What to Take to Bali: The Ultimate Packing List

Getting your Bali packing list right makes a bigger difference than you'd think. The island's tropical climate means you'll be hot, often humid and potentially caught in a sudden downpour, particularly if you're visiting during the wetter months (more on that in our guide to the best time to visit Bali). But the weather is only part of the equation. Bali is a deeply spiritual Hindu island and knowing what clothes to wear in Bali, especially around temples is a matter of both respect and practicality. Get both right and you'll move through the island effortlessly. Here's everything to know before you zip up your suitcase.

What is the dress code for tourists?

Bali clothes don't need to be complicated but context matters. What's perfectly appropriate at a beach club in Seminyak is not appropriate inside a temple compound. Here's how to read the room.

At hotels and resorts

Most hotels in Bali are relaxed about dress, swimwear by the pool, casual clothing in the lobby and restaurants. If you're staying somewhere more upscale, some fine-dining restaurants may expect smarter evening wear, though Bali rarely goes full black-tie. Check your hotel's dress policy before packing anything overly formal.

At temples and sacred sites

This is where your Bali packing list genuinely matters. Shoulders and knees must be covered when entering any temple, a sarong and sash are typically available to borrow or buy at the entrance but bringing your own is easier and more hygienic. Women who are menstruating are asked not to enter temples, in line with Balinese Hindu tradition. As a rule, if in doubt, cover up — it's always the right call.

In villages and local areas

Away from the tourist strips, modest clothing is simply good manners. Lightweight trousers or a midi skirt and a t-shirt are fine. Wandering through a local village in a bikini top is not.

What clothes to pack

The golden rule for Bali clothes: lightweight, breathable and versatile. Natural fabrics like linen and cotton are your friends, synthetics in 32°C heat are not.

Women:

• Lightweight dresses and skirts — midi length doubles up as temple-appropriate and beach-to-dinner easy.
• Loose linen trousers or shorts — for sightseeing and day trips.
• Swimwear — at least two sets so one can dry: a one-piece or bikini with a coverup for beach clubs.
• A sarong — non-negotiable; temple entry, beach cover-up, impromptu picnic blanket.
• A light layer — air conditioning in restaurants and taxis can be aggressive.
• Comfortable sandals — Birkenstocks or similar for daily wear.
• Flip-flops — for the beach and pool.
• One pair of trainers — essential if hiking Mount Batur or walking the best beaches in Bali.
• A light rain jacket — compact and packable: a lifesaver during wet season showers.

Men:

• Linen shirts and t-shirts — light colours work best in the heat.
• Shorts and lightweight chinos — chinos double up as smarter evening wear.
• Swim shorts — a couple of pairs.
• Sandals and flip-flops.
• Trainers — for hiking and active days.
• A sarong or lightweight long trousers — for temple visits where shorts won't be permitted.

Toiletries and accessories to pack

Most branded toiletries are available in Bali's supermarkets and pharmacies but packing your own essentials saves time and money:

• High SPF sunscreen — reef-safe formulas are strongly encouraged given the marine environment.
• Insect repellent — essential for evenings, especially inland and near rice fields.
• After-sun lotion — easy to forget until you need it.
• Personal medications — including antihistamines and any prescriptions.
• Oral rehydration sachets — useful if you're hit by a stomach bug or excessive heat.
• Feminine hygiene products — available in Bali but brands may differ.
• Small travel towel — handy for beach days and waterfall visits.
• Sunglasses — good UV protection, not just a fashion accessory.

Tech and other essentials to pack

• Universal travel adaptor — Indonesia uses Type C and F plugs (two round pins).
• Portable power bank — long days out mean phones running low before dinner.
• Waterproof phone case or dry bag — essential for boat trips and water activities.
• Unlocked phone — local SIM cards are cheap and widely available at the airport: data is inexpensive across Indonesia.
• Camera or GoPro — Bali is extraordinarily photogenic and your phone will only take you so far.
• Padlock — useful for hostel lockers or securing bags on long transfers.
• Copies of travel documents — keep digital and physical copies of your passport, insurance and booking confirmations.

What to pack for a day of sightseeing in Bali

Your day bag matters as much as your suitcase. Here's what to carry when you're out exploring:

• A lightweight backpack or tote — something you won't mind carrying for hours.
• Refillable water bottle — stay hydrated, Bali's heat catches people off guard.
• Snacks — useful for long drives between sites.
• Cash (Indonesian Rupiah) — many local markets, warungs and smaller attractions are cash only, ATMs aren't always close by.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent — reapply throughout the day.
• A sarong — always keep it in your bag for spontaneous temple visits.
• A portable phone charger — for maps, photos and translations.
• A light rain jacket or compact umbrella — brief showers can appear without warning.

Items you shouldn't bring to Bali

Knowing what not to pack is just as important!

Leave these at home clothing-wise:

• Revealing or offensive printed clothing — particularly anything that could be seen as disrespectful near temples.
• Heavy jeans or thick fabrics — you won't wear them and they'll take up valuable space.

Items prohibited in Indonesia:

• Drugs of any kind — Indonesia has some of the strictest drug laws in the world: penalties include the death penalty for trafficking. This is non-negotiable.
• Pornographic material — illegal to import.
• Drones without prior permits — drone regulations are strict, particularly near airports and sacred sites, check the latest rules before bringing one.
• Counterfeit goods — importing fakes is a criminal offence.
• Weapons of any kind.

Ready to book your Bali trip?

Now you know exactly what to take to Bali, the only thing left is deciding where to go first. Whether you're after a relaxed all-inclusive trip to Bali or something more tailor-made, Away Holidays can take care of the details. Take a look at our guide to where to stay in Bali for accommodation inspiration and when you're ready to book your Bali holiday, our team are just a call or click away.