Bali is as welcoming as ever but a few new systems and long‑standing customs can surprise first‑timers. Use this practical guide to breeze through entry, get around safely, and travel in a way that locals appreciate.
Before you fly: paperwork & payments
- Complete the All Indonesia arrival card (one digital form for customs/health/immigration declarations) before you travel and keep the QR code handy. It’s now mandatory at Bali’s Ngurah Rai (DPS) and other gateways.
- Sort your visa online if eligible. Most short trips use the e‑VOA apply and pay on the official Immigration site; they note the arrival card should be submitted within three days of arrival.
- Pay the Bali tourist levy (IDR 150,000) in advance via the official Love Bali channel to avoid queues. The levy supports culture and environmental programs.
Pro tip: Screenshot or print all QR codes and confirmations airport Wi‑Fi can be patchy.
Money, phones & going cashless
- Cash is useful, but you’ll see wide acceptance of QRIS QR‑code payments. In late 2025, Bank Indonesia launched a Tourist Travel Pack at Bali airport to help visitors (especially from non‑QRIS partner countries) pay digitally from day one.
- Cross‑border QRIS is expanding across the region, and usage in Bali has climbed sharply this year handy for cafés, taxis, and mini‑marts.
When to go and why Nyepi matters
- The Day of Silence (Nyepi) shuts down the island (and the airport) for 24 hours no flights, beaches, or wandering outside. Plan your dates around it or enjoy a peaceful lock‑in at your hotel.
Getting around safely (and legally)
- Scooters: Police run regular operations in tourist zones; riders without the correct license/permit, helmet or insurance face fines and impounds. If you ride, bring an International Driving Permit that covers motorcycles and wear a helmet. If in doubt, use a car with driver or ride‑hail.
- Transfers: Pre‑book reputable airport transport or metered taxis to avoid haggling after a long flight.
Culture & temple etiquette (non‑negotiables)
- Bali’s government publishes official Do’s & Don’ts: dress modestly at temples, wear a sarong/sash when asked, don’t climb sacred structures, and don’t disturb ceremonies. Use licensed guides where required.
Micro‑gestures that matter: Step around daily offerings (canang sari) on sidewalks, keep voices low near shrines and ask before photographing people.
Health & “Bali belly” basics
- Insurance is essential. Private clinics are excellent but not cheap.
- Water & food: Choose sealed water or filtered refills; go easy on raw foods in your first days.
- Drugs: Indonesia has some of the toughest narcotics laws in the world penalties can be extreme. Don’t carry or buy drugs.
Choose licensed stays & tours
Authorities are actively shutting or even demolishing unlicensed cliffside builds and illegal accommodations (notably around Bingin). Book licensed hotels/villas and established tour operators to avoid sudden cancellations.
Packing list that actually helps
- Reusable bottle (refill culture is growing, and provincial offices/schools are restricting single‑use plastics).
- Light rain layer (showers can strike even in the “dry” months).
- Temple‑ready clothing (or plan to borrow/rent sarongs on site).
- International DL + helmet if you’ll ride.
- Universal adapter & power bank.
Ocean & nature sense
- Respect currents and flags some beaches have strong rips.
- Reef etiquette: Don’t stand on coral; use reef‑safe sunscreen.
- Hike with a guide on cliffs or jungle trails, trails can be slippery after rain.
Simple ways to travel better (and be welcomed back)
- Learn a few phrases (terima kasih, permisi).
- Support desa‑run activities and community projects when possible.
- Tip fairly for good service, small notes go a long way.
- Take your trash especially on day trips to Nusa Penida/Lembongan.
Quick checklist (save this)
- ✅ All Indonesia arrival card done → QR saved.
- ✅ e‑VOA (if needed) approved → email/QR saved.
- ✅ Tourist levy paid via Love Bali.
- ✅ Airport pickup confirmed.
- ✅ IDP + helmet sorted (if riding).
- ✅ Travel insurance active.
- ✅ Dates checked for Nyepi.
Final word
Bali runs on respect and rhythm ceremonies, community, and the sea. A little preparation (the right forms, the right license, and an open mind) turns a good trip into an effortless one. If you share your trip dates, budget, and interests (surf, culture, wellness, food), I’ll tailor these tips into a day‑by‑day plan with where to stay, realistic travel times, and reservation picks.