Bali is a top choice for many travelers, thanks to its gorgeous scenery, kind-hearted locals, tasty food, and vibrant traditions. Thousands visit every year, and almost everyone leaves with great memories. That said, a bit of street smarts can make your adventure even smoother. Here are some down-to-earth safety tips to help you enjoy Bali to the fullest.
1. Keep Your Stuff Secure
Petty theft can happen anywhere in the world, and Bali is no different. Pickpocketing and bag snatching tend to happen in busy places like markets, shopping streets, and nightlife zones. Wear your bag across your chest with the zipper facing in. If you carry a backpack, lock the compartments. At night, try not to walk alone in quiet areas.
If you’re on a scooter, tuck your bag under the seat or opt for a backpack, as bags hanging loose can sometimes be snatched by people passing on another bike.
2. Be Streetwise With Traffic
The roads in Bali can look a bit chaotic, especially if you’re not used to Southeast Asian traffic patterns. Scooters weave between cars, there aren’t that many sidewalks, and zebra crossings aren’t always respected by drivers. If you decide to ride a scooter, double-check that your travel insurance covers you and the bike. Always wear a helmet (locals often don’t, but you absolutely should), avoid driving at night, and take it slow until you’re confident. Watch out for dogs crossing the street, sudden potholes, and wet roads after rain.
Crossing the street? Be sure to make eye contact with drivers and cross as a group if possible — drivers are more likely to stop.
3. Stay Hydrated With Safe Water
Tap water in Bali can upset your stomach. Always buy sealed bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. If you’re somewhere a bit fancier, you might see filtered water dispensers — those are usually fine, but if you have doubts, stick to bottled. Avoid ice in street-side stalls unless you know it’s made from purified water (commercial ice with a hole in the middle is safest).
Read more: Avoiding Bali Belly: Causes, Precautions, and Tips to Stay Healthy
4. Swim Cautiously
Bali’s beaches are stunning, but the sea can sometimes be more dangerous than it looks. Some beaches have strong rip currents, especially during certain seasons. Check with your hotel or locals about safer spots, and always respect warning signs and flags. If you find yourself caught in a rip current, don’t panic or try to swim straight back towards shore — swim parallel to the beach until you’re out of the current, then head in.
At the pool, keep an eye on slippery tiles and don’t leave children unsupervised.
5. Show Respect at Temples and Ceremonies
Religion is a big part of life in Bali, and visitors are welcome at many temples, as long as they follow local customs. Wear a sarong and sash (they’re usually available at the entrance), don’t climb on sacred statues, and never point your feet at altars. Women who are menstruating are asked not to enter temples.
If you’re invited to a ceremony, see it as a compliment! Dress modestly, ask before taking photos, and join in quietly.
6. Be Sun and Bug Smart
The sun in Bali is intense, and sunburn happens fast. Even on cloudy days, use sunscreen, wear a hat, and reapply cream after swimming. Drink more water than you think you need to avoid heat exhaustion.
In the evenings, put on some mosquito repellent, especially near rice fields or after rain, as mosquitoes carry diseases like dengue. In your room, use a mosquito net if you have one, or close doors and windows at dusk.
7. Eat Well But Wisely
Sampling local food is one of the best parts of Bali, from street-side sate skewers to fancy beachfront restaurants. To avoid “Bali belly” (upset stomach), pick places that look clean and are busy with locals — this means the food turns over quickly. Peel fruits yourself, eat cooked food while it’s hot, and consider passing on food that’s been sitting out too long.
Carry some hand sanitizer for moments when washing your hands isn’t possible.
8. Use Reliable Taxis and Rideshare Apps
Taxis are everywhere in tourist areas, but not all of them are official. The Blue Bird taxi company is trustworthy — you can recognize their bright blue cars, and they always use the meter. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek for both car and scooter rides. If a stranger offers you a “taxi” ride on the street, it’s best to politely decline.
In some areas, especially near popular hotels or at airports, local drivers may try to block rideshares, so if you’re using an app, walk a bit away from the entrance for a smoother pickup.
Read more: Gojek & Grab: Your Ultimate Bali Passport to Rides & Feasts
9. Keep a List of Emergency Contacts
Store important numbers in your phone and write them down. Know your hotel’s phone number and address (take a card from reception!). For emergencies, here are a few helpful numbers:
- Police: 110
- Ambulance: 118
- Tourist Police: 0361 754599
Staff at your hotel can usually help if something goes wrong.
10. Be Sharp About Scams
Most people in Bali are honest, but touristy places worldwide attract a few scammers. Watch out for tours that promise a lot for a tiny price, and always double-check what’s included. When changing money, use official money changers (ask your hotel for a recommendation), and count your cash right away. When renting scooters or surfboards, take photos of the equipment before and after to avoid being blamed for damages you didn’t cause.
Bonus: Local Wildlife Awareness
Watch out for monkeys around some temples and tourist spots — they can be cute but will grab loose sunglasses, hats, or snacks. Don’t feed stray dogs or cats, as they sometimes carry diseases.
Bali is an island full of magic, and most visits go perfectly smoothly. A little preparation and some common sense will help ensure your travels are safe, fun, and full of great memories. Have an amazing time!
