly rates so you can make the most of your money. Daily rental fees are between $3 and $10, whereas for the week you can expect to spend $20-$50.

Car rental is another good option for exploring Bali. Costs are around $30-$50 per day, which is not too bad compared to other South-East Asian destinations.

Please note that if you’re planning on renting a bike or car on your trip then an international driving licence is required. It’s a good idea to check with your travel insurance company that you’re covered for driving these vehicles while abroad too – you don’t want to end up out of pocket if you wind up injured.

You also need to be aware of scams when renting motorbikes, scooters and cars. Many companies will try to catch you out with extortionate prices or claim that there is damage to the vehicle that you didn’t cause.

The best way around the latter is to take photos from every angle of the bike or car – particularly any scratches or dents – as soon as it is given to you so that you can prove it wasn’t your fault.

Price of Accommodation in Bali

Bali has a huge range of accommodation options to suit every budget; whether you want a bed in a hostel or a luxurious villa with a pool, Bali has you covered.

On the cheapest end of the scale, hostels can be as lowly priced as $7-$15 per night. However, you are sacrificing the modern comforts you’ll be used to in most European and American hostels.

Such cheap hostels make their money by offering quite low-quality rooms – but you get what you pay for, after all! Typical hostels will allow for very limited private space. Dorm-style rooms are the norm, with up to 30 bunk beds per room in some areas. You’ll find it very difficult to find a hostel offering a private bathroom in Bali – most will be shared bathroom areas.

Hotel stays are preferable to travellers who like a bit more privacy without destroying their life savings. You can get a night in a basic hotel for around $30-$50.

Airbnb has really taken off in Bali in recent years, and there are lots of low-cost, good-quality apartments available on the island. A decent budget Airbnb will cost only $30-$50 per night (plus a service and cleaning charge- can we go back to 2019 Airbnb ?!).

Or, if you’re looking for somewhere more luxurious and want the complete Bali experience of those TikToks and videos about Bali, private villas also available on Airbnb can cost anywhere from $50 per night to $3000. They’re pricey, but some of them are definitely worth it. Bali is the perfect place to spend out on some luxury.

Price of Activities in Bali

The number of activities available in Bali is endless. There is something for everyone on the island, with water activities and hiking trips being some of the most popular.

Some of the best activities in Bali are actually free. Hiking waterfall routes, visiting local markets or attending religious and cultural shows are some of the best free activities that Bali has to offer, and they’re enjoyable too! Remember always to travel responsibly and respect the environment.

If you’re looking for an overall budget for activities, putting aside $10-$50 per experience is a good estimate. Most activities will be on the lower end of the scale, but it’s better to over budget than under.

One of the most popular things to do in Bali, for example, is to visit Uluwatu Temple. It’s one of the reasons to visit Uluwatu . The temple’s entrance fee is 30,000 IDR which is equivalent to just under $2.

Another popular activity which has a very small entrance fee is visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest. Travellers can expect to pay around $3 to gain entry into the forest park, and it is an unforgettable way to spend a day near Ubud.

Are flights to Bali expensive?

Flights to Bali are very dependent on where you are flying from and which airline you choose to travel with. Prices also vary greatly depending on the time of year that your trip is taking place. The cheapest month to fly to Bali is February, as it is peak rainy season and tourism is low. Though we recommend visiting Bali all year round- there’s no bad time to visit Bali .

Typically, American travellers can expect to pay around $1,500 for their flights to and from Bali, with a layover halfway through the journey. Make sure to use any air miles you might have clocked up on an account to help with the cost of the journey.

European travellers can expect costs of around $1,100 for return flights to Bali when booked in advance. Often it is cheaper to book flights separately, with one-way tickets often dipping to as low as $300 in off-peak season.

Travelling to another country with a larger airport is also a way around huge costs … Amsterdam Schiphol or London Heathrow, for example, are just two airports that often have cheaper and more direct flights to Bali.

Travelling from Australia costs around $400 for a one-way flight. The cheapest flights from the country of course, are from Perth in the north, whereas flying from Melbourne or Sydney will have one-way prices closer to $600. In total, travellers can expect to pay around $1,100 on flights to and from Australia.

If you’re coming from a country we haven’t explicitly mentioned, we suggest using Skyscanner to find the best flight deals to get to Bali.

Is Bali Expensive: FAQ

Below are some FAQs relating to “Is Bali expensive?” along with their respective answers.

The cost of a week in Bali varies widely. On a budget, travellers can spend as little as $500, while luxury travellers may spend several thousand dollars.

Your daily budget will very much depend on what you intend to do every day. With pre-booked accommodation and transport, a good daily budget would be around $50 to cover food, vehicle rental and activity costs.

Meals in Bali can cost as little as $2 for local street food, but a sit-down meal will be closer to $20-$30.

Bali is one of the cheapest regions to visit in South-East Asia. The island is only as expensive as you make it. Your trip can be very affordable or very expensive, depending on what choices you make.

Final Thoughts: Is Bali Expensive?

And there you have it! A complete guide to “ Is Bali expensive? ”

Bali is an affordable island to travel to and can certainly be done on a budget. But there are so many options for luxurious retreats in Bali too. What makes Bali special is how you can visit on any budget and have a great time.

Your biggest expense in visiting Bali will likely be your flights and accommodation. Aside from these, the typical daily budget is between $20-200+ .

Bali guarantees a great trip, but if you want to super duper guarantee it, join us on one of our group tours . We’d love to see you there!

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.

Here are a few useful links to help with that planning; 👉🏼  View all Trips 👉🏼  Frequently Asked Questions 👉🏼  Check out our Reviews 👉🏼  Why choose us? 👉🏼  How does it all work?

If you’ve got any burning questions or just need a little travel inspo… jump in the DM’s with the team via either  Whatsapp , Livechat or  Instagram .

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Josh is one of our travel writers here at Feel Free Travel. You'll find him anywhere in the world typing away at what he sees in front of him. When he's not submerged in his laptop, he'll be in a local gym he's found while travelling or hiking up to the nearest viewpoint, especially if there’s a sunset pending.

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Bali Travel Budget: How to Travel Bali on 20$ a Day

Dreaming of tanning on the beaches of Bali? Of exploring the most instagram-worthy cafes? Or perhaps rather look for adventure by chasing waterfalls? What if I told you, you could do it all, and you can do it all on a budget. Traveling Bali is extremely affordable, and while Instagram may make it look like luxury paradise, the reality is that that is only a small percentage of what Bali has to offer. In the 40 days we traveled Bali we spent a rough $1670 between the two of us, which translates to approximately $20 per person per day (and yes that is US Dollar, just to make it easier for everyone ) how is that for a budget destination! And trust me when I tell you, we overspent in certain locations, and could certainly have spent less if we really wanted to. So, intrigued to visit Bali yourself, to learn where our money went to, and to learn how exactly you could travel Bali on a budget of less than $20 a day? Keep on reading to learn from our mistakes and to find out the best money saving tips for Bali!

Please note: This post contains affiliate links. This means that purchasing a product or service via these links may earn us a small commission (at no extra cost to you of course).

Bali Travel Budget

To give you a better idea of what exactly we spent our money on, and how we actually manage to travel on a budget of $20 per person per day we actually tracked every single penny we spent. From accommodation, to bottled water, to simple snacks. We wrote it all down, and summed it up in five different categories: accommodation, food & drinks, transportation, activities and miscellaneous costs. While we went slightly over our budget (mainly because we just love eating), we managed to spent pretty close to the initial estimate of $20 a day. You can find the exact breakdown of the cost below:

However, the reality is not everyone will spend as much as we did, and not everyone will spend as little as we did, this all depends on how you look at the money we spent. While some prefer to stay in luxury resorts, we are budget travelers with the hope to spend as much of our lives on the road. So we cut our costs on things that matter less to us, and splurge on activities or food that do matter to us. So to give you a bit of an idea of what kind of travelers we are, and if you are likely to spent more or less than us, here is some context on how we travel:

• We avoid tours – we love exploring on our own and prefer to arrange everything ourselves. We only take tours if there is simply no other way, if it will take us further of the beaten path, or if it is necessary for our own safety. From our own transport to where we eat, not only helps us to save money, we also are able to provide you with more information on how exactly we manage to visit all these sights and do all these activities without a tour yourself!
• We love scooters and motorbikes  – No taxis for us if there are motorbikes or scooters available, and lucky for us there was plenty of those in Bali. We had a scooter available for 39 out of our 40 days in Bali, which allowed us to explore all the sights and surroundings on our own. We normally prefer to walk, but in Bali it was a lot easier to explore by motorbike instead.
• No infinity pools and floating breakfast – The stunning infinity pools of Bali, with these beautiful floating breakfasts and the most incredible views. While this is what many people travel to Bali for, and we absolutely would love to stay in these places to experience it, this does not fit in our budget. On top of all of that, pretty accommodation is nice, but it is not the reason we travel, we prefer to seek adventure and learn about culture. Instead, we opted for some basic, but clean and preferably with AC, private rooms in smaller guesthouses and hotels.
• We travel slow – 40 days in Bali, and that doesn’t include the Nusa Islands or Lombok. Being full-time travelers with our backpacks being our homes we sometimes need some rest but also plenty of time to work and to write these articles and edit all the photos we post on our instagram and here on the website. Traveling slow means less cost in transport and the option to stay longer in inexpensive places.
• We love food – being away from home almost 365 days a year means you don’t always have the comfort of your own kitchen, or the luxury of eating whatever you desire. While we love eating local food, when we are spending months at a time in a country we like to mix it up we some of the food we love from home or simply from other countries. So while we don’t splurge much on alcoholic drinks, we love eating a good pizza, a tasty burger or perhaps a delicious curry. As for that reason, and the fact that Bali has so much delicious food to offer, the largest part of our money went to food during our 40 day stay in Bali!

So now that you know a little bit on how we travel, and have decided if you could spend less or more than us, keep on reading to find an even more detailed breakdown of the several categories. First up: the cost of accommodation in Bali.

View over the stunning Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

Cost of Accommodation in Bali

As mentioned above, you won’t find any infinity pools in our cost breakdown, but from the places we stayed in two came with a pool, and two were so close to the ocean that we could either hear it or see it from our room. To give you a better idea of what to expect for your money we have listed the places we stayed in below, plus the prices that we paid (during low season) per room. As we are a couple this is one of the major ways we manage to save money. However, if you are a solo traveler, don’t worry, there are plenty of budget hostels available with dorm rooms as cheap as $4 a night. You can find a full overview of the hostels available in Bali here on Hostelworld .

Save money by booking accommodation in advance, as Bali hotels and guesthouses do tend to fill up during the high season. If you are a couple planning on traveling Bali we highly recommend using Booking.com or Airbnb to find the best accommodation for you.

How we could have spent less on accommodation in Bali:  Now, while we averaged roughly $17 a night for the both of us, we could always spent less. We could have opted for more budget accommodation in Ubud, Canggu and Amed, but the reality is, we were happy with spending the amount of money did for the amount of amenities we got in return for it. Like mentioned above, two of these rooms came with a pool on the premises, one even with a gym, and the other two were a stone throw away from the ocean. All our rooms had AC, and perhaps one of the most important factors in the work that we do, we had a solid internet connection that allowed us to write these blogposts for you.

The stunning beaches of Bali

Cost of Food & Drinks in Bali

Bali is known for the beautiful instagram worthy cafes, the photogenic buddha bowls and of course the large amount of vegetarian and vegan  restaurants. There is something in Bali for everyone, you can eat local or simply eat some delicious Italian, Indian, Mexican, Japanese or one of the many other cuisines that you will find in the touristic areas of Bali. And while the prices are relatively cheap compared to prices of Australia, Europe and North America, if you are not careful, you will end up spending a lot more then you had budgeted for. Food and drinks were our largest expenditure during our 40 days in Bali, and we averaged roughly $9 per person, per day. But please note, we barely drink alcohol, hence the prices below simply included some fresh juices, sodas and mainly bottles of water if refills weren’t available. If you are planning on partying in Bali, or having a beer every night with your food, expect your cost to be a lot higher than ours. Below find the exact breakdown of where we spent how much on food.

However, these prices above won’t tell you much, as we might eat less or a lot more than you do on a day. To give you a bit of a better idea check out some of the prices below to see where you could splurge your money on. We have listed some food items below so you can have a better idea of what to expect of the food prices and at what kind of restaurants in Bali.

• Nasi Goreng at a local warung in Ubud : 45000 IDR (± $3.15)
• Vegan Tofu Scramble at a local warung in Ubud : 28000 IDR (± $2)
• Warung Pick & Mix at a local warung in Canggu : 40000 IDR (± $2.75)
• Pizza Margherita at a restaurant in Ubud : 3000 IDR (± $2.10)
• Country Breakfast at a more Western Style cafe in Canggu : 65000 IDR (± $4.50)
• Big Mac at a McDonalds near Canggu : 30000 IDR (± $2.10)

How we could have spent less on food and drinks in Bali:  As there is always room for improvement, especially when it comes to our food budget, we could have certainly spent less during our travels in Bali. The best way to cut down on food cost is by eating local, go for the street food, or the delicious warungs where meals are as low as $1 to $2. If you are not a fan of Indonesian food, set your food budget a bit higher so you can enjoy all the smoothie bowls, pizzas and burgers without having to think to much about sticking to your budget.

Enjoy a meal with a view at the Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Cost of Transport in Bali

Transport in Bali is extremely affordable, especially if you arrange your own transport. Everywhere on the streets of Bali you can find taxis or even Uber drivers to take you around town, but if you are on a budget, you might want to opt to rent a scooter or motorbike instead. With scooter rentals as low as $3 a day, and gas costing less then a $1 per liter it makes it one of the most affordable and most convenient ways to get around Bali. However, riding a scooter or motorbike in Bali does require some experience as the roads can be of poor condition in certain places, and traffic could simply be madness. But, if you feel comfortable and confident riding a motorbike or scooter then this might be the way to go for you, just don’t forget to wear a helmet!

Besides the scooter we only took 3 taxis in Bali: to get to Ubud, from Ubud to Canggu and from Canggu to the airport. As a total we spent roughly $200 on transport during our 40 days in Bali, which included 39 days of scooter rental, gas, and the three taxis. Here are some example prices to give you a better idea:

• Scooter rental in Ubud: 55000 IDR (± $4) per day for our 150cc scooter that we rented for 26 days.
• Taxi ride between cities: 150000 IDR (± $10) for a taxi ride from our Airbnb in Ubud to our guesthouse in Canggu.
• Scooter rental in Canggu: 55000 IDR (± $4) per day for our 125cc scooter that we rented for 11 days.
• Taxi to the airport: 250000 IDR (±17) for a taxi ride from our guesthouse in Canggu to the airport.

How we could have spent less on transportation in Bali: Honestly, we are not sure if we could have spent less as not having a scooter and taking taxis everywhere would have costed us a lot more money. Going for an older scooter, with less cc’s might have saved us a couple of dollars, but we were willing to pay a bit more for a 150cc scooter in Ubud due to the fact that it was a lot more comfortable for two people on a bike, and it managed to get up the hills in the North without any issue, something that lower cc’s scooters would have not managed. If you are planning on visiting the Gili Islands or the Nusa islands budget a bit more as the ferries are quite expensive.

Visit Bali on a budget: Rent a scooter

Cost of Activities in Bali

Now, perhaps the most important category of all, the cost of activities in Bali, and as you might have seen, surprisingly enough, this is the lowest expense category with a total of not even $40 during our time in Bali! Now, you might think we didn’t do anything, or that we just hung out at cafes and ate food, but this is actually quite the contrary. The reason these costs are so low is because activities and sightseeing in Bali is just simply extremely affordable, as long as you arrange your own transport! To give you a better idea of some of the sights we have seen, and how much it costs, check out the complete table below. You can click the activities and sights for more detailed info on how to get there, best time to go and much much more.

However, this is just a small sample of all the sights we had seen in Bali, if you are looking for some more inspiration check out our complete Bali bucket list . Temples and waterfalls often charge a small fee, allowing you to see many sights and activities even if you are traveling on a strict budget. We later found out that some people had to pay to enter the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, however, we visited three times early in the morning and never found a point to buy an entry ticket. As long as you are arranging your own transport, and don’t visit these sights as part of a tour, you can keep your activities budget extremely low, even if you travel faster than us as most sights only cost a couple of dollars. However, if you are planning on taking surfing lessons, or to go diving, you might want to up your activities budget as these activities will cost you more money.

How we could have spent less on activities in Bali : This is one category we never cheap out on, as we prefer to see all the sights we want to see, no matter the cost. However, we didn’t go diving and instead opted to go snorkeling in Amed as a budget alternative but we hope to return one day to still dive in the most beautiful waters of Bali though. Walking and swimming at the beaches is completely free, so is exploring the cities and towns and visiting many natural viewpoints along Bali’s beautiful roads and beaches, all allowing you to stick to your budget!

Enjoy free activities such as the Campuhan Ridge Walk

Miscellaneous Costs in Bali

Last, but definitely not least on the list of Bali travel expenses: miscellaneous costs. This is often a forgotten category, something that people forget to budget, but something that could wreck your budget if you are not careful. While short term travelers won’t face many of these costs, for anyone who spends longer then a month on the road these costs might incur. Miscellaneous costs, in our case, is made up of the following items:

• Laundry:  There is no suitcase big enough that will allow us to pack for a full year on the road, without doing laundry, especially in Southeast Asia. So as we prefer not to be smelly people, we often do a laundry twice a week. Laundry in Southeast Asia is often based on weight or on items. We prefer to look for laundry services that charge per weight as with larger washes this is more affordable. Laundry in Bali ranges from roughly $1 – $2 per kg, often available for pickup the next day. Laundry made up for most of the miscellaneous cost during our time in Bali.
• Soap, shampoo and other toiletries:  For the same reason as above, we have to buy items such as shampoo, toothpaste and all other toiletries while on the road. The prices in Bali were comparable to prices at home, ranging from $2 – $5 per bottle of soap or shampoo, depending on the brand that you buy.
• Medication and bandages:  With someone as clumsy as me it is a cost we simply cannot avoid. While we didn’t have to buy any medication during our stay in Bali, we just had to buy some bandaids and bandages which was roughly $1 – $2 per pack, nothing that will break the bank!

How we could have spent less on miscellaneous cost in Bali: There is the option of washing items by hand, which is something we often did in between for items we would wear more frequently, but in the end these washes didn’t seem as effective as a real laundromat wash, or we simply didn’t have any space to dry our items. All with all this is a very personal category, as some people might not spent any money in this category at all, or some might spent more.

Stunning waterfalls in Bali

How to stay on a Budget in Bali

So now that we have broke down exactly how much we spent on what category and where, including many example cost and how we could have spent less it is time for our final money saving tips for Bali. We might have mentioned some above, but in case you’ve missed them here they are again, plus a couple of more tips!

• Bring a water bottle  – Not only because you will be doing the environment a huge favor, but you will also be doing your wallet a huge favor. Many hotels and guesthouses will have filtered water or 5 gallon water bottles available from where you can fill up your own water bottle for free.
• Eat local – While the Mexican, Italian, Indian and many other delicious cuisines and cafes look amazing, they are also a lot more pricier then the local warungs. Either balance it out, or just eat at warungs all together and enjoy the delicious pick & mix style buffet, or a freshly made nasi goreng for just a couple of dollars, eating local food for at least half our meals saved us a lot of money in Bali!
• Enjoy the free breakfast – Many hostels and guesthouses offer free breakfast for their guests! Get up for sunrise, and be back in time for some delicious eggs, or perhaps even pancakes, and some tea or coffee. This will save you buying another meal outside! You can check in advance online already when booking  if your hotel or guesthouse offers free breakfasts.
• Don’t book tours or taxis through your guesthouse – Taxis and tours arranged through the guesthouses are often twice, if not more, as expensive as if you would arrange it on your own on the streets. This is especially in Ubud, where you will find people offering their taxi services simply everywhere.
• Walk or get a scooter – If you can ride a scooter, or motorbike, and feel comfortable riding through the hectic traffic of Bali then this is the best way to get around, while in most cities you can walk, having a scooter will be really handy for the sights that are a bit out of town, and it will save you loads of money on taxis. Sharing the scooter with your partner or friends will make it even more affordable! Just don’t forget to wear a helmet!
• Share a taxi – Don’t feel comfortable riding a scooter, no worries, many people don’t. As taxis tend to get a bit expensive, try to get some friends or a group of people in your hostel together to share the taxi with. Prices are always per taxi, so this could easily save you twice or even four times the money!
• Find a laundry place where you pay per kg – At many guesthouses and hotels they will offer laundry service, but it is often based on a per item basis. As the clothes most of us pack for Bali are quite light, you will save a lot of money if you do your laundry on a per kg basis instead. You might have to look a bit further, but there are enough of these services available!
• Use Airbnb  – Airbnb is one of the best ways to find stunning accommodation for only the fraction of the price of a similar kind of hotel. From small local guesthouses to villas, Airbnb seems to offer it all. We have been using Airbnb almost everywhere we travel, and we have almost always been happy with where we stayed! Just be sure to read the latest reviews to see if the property description actually matches reality.
• Traveling solo? Stay in a hostel – The benefit of traveling with a partner or with friends means splitting the price of a room, however, if you are traveling solo it doesn’t mean that your trip has to get more expensive! There are many hostels in Bali available that offer a bed in a dorm room for prices as low as $4! Not only will you save money, it will also be easier to meet new people to share that scooter or taxi with, to save you a couple dollars, and to make some new friends!
• Bargain – Prices in Bali are flexible when there is no price tag in front of it, and sellers at the Ubud art market, but also at scooter rental places, will often start with a higher price, as they expect you will bargain with them. So don’t just agree immediately to the first price, bargain, and you will often be able to get 20% – 50% off the original price. This is especially possible if you will buy more items when you go shopping, or rent a scooter for more then one day!
• Low budget activities – While you can fill your trip to Bali with diving lessons, surf classes, climbing volcanoes and so much more, there are a lot of low budget activities. Entry fees to waterfalls and temples are often only a couple of dollars, allowing you to do multiple things in one day even if you are on a low budget. Now that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t go diving or surfing it all, we just recommend balancing low and high cost activities to make most of your Bali budget adventure!

Low budget activities: Visit the Sekumpul Waterfall

In the end, no matter what kind of style you will travel in Bali, it is still an incredible beautiful and affordable destination. If you are planning on going be sure to check out all our Bali articles here and to read about these 21 things to know before you go ! Just so you can enjoy your travels to Bali to the max. Are there any money saving tips we have forgotten about? Be sure to tell us in the comment section down below. And oh, don’t forget to pin it!

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12 Comments

I always find it incredibly interesting to read budget posts like these, and yours is incredibly comprehensive. Plus, your dreamy photos make me dream of going (or moving?) to Bali!

Thanks Maria! Oh I am considering moving to Bali myself, it is such a dream destination, I can’t wait to go back!

I love this! It’s so great to see that you can visit these beautiful destinations and still have such an incredible time on a strict budget! Your photos are amazing!! I love Airbnb- we often find lovely places for a much better fee than we would pay at a hotel!

Thanks Hayley! I think people underestimate how much you can see and do on a budget, even on 20$ a day we managed to have an amazing time in Bali, and didn’t feel like we had to leave anything out of our itinerary!

Love this guide! Definitely saving for later, I’ll hopefully go there next year. One question: What camera do you use and how do you edit your photos?

Thanks Tina! I hope you will have an amazing time in Bali next year, I would sure love to go back! I use an older DSLR, a Canon EOS 600D which is an entry level DSLR that I bought back in 2013, but I am hoping to upgrade my gear real soon! And I edit my photos with lightroom on my laptop! Hope that answers all your questions!

This post is crazy detailed- great job!

Thanks Aisha! Glad you liked it!

This was very detailed and even though you were telling us how you saved so much money you still gave more pointers on how to save more money! Awesome post and phots! Looking forward to future posts!

Thanks Sean!

This is an amazing article and helped us a lot! We’ll be going to Bali in 10 days and need to spend as little as possible. Loved the sections about how you guys could have spend less. Thank you! 🙂 What places would you recommend visiting for low budget travelers like us?

Hi Denise and Ryne! Glad to hear you like the article. Honestly, we have been all over Bali and any destination you can make as expensive or as affordable as you like. You will find budget accommodation, cheap eats and affordable activities all over the island. Hope you’ll have a great time in Bali!

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How Much Money Do I Need For Bali?

Bali is one the most spectacular and best value places to visit in all of South East Asia. Here’s a rundown by Russ Brooks of what to expect price wise from the Island of the Gods

A visit to the island of Bali is essential part of any visit to Indonesia and must not be missed, but it would be wise to plan a separate budget for this portion of your trip. Bali is the epicentre for tourism in Indonesia and the prices reflect the constant steady stream of Europeans and Australians that come year round to enjoy the diversity that the island has to offer.

(I’ve written a separate guide, How Much Money Do I Need In Indonesia , to give an outline of costs elsewhere in this huge, and hugely varied, country).

Check Hotel Availability And Pricing

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Like Indonesia, the island of Bali is larger than you might think and is more diverse as well and your budget should be dependent on where you wish to travel on Bali and the activities you wish to take part in . A little time spent planning the things you want to see and where they are will go a long way to keeping you on track and on budget.

Indonesia Holiday Essentials

• Flights To Indonesia: Find the cheapest seats and flight times to Bali from dozens of airlines, or to the capital Jakarta .
• Indonesia Airport Transfers: Book an airport transfer for hassle-free arrival at your hotel in Bali or Jakarta .
• Things To Do In Indonesia: Check the huge lists of activities and book online for Bali , Jakarta , Komodo , Yogyakarta , and Gili Islands .
• Indonesia Itineraries: Make the most of your trip with our 1-week and 2-week Bali itineraries, and our 1-, 2- and 3-day Ubud itinerary .
• Where To Stay In Indonesia: See our guides for the best areas and the best hotels to stay in Ubud .
• Indonesia Packing List: Don’t forget any of the essentials with our comprehensive Bali Packing List .

You can also get a sense of what to bring with you with Travel Happy’s Bali Packing List .

With a few exceptions, I found that the further north I traveled on Bali, the less expensive things became. On the southern part of the island, budget deals were best found in Kuta and Legian, but it was more challenging to find good values in that price range and took a little more research and walking around.

Daily Budget for Bali

Bali can be a difficult place to nail down a daily budget as like Indonesia, the island is so diverse and a budget that will work for traveling to Ubud and Lovina may not work for one partying in Seminyak and Kuta. The easiest way to save money is to leave the more popular destinations and head to the smaller towns and villages where tourists are still less frequent and you’ll save greatly on accommodations and food.

Overall, $25-30 USD a day for a solo, bare budget backpacker is quite doable an will get you basic accommodations, 3 meals and a few beers or transport everyday, but will likely be stretched if you spend all your time in the highly touristed areas of Sanur or Ubud. Couples shouldn’t spend much more since most accommodations like guesthouses or losmens charge the same price if there are 1 or 2 occupants. Couples can get by on $35-40 USD a day.

If you increase those figures by half as much, you can travel very comfortably and move about quite freely. Bali is already the most expensive tourist destination in Indonesia and is slowly becoming more expensive as tourists discover more of Bali, but cheap food and accommodation are still widely available if you don’t mind basic accommodations, stick to your budget, and bargain respectfully for prices. In south Bali and Ubud, bargaining is more difficult and higher prices are quite common because hotels and vendors know there are people who will pay those prices without question, so walking around to find the best deal becomes even more necessary.

Tours And Activities In Bali

There are many different activities to participate in in Bali. There is scuba diving and snorkeling, jungle, birding and volcano hikes, classes in surfing, woodcarving and cooking, and many, many spa experiences. When it comes to booking tours and activities, prices vary widely. Do your research and seek out quotes from different operators to make sure the price you pay is fair.

Travel agents will offer different prices for the same activities so seek out other travelers to get their recommendations and book with a reputable vendor. Ask questions about what to expect as the difference in price might be the quality of transportation, how many people are on the tour or whether or not they provide food. There are tours and activities at all price levels and many different levels of service.

Here’s a short list of possible activities on Bali about which you can read previous customer reviews and book online . This will give you an idea of what prices you can expect to pay for each kind of activity in Bali.

• Bali Instagram Highlights Tour The most photogenic Bali spots for the ‘Gram in one easy day trip.
• Mount Batur Sunrise Trek See the sunrise from the 1717m high Mount Batur and be rewarded with stunning views over Mount Agung and Mount Abang, breakfast and the most expensive coffee in the world direct from the plantation.
• Swim With Manta Rays Do a day trip to the island of Nusa Penida where you can snorkel with majestic manta rays.
• Ubud Rice Terraces, Temples & Volcano Day Trip See the scenic rice terraces, local temples, and dramatic landscape of Bali on a guided day trip.
• Dolphin Watching Cruise Enjoy Bali’s dolphins – 90% success – complimentary subsequent cruise available if you don’t see them.
• Tulamben Wreck Scuba Diving Go scuba diving to explore the world-famous Liberty shipwreck just off the beach at Tulamben, north Bali.
• Uluwatu Temple Sunset and Kecak Fire Dance See the sunset over the sea from Luhur Uluwatu Temple perched high on the cliff, watch a traditional and powerful Kecak Fire Dance after dark.
• Tanah Lot Sunset Tour Enjoy the beautiful Tanah Lot temple perched on the rocky outcrop above the ocean, meet the monkeys and flying foxes at Alas Kedaton and see the 17th-century royal family temple of Taman Ayan.
• Private Bali Airport Transfers Private airport transfer to and from locations all over Bali.
• Bali Private Car Charter Do your own thing in comfort with your own driver. Make your own itinerary and go where you want, when you want to.

For scuba diving, it’s best to head north to Tulamben if you want to do more than a couple of dives. Recommended dive operators included Tulamben Wreck Divers and Bali Dive Academy. See the comprehensive article about Bali diving Bali Dive Safari as well as Diving the USS Liberty Shipwreck: A Very Quick Guide on Travelhappy’s sister site Divehappy.com

For more Bali activities to browse, see This comprehensive overview of Bali Activities .

Accommodation in Bali

Rooms in Bali can be had at all price levels and there are a number of different types of accommodations from budget minded losmens to mid-range hotels to luxury resorts.

Check Booking.com for a wide array of hotels in Bali that you can book online – prices range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels.

On the budget end, hostels with dorms aren’t that prevalent, but there are enough losmen in almost every area. I found that there were four basic price ranges for accommodation in Bali. Here’s what you could expect at the different levels:

Budget (Less than 150,000 rupiah) – basic fan room, probably cold shower, and possibly a pool or small breakfast included

Mid-range (150-500,000 rupiah) – High-end fan room or air-con, hot water shower, free wifi, small fridge, a pool, and breakfast included

High-end (500,000+ rupiah) – There’s a big selection of luxury accommodation on Bali. You can hire your own villa (great for a family or group of friends) or stay in renowned 5 star hotels like the Oberoi

Good, budget accommodations were easier to find outside of the major tourist hubs of south Bali and Ubud, but can be had everywhere with a little effort. I also found that there wasn’t a lot of consistency among losmens, hotels, and resorts at similar prices. As an example, I stayed at three places in Kuta and another three in Ubud that were all roughly the same price, but were vastly different with respects to quality, cleanliness, and amenities. Researching accommodation beforehand was incredibly important whether that be reading reviews and viewing photos online or walking around once you arrive in town.

I didn’t travel on the barest of budgets and was there during high-season, but found that the best value for my money was on the high end of budget or low end of the mid-range with 150,000-250,000 rupiah ($16-$27USD) being the sweet spot for cleanliness, comfort, and amenities like free wifi, air-con and a pool. While there were certainly choices that were cheaper that were clean and comfortable, that price range seemed to guarantee I’d get all the amenities I wanted and still get a good deal.

At most places, depending on vacancy and season, bargaining for the room price was possible and I was able to reduce the price. This was much more difficult in south Bali as there was always a steady stream of customers, especially in high season. It is also quite common to ask to see the room before booking as well and can be a good way to judge what’s a fair price in a given place. There are a number of ways to book arrangements online, but often the cheaper places do not have websites and can be found by just walking around when you arrive in town, although this is not recommended in high season (Christmas/New Year).

Here’s a rundown of specific places I stayed in Bali:

Kuta: Fat Yogi Cottages – Gotta stay in the “new” building and then it’s nice, but they’re $5 more, nice room, good bed, free wifi, average breakfast in the room, no tv, good bathroom with rain shower, pool

Suji Bungalows – Mediocre place as rooms are old and a bit run down, moderate bed, old bathroom. wifi in the lobby was spotty, free breakfast was poor, pool was nice and air-con.

Kedin’s II – Average place, average bed, pool, fan room, average bathroom, wifi, breakfast.

Sanur: Perigata – Quite upmarket traditional hotel, but comfortable bed, good bathroom, international tv, free breakfast, wifi in the common areas.

Seminyak: Coco Villas – Kinda pimp place, great service, comfortable beds, international tv, free breakfast in the room, wifi at the pool, but didn’t work while I was there.

Ubud: Sania’s House – Nice place to stay, comfortable beds, wifi, air-con, pool. Free breakfast Warsa’s Bungalows – Nice place to stay, comfortable beds, wifi, local tv, air-con and pool. Free breakfast on your balcony Artini 3 – Nice place to stay, comfortable beds, wifi, local tv, air-con and pool. Free breakfast Sri Ratih Cottages – Nice place to stay, comfortable beds, wifi, international tv, air-con and pool. Free breakfast

Amed: Double One Bungalows – Mediocre place to stay, ok bathroom, but bad water pressure, not a comfortable bed, air-con. Wifi in the restaurant.

Tulamben: Tulamben Wreck Divers Resort – OK place to stay, good outdoor bathroom, comfortable beds and air-con, no wifi or TV. For more about diving in Tulamben, see Diving the USS Liberty Shipwreck: A Very Quick Guide and Bali Dive Safari on Travelhappy’s sister site Divehappy.com

Permuteran: Aneka Bagus – Ok place to stay, wifi, air-con, nice bathroom with outdoor shower, comfortable bed.

Mobile Phones In Bali

Mobile phones are everywhere in Bali and there’s rarely an area that doesn’t have service. You can buy an Indonesian SIM card online and pick it up at the airport on arrival in Bali. This can be more convenient than going direct to a telecoms shop.

There are two predominant companies, Telkomsel and XL. Both are available as a prepaid service and finding sim cards is as simple as walking into 7-11, Circle K, or an Indomaret store. Prices for the sim card should be around 2,000 rupiah ($.20) and with fairly high voice and data use, 100,000 rupiah ($11USD) lasted me almost a month. You’ll also find many warungs in small villages sell “top-up” cards as well. If you have a smart phone and want to get data, you’ll need to inquire within a mobile phone store in a larger city (eg Kuta, Sanur or similar) to get the proper settings. During my travels I used both Telkomsel and XL and found the rates to be similar and while both worked well, Telkomsel had greater 3G coverage and worked more often in far-flung rural areas.

Food in Bali

Food in Bali ranges from street food and cheap warungs to five star restaurants with famous chefs. Authentic Balinese food such as betutu ayem (Balinese chicken) and suckling pig are rarely enjoyed by visitors because they are seldom served in restaurants and often take a full day of notice to prepare in those that do. Other Indonesian dishes such as nasi goring (fried rice), mie ayam (chicken noodle), mie goreng (fried noodle), gado-gado (vegetable salad served with a peanut sauce dressing), sate, and tempe (soy patty) are popular and available everywhere on the island.

There are scores of good restaurants to be found in the main streets of Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur and Ubud and in most of the other popular destinations. In these areas, finding budget eats will be more challenging, but can be had by following your nose and doing a little research. Simple warungs and street food carts are the keys to eating cheaply and some of them are as tasty as the 5-star restaurants in the poshest of resorts with starting as low as 10,000-15,000 rupiah ($1-$1.50USD). While more challenging in south Bali, it’s still possible to eat well on $7-9USD a day. Western food was also widely available in the popular destinations, but was generally much more expensive than the local fare.

Beer And Cigarettes In Bali

Cigarettes are widely available in Bali and everyone smokes everywhere. Prices ranged slightly, but a pack of Marlboros often was 13-17,000 rupiah a pack with most costing 15,000 rupiah ($1.50USD). Local Indonesian cigarettes could be bought cheaper, anywhere from 7-10,000 depending on the brand.

Bintang is the national beer and is sold everywhere. Liquor is highly taxed in Indonesia and it’s obvious in the prices. A small bottle or can of Bintang often went for 25-27,000 ($2.75USD) rupiah and a large bottle 37-40,000 rupiah ($4USD). Hard liquor is even more expensive with a mixed drink starting at 70,000 rupiah ($7USD) in most places with a bottle of Absolut costing in excess of 600,000 rupiah ($65USD) in a liquor store.

ATMs and Currency Exchange in Bali

There are ATMs and currency exchange booths at Denpasar airport and are also available prior to flying at any airport with a direct connection to Bali. While the rate at airports is generally slightly (1-2%) lower than the published rate, it’s usually a good idea to change a bit before leaving the airport for transport or other situations that may arise.

Indonesia has four state owned banks, BNI, BRI, BTN, and Bank Mandiri. These four banks have a large presence across the island and in the southern part of Bali there are myriad ATMs, exchange booths, and banks on most every road. Most ATMs in this area operate as kiosks or are outside bank branches and therefore are available 24 hours. While there are many signs located outside alleyways advertising higher than published rates, be aware and keep on your toes as I heard more than one story of problems and travellers being shortchanged.

As you travel further away from South Bali, exchanging foreign currency begins to become more challenging. I found that most destinations had an ATM or somewhere to exchange money, but even in popular places like Amed or Tulamben there weren’t any ATMs, so it’s a good idea to be prepared before setting out and remember that many hotels and losmens don’t take credit cards.

Many ATMs will have a sticker on the front denoting the denomination in which cash is provided, either 50,000 or 100,000 notes. While it means more bills to carry, try and stick to the 50,000 notes as it will save you headaches in the future. The 100,000 rupiah note is often tough for businesses and vendors to break in many places so think ahead and break them as often as possible at 7-11s or other larger businesses. Trying to break one in a rural area can be a challenge sending a food cart vendor scrambling around to borrow money from others to provide change. Having many small bills are they key to easy purchases in Bali.

Credit Cards In Bali

Credit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, shops, and restaurants in southern Bali and in Ubud, but many smaller restaurants and budget accommodations still take only cash. As you travel further out from the popular areas, the ability to use credit cards diminishes, so make sure to check with your hotel or losmen that they accept them before setting out. Wherever you are, except for the most high-end establishments, expect to be charged a 2-3.5% premium to use your card as most businesses don’t pay the credit card’s fee. Visa and Mastercard are king in Bali and while it’s possible to use American Express in some places, it’s rare and the fee will be even higher.

The Internet In Bali

While not the fastest or most reliable in Southeast Asia, the internet is widely available in most areas of Bali. Rates at Internet cafes are extremely cheap, even in the tourist hubs such as Kuta or Ubud. I’ve seen them as low as 200 rupiah/minute ($.02) in many places. Wifi is also extremely easy to find and most guesthouses, hotels, and restaurants offer it for free to their customers. While I carried a laptop with me, during my time in Bali I never paid for internet usage and was surprised at how easy it was to find free wifi.

Getting Around In Bali

Bali is a relatively small island but while it’s theoretically possible to circle the whole island in one day, it would be an extremely long day and the traffic in southern Bali can be brutal. Overall, public transportation isn’t as widespread or convenient as in some other tourist destinations as most locals either drive a car or more likely have a motorbike.

There are a few different ways to get around Bali:

Bemos Bemos are often a van or mini-bus and are the primary form of public transportation in Bali. Traveling by bemo, you can expect your trip to be time consuming and inconvenient as there are often multiple transfers that you’ll have to make during your journey. For example, to get from Kuta to Ubud by public bemo, you’ll need to transfer twice and take three separate bemos. There usually aren’t set prices for a trip, but prices often start at around 5,000 rupiah ($.50USD).

Tourist Buses Perama is the dominant tourist bus company on the island and runs shuttles to and from most towns and destinations and are advertised widely in hotels, losmens, and travel agencies. Shuttles range from small minivans to mini-buses to regular buses depending on the route. Some are air conditioned, but for the short trips most are not. I found tourist buses to be an easy and convenient way to get around the island and prices are largely set by Perama, varying only slightly from shop to shop. Mentioning to one travel agency that the other down the road is cheaper will get them to match the price. The fare from Kuta to Ubud was 50,000 rupiah ($5 USD) and took 90 minutes. Prices will be higher for less travelled routes and destinations.

Motorbikes And Motorcycles Motorbikes are the primary form of transportation on Bali. Renting a motorbike is cheap, easy, and is a great antidote to traffic. I found it to be the cheapest and easiest way to travel around the island and provides the freedom to go anywhere at anytime. It’s possible to rent them anywhere and everywhere on the island and you’ll often hear calls for “transport” as you walk down the streets, especially in South Bali. The most common price I heard quoted was 50,000 rupiah ($5USD) per day, but with a little bargaining or a multi-day rental that price can drop in half. A normal motorbike is more than enough for Bali’s roads, but if you prefer, it’s also possible to rent larger motorbikes (150-200cc) and I even saw a shop in Sanur advertising Harley-Davidsons and Ducatis for rent. Good maps are hard to find in Bali, so look for the Bali Pathfinder and rest assured that most roads are marked pretty well.

Car Rental In Bali It’s also possible to rent a car with or without a driver in Bali as well. Most rental cars tend to be small SUVs and can be had for as little as 80,000 rupiah ($8.75USD) with a little bargaining or a multi-day rental. It is possible to rent larger or more rugged SUVs, but again, the little SUVs are all that’s necessary to handle Bali’s roads. If you’d like to rent a driver along with the car, there are plenty of people that will jump at the chance. I heard many different rates quoted to people, from 250,000-600,000 rupiah per day that depended on the quality of the car as well as the time and distance traveled. You can book a car with driver for Bali online if you want to avoid the hassle of negotiating with touts on the street.

Flights To Bali

There are numerous different routes to fly in and out of Bali. AirAsia has revolutionised the market with cheap flights to Bali from Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Phuket and more. There are scores of long distance flights from Asia and Europe into Bali too.

Bali Itineraries And Travel Tips

• Bali 1 Week Travel Itinerary Bali is a unique, interesting island with a huge amount of things to do. A Bali 1 week traevl itinerary gives you a chance to see many of Bali’s highlights.
• 2 Week Bali Itinerary A Bali 2 week travel itinerary is so full of rewarding activities that it’s possible to spend two weeks doing something different every day of your trip.
• Ubud Itinerary: One To Three Days In Ubud An Ubud itinerary should be an essential part of any visit to Bali. Make the most of your time in Ubud with these 1, 2 and 3 day Ubud itineraries.
• How Much Money Do I Need For Bali Bali is one the most spectacular and best value places to visit in all of South East Asia. Here’s a rundown by Russ Brooks of what to expect price wise.
• Where To Stay In Ubud Choosing where to stay in Ubud carefully is important to make sure you enjoy your time in Bali’s cultural and historic centre.
• Bali Packing List This packing list for Bali will help you make sure you don’t forget any of the essentials and let you enjoy your trip to the full.
• Top Tips For Female Travellers in Bali Bali has become incredibly popular for solo female travellers to visit after the success of Eat, Pray, Love – Brooke Ferguson gives some practical tips on what to expect on the Island Of the Gods.

Travelhappy Travel Guides

• Bangkok Travel Guide
• Living In Bangkok Guide
• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Hong Kong Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide

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How much money do i need to travel to bali.

Bali is, without doubt, one of the most popular travel spots for Aussie travellers. It's no surprise, either. Not only is it super close to home, but the island boasts stunning countryside, picture-perfect beaches, super friendly locals, and world-class cuisine. The best bit? It is incredibly affordable, with options for even the most budget of budget travellers. Luxury travellers are also catered for by 5-star resorts, private villas and niche dining. Love it or hate it, Bali really does have something for everyone. 

Perhaps one of the more confusing things about planning a trip to Bali is the AUD to IDR currency conversion. With just over 100 Aussie dollars, you will be considered a Balinese millionaire. The jarring exchange rate can leave you scratching your head when it comes to sorting out your Balinese travel budget. Luckily for you, the team at Travel Money Oz have put together a nifty travel budget calculator that combines Numbeo data with the latest exchange rate to give you the most up to date idea of how much you'll be spending in Bali. 

Before we dive into the calculator though, let's take a look at what you should include in your Bali travel budget. 

What goes into a budget for Bali?

Bali's proximity and popularity with Aussie travellers mean airlines are often slinging super cheap flights. You can expect to pay between $80 (yes, $80!!) and $900 (ouch) for your flights to Bali. 

Once you arrive, you have a few different ways of getting around. 

Taxis: These start at around 1AUD and got up by 50cents or so per km. Bluebird Taxis are the most dependable for metered taxis and drivers that speak English. 

Rideshare: Grab is the go-to rideshare option in Bali; however, it can sometimes be more expensive than taxis. You can also use Go-Jek, however, it is generally for motorbike rideshares. Drivers will bring you a spare helmet and are super cheap. 

Scooter rentals: Did you even go to Bali if you didn't ride on a motorbike or scooter. For around 15 AUD per day, you can live the Bali dream and scoot around as you please. Just make sure your travel insurance has motorbike and scooter inclusions. 

Bicycles: Keen to be on two wheels without the motor? Grab a bike for around 6 AUD per day. 

Tourist bus: These are super cheap with air-conditioning and even wifi if you're lucky. Tickets start at 2AUD and go up from there depending on where you travel. 

Boats: Ferries are a cost-effective way of getting to places like Lombok and the Gili Islands, with tickets less than 10 AUD. Alternatively, you can get a speedboat for around 40AUD. 

Private car charter: if it's you're first time on the island, and you're keen on a convenient way to explore the island with plenty of freedom, a private car is a great option, especially if there are a few of you travelling together. For less than 40AUD a day, it is often the most popular option for Aussies.

It's also worth noting that you should most definitely wear a helmet if you are riding any kind of bike. Seriously, if not for your health and wellbeing, do it for your mum's peace of mind.  

Accommodation

Bali offers a full scope of accommodation options, from 5-star luxury villas with a private infinity pool and meal plan to humble boutique hotels and hostels. The vast supply of places means hotels are always competing, which is excellent news because you can nab some sweet digs for a very low price. Prices will surge in Aussie school holidays; otherwise, you can expect to pay around the following. This is a guide only, and prices will fluctuate with seasonality and location on the island. 

Guesthouse and hostel - 7-20 AUD per night Budget hotel - 25-70 AUD per night Private villa - 80-400 AUD per night Airbnb - 50 - 500 AUD per night Resort - 100-500 AUD per night Luxury room - 500-1000 AUD per night

Bali boasts some mouth-watering, world-class cuisine. It's popularity with ex-pats, and social media influencers have resulted in some very hip and trendy cafes and restaurants popping up across the island. Catering to all food preferences and cravings, you are bound to leave well-fed and satisfied. 

Food as a whole is very cheap, especially when compared to Australia. You can eat mountains of street food and local dishes without even putting a dent in your travel budget. The following is a good guide for prices while in Bali:

Street food - 1 AUD Basic local dish - 1-5 AUD Western food - 10 - 15 AUD Restaurant cuisine - 15 - 40 AUD Bottle of water - 2 AUD

Make sure you try the following dishes while visiting:

• Babi Guling: a famous dish of tender suckling pig.  
• Sate: mashed chicken blended with an array of spices.
• Pisang Goreng: fried bananas served with honey or palm sugar syrup, flaked coconut and ice cream.
• Mie Goreng: fried noodles served with veggies, your choice of meat all topped off with a fried egg.
• Nasi goreng: like Mie Goreng with rice instead of noodles.
• Spring rolls: you should know what these are.

It's also worth noting that alcohol is very cheap, and you can very easily get a great cocktail for a small price. Just be cautious of nasty bootleg drinks that appear cheap even by Bali standards. As a guide, avoid drinks labelled as 'arak'. 

There is plenty to keep your mind, body and soul occupied while on holiday in Bali. We recommend setting some time aside for the following:

• Shop 'til you drop! Bali offers travellers more than the usual mass-produced souvenirs, boasting boutiques, high-end homeware stores, silver jewellery and gorgeous antiques. Just keep in mind that a lot will cost the same as back home in Australia, so keep your eyes peeling for sales if you're keen on a bargain. 
• Immerse yourself in the local culture, learning about customs and the Balinese way of life.
• Explore the temples. Pura Besakih is a popular location, mainly because it is located on the sacred Mount Agung, an active volcano. Tanah Lot Temple is also a famous and visually striking temple to visit.
• See the wildlife, including monkeys (they are very cheeky), buffalo and dolphins.
• Relax and pamper at one of the many spas. Balinese massage and spa treatments use herbs and spices to ignite the senses and re-energize your body.
• Have a go at some adventure sports including mountain bike riding, horseback riding, zip-lining, paragliding and mountain trekking. There are also plenty of water sports available if you're keen to get the adrenaline pumping while staying cool.
• Speak of water sports, Bali is very popular for its diving and snorkelling. If you're keen to scuba, make sure you check out the US Liberty cargo shipwreck dive.
• Head to a yoga or pilates retreat to destress and stretch. You can attend a single class, or take part in a multi-day retreat.
• Listen to TLC and go chasing some waterfalls.
• Appreciate the local art, whether it be paintings, woodcarvings, metalwork, sculptures or dance.
• Take a cooking class and learn to make classic Indonesian dishes.
• Relax on the beach with a cocktail in hand
• Eat like a King!

Pre-travel expenses

Aussie's don't need a visa for stays of less than 30 days in Bali. Before leaving for your trip, stop by your doctors to make sure you're up to date with any relevant travel immunizations. Further to this, it's in the best interest of all travellers to invest in a comprehensive travel insurance policy, regardless of where you are visiting. 

How much does a trip to Bali cost?

Enter your destination (Bal) Let us know how long you'll be away Choose your currency. In this case, it will either be AUD or IDR. Get ready to relax with a Bintang! You've officially started your travel budget. 

Unlike other locations around the world, it is very affordable to eat out for every meal in Bali. Many hotels will include breakfast as well, so be sure to factor this into your travel budget and consider whether you'll be focusing on local dishes and street food, or if you'll instead be hitting up more expensive restaurants. 

In this section, estimate how much you plan on shopping while in Bali. From cheap souvenirs (don't kid yourself, you'll grab a Bintang singlet) to boutique homewares and jewellery, consider how much shopping you'll do while in Bali. 

This is for all of your transport outside of flights, so the taxis, scooters, buses and private cars. 

The hard work is done! Here you'll find a simple layout of your planned expenses in both Australian dollars and Indonesian rupiah. From here you can either go back and edit, or start saving for your holiday!

It's important to note here that this only accounts for your most basic expenses. You'll need to add in travel insurance and other daily expenses. It's also worth having a bit of wiggle room in the kitty for unexpected costs, like finding the perfect Balinese dining table that you need to ship home, or a last-minute yoga retreat.

Bali Budget Examples

Here are some examples of what the bones of your travel budget would look like. Please note all of these examples are based on seven nights of accommodation and are quoted in Aussie dollars. Prices will, of course, vary with seasonality and availability. 

Couples trip (or girls weekend away with your bestie!)

This couple is spending a week indulging in some meditation and pamper packages in stunning Ubud.

Family getaway

Mum, Dad and the two kids are keen on a flop and drop holiday in Nusa Dua. The kids are treated to new friends and waterslides at the kids club, while Mum and Dad enjoy a week of sunsets and relaxation (all with a cocktail in hand of course).

Solo traveller

This lucky vagabond is keen on exploring the hip, surfing vibes on Canggu while on a budget. 

Last-minute tips

• Locals will know you’re a tourist, so make sure you’re aware of your surroundings in case of pickpockets or vendors trying to do a sneaky on you. 
• Don’t drink the water. Instead, grab bottled water from the shops or your accommodation. It is also recommended you don’t have ice in your drinks.
• Tips aren’t expected, however, if you receive good service (and you probably will, the Balinese people are very generous and hospitable), it’s worth tipping a couple of dollars to your server
• While many places will accept card transactions, card fraud is common in Bali so consider leaning more towards cash transactions.
• When it comes to your cash, store it in different locations to avoid losing it all should you get pickpocketed.
• If you’re worried about international roaming charges it is very easy to rent a reliable pocket wifi device that will cover the extent of your trip.
• ATMs are easy to find in main cities, just be cautious of your surroundings and try to use those in banks instead of out on the street.
• Foreigners often pay more for entrance to certain locations.
• Bartering is very common and expected at markets and stores in Bali. Don’t ever pay the first price you were quoted. If you are new to bargaining, we recommend halving the initial cost and going up from there. It’s also worth
• having an idea of how much you are willing to pay; if the price goes above that then just walk away - chances are they’ll quickly lower the cost as you depart.
• The Southern part of the island is more expensive, so if you’re keen to save even more look further north.
• If paying by card, make sure you choose to pay in the local currency (IDR) to avoid extra fees. 
• You can save money on attractions by booking in advance online.
• Research your 'per day' budget and include the things you want to do. Once you know the costs, you have a savings goal to work towards.
• Take advantage of Travel Money Oz’s Best Price Guarantee . If you find a better price from a competitor, we will beat it*.
• Hostels are a great way to save cash and meet like-minded travellers.
• Check out reviews if you think something is too good to be true. Chances are it might be.
• Tourist attractions will always have higher prices, especially in more popular cities.
• Don't forget to factor in pre-travel costs like travel insurance, immunisations and visas.
• Sign up for Rate Alerts . We'll let you know when the AUD is doing well against the IDR so you can purchase and maximise your travel money.

TMG_CBA_New-Banner_Travel-Money-Club_v4A.jpg

Flight costs are based on search from www.flightcentre .com.au and are indicative costs only for travel dates 4 - 11 November 2020. Prices were sourced on March 25th 2020^. Accommodation costs are based on an average per night price for budget, moderate or luxury hotels, as indicated in the table. ~Food based on the average cost of 1 coffee, 1 fast food meal and 1restaurant meal per person, per day. COST COMPARISON TABLE: All costs are based on estimated approximate costs from major metropolitan cities. "From" costs indicate costs that start from the indicated price and may be higher than shown. Average prices indicate a typical estimated cost you would pay for the indicated item. Prices may vary from time to time, and in different places within Bali. This blog is provided for information only and does not take into consideration your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether the information and suggestions contained in any blog entry are appropriate for you, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs. While we take reasonable care in providing the blog, we give no warranties or representations that it is complete or accurate, or is appropriate for you. We are not liable for any loss caused, whether due to negligence or otherwise, arising from use of, or reliance on, the information and/or suggestions contained in this blog.

How much Money do I need to travel to Mexico?

A traveller’s guide to the seven wonders of the natural world, more like this.

Accommodations

When it comes to accommodation, Bali has it all. From world-class luxury villas with infinity pools and jungle views, to a single bed in a shared dorm room of a hostel. For the sake of this article, I’ve estimated the average nightly price to be $80, which is what you can expect to pay for a 3-star nice hotel in a central location. However, this price can both inflate and deflate drastically depending on your travel style. Free WiFi is included in all accommodations.

Here are a few recommendations depending on what you are looking for. Regardless of which country you’re from, make sure you apply for a  credit card with no foreign exchange fees  before you depart.

Hostels  

Bali’s hostels are definitely the cheapest choice. Dorm rooms will have the lowest cost but you can get some nice private rooms as well. Dorm options average at about $8/night while private rooms can be found for $20/night and up. I’ve written a detailed guide on the best hostels in Bali which covers Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, and Kuta, so check that out now.

Recommendations: Wayan Family Homestay II (Ubud), M Boutique Hostel (Seminyak), The Jungle House (Canggu).

Homestays  

Balinese homestays are basically like staying in a bed and breakfast. Travellers will stay on a local family’s property in a private room with breakfast included. These properties are usually basic, but clean, comfortable, and homey. Average nightly costs are about $35/night.

Recommendations: Ujung Ubud Guesthouse (Ubud), Nadialit (Seminyak), Wita Homestay (Canggu)

Midrange Hotels  

Bali has plenty of nice midrange hotels with good amenities and in great locations. Prices can range quite a bit, but it’s easy to find a room for about $100/night.

Recommendations: The Sungu Resort and Spa (Ubud), U Passha Seminyak Bali (Seminyak), Canggu Beach Apartments (Canggu)

Luxury Hotels and Villas  

If you have ever wanted to really splurge on a luxury hotel, then Bali is the place to do it. From elegant villas to resorts. Bali does luxury like nowhere else.

Recommendations:   Viceroy Bali (Ubud), W Bali (Seminyak), Ametis Villa (Canggu)

If you have the right credit card, you can save a fair amount of money on hotels. Americans should strongly consider the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card since you can earn up to 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy points and $300 back at U.S. restaurants as a welcome bonus . Canadians should consider the Marriott Bonvoy American Express , which gives you up to 75,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. That’s enough points for a few free nights at some hotels, which could easily have a value of over $500.

Local transportation

Local transportation is the biggest hassle when travelling through Bali. Public transit is non-existent and transfers can get pretty pricey.

The most affordable and easiest way to travel around the island of Bali is by motorbike. While it is the best deal money-wise, it can be dangerous and should not be considered if you have no motorbike driving experience. Keep in mind if you plan on renting a motorbike in Bali, you will need an international driver’s license. While it is not necessary for renting purposes (they just need a copy of your passport). Police will pull you over to check. The average price for renting a motorbike in Bali is between US$20-$30 for the week. Make sure to ask around to find a reputable place, and be sure to check the bike over ahead of time for any scratches or damage so you don’t get the blame upon return.

For those who don’t want to rent a motorbike, expect to pay significantly more to get around as you will have to rely on local drivers.

Uber does exist, however, there are a lot of problems between Uber drivers and taxis that have led to violence and problems. Uber is not allowed in most areas and while there are some drivers, they will take off and leave you hanging if they don’t feel safe. For this reason, Uber is not a reliable form of transit.

Taxis are common in the main areas of Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu. As in many countries, the taxi drivers here have a reputation for ripping off tourists. The best advice is to use Blue Bird taxis when possible and, of course, make sure that they turn on the meter.

If you plan on going any distance (for example, Seminyak to Tulamben) you will need to hire a private driver. This will cost $50 per trip or more. You can always try to haggle, but know that this form of travel can be quite expensive.

To save money on transportation costs, your best bet is to base yourself in one, maybe two areas during your stay and rely on group day trips.

Attractions

Bali is absolutely stunning and plenty of the attractions across the island are natural. From waterfalls to beaches to rice terraces; the terrain is stunning. While nature is normally free to explore, a few spots do come with small fees. For example, the famous Tegalalang Rice Fields near Ubud has an entrance fee of 15,000 IDR which is equal to about 1.10USD. A very minimal fee.

Bali’s other predominant attractions are the beautiful temples spread across the island. These include Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple, Goa Gajah, and Tirta Empul. All of these temples also come with a small fee, usually just a couple of dollars.

Of course, there’s also all the beaches. Sanur, Nusa Dua, and Legian beach are some of the best places to relax. You can also find beaches with great waves to surf.

Bali’s attractions are actually quite cheap; however, the real cost comes in getting to them. If you have chosen to rent a motorbike you only need to worry about petrol and parking costs (both minimal). However, if you need to hire a private driver a day trip will likely cost about $50USD for the car. The best way to cut down on these costs is to make a full day out of it to see as much as possible, and to find other people to go with since the price is for the day, not per person.

Insider Tip: If you do find a driver you like, you can probably make an agreement for a discounted rate for multiple day trips. The driver will be happy for the business and therefore more likely to give you a better deal.

I should add that I have not included costs for adventure activities in this estimate. Bali is a scuba diving paradise, so if you are a fan of the sport I highly recommend you do at least a couple of dives. Average scuba diving costs are approximately $100-$120/day for two dives including lunch, transportation and equipment rentals.  Snorkelling  is also very popular.

The other attractions people tend not to think about but are usually worth it are day passes at other hotels where you’re able to access their pool and beach. Daytrips and tours are also a good solution if you don’t want to hire a driver. Some hotels also offer free yoga classes.

Here are some Bali attractions you may want to book in advance.

• Uluwatu Temple sunset and Kecak fire dance
• Bali swing in Ubud
• Bali safari and marine park
• Mount Batur sunrise trekking experience
• Lembongan reef cruise by Bali Hai Cruise
• Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort day pass
• Instagram tour with a photographer

Food and drink

Food and drink, like accommodation, will really vary in price depending on what you are going for. If you opt for western-style food, you will be spending probably triple the amount of money than if you stick with local food which can cost as little as $2 per meal. I expect that most travellers will eat a mix of the two styles, so the budget estimates in this article allow for a bit of both.

• Breakfast: $0 (included in hotel/hostel/villa stays)
• Dinner: $20

This amounts to a total of about $25 a day and includes a drink. Since the majority of hotels in Bali include free breakfast (often eggs, banana pancakes, or fresh fruit) I have not included a breakfast allowance in the estimate.

If you plan on drinking alcohol, remember to add more to your budget as well. Beers in Bali (Bintang is the most popular brand) are significantly cheaper than wine or cocktails. If you are more of a cocktail person, keep an eye out for the two for one specials. Pretty much every bar and beach club have them.

Random spending

Bali isn’t a shopping mecca, but there are a few souvenirs you may be interested in. Batik sarongs, tea, and coffee tend to be the most popular souvenirs. Quality varies, but none of the above are particularly expensive (unless you plan on buying copious amounts of the Kopi Luwak coffee).

What you probably will spend your money on are massages. Bali is famous for its cheap massages and travellers tend to indulge in this practice, many even going every day. While I don’t expect that to be the case for everyone, I imagine you will at least go once or twice during your stay. Basic massages are about $10 for one hour (not at a fancy resort spa). It is customary to leave a small tip.

With shopping and massages in mind, you should budget an extra $100 for random spending.

Final thoughts

So how much does it cost to go to Bali? I suggest setting aside US$1,725 for your trip. This includes airfare, accommodation, food, transportation, attractions, and more. If you’re travelling with two people, you would double all the costs except for accommodations.

Yes, Bali is often considered to be a luxury travel destination, but this guide shows that a visit to this Indonesian island doesn’t necessarily have come with a hefty price tag.  Budget travellers and backpackers can have an equally enjoyable experience if they are flexible and follow the tips and advice listed in this guide. For more inspiration, check out my guides on Japan , Thailand , Hong Kong , Singapore , the Maldives , Dubai and Southeast Asia .

Is Bali expensive to visit?

It depends on your travel style but overall, no. Bali is quite affordable. Of course, Bali is getting more and more popular so prices are creeping up. However, if you compare budget prices in Bali to European destinations, then you will see your money can go much further in Bali. Take a look at my article on Bali on a budget for some examples. Alternatively, if you aren’t too worried about your Bali trip costs and want to splurge, Bali is a good place to do that too. You can get some pretty fancy villas and hotels for a reasonable price. 

What is the best month to go to Bali?

You can visit Bali year-round, however, depending on when you go you will either experience dry or rainy season. Dry season is May to September and rainy season is October to April. Most people end up wanting to go to Bali in North America’s winter months to escape the cold. While this is considered the rainy season, don’t worry too much. It doesn’t rain all day- normally just a couple of hours. You will still get your heat and sunshine. 

Is $100 a day enough for Bali?

Definitely. One hundred dollars per day is a very generous daily budget for Bali as long as you aren’t looking for high-end luxury. 

What is Bali famous for?

Bali is best known for its temples. There are hundreds around the island including some truly spectacular ones such as Tanah Lot and Uluwatu. Bali has also become a very popular destination for yogis and spiritual travellers (especially Ubud) as well as digital nomads. 

What should I avoid in Bali?

Bali, as a popular tourist destination, does have several common scams to be aware of. There are typical things like overcharging on taxi rides or for drivers (have them use the meter or agree to a rate ahead of time) or individuals offering free guided tours of temples and then demanding a fee at the end. Just be smart about these types of things and if something seems too expensive or not right, then don’t do it.

One thing all visitors should be mindful of is the local Balinese drink called arak. It is a legitimate drink, however, over the past several years there have been reports of locals mixing it improperly with methanol rather than alcohol which may cause blindness or death. For this reason, I suggest just avoiding any offers of arak. 

Things to do in Bali at night

Bali has a pretty big night-life scene. Kuta is known as the party place where most of the young backpackers go. Head to Canggu or Seminyak for some more upscale beach bars, lounges, and restaurants. 

About Barry Choi

Barry Choi is a Toronto-based personal finance and travel expert who frequently makes media appearances. His blog Money We Have is one of Canada’s most trusted sources when it comes to money and travel. You can find him on Twitter: @barrychoi

39 Comments

Thanks a lot so useful

Your booking.com affiliate link didn’t work!!

[…] How Much Does it Cost to go to Bali? […]

Very informative site!

Very informative thanks

Hi I really would prefer to stay in ubud as my first base to soak in all the nature aspect. I will be there for 7 days total. Was looking at alot of airbnb and I do like to be away from the hectic tourism but I know that’s unavoidable. Do you recommend staying in another town or city as a split. My main goal is to see temples more than beaches. I appreciate any feedback. Also I’ll be going I April if that makes a difference. Thank you

There are a few places to stay that are outside the city centre. But if you plan on staying there, you will either need to be prepared to take taxis quite a bit or rent a motorbike because it will be too far to walk.

What are the requirements to get the international drivers license to rent a bike? Thank you so much

You should be able to get one from a local agency.

Here’s one for Canada (where I’m from) – https://www.caa.ca/international-driving-permit/

1 Night in bali in a 3 star hotel is just around 57 USD dude -_-

Really informative article… I got almost every aspect of information for my trip from this..

Thanks Barry for this very informative article. I will be visiting Bali April 2020 (possibly solo) and this sure helps. Will book airfare and accommodation as a package. would you recommend using cash for attractions?

What city should I get a villa at to do the main attractions without having to commute so long and so much? Do you recommend just staying in one city or going to a couple? We would like to do just the main attractions, and relax the rest of the time. Thank you so much by the way, this article is EVERYTHING!

Bali is very spread out and not well connected so you’ll likely need to hire a driver or rent a motorbike to get around anyway. Staying in one place is possible but will make for longer travel days depending on where you want to go and what you want to see. I’d suggest staying in at least 2 spots: Ubud and then somewhere by the beach like Seminyak or Canggu

Very helpful, thank you!

So informative and compehensive. Thanks you.

Hi Barry, All the contents and briefing you gave is very helpful.

But still I have a few questions

1. I cannot drive 2 wheelers. So is it better to hire a car with driver com guide or hire a car only and drive myself to explore Bali. 2. I’m planning a couple trip. So should I plan the Bali trip itinerary myself or use a trip organiser and plan and book all the necessary things by them? Since this is a couple trip we need a privacy and I’m not interested a guide with a big group. 3. I always use booking.com for all my trips. But until now I didn’t get the 10% discount which you told. Could u help me with that?

You’re probably best to just hire a driver. Things can easily be planned on your own. As for the booking.com genius program, the discount only applies to select properties so it’s possible you just haven’t booked any of those hotels.

I have international driving license from UAE. So is it better I drive myself or use a driver. Is the price same even I use a driver. I haven’t booked the hotels yet. Could you suggest me how to find the discounted hotels.

It’s really a personal preference if you want to drive yourself, but the majority of people use drivers or taxis. I do not have a list of what hotels fall under the genius program so I can’t help you there.

Thanks a lot for your time and help.

Hello, how do I hire a driver? & is that the Sam’s as a tour guide ?

A private driver is literally just a driver. Private tour guides in Bali usually include transportation so you likely wouldn’t need a driver if you’re hiring a guide.

We have been to Bali many times and it use to be a cheap holiday- not anymore. Even the average one-room accommodations have gone up to about $US 70/night. Eating out, unless you eat street food, has really gone up in price. Avoid drinking the cheap cocktails because most are made on methanol which can kill you unless treated.

Please plan your vacation very carefully and take on people’s opinions from sites such as Tripadvisor. We now find it cheaper to go to Thailand and the beaches are much cleaner.

I’ve been to Bali 4 times in 9 months. There is lots of great clean hotels for under $35 aud a night in Kuta. Double bed fridge oool etc Actually I’m here now staying in sanuar

Dear berry Good information. We would like to trip in dec II week x 3 couples . We are interested to book hotel Our own and prefer furnished Aptt or villa Any best you explore ?

Dear Berry hello,

My and my fiancee are planning to visit Bali after our weeding starting 28th of October till 7th of November. What’s the weather like? I’ve heard that rainy season starts from October to April. Is it true?

It is rainy season at that time but I wouldn’t be too worried about it. E.g. it could rain hard for an hour or two and then all of a sudden be super sunny 10 minutes later.

My boyfriend and I are planning on having a vacation to Bail from Nigeria, could we have someone help us for bookings and reservations, and touring?

I’m sure a travel agent in Nigeria can help you. Alternatively, you can look for an online company to help you.

for 7 days how much in Bangladeshi money ?

Please use XE.com to convert the price.

Thank you so much for this informative article, I’ve been trying to search the internet to find entry fees for places such as (monkey forest, elephant park, Bali zoo, bird park, , temples and such entrances,safari trips) but unfortunately all I found was full tours that includes the fees, I just want to know the fee excluding transportation. an estimate amount would help a lot in making my budget.

one more thing I am coming for honeymoon on 9th of April and leaving on 20th April, I’ve decided to take the first 6 days in Ubud but till this moment I am uncertain about the rest.. my wife and I are interested more in cultural stuff, exploring, relaxation and nature.. what’s your recommendation?

Temple entrance fees aren’t normally listed online but I don’t recall them being very expensive. Klook is reputable and lists some tickets for the Bali zoo – https://www.klook.com/en-CA/activity/1240-zoo-bali/ .

Ubud is the cultural centre of bali. Beach areas will m have more of a ‘resort’ feel with lots of westernized restaurants. If you really want to get off the beaten track western and northern Bali isn’t as touristic, but it’s tricky to get there and to get around ince you’re there.

Hi there very informative

I would like to visit the 16 waterfalls with approximately 30 minutes at each in the daylight

How long do you think that would take

Yes I’ll hire a driver

I’ll schedule my vacation days around that

If you’re going to hire a private driver, you’re better off asking them that question. You don’t want to pack your itinerary too much as there could be random delays for any reason e.g. traffic, slow lines, etc.

The round trip airfare I’m finding, barry is around 8000 dollars, have things changed that much in the past month or two?

are most of the homestays far from the tourist attractions? E.g. Jembrana bali homestay

It depends on the homestay. Some are more in town while others are more remote and in nature.

But many of the big attractions in Bali as a whole aren’t in city centres anyway. Waterfalls, rice fields, temples etc.

Basically, there’s no one location that will have you close to all the attractions.

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HOW TO GET TO BALI FROM THE PHILIPPINES?

HOW TO GET OUT OF BALI AIRPORT?

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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BALI?

How many days to spend in bali.

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INTERNET CONNECTION IN BALI

• CLICK HERE TO BUY A LOCAL 4G SIM CARD
• CLICK HERE TO RENT A WIFI DEVICE

HOW TO GET AROUND BALI?

Car rental in bali, scooter & motorbike rental in bali, grab or go-jek.

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WHERE TO EXCHANGE MONEY?

WHERE TO STAY IN BALI? (HOTELS AND RESORTS)

Grandmas Plus Hotel - Legian

• Cozy Room - ₱1,009.66 per night for 2 persons (room only)
• Cozy Room (Twin Bed) - ₱1,285.83 per night for 2 persons (breakfast included)

POP! Hotel Kuta Beach

• Pop! Room only - ₱895.68 per night for 2 persons (no breakfast)
• Pop! Room - ₱1,042.74 per night for 2 persons (breakfast included)
• Pop! Room - Signature Package - ₱1,245.37 per night for 2 persons (breakfast included)

Hardys Rofa Hotel and Spa Legian

• Superior Room - ₱1,345.64 per night for 2 persons (no breakfast)
• Deluxe Room - ₱1,437.99 per night for 2 persons (no breakfast)
• Superior Room - ₱1,517.13 per night for 2 persons (with breakfast)
• Deluxe Room - ₱1,583.10 per night for 2 persons (with breakfast)

Tebesaya Cottage

Other top-rated and popular hotels and resorts in bali, kuta seaview boutique resort, atanaya kuta bali, the ritz carlton bali, the vira bali boutique hotel and suite, amnaya resort kuta, bintang bali resort, the alea hotel seminyak, fashion hotel legian, hotel horison seminyak bali, things to do and tourist spots in bali.

Chill at the Colorful La Plancha in Bali

Visit Garuda Wisnu Kencana

Chill or Surf at the Padang Padang Beach

Climb the edge of the cliff at Uluwatu Temple

Watch the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple

Visit Tanah Lot Temple

Enjoy Surfing in Bali

• Surfing Lesson at Kuta Beach by 27 Surf Bali
• Surfing Lesson at Legian Beach
• Surfing Lesson in Kuta Bali by S Surf School
• Surfing Lesson in Bali by Odysseys Surf School
• Surfing Lesson in Seminyak Bali by Nuna Surfing School
• Surfing Experience in Kuta Beach Bali by AAA Surf
• Surfing Experiences in South Bali by Rip Curl School of Surf

Dinner and sunset watching at Jimbaran Beach

• Jimbaran Seafood Dining and Sunset Experience
• Seafood Dinner in Jimbaran Bali

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Watch the iconic Barong and Kris Dance in Bali

Try Bali’s local food

Here are some options:.

• Bebek Bengil in Bali
• Tipsy Tea at Azul Beach Club
• Bale Udang Mang Engking in Kuta and Ubud
• TADD'S Restaurant at Montigo Resorts Seminyak

Join a Cooking Class

Here are some cooking classes that you could join:.

• Cooking Class in Ubud
• Goya Boutique Resort Cooking Class Experience in Ubud

Explore Bali Batuan Temple

Visit Tirta Empul Temple

Want to learn balinese purification culture at tirta empul holy water temple join this tour.

Explore Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Visit the captivating Ubud Royal Palace

Be Amazed by the monkeys at the Ubud Monkey Forest

Visit Goa Gajah

Get mesmerized at Tegenungan Waterfall

Ride the swing and have a taste of local coffee at Jambe Asri Agrotourism

Have a Balinese Massage

Relax and Party at Finns Beach Club in Bali

OTHER ATTRACTIONS, THINGS TO DO AND TOURS IN BALI

Nusa Penida Full Day Tour from Bali

• Explore the gorgeous Nusa Penida island with round trip transfers from Bali!
• Take picture in the Insta-famous spots of Kelingking Beach (T-Rex Cliff) and Angel Billabong in the West side of the island
• Enjoy the beauty of Diamond Beach and Tembeling Beach in the East and South side of the island
• You can choose to explore the beautiful marine life by snorkeling in Crystal Bay, Manta Bay, or Gamat Bay

Bali Instagram Tour

• Join the Bali Instagram Tour with a visit to the famous Lempuyang Temple "Gate of Heaven" and many more!
• Travel to North side of Bali and visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, and continue to photospot Handara Gate.
• Explore East side of Bali to explore the iconic Tirta Gangga water palace and Virgin Beach.
• Extend your trip to Nusa Penida if you choose the 2-days private tour (available for English-speaking guide package only)
• Round trip hotel transfers with friendly driver are also included so no need to worry about a stressful commute around Bali!

Bali's Greatest Hits

• See Bali's local craft industries in action, everything from art to jewelry to woodwork
• Take a seat at a traditional Balinese Barong and Kris performance
• Tuck into a local lunch with views over sparklingly clear waters to Batur Volcano
• Be cleansed with a temple's holy waters and see royal tombs
• Choose the Private Tour and you can tailor the itinerary to fit in additional gallery stops if you wish
• Enjoy air conditioned transport with hotel pick up, accompanied by your friendly private guide

Ayung White Water Rafting with Red Paddles

• Cool off from Bali's heat by going whitewater rafting, Bali's top adventure, at Ayung River
• See the lush rainforest, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking gorges in the surrounding areas
• Delicious buffet lunch/dinner and convenient roundtrip transfers to your hotel included
• Follow experienced and friendly guides who will make sure that you have fun while keeping you safe
• Suitable for solo travelers and people of all ages (aged 7-65) and inclusive of personal insurance coverage

Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking

• Hike to the top of an active volcano, Mount Batur, part of UNESCO's Global Geopark Network
• Hike up to the height of 1717 meters (5633 feet) above sea level and be rewarded with mesmerizing views
• Make use of fantastic photo taking opportunities of the volcanic valley, Mount Agung, Mount Abang and more
• Indulge in a delicious breakfast at the top with the backdrop of stunning Balinese mountainscapes
• Stop at a coffee plantation and try Luwak Coffee, the rarest and most expensive coffee in the world

Lembongan Reef Cruise

• Board a luxury catamaran and spend the day enjoying Nusa Lembongan's turquoise waters
• Pack your day with fun-filled activities: snorkeling, 'submarine' coral viewing, island cultural walk, 35m slide, and unlimited banana boat rides plus optional diving or aquanauts!
• Feel full and content throughout the day with food and drinks provided, including morning and afternoon tea and snacks plus a delicious international buffet lunch
• Relax in air conditioned comfort, with hotel pick up and drop off included, and an informative English speaking guide

The Heart of Bali Tour

• Be awed by the beauty of UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jatiluwih rice terraces
• Enjoy the natural volcanic hot spring Angseri located at the foot of Mount Batukaru
• Visit ancient temples off the beaten track with stunning natural landscape

Ubud Highlights Private Day Tour

• Explore hidden waterfalls such as Kanto Lampo and Tibumana Waterfall, Suwat Waterfall, Ubud Market to buy souvenirs, Ubud Palace, and all top attractions in Ubud if you want to make your own plans.
• Snap Instagram-worthy photos when you visit Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Tegenungan Waterfall, and more!
• Complement your trip when you stop by at the vast greeneries of Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.
• Customise your itinerary and get the chance to discover Tirta Empul Temple, Jungle Swing or Bali Swing, Campuhan Ridge Walk, Coffee plantation and coffee making process and taste.

WHERE TO SHOP IN BALI?

Agung bali souvenir shop.

Traditional Art Market

• Ubud Market

SAMPLE 3 DAYS AND 3 NIGHT BALI DIY ITINERARY

Day 1 - arrival and ubud tour part 1.

• Watch Barong and Kris Dance
• Jambe Asri Agrotourism
• Batuan Temple
• Lunch - Babi Guling
• Ubud Monkey Forest
• Ubud Royal Palace
• Tegallalang Rice Terraces
• Tirta Empul Temple

DAY 2 - UBUD TOUR PART 2 AND BACK TO DENPASAR

• Tegenungan Waterfall
• Traditional Art Market for souvenir shopping

DAY 3 - EXPLORE MORE OF BALI AND DEPARTURE

BALI TRIP BUDGET AND EXPENSES

• You are a group of two.
• You will be staying for 1 night at Tebesaya Cottage in Ubud that is good for 2 persons for PHP 2,200 per night with complimentary breakfast.
• For your 2nd night, you'll be staying at POP! Hotel Kuta Beach for PHP 1,060 per night with complimentary breakfast.
• Your budget for food is from 50,000 to 150,000 IDR per meal for lunch and dinner per person.
• You'll be renting a private car for 3 days.

PRE-TRAVEL EXPENSES

• Tebesaya Cottage for 1 night - PHP 2,200 / 2 = 1,100 per person
• POP! Hotel Kuta Beach for 1 night - PHP 1,060 / 2 = 530 per person
• 3 days Bali Private Car Charter - PHP 1,600 per day x 3 = PHP 4,800 / 2 = 2,400 per person.

TOTAL PRE-TRAVEL EXPENSES- PHP 4,030 per person

Day 1 expenses.

• Can rental - pre-booked
• Watch Barong and Kris Dance - 100,000 IDR
• Jambe Asri Agrotourism - Free
• Batuan Temple - 10,000 IDR
• Goa Gajah - 15,000 IDR
• Lunch (Babi Guling) - 70,000 IDR
• Ubud Monkey Forest - 50,000 IDR
• Ubud Royal Palace - Free
• Ubud Market - Free
• Tegallalang Rice Terraces - 10,000 IDR
• Tirta Empul Temple - 15,000 IDR
• Dinner - 50,000 IDR
• 1st night: Tebesaya Cottage - pre-booked
• TOTAL - 320,000 IDR

DAY 2 EXPENSES

• Breakfast - complimentary
• Tegenungan Waterfall - 15,000 IDR
• Traditional Art Market - Free
• Lunch (Tepi Sawah Crispy Duck) - 115,000 IDR
• Garuda Wisnu Kencana - 100,000 IDR
• Padang-padang Beach - 10,000 IDR
• Uluwatu Temple - 30,000 IDR
• Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple - 100,000 IDR
• 1st night: POP! Hotel Kuta Beach - pre-booked
• Dinner - 50,000
• TOTAL - 420,000 IDR

DAY 3 EXPENSES

• Agung Bali Souvenir Shop - Free
• Lunch - 50,000 IDR
• Tanah Lot - 60,000 IDR
• Nusa Dua - Free
• La Plancha/Dinner - 150,000 IDR
• TOTAL - 260,000 IDR

SUMMARY OF EXPENSES

• DAY 1 - 320,000 IDR
• DAY 2 - 420,000 IDR
• DAY 3 - 260,000 IDR

TOTAL - 1,000,000 IDR or 3,600 PHP per person

Pre-travel bookings - 4,030 php per person, grand total - 7,630 php per person.

• Round trip airfare Manila-Bali-Manila
• NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
• Food expense for snacks
• Tips or gratuities which is customary in Indonesian culture
• Budget for pasalubong, souvenirs and shopping expenses

I hope this First-timer Travel Guide for Bali Indonesia will help you in planning a memorable and budget-friendly Bali Indonesia Adventure! Enjoy and have fun!

Youtube video, follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 14 comments :.

Hi. What is the reason why you stayed at 3 different hotels during your stay in Bali? What is the advantage of doing so? Thank you. Your blog is very informative.

did you have to buy travel insurance? what travel insurance can you recommend?

Very informative thank you!

HI! How were you able to arrange your pickup at the airport? I have talked to klook CSR that they keep telling me that it is not possible. Thanks :)

Hi. I'd like to know if you did buy the whole day iti in klook or you just bought the car rental?

does buying in klook entrance tickets/package cheaper than buying on the spot?

super helpful! <3

I'm planning to travel to Indonesia this is very helpful.

WOW!Very helpful, hopefully its still visa free.

Thank you for your blog, good orientation for me as we plan our travel to Bali this year. I wish to buy colorful fabrics and spices after enjoying eating local food. Can I buy theses at Ubod market ?

Hello po! This os very helpful blog. Sir i am planning to visit Bali for 4D3N. How can i book the private car for 4days? Possible po ba na siya ang gagamitin from day 1 from airport to all tours plus paghatid sa airport on the day po ng departure in Bali. Thank you po.

Hi, how about staying to a relative in bali. Anong need documents need sa immigration?

7,630 philippines money is not xpensive🤍🤍my god i will set my vacation soon?when im going back home

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Cost of Living in Bali: Example Table of Monthly Expenses in 2024

In Bali , a couple can live like royalty in most towns for $1,900. If you choose to live right by the beach in a three-bedroom villa with a pool, it’s sure to stretch your budget. Forgo the pool and you could save yourself a few hundred dollars…but it’s a good thing to have since the weather is hot and humid all year long.

Eating meals out will cost you just a few dollars, especially if you eat out at the local warungs, or restaurants. But if you prefer international food it gets a little more expensive, although still affordable compared to prices back home. The most cost efficient way to shop is to go to the local daily markets. You’ll find them in every town, and the produce usually comes from nearby farms, so you’re not only getting the freshest food, you’re also helping to support the local community. There are also international grocery stores throughout Bali. Naturally, imported goods are more expensive, but many people are happy to splash out on the few products they might miss from back home. You’ll find all the fruit, vegetables, eggs, meat, and fish at the local markets, and a trip to the grocery store for other basics like coffee, milk, and cheese, will stock the cupboards nicely.

Buying a car can be rather expensive in Bali, so most people hop in a taxi or use scooters to get around. The benefit of having a scooter is that when it’s high season and the traffic is bad, you can zip past all the cars to the front of the line. If you are planning to move to Bali, it makes good sense to buy a scooter rather than to rent one—costing you about $300 used, or about $900 new. However, until you find your perfect set of wheels, you can rent one daily for about $4 to $8, depending on where you live. Gas for scooters is often found for sale in front of your local corner shop, or toko, and is sold in old water or vodka bottles. Just pull up, ask for 1 or 2 bottles ($1), and they’ll pour it right in for you.

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When it comes to choosing a place to settle down, Bali has lots of options to suit all budgets. Seminyak and Ubud are the most popular tourist towns, but they also have the most amenities and are very close to the best hospitals on the island, Siloam and BIMC. As a result, renting a villa in Seminyak or Ubud will cost more than in places like Sanur or Uluwatu.

Lovina , on the northern coast, is the least expensive place to live–but it still has most of the Western amenities you might want. A two-bedroom, two-bathroom pool villa in Ubud will cost about $760, but the same monthly rental in Lovina will cost about $300. A lot depends on the location you chose and how close you are to the heart of a city or a beach. No matter where you decide to live, negotiate your rent. The longer the rental, the lower the rate will be; but as with anything in Bali, drive a hard bargain and you’ll reap the rewards.

Below is a sample of regular monthly budget for a couple living in Bali:

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Indonesia Deep Dives

Is it Safe to Live in Bali?

Live in Bali

Moving to Bali

Retire in Bali

Things to do in Bali

Traditions and Culture in Bali

Visa and Residency in Indonesia

City and Area Guide