What To Pack For Bali and Lombok: The Ultimate Packing List
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What to Pack for Bali and Lombok Travel: Introduction
What is your unique travel style? Are you going to Bali for adventure or luxury? Pampering or a powerhouse of exploration?
To make the most of your trip, it's essential to have a comprehensive guide to what to pack for Bali and Lombok and the right travel accessories to consider.
From clothing and footwear to toiletries and personal care products, remembering to bring the right gear can make all the difference in having an enjoyable and comfortable family holiday, honeymoon, or ‘footloose-and-single’ escapade!
In this comprehensive guide, we'll provide an exhaustive packing list of what to bring to Bali and Lombok.
We'll also share how to choose the right travel accessories based on different factors, such as:
The purpose of the trip. Family holiday, honeymoon, or singles trip?
The destinations and activities. Are you going to be by the beach, up in Ubud or both? Will you be swimming, hiking, sightseeing?
The season. Are you visiting in wet or dry season?
The weight and size of your items and your airlines’ weight limits?
What to take to Bali and Lombok?
You’re off to Bali what to pack? We know that depends on the purpose of your trip, the destinations and activities you're looking for, the season at the time you'll be visiting, and your luggage weight considerations.
This all contributes to your unique travel style and influences what you bring.
Let’s look at these in detail:
1. The purpose of the trip
Are you going for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous trekking trip? Will you be engaging in water activities, volcano climbing, or exploring the Bali shopping hotspots on foot? It is important to ponder the purpose and activities you will undertake during your trip in order to make informed decisions about what to bring to Bali.
For example, if you are planning a relaxing beach vacation, you may prioritize beachwear and swimwear, as well as items for sun protection.
On the other hand, if you are planning an adventurous trekking trip, you may need to pack items such as comfortable trekking shoes, a hat, and insect repellent and extra water bottle (and maybe a backpack or daypack that can carry two water bottles might be a good idea?). If you plan to engage in water activities, you may need to bring a water-resistant camera or a waterproof case for your phone.
Additionally, if you will be exploring Bali and Lombok on foot or riding motorcycles, you may want to bring a lightweight and compact backpack to carry essentials and light long-sleeved pants and a top for protection.
It is important to consider these factors in advance to ensure that you have everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable trip. Many of the items on the list below are available on Bali and Lombok, but not without hunting, which takes time away from your holiday. And they are usually more expensive than buying online before you go.
2. The destination and experiences you will have
When visiting Bali, most travelers prioritize respecting the local culture and customs, which are strong and deeply held. Here are some clothing, footwear, and other item considerations:
TEMPLES: When visiting temples in Bali like the Tirta Empul Water Temple and all the many others, it is customary to dress modestly and cover your legs and arms. Both women and men are often expected to wear a sarong and a sash around their waist (these are usually provided as part of the modest entrance fee charged). It is also advisable to remove your shoes before entering the temple grounds, if you see that is what the locals are doing.
HOMES: When visiting someone's home in Bali, it is polite to dress modestly and to take off your shoes before entering. It is fine to keep your socks on.
BEACH: When at the beach, it is appropriate to wear swimwear, but be mindful of covering up when walking around the beach or visiting nearby shops and restaurants.
GENERAL: When out and about in Bali, it is best to dress modestly, especially in rural areas where conservative dress is more common. Light, comfortable clothing that covers your arms and legs is recommended, along with a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes.
It is always a good idea to pack items that are appropriate for different types of activities and destinations, to ensure that you are properly dressed and respectful of local norms. Most folks are sensitive to this, but it’s worth just mentioning because there is a tourist in the local Bali news almost weekly who wore a swimsuit to a temple or was deported for posing nude in front of a scared banyan tree!
3. The weather in Bali & Lombok
When visiting Bali, it is important to consider the climate - and questions like what to pack for wet season in Bali - and pack accordingly. Here are some considerations:
WEATHER: Bali has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and high humidity levels throughout the year. Average temperatures range from around 25°C to 33°C. The wet season in Bali typically occurs from October to April so take that into account when asking what to pack for Bali wet season because the number and range of essentials to pack is higher in the wet season. Dry season is from May to September.
FORECASTS: You can check forecasts for your trip but bear in mind that as Bali and Lombok are tropical and topographically diverse, the weather is unpredictable and forecasts are considered fairly flexible. Easy answer? Plan on it being hot. Plan on it raining once a day. Weather sorted!
CLOTHING: Light, breathable clothing made from natural fibers such as cotton or linen is recommended, as well as a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. For cooler evenings, you may want to bring a light jacket or sweater.
FOOTWEAR: Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for exploring temples and other cultural sites. Sandals or flip flops are suitable for the beach or other relaxed settings, but closed-toe shoes may be more appropriate for more formal settings. You need sturdy footwear for adventures.
OTHER ITEMS: Umbrella or rain jacket can be useful during the wet season, which typically occurs from October to April. Sunscreen lotion, insect repellent, and a water bottle are also essential items to pack.
4. The activities and the places you will go
Will you need clothing and gear that can protect you from the sun, rain, or even cold if you are going to higher places on Bali, like on a volcano climb?
Do you have a special dinner planned for which you might need an extra nice outfit on top of your normal travel clothes?
What should I pack for a Bali honeymoon? Well, that is going to be different from the sorts of concerns a family might have! Formal dinners and day spa sessions for two will need different things than a family of four who wants to squeeze in a blow-up pool toy, heaps of casual clothes, and all the wipes and health stuff that families need!
5. The weight and size of your stuff
It’s time to start packing: here’s what to put in your luggage!
Are you traveling with only a carry-on bag for a short trip, or will you bring more luggage? What weight do you feel comfortable carrying around through airports, between hotels, etc.?
Even if you have an allowance of, say, 20 kg, do you really want to carry that weight, plus onboard luggage and a handbag? Are you okay with sacrificing space in your luggage for bigger and heavier items?
People Also Ask
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When packing for a trip to Bali, it is important to consider the climate and culture of the region. There are certain items that should be left at home, such as:
- Drugs: Absolutely do not bring any illicit drugs of any kind into Bali, even if they are legal where you come from (eg: otherwise illicit drugs that you use for medicinal purposes, even with a prescription). Just to be safe, bring a letter from your doctor for any normal prescriptions.
- Weapons: Carrying weapons of any kind is prohibited. If you plan on taking part in activities like surfing or diving, leave your knives and spear guns at home.
- Expensive jewelry: Wearing jewelry that looks too expensive can make you a target for pickpockets and thieves, so it's best to leave those items at home.
- Revealing clothing: Bali has a conservative culture, so it's important to dress appropriately when out in public. Pack clothes that cover your arms and legs, especially if you are visiting temples or other religious sites. Swimwear by the resort pool and on the beach is fine.
- Jeans: You will never wear them and be uncomfortable if you try!
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The drinking age in Bali is 21 years old, and smoking is prohibited in some public areas. The use and possession of illegal drugs in Bali can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and even the death penalty.
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The official language of Bali and Lombok is Indonesian, which is the national language of Indonesia. However, Balinese (Bali) and Sasak (Lombok) are also spoken by most locals as their mother tongue, especially in more rural areas. Additionally, many people in Bali and Lombok also speak English, particularly those working in the tourism industry.
We have many other Frequently Asked Questions here
We also have a great Travel Tips for Bali and Lombok article with videos made by some of Youtube’s best vloggers, sharing their experiences and tips.
Bali What To Pack: The Ultimate Packing List
To arrive at the top of the world, you need the right gear…
With all of the above considerations in mind, welcome to the ultimate list of travel accessories and essentials for a trip to Bali!
We have put a lot of thought into what to pack for Bali and Lombok. And because we know these destinations so well, we are able to share insights into what matters most when travelling to such unique places as Bali and Lombok.
This comprehensive and continually updated list has been created to ensure that you have everything you need for a memorable and stress-free trip. From practical items like sunscreen and insect repellent to more unique accessories like a waterproof bag to protect your tech when visiting a waterfall or the beach, this list has you covered.
While you won't need everything on this list, it's important to consider your destination, activities, and experiences and pick accordingly. This way, you'll be prepared for any adventure that comes your way in Bali!
1. Money, ATM, Travel Insurance, Driving License
Cash is still king on the streets of Bali and Lombok, but cards are great for hotels and restaurants.
When most visitors start thinking about what to bring to Bali, the first item that comes to mind is clothing. However, take a moment to consider the financial side of things, because if that goes south, so does our holiday, no matter how smartly we are dressed.
Money scams, ATM skimming and other scams are rife on Bali and Lombok and you should take a moment to read our article ‘Bali scams: How To Avoid Being Fleeced’.
Cash and credit cards: Be sure to bring along cash and credit cards for shopping, dining, and activities. They need to be carried in a secure way during your trip. You do not have to bring any US dollars in particular. Most major currencies are accepted at reputable money changers. You can get cash from the atm on Bali easily…any bank card with Cirrus should work on Bali and Lombok (check with your bank before leaving).
Travel insurance: Really, truly, travel insurance is essential for Bali and Lombok. With it you will get excellent treatment at the best clinics and hospitals, and the importance of this will quickly become apparent if you are unlucky enough to get Bali belly, have a surfing bingle, or get extreme sunburn. Without it you will end up with a huge bill or lying on a stretcher in a crowded hospital. And if your injury is more serious and necessitates an emergency flight to Australia or Singapore (the nearest high-quality facilities), the expense might be financially crippling.
Take a moment to read our feature article ‘An Essential Guide to Best Bali Travel Insurance’ and find out why we recommend Heymondo for couples and families and SafetyWing for budget-conscious singles and Digital Nomads.
Driving license: If you are going to drive, you must bring both your local license and an International Driver’s License. Do not bring only one or the other because the police will want to see both and may take the opportunity to fine you if you do not have them (particularly if they pull you over close to lunchtime!).
Cash belt or hidden pouch: A cash belt or hidden pouch can be a secure way to carry your valuables while exploring.
Padlock for suitcases and bags: If you have to leave luggage at the hotel after checkout with any valuables or for when you are in transit, consider using a padlock. It is a great deterrent.
2. Privacy and Security:
Whether you are honeymooners, babymooners, fun-loving singles, or thinking Bali what to pack for female, male or your entire family, this is one for all of us!
Relaxing on the beach, but is your WiFi secure? With a VPN your privacy is protected
Yes, this is something you need to pack….that’s why its on the list.
So what is it?
It is probably the last thing you might think of, but it is the most critical: your digital privacy and security when travelling.
We’ve written a full guide on how to protect your digital life when visiting Bali and Lombok, but here are the essential facts:
You will no doubt bring your phone with you and that has your passwords, banking apps and more and they can be completely exposed on WiFi networks in hotels, cafes, airports and other public WiFi. Even the local Bali and Lombok mobile networks you connect to when you are roaming or using a local data sim can be sketchy. You will also get random SMS messages with phishing scams all the time, so watch out for those. Indonesia is unfortunately considered one of the most dangerous destinations for cybercrime.
The solution is simple - you must use a simple App on all your devices that stands between your data and the sketchy WiFi you connect to. This app creates a secure, encrypted network - it’s like a private super highway between you and the internet. It has a snappy name: VPN which stands for Virtual Private Network.
It’s kinda like a burly security guard at the front door of your favourite bar, keeping the undesirables away from your money and your digital life.
There are a few of these VPN apps around, but they are not all the same. The free ones often make money by selling your details (so that’s silly, right?). And some paid ones are slow, others are faster….and that matters.
We recommend only two ironclad, trusted providers, both with their own servers in Indonesia (meaning they are going to be faster):
NordVPN - It has incredible speed, iron-tight security, and an incredible reputation.
Surfshark - They are slightly cheaper, allow unlimited device connection.
You can check out our detailed guide to the best VPN for Bali and Lombok here for more details, or just click though and get it sorted using the buttons below:
Oh, and as a bonus, a VPN will also let you connect to your home country so your streaming services like Netflix will work and you can enjoy all your content whilst on the go. Ah! That’s got you thinking a VPN is a good idea….right? Security is the bonus then!
3. Trip Planning
Triple check your travel documents and vaccination requirements before you land.
What is the most reliable VISA, Vaccination and Passport source?
Check all the visa, vaccination and passport requirements on the website Welcome Back to Bali. This website has been created by the Bali Hotels Association and is kept up-to-date with trustworthy and reliable information verified directly with the government. It is therefore the most reliable, authoritative site for all VISA, vaccination, and other travel questions. Above all, don’t rely on forums: people often innocently post out-of-date or incorrect information.
Passport: Check your passport has 6-months before its expiry from the date you will arrive on Bali (not the date you leave home if travelling elsewhere first!). Make a photocopy of your passport, birth certificate (handy at your consulate if you lose your passport), and all other travel documents and keep them separately.
Other trip planning essentials
Map and guidebook: A map and guidebook can help you plan your itinerary and find your way around Bali and Lombok. We suggest for guidebooks you consider buying one comprehensive guidebook and a pocket guidebook. The comprehensive guidebook will give you a detailed overview adn help you plan exactly what experiences you want to have and that will influence your packing choices. The pocket guidebook will be the one you carry with you on day trips.
Google Maps: Create an offline map for Bali and Lombok on Google Maps so you can use it even if internet is down or you are in a remote area without internet access.
Google My Maps: You could even consider making your own Google My Map and plotting the places you want to visit and where you are staying.
4. Travel Tech
Unlocked smartphone
If you wish to buy a local sim card on arrival to Bali and Lombok (and we think this is better than buying a travel sim), you will need to make sure your phone is unlocked. That means it is not locked to your home-country phone provider - call them and ask if you are unsure.
Travel camera
What is a good travel camera? You don’t need a flash camera (excuse the pun!). Just one that is a good all-rounder that has auto mode to capture iconic shots (and there are heaps on Bali and Lombok!) really easily and reliably. A camera stand is highly recommended, a selfie stick is a great asset as well.
Can you use a drone on Bali & Lombok?
Yes, you can, and if your drone is under 2kg you do not need a permit. We recommend this website for details.
Power adapter and charger
Power adapter: Bali and Lombok use the two-prong, European-style CEE7 socket, which is different from electrical sockets in many countries, so be sure to bring a power adapter to keep your devices charged.
Portable charger for your camera: Don't let a dead camera battery ruin your travel memories; bring a portable charger to keep your camera charged.
Portable and rechargeable power bank: A portable and rechargeable power bank is a useful accessory for keeping your devices charged on the go.
Portable phone charger: Bali and Lombok have plenty of opportunities for photography and social media sharing, so a reliable charger is a must-have accessory.
Other tech accessories
Portable and waterproof Bluetooth speaker: A portable and waterproof Bluetooth speaker is a handy accessory for listening to music and entertainment while on the go. Perfect for the beach, your villa rental, or on top of a volcano!
Accessories for your camera: Bring extra memory cards, batteries, and cleaning cloths for your lens to make sure you have everything you need to take great pictures.
Portable and waterproof camera case: A portable and waterproof camera case can protect your camera from water damage during water activities.
Waterproof phone case: Protect your phone from water damage with a waterproof or water-resistant phone case, perfect for beach trips and water activities, including waterfall photography.
Portable and compact camera tripod: A portable and compact camera tripod is a useful accessory for taking stable photos and videos.
Portable and compact selfie stick: A portable and compact selfie stick is a useful accessory for taking group photos and selfies.
5. Travel Health
Travel-sized pump containers for sunscreen and more reduce weight and free up space
Mosquito protection
Insect repellent: Mosquitoes (or mosquitos) are common in Bali and Lombok, and malaria and dengue fever are prevalent in many areas, so bring along a good insect repellent to keep bites at bay. Permethrin spray is incredibly effective, non-toxic and you can spray it on your clothes before you leave home.
Travel-sized insecticide: A small bottle of insecticide can be helpful for keeping bugs at bay in your accommodations.
Spectacle Prescription: You can buy replacement glasses in Bali fairly quickly, but it is best if you have your prescription with you for accuracy and speed.
Medicines and prescriptions
Prescriptions: Goes without saying to calculate you bring enough pof your prescriptions. It is wise to bring a letter from your doctor for all prescriptions to avoid questions by customs.
Anti-diarrhea and anti-vomiting medication: Chances are, someone in your party will get a bug. Don’t wait until you need it - the delay waiting for a doctor's’ appointment then a trip to the pharmacy is not worth it (and expensive). Ask your doctor for prescriptions for both before you leave home.
Rehydration salts: If you are prone to dehydration some tablets or sachets will be helpful. Also useful if you have diarrhea or vomiting.
Gut health before leaving: Get on a stomach enzyme for at least 30 days before you leave home. Whether it is bad water, chilli foods, odd spices or tiredness that brings your immune system down, get some good bacteria on your side before you leave.
Motion sickness: If you are prone to this on boats or planes, bring some Dramamine or similar. It’s hard to get on the islands. Fast boat transfers between Bali, Lombok and the Gillis can be very rough and wild.
Condoms: Don’t panic; they are available right up front at the counter in supermarkets and convenience stores.
Sunscreen & first aid
Sunscreen Lotion: With tropical temperatures and abundant sunshine, sunscreen lotion is an essential travel accessory to protect your skin. Protect the environment and pick a sunscreen that is Non-Nano Zinc Oxide…the reefs will thank you!
First aid kit: A small first aid kit can be helpful in the case of minor injuries, cuts, or scrapes. You can buy most items from the many pharmacies, but just a few essentials for remote adventures or nighttime emergencies is wise. Key items: Tweezers, paracetamol, scissors, antiseptic cream, plasters/band-aids, small bandage.
Travel-sized hand sanitizer: Pack a travel-sized hand sanitizer to keep your hands clean and germ-free while on the road.
Water purification options
Portable water bottle carrier: A portable water bottle carrier can be a convenient way to carry your water bottle while exploring.
Water bottle with a filtration system: Tap water in Bali and Lombok is not safe to drink, so a reusable water bottle with a filtration system is a practical and eco-friendly option.
Portable water filtration straw: A portable water filtration straw is a handy accessory for filtering water from streams, rivers or lakes. Even a plain reusable straw is a good idea to reduce plastic waste.
Portable water purification tablets: A small packet of water purification tablets can be a lifesaver if you run out of drinkable water.
6. Toiletries and Hygiene Items
Small and stylish: pack for size and weight so you can bring all the essentials
Toiletries
Travel-size toiletries: Pack small, travel-sized versions of your favourite toiletries (deodorant, perfume, hand creams etc) to save space in your luggage.
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner: Pack travel-sized shampoo and conditioner to save space and reduce the risk of spills in your luggage. For what to pack for Bali male we reckon it’s important to bring the razor you like because the local brands are fairly light-duty.
Make-up: Not too much because Bali is super-relaxed. Brands that cope with humidity are the best.
Travel-sized shaving kit: Pack a travel-sized shaving kit to keep your skin smooth and hair-free while on the road.
Travel-sized mirror: A small travel mirror is a useful accessory for grooming and applying makeup on the go.
Personal hygiene products: Pack personal hygiene products such as wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and tissues to stay fresh and clean while on the go.
Travel-sized nail clippers, scissors and file: Pack a travel-sized nail clippers and file to keep your nails looking neat and tidy on the go.
Travel laundry needs
Travel laundry detergent: Pack a small bottle of travel laundry detergent to wash clothes during your trip.
Travel-sized laundry line and pegs: A small laundry line and pegs can be useful for washing clothes on the go.
Portable and compact travel iron: A portable and compact travel iron is a useful accessory for keeping your clothes wrinkle-free while on the road. Better hotels will have an iron in the room or available from room service but they are usually poor condition/quality. Alternatively, maybe pack clothes that do not need ironing?
Travel-sized fabric freshener: Pack a travel-sized fabric freshener to keep your clothes smelling fresh and clean on the go. This is more important for longer stays (10 days+ where clothes tend to go a little musty in the wet season conditions).
7. Bali What to Pack for Personal Comfort and Safety
A simple handheld fan or battery travel fan can relieve the humidity
Portable battery-powered fan: A portable battery-powered fan can be a lifesaver on hot and humid days in Bali and Lombok.
Portable and rechargeable torch: A portable and rechargeable torch is a practical accessory for night-time activities and navigation. Power outages on Bali and Lombok are common and a torch at night will help you get around safely and even get from your bed to the toilet in your accommodation.
8. Clothing and Footwear
First up, let’s share with you a few ideas for the most essential, often forgotten, and other great tips.
Clothing
Think lightweight and layers: It's better to bring all lightweight items, a mix of long and short items, and things that layer well. Bali is hot, no matter what time of year, but in Ubud and higher up, it does get cool or even cold at night. Even a sea breeze at your resort at night can be cool.
Quick drying clothes are the best: Quick to dry if it rains and quick to dry in your hotel if you need to handwash.
Sandles and shoes
Comfortable walking shoes: Bali and Lombok offer plenty of opportunities for exploring on foot, so comfortable walking shoes are a must-have accessory.
Waterproof shoes: When you visit waterfalls, it usually involves many steps down a jungle gorge to a waterfall that sends out spray, making paths and rocks slippery and wet. Swimming at waterfalls with shoes on will also keep your feet safe from sharp rocks, glass, etc. that you cannot see in the water. So having sturdy, waterproof footwear with straps is highly recommended.
Sandals, Flip Flops: These are essentials for around the resort, at the beach, etc
Sarongs, yoga and leisure wear
Yoga clothing, pilates wear, day spa: Comfortable clothes for yoga and pilates classes, a massage or day spa session. A sarong or wrap is perfect for getting around the resort, at the beach etc.
Extra underwear: Pack a few extra pairs just to allow for changes and if you send washing to the laundry it’s best to have spare.
What to clothes to pack for Bali? Bali what to pack lists for Men and Women
Here is a basic packing list for clothing that will suit the basic, lightweight travellers. To this you can add additional items depending on your type of adventure and to reduce the number of visits to the laundry.
Both Men and Women should pack:
1 Pair of water shoes
1 Pair of trainers
1 Pair of flip flops
1 Light jacket
1 Pair of light trousers
1 Pair of sunglasses
1 Pair of hiking socks
5 Pairs of trainer socks
7 Pairs underwear/undergarments
1 Hat/cap (wide brim all around is better)
4-5 T-shirts (maybe tank tops?)
3 Pairs of shorts
2-3 Swimming costumes/bikinis
Sarong (Yes, lads! Men wear these in Bali too!)
PJs (light…it’s mostly warm at night)
Plus what to pack for Bali Female, add:
3 Sun dresses
2 Long skirt
2 Smarter, light dress/jumpsuit (evenings)
If you are on your honeymoon or high-end resorting you’ll plump this list of course!
Plus what to pack for Bali Male, add:
2 Tank tops/sleeveless t-shirts
2 Short-sleeve or long sleeve shirts (evenings)
1 Light hoodie
Grooms: expect a request for a romantic beach dinner for two and other interludes and pack extra nice gear for these occasions!
9. Day Trip and Sightseeing Lightweight Gear
It’s going to rain on Bali and Lombok, but a light rain jacket is all you need because its also going to be humid
Shoes, water bottle, waterproof clothes and bags
Portable and collapsible water bottle: A portable and collapsible water bottle is a convenient way to carry water while exploring.
Lightweight and quick-drying travel towel: Perfect for beach trips, a lightweight and quick-drying travel towel is easy to pack and dries quickly after use.
Water shoes: Having Waterproof shoes is a really good idea for waterfall exploring and the beach. You could just use flip flops, but they are not great for climbing down 200 steps and along slippery pathways to a waterfall.
Lightweight and packable rain jacket: Bali and Lombok have occasional rain showers, so a lightweight and packable rain jacket is a good accessory to bring along.
Waterproof bags: When it comes to an item least thought about when it comes to what to bring to Bali, protecting your tech and cameras from waterfall spray, torrential downpours, sea spray, and poolside accidents is really important. Watertight bags are inexpensive, and you’ll use them often.
Portable and collapsible cooler: A portable and collapsible cooler can be handy for keeping drinks and snacks cool while on the road.
Backpack, sunglasses, hat
Lightweight and small backpack or daypack: A lightweight and small backpack or day bag is a great way to carry the things you need when you go exploring.
Hat: A good hat is essential. Consider one with a brim all around (not just a baseball cap)
Sunglasses: It is very bright on Bali and Lombok all year round and not just at the beach.
Umbrella: For protection from the sun and rain, an umbrella can be handy.
10. Explorer and Mount Batur Volcano Climbing Essentials
Travel binoculars are perfect for Bali's incredible landscapes and wildlife spotting
Essential explorer gear
Headlamp, torch or flashlight: A headlamp or flashlight can be useful for early morning or late-night activities.
Lightweight and compact binoculars: A pair of lightweight and compact binoculars is a fun accessory for wildlife and scenic viewing.
Healthy Snacks: You can buy these once you arrive in Bali and you will find the selection is mind-boggling because the Balinese love to snack! Hey, don’t we all….
11. Beach, Surf, Yoga and Waterfall Essentials
Everything you need from the beach to waterfalls
Essential beach gear
If you are planning to visit waterfalls, check out our ‘Ultimate Mega Guide to the Best Waterfalls & Hot Springs on Bali & Lombok’ and our awesome article on Things to Know Before Visiting Bali & Lombok’s Waterfalls.
Swimwear: With plenty of opportunities for swimming and beach activities, swimwear is an essential travel accessory. Tank tops and bikini swimwear are perfectly fine for the beach and resort pool, but bringing a wrap for modesty when going to a warung, poolside bar, etc. to buy something will be appreciated by the staff.
Rashie, swim tops, and swim leggings: Sunscreen is icky. Consider a rashie or swim top and use less sunscreen.
Travel-sized microfiber towel: A small microfiber towel is a practical accessory for drying off after a swim or shower. It is also a great accessory to have in your daypack during the rainy season to dry off if caught in a tropical downpour.
Portable and waterproof dry bag: A portable and waterproof dry bag can be useful for protecting electronics and other items during water activities.
Extra T-Shirts: You can never have too many of this staple.
Flip Flops: Otherwise known as thongs (by the Aussies!).
Snorkel, masks, and fins: You can hire these fairly easily, but the quality is not very good. Fine for a one-off, but if you take your water fun seriously, bring your own. At least bring anti-fog spray and save yourself the frustration.
Beach towel clips: Beach towel clips can be useful to keep your towel in place on windy days.
Optional beach extras
Lightweight and compact beach ball, frisbee, or beach volleyball set: A lightweight and compact beach ball is a fun accessory for beach games and activities....perfect for keeping the kids amused and active.
Lightweight and compact beach mat: A lightweight and compact beach mat is a handy accessory for comfortable lounging on the beach. More hygienic than hiring one.
By the way, if you want to know Bali’s best beaches to visit, you can read our location reviews here.
Yoga and pilates
Yoga wear: Regular yogis will have their own gear, but if you are visiting Bali and thinking about trying yoga for the first time, don’t feel you need to buy fancy gear. Just pack a loose-fitting top and pants that give you a full range of movement. No one truly zen is going to worry if you do not have ‘the look’. This is a discovery for you, so just be comfortable.
12. Shopping
Bring a reusable shopping bag with you because plastic bags are banned on Bali (in shops and supermarkets, anyway)
Reusable shopping bag: A reusable shopping bag is an eco-friendly and practical accessory for shopping and beach trips. Bali has banned single use plastic bags so you have to bring your own.
Calculator: A small calculator or app on your phone can help with currency conversion and make shopping and barganning less stressful.
13. In-flight Comfort
Explosive toilet flushing and crying kids: headphones are your savior!
Lightweight and compact travel pillow: A comfortable pillow is essential for restful sleep on long flights and on the road.
Travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste: Pack a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste to have in your carry-on.
Over-ear, noise-cancelling headphones: If you are on a long-haul flight, you’ll arrive fresh and calm if you block out the flight noise, children crying and toilet flushing! For a cheap alternative, a pair of foam earplugs work well.
Comfort and cleanliness: Baby wipes (wipe down that dirty tray table and arm rests), hand sanitizer, Dramamine (for motion sickness), tissues.
Entertainment: We recommend Audible and Kindle (they have free apps for your phone, so you do not need to buy a device, and they offer trial subscriptions!). Load a few movies onto your phone or laptop.
14. Luggage and Packing Aids
Luggage
Now, if you are thinking you’ll need your own 747 just to get all this gear to Bali, it’s time to think about the right sort of luggage you are going to need.
Rigid Suitcase: Offers the most protection from rain and rough handling but comes with a weight penalty. If you have gone through the above packing list and determined your a moderate packer (because you are single or a honeymooner) then a rigid suitcase could be perfect. But for large families a mix might be better - one rigid suitcase and several soft duffle bags could be the go.
Duffle bags: These soft-luggage bags are brilliant because they are light which is fine for clothes but not so good for protecting travel tech and toiletries.
Daypack, Backpack: The bag you can carry onboard the plane as well as go for adventures and day trips.
Security handbag: We think these are a really good idea and you can get models that are incredibly stylish and you would never know they have theft and identity scanning protection.
Money belt: At the very least everyone should use one of these in Bali and Lombok, just for peace of mind. You don’t want to leave cards, etc. in the hotel, but a fat wallet is no fun. Put less-used but precious cards and cash in the money belt and have a light wallet for small purchases.
Important document bag: Preferably waterproof, this will hold your passport, money and important documents. Keep photocopies of these separately (exchange them with your partner or friend, for example).
Travel packing cubes, bags and clothing repairs
Packing cubes: These clever packing aids keep clothes dry (if your bag ends up in the tropical rain on the airport tarmac), fresh from mold, wrinkle free and well-sorted. They also save space because some versions compress down.
Laundry bag: Something to take your laundry to the many little laundry all over Bali & Lombok. It will come back folded and wrapped in a plastic bag unless you ask otherwise, and those bags are thin and won’t last the walk back to the hotel—and who likes plastic anyway?
Toiletries bag: Make sure it is waterproof to contain spills.
Shoe bag: Muddy shoes? Icky!
A travel-sized sewing kit: A small sewing kit can come in handy for fixing ripped clothing or torn gear while on the road.
Conclusion
We hope this comprehensive list of what to take to Bali and Lombok is helpful to you.
Of course, a traveller will not need all of these items, but with the sort of activities you have in mind, the season you are visiting (wet season or dry season), and the style of travel you enjoy, you'll be able to pick through this list and select the items that match your travel plans and travel style.
Having a comprehensive list of these items so you can check off the ones you need has hopefully helped enhance the comfort and convenience of your trip, allowing you to focus on enjoying your travels and making memories.
And as a parting thought, if there are only two things you pack on this list, make you get:
A NordVPN subscription to protect your digital privacy…it really is that important to secure your digital identity from the online sharks.
And secondly, get Bali travel insurance to avoid the other shark in the water - a crippling hospital bill.
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