What to pack for Bali - 9 essential items, packing lists and tips

As a tropical destination famed for its laid-back atmosphere, packing for Bali isn't usually difficult. Nevertheless, being strategic in your selection of Bali essentials like clothing, accessories and electronic devices offers several advantages, like allowing you to pack light, avoiding hiccups at the airport with overweight baggage, and, best of all, sidestepping the need to shop for essentials upon arrival.

So we're to help you figure out what to pack for your trip to Bali. We recommend using a Bali packing list when preparing for your trip, as this will help keep you organised and on track when packing your bags, and should hopefully reduce the chances of forgetting important items!

Of course, what you pack in your luggage depends on the type of trip you have planned. For example, it may be handy to have a camera in your luggage for a honeymoon in Bali to capture the memories of a lifetime, while a family trip will call for plenty of sunscreen and a first aid kit, and those on a solo trip should ensure to bring photocopies of documents as a backup if anything gets lost.  

Below are the 9 essential items to pack for Bali: 

1. Light, loose summer clothing and beachwear: Bali is a tropical island with warm and humid weather year-round, so typical summer clothes like t-shirts, singlets, shorts, or light dresses are ideal items to pack. 
2. Swimwear: Many of Bali's top attractions include things like waterfalls, beaches, snorkelling spots and beach clubs, and most resorts and villas have a pool. Packing swimwear is a good idea to take advantage of Bali’s famous tropical attractions. 
3. Comfortable sandals or flip flops: Bali is very hot, and casual dressing is the norm, so make sure to have comfortable sandals. Sandals or flip flops are acceptable in most restaurants, and are an easy wardrobe choice to visit markets, galleries or beaches.  
4. Enclosed shoes: It's a good idea to pack some closed-in shoes when in Bali, as some activities like hiking require them, and enclosed footwear is easier to walk in when it's raining. 
5. Bank cards and cash: It's important to be well prepared in Bali with some cash and bank cards that will work with local ATMs. While contactless payment may be widely accepted, we recommend bringing a couple of physical bank cards – and checking with your bank that they will work in Bali – and some cash in the local currency of Indonesian Rupiah. 
6. Phone and related accessories: Your smartphone is probably high on your packing list, but don’t forget about the charger, an adaptor, and SIM card (if required) so you don’t get stuck. 
7. A light rain jacket: It rains occasionally in Bali, and sometimes for days at a time during the rainy season. Having a rain jacket or poncho is very helpful when a downpour strikes, especially if on foot or riding a scooter. 
8. Toiletries and medication (if applicable): Many of the main toiletries like toothpaste are available in Bali, and most resorts provide shampoo, conditioner and soap, but bring your own toiletries in case. Sunscreen is particularly expensive in Bali, so be sure to pack enough for your trip. For those carrying medication, especially prescription medication, be sure to bring a note from your GP with a list of your medications.
9. Travel documents: Travel documents like a valid passport and ID are essential for Bali travel. Check Bali’s visa requirements and ensure you have photocopies of the main travel documents. In most cases, tourists in Bali are able to get a Visa on Arrival directly at Denpasar Airport when they land. 

Items NOT to pack for Bali include things like :

• Warm jumpers, jeans and winter coats: Bali's weather is far too hot for typical winter clothing. In fact, given it's location close to the equator, Bali doesn't expeience winter weather - so leave heavy clothing and jeans at home. 

• Beach towels: Beach towels take up a lot of room in your luggage, and these are not typically required to pack for Bali as most resorts and villas supply them. 

• Expensive jewellery: Travel in Bali often involves an itinerary full of action-packed activities like hiking, swimming, snorkelling or surfing, so you don't want to risk losing your valuables while out and about.  

For a full list of what to pack for Bali,  including packing lists for men and women, read our full guide below.  

You’ll also find suggested packing lists depending on the length of your trip (3 days, 7 days, 2 weeks and a month) or your holiday type, and useful information on what to pack depending on the month of your trip and what you won’t need to pack for Bali.  

You can always click on the links below to jump to each section and list.  

What to pack for Bali:

• 9 essential items to pack for Bali
• Bali packing list – women
• Bali packing list – men
• Bali packing list - honeymoon
• Bali packing list - families
• Bali packing list - solo travellers
• Bali packing lists by trip duration
  • 3 – 7 day Bali packing list
  • 10 – 14 day Bali packing list
  • 1 month Bali packing list
• Bali packing list by month
• What NOT to pack for Bali
• Packing tips for Bali

9 essential items to pack for Bali

1. Light, loose summer clothing and beachwear

Bali has a tropical climate, with year-round warm and humid weather. Typically, this means that you'll feel most comfortable wearing light, breathable clothing that is loose on the skin, as well as typical beachwear items like boardshorts, singlets and swimwear. The standard of dress in Bali is casual, so you won't stand out wearing informal clothing. However, some locations like Bali's temples require more modest dress – don't worry if you’ve not packed full length skirts, long pants, or shirts that cover shoulders as sarongs are typically provided for a small fee at entrances to Bali's sacred sites. 

2. Swimwear

While Bali has beautiful inland areas, like the quaint Ubud area or the epic Mt Batur, for the most part Bali is considered a beach holiday destination. While many of Bali's main areas like Kuta, Seminyak and Canggu are located on the coast near the beach, most accommodation in Bali – whether that’s resorts, hotels, villas or even hostels – will have private or communal pools. 

Even in Bali's inland destinations, waterfalls and natural pools are extremely popular and serve as great places for a refreshing dip. 

For this reason, swimwear items like board shorts, speedos, bikinis and one-suits will come in handy during your travels. In fact, we recommend bringing at least two items of swimwear.  

3. Comfortable sandals or flip flops

Most of the main tourist areas like Seminyak or Ubud are very walkable, which is why it's important to pack a pair of comfortable sandals or thongs (flip flops). Bali is often warm and humid, and breathable footwear tends to be more comfortable for casual travel activities like visiting markets or heading to the beach. As Bali is such a casual holiday destination, you may also find that you’ll be wearing your sandals out for dinners or to bars.  

Don’t fret if you forget your sandals or need to get another pair - stores and markets around Bali sell these types of footwear at a reasonable price.

4. Enclosed shoes

Closed-in footwear like sneakers or joggers are worthwhile packing for Bali, especially if your Bali itinerary includes visits to rice fields or more adventurous activities like hiking or quad biking.  

Bali is a rainy island at times and enclosed shoes are handy to have in your holiday wardrobe to ensure your feet (hopefully) stay dry and can provide the extra grip needed for any slippery or rocky footpaths.  

5. Bank cards and cash

No one wants to find themselves in a bind when travelling, and having multiple options packed for access to money is a smart idea to save yourself a lot of stress. We recommend packing two physical bank cards and keeping them separate from each other, so that you have one as a backup in case anything happens, like losing your wallet. While many places may accept contactless payment like Apple Pay, having a physical card will save you if it’s not available. ATMs also require physical cards to get cash out.  

Additionally, having cash in the local currency of Indonesian Rupiah is going to come in handy as you travel. Whilst card payment is widely available, cash is still widely used to exchange goods and services at places like markets and temples, or for locally owned food and drinks places. 

6. Phone and related accessories

These days, a smartphone is an essential item when travelling. Not only to stay connected, but to also help you get around Bali, take photos, and plan your holiday on-the-go. Don't forget to pack the related accessories you need for your phone to work, such as a charger, and a Type C or Type F adaptor – an essential if you have an Australian Type I plug on your charger!

7. A light rain jacket

Sometimes it rains a lot in Bali, especially during the wet season, which runs from November to April. Packing a light rain jacket (with a hood) is a good way to ensure your activities aren’t too interrupted by a downpour. Whilst an umbrella comes in handy for the rain, rain jackets or ponchos are more practical - allowing you to travel on a scooter or navigate busy marketplaces without the bulk of an umbrella. 

8. Toiletries and medication (if applicable)

Packing toiletries is a must no matter your destination. Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, skincare, sunscreen – they're all essentials for Bali. While you may want to leave your bulkier items like body wash, shampoo and conditioner at home and stock up cheaply when you arrive in Bali, make sure to bring your own sunscreen (and lots of it!) as it can be quite pricey to buy in Bali.

For those who want to pack light on toiletries, consider travel-size bottles of your main toiletries, like shampoo, conditioner or toothpaste. This helps you save on space in your luggage and could help with liquid limits when flying to Bali.

It's essential to pack any medications you need during your travels, as it is not always easy to find the equivalent at Bali's pharmacies, especially without a prescription. If you have prescription medication, we recommend asking your GP for a travel letter for your medication, which states that you require certain medicines and that they are for personal use while travelling – this can be helpful at the airport if questioned by customs officials.  

9. Travel documents

Besides your ticket for your flight to Bali, other documents you’ll need to pack for entry into Bali include:

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months’ validity from the date of arrival in Indonesia)
• Electronic Visa on Arrival (you can organise a Visa on Arrival at Bali Airport if you don’t apply for it ahead of your trip)
• Electronic All Indonesia DeclarationQR code (either on your phone or printed version) 
  From 1 September 2025, this replaces the QR codes from the Electronic Customs Declaration and SATUSEHAT Health Pass

It’s also recommended that you pack a form of ID, like a driver’s license, in case it's requested by authorities or when making certain transactions, and to bring a copy of your travel insurance policy details.  
 
Bring copies of all your documentation, just in case, especially if travelling alone in Bali. 

Bali packing list – Women

Whether you're embarking on a solo adventure, a girls' trip, or a romantic honeymoon, it’s important to factor in key wardrobe items, a few accessories, enough personal care products to last your trip and the travel essentials. And a chic outfit for smarter or dressier occasions will never go astray! 

What to pack for women travelling to Bali: 

• Clothing
  • Lightweight, loose-fitting summer clothing (shorts, sundresses, singlets, skirts, linen pants, beach overshirts and T-shirts)
  • A smart-casual outfit or two for nights out (maxi dress, romper, matching set, halter top, mini dress)
  • Light cardigan, jacket or long-sleeve shirt 
  • Activewear like leggings, yoga pants, bike shorts, crop tops, sports bras and tank tops
  • Rain jacket or poncho 
  • Pyjamas 
  • Swimwear
  • Underwear, bras and socks
  • Optional: Longer skirt that covers knees for temple visits
• Shoes
  • Casual sandals, like flip flops or thongs
  • Dressy sandals for nights out
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Optional: Water shoes for snorkelling or waterfalls
• Bags & accessories
  • Small handbag 
  • Day pack or beach bag 
  • Sun hat or cap 
  • Sunglasses 
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Optional: Travel towel or sarong for beach days – the sarong can come in handy for temple visits, too
• Personal care
  • Toiletries, including toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, body soap and body lotion
  • Sunscreen
  • Skincare
  • Cosmetics
  • Perfume
  • Hair tools (if needed)
  • Medication and prescription medicine (if required)  
  • Mosquito/insect repellent
  • Period products (if needed)
  • Hand sanitiser
• Electronics
  • Book or e-reader 
  • Smartphone or camera, plus chargers  
  • Travel adaptor (Type C/Type F)   
  • Portable charger or power bank
  • Headphones
• Travel documents & admin
  • Passport
  • Visa
  • Entry forms (All Indonesia Declaration QR code)
  • Driver’s licence
  • Travel insurance policy details
  • Cash in IDR and physical bank cards 
  • Photocopies of important documents
  • Emergency contact list

Bali packing list - Men

As a relaxed, laid-back holiday destination, it’s relatively easy for men to pack for Bali. We recommend packing light, and ensuring that your list of items suits the itinerary planned - whether it's a honeymoon, family holiday or a boys trip. In general, guys need to pack lightweight, breathable clothing and accessories suitable for various occasions like hiking, hitting the beach, or spending a night on the town. Lastly, make sure to bring toiletries to last the trip, a couple of methods of payment (cash and card), all the necessary travel documents, as well as any entertainment and electronics you need. 

What to pack for men travelling to Bali:  

• Clothing
  • Lightweight, loose-fitting summer clothing (T-shirts, singlets, linen shirts, short-sleeve button-ups, linen pants) 
  • A smart-casual outfit or two for nights out (polo shirts, collared shirts, chino shorts or trousers)
  • Light cardigan, jacket or long-sleeve shirt 
  • Activewear like shorts, gym shirts or sports singlets
  • Rain jacket or poncho 
  • Pyjamas or sleep shorts
  • Board shorts
  • Underwear and socks
  • Optional: Long pants that cover knees for temple visits
• Shoes
  • Casual sandals, like flip flops or thongs
  • Casual loafers for nights out
  • Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
  • Optional: Water shoes for snorkelling or waterfalls
• Bags & accessories
  • Day pack or beach bag 
  • Cap 
  • Sunglasses 
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Optional: Travel towel or sarong for beach days – the sarong can come in handy for temple visits, too
• Personal care
  • Toiletries, including toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, body soap and body lotion
  • Sunscreen
  • Skincare
  • Shaving products, like a razor and shaving cream
  • Aftershave
  • Hair products (if needed)
  • Medication and prescription medicine (if required)  
  • Mosquito/insect repellent
  • Hand sanitiser
• Electronics
  • Book or e-reader 
  • Smartphone or camera, plus chargers
  • Travel adaptor (Type C/Type F) 
  • Portable charger or power bank
  • Headphones
• Travel documents & admin
  • Passport
  • Visa
  • Entry forms (All Indonesia Declaration QR code)
  • Driver’s licence
  • Travel insurance policy details
  • Cash in IDR and physical bank cards 
  • Photocopies of important documents
  • Emergency contact list

Bali packing list - Honeymooners

To ensure you make the most of your honeymoon in Bali, it’s best to be prepared for Bali’s typically warm and humid weather and relaxed atmosphere, and to pack accordingly!  A little holiday preparation – especially for some newlyweds in need of some downtime – will go a long way to easing your pre-trip stress. Our list of honeymoon essentials in Bali will make sure you are covered, whether relaxing with your partner at a villa, hopping from spa to spa, or partaking in the island’s best activities. 

What to pack for a Bali honeymoon: 

• Clothing
  • Casual summer clothing in loose, lightweight fabrics
  • Smart-casual outfits for romantic dinners or sunset cocktails (polo shirts, collared shirts, chino shorts or trousers)
  • Light cardigan, jacket or long-sleeve shirt 
  • Activewear
  • Rain jacket or poncho 
  • Pyjamas or sleepwear
  • Swimwear
  • Underwear and socks
  • Optional: Something white or special for romantic photos
• Shoes
  • Casual sandals or slides
  • Dressy shoes, like loafers and espadrilles
  • Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
  • Optional: Water shoes for snorkelling or waterfall treks 
• Bags & accessories
  • Day pack or beach tote
  • Small crossbody bag for day and night use
  • Cap 
  • Sunglasses 
  • Reusable water bottle
• Personal care
  • Toiletries, including toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, body soap and body lotion
  • Sunscreen
  • Skincare
  • Aftershave and perfume
  • Hair products and tools (if needed)
  • Medication and prescription medicine (if required)  
  • Mosquito/insect repellent
  • Hand sanitiser
• Electronics
  • Book or e-reader 
  • Camera or GoPro, plus chargers
  • Travel adaptor (Type C/Type F) 
  • Portable charger or power bank
  • Headphones
  • Optional: Tripod or phone stand for couple photos 
• Travel documents & admin
  • Passport
  • Visa
  • Entry forms (All Indonesia Declaration QR code)
  • Driver’s licence
  • Travel insurance policy details
  • Cash in IDR and physical bank cards 
  • Photocopies of important documents
  • Emergency contact list
  • Booking confirmations for any honeymoon packages or couples’ activities

Bali packing list - Families

Preparing a family packing list for Bali means making sure every member of the family has what they need and being prepared for all circumstances. From days cooling off at the beach and water parks, to temple visits and day tours, your suitcase should have all the essentials for all activities, weather conditions and occasions. 

What to pack for a family trip to Bali: 

• Clothing
  • Lightweight, casual summer clothing for each family member (with extra changes for small kids and toddlers)
  • Smart-casual outfits for family dinners or special occasions
  • Light cardigan, jacket or long-sleeve shirt for all family members
  • Active or sportswear for everyone
  • Rain jackets or ponchos
  • Pyjamas or sleepwear for all
  • Swimwear and rash vests
  • Underwear and socks
  • Optional: Long pants/skirts for temple visits
• Shoes
  • Casual sandals, thongs or slides
  • Enclosed shoes for both kids and adults
  • Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
  • Optional: Water shoes for beach play or swimming at waterfalls 
• Bags & accessories
  • Large beach bag
  • Day packs for kids for snacks and toys
  • Nappy bag or organiser pouch (if required)
  • Wide-brim hats with full coverage
  • Sunglasses 
  • Reusable water bottles for the kids
  • Compact or foldable pram (if required)
• Personal care
  • Full toiletries for parents and kids
  • Child-friendly sunscreen (lots of it!)
  • Baby wipes (if required)
  • Nappies (if required)
  • Travel change mat (if required)
  • Medication and prescription medicine (if required)  
  • Travel first-aid kit, including plasters and bandages, disinfectant and a thermometer
  • Child-friendly mosquito/insect repellent
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Non-perishable snacks 
• Electronics
  • Tablet or devices for plane/quiet time
  • White noise machine or app for young kids
  • Baby monitor
  • Travel adaptor (Type C/Type F) 
  • Portable charger or power bank
  • Entertainment for the kids
  • Optional: Tripod or phone stand for family photos 
• Travel documents & admin
  • Passports
  • Visas
  • Entry forms (All Indonesia Declaration QR code) for all family members, including toddlers and infants
  • Driver’s licence for parents
  • Travel insurance policy details
  • Cash in IDR and physical bank cards 
  • Photocopies of important documents
  • A card for each family member with emergency contact details

Bali packing list - Solo travellers 

Bali is known for being one of the easiest places to travel alone – many locals speak English, it has a large community of expats and digital nomads, and there are so many things to do that you’ll never feel bored or alone. Nevertheless, the nature of solo travel means it’s vital to be organised and prepared when you pack, to ensure safety and self-sufficiency whilst travelling Bali. We recommend having a backup for documents and bank cards, as well as a contingency plan in case of lost belongings. 

What to pack for solo travellers in Bali: 

• Clothing
  • Lightweight, casual summer clothing
  • Smart-casual outfits for nights out, beach clubs and going out with new friends
  • Lightweight layers for evenings (cardigan, long-sleeve top or light jacket or overshirt)
  • Activewear
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • Pyjamas 
  • Swimwear
  • Underwear and socks
  • Optional: Long pants/skirt for temple visits
• Shoes
  • Casual sandals, thongs or slides
  • Smart-casual shoes for nights out, like sandals or loafers
  • Comfortable walking shoes or trainers
  • Optional: Water shoes for rocky swimming spots, like waterfalls 
• Bags & accessories
  • Day bag like a backpack or beach bag/tote
  • Small anti-theft cross-body bag or sling bag with a spacious interior
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses 
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Optional: Lock for hostel lockers or shared accommodation 
• Personal care
  • Toiletries, including toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, body soap and body lotion
  • Sunscreen
  • Skincare
  • Cosmetics
  • Aftershave or perfume
  • Hair products and tools (if needed)
  • Medication and prescription medicine (if required)  
  • Mosquito/insect repellent
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Travel-sized first aid kit
• Electronics
  • Book or e-reader 
  • Smartphone or camera, plus chargers
  • Travel adaptor (Type C/Type F) 
  • Portable charger or power bank
  • Headphones
  • Journal 
• Travel documents & admin
  • Passport
  • Visa
  • Entry forms (All Indonesia Declaration QR code)
  • Driver’s licence
  • Travel insurance policy details
  • Cash in IDR and physical bank cards 
  • Photocopies of important documents
  • Emergency contact list with phone numbers

Bali packing lists by trip duration

Wondering how much you need to pack for your trip to Bali? It all depends on how long you’re going for. The good news is that Bali's climate, like any great tropical destination, is warm, relaxed, and casual – so you won’t need to pack for all seasons or every situation.

The best thing you can do is to pack smart for the number of days you’ll be there, focusing on lightweight, breathable clothing and practical essentials that suit the island’s sometimes rainy climate.

Below, find tailored Bali packing lists based on the length of your stay—whether you’re visiting for a few days, a couple of weeks, or a full month.  

What to pack for 3-7 days in Bali

A short trip to Bali is bound to be fun and fast-paced, so packing well can help you avoid overpacking and maximise your time. Whether you're heading over for a long weekend with friends, a quick romantic escape or a seven-day yoga retreat, these are the key items to bring for a stress-free stay.

Whilst you won’t need every item on our list, this will have you covered so you can adapt to your itinerary and length of stay.  

Packing list for 3 – 7 days in Bali:

• 2 x Pairs of shorts 
• 1 x Pair of trousers or linen pants 
• 3 x Tops (e.g. singlets, T-shirts, shirts)
• 2 x Dresses or collared shirts for going out
• 1 x Swimsuit or boardshorts 
• 1 x Lightweight jacket or cardigan 
• 1 x Activewear outfit (e.g. tank and leggings or gym shorts)
• Underwear and socks (one set per day) 
• Sandals or flip flops
• Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
• Rain jacket, poncho or compact umbrella
• Sun hat or cap
• Backpack, crossbody bag, or dry bag
• Travel-sized toiletries and cosmetics, including sunscreen and insect repellent
• Quick-dry towel or sarong
• Medication and prescriptions
• Period products (if needed)
• Cash in IDR and physical credit cards
• Travel documents
• Headphones or wireless earbuds
• Travel adaptor and chargers
• A good book or e-reader
• Travel-sized laundry detergent for quick cleaning (optional)

What to pack for 10–14 days in Bali

p to two weeks in Bali means a more relaxed itinerary that would include a mix of beach days, day trips, and a few special dinners – so it could mean you need to pack a bit extra! But this doesn’t have to feel challenging or stressful.  

By sticking to the basics, you’ll have enough for your fortnight’s stay without worrying about baggage limits or lugging heavy luggage around.

The key to packing for a two-week trip in Bali is versatility. Pack items that can be mixed and matched and remember that laundry services are widely available and inexpensive in Bali (otherwise, most Bali hotels offer in-house laundry services) 

Packing list for 10–14 days in Bali:

• 5 x Tops (e.g. shirts, tank tops, singlets, collared shirts)
• 4 x Bottoms (e.g. shorts, skirts, maxi skirts, linen pants, yoga pants)
• 3 x Dresses or dress shirts
• 3 x Pairs of shoes (e.g. flip flops, sandals, comfortable walking shoes)
• 1 x Swimsuit or boardshorts
• Activewear
• Lightweight cardigan or jacket
• Rain jacket or poncho
• 10-14 sets of underwear and socks (depending on laundry routine)
• Day bag or beach tote
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat or cap
• Travel-size toiletries and cosmetics
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Period products (if needed)
• Basic medications and prescriptions
• Cash in IDR and physical credit cards
• Travel documents
• Headphones or earbuds
• Travel adaptor and chargers
• A book or e-reader
• Laundry detergent (optional)

What to pack for one month in Bali

A one-month trip to Bali is exciting, but some find it challenging to pack for a longer trip. The trick is to not think that you need to quadruple your packing. Most travellers find that packing using the two-week list above, and doing laundry regularly, is more than enough. Consider building a capsule wardrobe – items that can be mixed and matched in multiple ways, and be sure to prioritise comfortable, breathable basics. Don’t forget travel essentials like electronics, travel documents, shoe options and accessories.  

Packing list for one month in Bali: 

• 5 x Tops (e.g. shirts, tank tops, singlets, collared shirts)
• 4 x Bottoms (e.g. shorts, skirts, maxi skirts, linen pants, yoga pants)
• 3 x Dresses or dress shirts
• 3 x Pairs of shoes (e.g. flip flops, sandals, comfortable walking shoes)
• 1 x Swimsuit or boardshorts
• Activewear
• Lightweight cardigan or jacket
• Rain jacket or poncho
• 10-14 sets of underwear and socks (depending on laundry routine)
• Day bag or beach tote
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat or cap
• Full-sized toiletries and cosmetics
• 1-2 bottles of sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Period products (if needed)
• Basic medications and prescriptions
• Cash in IDR and physical credit cards
• Travel documents (e.g. passport, visa)
• Headphones or earbuds
• Travel adaptor and chargers
• A book or e-reader
• Travel-size laundry detergent and laundry bag
• Basic first-aid kit

What to pack for Bali by month

Once you’ve decided when to travel to Bali, the next logical question is: what should I pack for that time of year?

Bali’s tropical climate makes packing fairly straightforward year-round. Average temperatures hover around 26–30°C, but the island experiences two distinct seasons: a wet season (November to April) and a dry season (May to October).

The main difference? Rain and humidity. While the wet season won’t ruin your trip, it does require a few extra practical items to keep you comfortable (and dry!).

Here’s a handy breakdown of what to pack depending on the time of year.

What to pack for Bali: November to April (wet season)

During Bali’s wet season, short tropical downpours are common, often in the afternoon or evening. The humidity rises too, so lightweight, quick-drying clothing is essential. You’ll also want to be prepared for slippery paths and mosquitos.

Wet season packing essentials:

• Light, breathable layers in quick-dry material
• Poncho or rain jacket
• Mosquito/insect repellent
• Waterproof sandals or durable shoes with a good grip
• Closed walking shoes or hiking shoes (for outdoor activities)
• Swimwear
• Hiking shoes
• Quick-dry beach towel
• Waterproof dry bags (for electronics and valuables)
• Compact umbrella

What to pack for Bali: May to October (dry season)

This is Bali’s most popular travel season, with clear skies, lower humidity, and little rain. The weather is ideal for beach days, hiking, snorkelling, or heading inland to Ubud or the mountains.

Dry season packing essentials:

• Light cotton and linen clothing
• T-shirts, tank tops, and shorts
• Sundresses or beach dresses
• Swimsuits and beachwear
• Sarong or cover-up
• Sun hat or cap
• Sunglasses
• Lightweight jacket (especially for higher-altitude trips like Mount Batur)
• Comfortable sandals and closed walking shoes
• Reusable water bottle
• Daypack or small backpack for day trips
• Sunscreen (it's expensive to buy locally)

What NOT to pack for Bali

When packing for Bali, avoid including winter clothing like jumpers, heavy jackets or jeans as the climate is too hot and tropical. Formal wear and high heels are not usually required either, as you're unlikely to wear them given Bali’s laid-back island vibe.

Items to avoid packing when travelling to Bali:  

• Warm/winter clothes: Bali's weather is hot and humid all year round, so there is no need to bring heavy jumpers or coats. Generally, it's best to pack lightweight, breathable fabrics instead. You might need a light cardigan or jacket for early mornings, or excursions like climbing Mt Batur or Mt Agung (it's colder at altitude).
• Bulky beach towels: Beach towels can take up valuable luggage space, and most Bali hotels, villas and beach clubs provide both beach towels and bath towels.
• Denim: Denim jeans and jackets are bulky and usually too stifling to wear in Bali’s humid climate, so feel free to leave them at home. Instead, opt for linen or cotton trousers, jackets or shirts.  
• Formalwear: Bali is a relaxed, casual beach destination – even upscale venues are fine with smart-casual attire – so there is no need to bring formal clothing like suits, tuxedos, or evening gowns.
• High heels: Unless you are going to luxury restaurants or staying at 5-star accommodation, you are unlikely to need high heels in Bali. High heels also aren’t practical for Bali’s uneven pavements, so consider packing some pairs of nice sandals or flats instead.  
• Valuable items and expensive jewellery: We recommend leaving any expensive jewellery (like engagement or wedding rings and designer watches) at home, as these can be easily lost while swimming, snorkeling or travelling around.  It's better to bring inexpensive jewellery for accessorising your outfits! 
  
• Illegal drugs: Never bring illicit substances into Bali, as Indonesian drug laws are extremely strict and can carry severe penalties. For prescription medication, carry your prescription in its original packaging and make sure to bring a letter from your GP.

Packing tips for Bali 

Now that you have a good idea of what to pack, it helps to know a few tips on how to pack for Bali. Packing efficiently means less stress and more room for souvenirs. Whether you’re travelling carry-on only or checking a bag, these practical tips will help you stay organised and ready for anything in Bali.

Keep in mind the following practical Bali packing tips: 

• Before you leave
  • Check the weather forecast for your travel dates.
  • Review your airline’s baggage limits to avoid excess fees.
  • Create a custom packing list tailored to your itinerary (e.g. surf trip, cultural sightseeing, beach holiday, honeymoon)
• Packing hacks
  • Use packing cubes to stay organised and save space.
  • Pack clothing that’s easy to mix and match (think neutral colours + breezy fabrics).
  • Bring a canvas tote or laundry bag for dirty clothes.
  • Add an extra outfit and underwear to your carry-on, just in case.
  • Buy basic toiletry items like body wash and body lotion on arrival to save space.
  • Keep medications and toiletries in your carry-on (liquids under 100ml).
  • Bring plenty of sunscreen – it's expensive in Bali!
  • Download offline maps and translation apps to help navigate without WiFi.

What should I wear in Bali?

Bali's tropical climate and laid-back vibe make it the perfect destination for loose, comfortable and lightweight clothing. However, it's important to keep in mind that certain occasions and locations call for appropriate dress, such as covering your shoulders at sacred sites or wearing sturdy shoes for hikes. When deciding what to wear in Bali, consider your itinerary and the different situations you encounter during your trip. This will ensure you pack just the right amount, and don't leave anything you need at home!