Destination guide · Indonesia
What to pack for Bali: packing list by season
What to pack for Bali in every season: the clothes, shoes and day-bag essentials that matter, with the weather to expect and local tips.
Bali is tropical: hot and humid all year, with a drier season and a wetter one. Days mix beaches and surf, rice terraces, temples and early volcano hikes.
Bali is mostly Hindu, and temples ask visitors to wear a sarong and sash, so a sarong is one of the most useful things you can pack.
Typical weather by season
Dry season Apr–Oct
Sunnier and less humid: the busiest time of year.
Wet season Nov–Mar
Hot and humid with heavy, often short downpours.
Highlands All year
Cooler and misty, especially in the evening.
Volcano hikes All year
Cold and dark at the start of sunrise treks.
The long-term pattern, not a forecast. Coast and lowlands. The highlands are cooler, and volcano summits are cold before sunrise. Always check the forecast before you pack — Wayfold does this for you.
What to pack for Bali
Clothes
Shoes
Day bag
Add the basics from our beach vacation packing list (51 items).
Eating out in Bali
Dishes to look for in Indonesia: Nasi goreng, Satay, Rendang, Gado-gado. Tipping: Not required; many restaurants add service and tax. Rounding up is appreciated. Tap water: drink bottled or filtered water.
More in the Indonesia travel guide: what to eat, diet flags and entry rules. General guidance — check locally. Recipes vary between kitchens; always ask about allergens.
Local tips
- 1
Wear a sarong and sash at temples; many sites lend them, but having your own is easier.
- 2
Drink bottled or filtered water and be cautious with ice of unknown origin.
- 3
Start volcano hikes with a warm layer and a head torch.
- 4
Check visa and any tourist-levy rules on official sources before you fly.
Before you go
- Entry (US passports)
- Check the current entry requirements for Indonesia on the official government advice before you book. U.S. Department of State(opens in a new tab)
- Entry (UK passports)
- Check the current entry requirements for Indonesia on the official government advice before you book. GOV.UK — Foreign travel advice(opens in a new tab)
Entry rules change. This is general information, not legal advice — check the official source before you travel.
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