10 Mistakes People Make When Visiting Bali

Here are some of the most common travel mistakes people make on their first Bali trip. They include some of the most common oversights that may seem trivial, but have the potential to spoil your vacation experience. We’ve listed these to allow to enjoy your time while you’re on the island by better planning ahead, and to inform you of common pitfalls you can avoid.

Bali, as a major island destination, has progressed rapidly. Kuta’s traffic a decade ago will most probably be different on your next visit. Also, you should mind that Bali is not just about Kuta and Legian. There’s so much to discover, and you might want to plan on staying in more than a single area.

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1. Not checking the best times to go

Makes all the difference to ensure great weather

Traveling preferences vary widely among travelers. Bali is a tropical destination where you can expect sunny days most of the year, but it’s good to know when you can experience the most sun, but without too much of the heat and humidity.

Between May and August, humidity levels are usually at their lowest, making it much more pleasant for overland sightseeing under clear blue skies. It’s the months between October and April that usually have occasional downpours and overcast skies. It’s also good to check out when you could see some rare cultural events, such as the exciting Bali Kite Festival, which is normally held during the windy months, between June and August.

2. Taking too much luggage

Traveling light for the best experience

Overpacking is one of the most common travel mistakes, particularly on trips to Bali. Reconsider packing your woolly jumpers or fancy shoes, you’ll most likely not wear them here. Seasoned visitors often travel lightly so they’re less likely to lose items or have to lug heavy suitcases around.

In case you do need a change of shirts, shorts, or sandals, Bali has many shopping options available. At the art markets and souvenir shops, haggling can be a fun part of your vacation experience. A different case though is if you’re traveling with young kids, who usually require more gear, such as their favorite toys or books.

3. Exchanging too much Rupiah before your trip

Avoid traveling with a bulging wallet

One common mistake that first-timers to Bali usually make is changing large amounts of their usual currency to Rupiah, at generally bad exchange rates, in their home countries. There’s really no need for this since the exchange rates in Bali are almost always better.

ATMs are also widespread and most hotels and restaurants take credit cards, with Visa and MasterCard being the most preferred. Wandering around with a bulging wallet is also not advisable. Taking out what you need, only when you need it, means you won’t have to worry about losing all your cash.

4. Not counting (and recounting) your money

Making sure you’ve got what you paid for

Whenever you exchange your cash at a money changer in Bali, just be sure that you’re happy with the rates (it’s good to check online for updates and comparisons). Most importantly, double-check your money after exchanging.

Try to avoid small roadside money changers who have been known to con tourists with sleight of hand. You might end up with a shortage of bills in the end if you don’t recount your money in front of them. Make sure you’re the last person to handle your bundle of cash after the recount.

5. Underestimating Bali’s traffic

Be road-savvy for easy journeys

Traffic in Bali has become notoriously more busy with each passing decade. When you plan to go out, get your bearings, ask about the routes and journey times from your hotel concierge beforehand. There might be a temple procession on a certain route at a certain time that only locals know about. The same goes for when you need to catch a plane.

Consider road safety, like when you hail a taxi. Some drivers might pull over at the most convenient spot for you, but not so for others. If you rent a scooter, bring your license, and most importantly, wear safety riding gear. A helmet is a must. And remember that riding around shirtless is frowned upon.

6. Not having travel insurance

Protecting yourself from the unknown

Simply, don’t travel without it. There are too many cases where travelers have to seek help through Facebook or GoFundMe just to pay for their hospital bills following an accident. Even if you consider yourself to be a very cautious and switched-on traveler, you don’t know who or what you might encounter. It could happen to anyone.

Before you leave your home country, do your research online. There are lots of providers out there offering travel insurance at great rates. Also, note that health insurance and travel insurance are not the same thing and, if you’re planning on more risky activities like sky diving or sailing, you might need more extensive cover.

7. Too short a trip and staying in one place

Discovering all this island has to offer

Some first-time visitors may not be aware that there’s much more to Bali than just Kuta or Legian. There are so many other places beyond the popular spots worth visiting in Bali. These include remote areas such as the central highlands, the rugged eastern coastline, and the quiet north.

That’s why it’s a good idea to plan your itinerary considering your hotel’s location and remember to calculate estimates for overland travel times. Or, if you’re planning on staying for a good length of time, consider booking separate hotels so your sightseeing can cover more ground.

8. Not buying a local SIM card

Roaming calls and international mobile data connections aren’t cheap. While you can enjoy Wi-Fi easily at your hotel, you might need to navigate your way through Bali’s rush hour with mobile apps like Google Maps, or check the latest currency exchange rates online, during your outbound travels.

It’s always a great idea to switch your smartphone’s normal SIM card to a pay-as-you-go local network provider. You can buy SIM cards with call and data credit at the airport, at convenience stores, and in supermarkets.

9. Not bargaining (or bargaining too much)

Getting the right balance to get a great deal

Shopping can be a fun part of your whole vacation experience in Bali. You can put your haggling skills to the test at the many art markets and roadside stalls. While fixed-price shopping outlets abound, bargaining for that wooden statue, painting, or curiosity that caught your eye can be an exciting process.

A good rule of thumb is to start at half (or even a third) of the initial offering price, then barter your way up. Make sure you are always polite though. Use your instincts, avoid being offensive, and don’t fight too hard as your line may break and you’ll lose the big fish. It’s not uncommon that shoppers are shooed away for being too persistent.

10. Improper temple etiquette

Being courteous at religious sites

You should be aware of the rules and restrictions that apply at any place of worship, including temples in Bali. A dress code applies when visiting the Vatican, and entering the grounds of Bali’s Besakih or Tanah Lot temple is no different. For temple visits in Bali, the most basic dress code is a sarong and a sash around the waist.

When there are prayers in progress, you might be tempted to take a rare photo of the scene. However, walking around during prayers is considered discourteous. Also, if you wish to photograph inner courtyards, there may be areas off-bound to non-devotees. It’s best to ask your guide, a local, or the temple priest.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.