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1. Passport & Visa
It goes without saying that you need an international passport. Make sure it’s valid longer than six months though or the Indonesians won’t let you in (true story). Most countries have an agreement with Indonesia so you can stay in Bali thirty days for free. Staying longer? Get a Visa On Arrival at the airport (30 days, with 30 day extension) or a Social Visa (60 days, with extension up to six months). Check your local embassy’s website for more information.
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2. Cash & Credit Card
Bringing cash or a credit/debit card? The answer is short and simple: both. Most restaurants, hotels and tour operators accept cards. Try to get one with no transfer or withdrawal fees though, just to save you some money.
If you want to experience the real Bali however, you need cash (rupiah) to pay at the local warungs and markets. You can withdraw money from one of the many ATMs or change your dollars, euros, … in one of the currency exchange agencies. There are several trustworthy agencies who give you the best exchange rates and value for your money! -
3. Driver To Pick
You Up from the AirportWe promise, you’ve never seen so many intrusive taxi drivers as at Denpasar Airport. If you don’t want to get totally stressed out even before you enter Bali, make sure you arrange yourself a pick-up in advance. It’s cheaper and having someone waiting for you with your name on a plate is kind of cool too, right?
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4. Sun Protection
The Balinese sun is not like your usual sun. The island is located less than 600 miles from the equator, so if you don’t protect yourself, you’ll burn. Also, be wise and stay out of the sun between 11AM and 3PM. That tan is far less important than the condition of your skin. Still got burned? Find yourself some aloe vera too cool things down.
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5. Diarrhea & Motion Sickness Pills
Never drink tap water, only eat fresh cooked food and wash your hands regularly. Believe us, you don’t want to get Bali Belly. If you do though, you’ll be thanking yourself you brought some diarrhea pills. If you’re planning on taking a boat to the Gili’s or Nusa Penida, you might want to bring motion sickness pills as well. Better safe than sorry!
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6. Insect Repellent
Mosquito bites can be nasty, you know that already. But in Bali these annoying blood suckers can also carry Dengue Fever. Unless you want to get severe headaches, muscle pain, high fever and nausea, put some insect repellent in your suitcase. Extra plus, it will keep other bugs away too!
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7. Flip Flops & Swimwear
This should be an no brainer. No way you’re coming to Bali without taking a swim, it should even be obligated! And as in most of South East Asia, flip-flops are your go to footwear. Light, cool and easy to remove as in some bars, temples and restaurants they will ask you to take your shoes off.
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8. Hat & Sun Glasses
We talked about protecting your skin from the sun already, but the beams can be so strong over here, there’s definitely no harm in wearing a hat/cap and sunglasses too. Unless getting a sunstroke or damaging your eyes for eternity is on your bucket list of course.
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9. Hiking & Water Shoes
Bali is home to some gorgeous waterfalls, so better put some water sandals in your luggage if you don’t want to be face down in the water on your holiday pics. Rocks can be slippery! And bring some hiking shoes too. Climbing op Mount Batur or Gunung Agung won’t be a joy on your flip-flops.
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10. Kindle Or Book
No better way to relax at the beach or by the pool than by getting lost in a exciting story. Don’t forget to bring some books, you’ll get to trade them at many guesthouse when you’re finished, or a Kindle, if you want to travel lightly.