Ultimate Bali Packing List

Getting ready for Bali? You’ll need our Ultimate Bali Packing list!

Ultimate Bali Packing List | The Honeymoon Guide
Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

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So you’re getting ready for your honeymoon in Bali! We couldn’t be more excited for you and we hope you love it as much as we do!

Soon you’ll be swept away into honeymoon bliss. From the sandy shores of Seminyak to your own private pool suite in the jungle in Ubud – you’ll be in honeymoon heaven.

Maybe you’ll be lazing on the beach, hiking volcanoes, going surfing, visiting temples and perhaps even island hopping. 

But before you dive into that tropical state of mind, we’ve got everything you need to know with our Ultimate Bali Packing List.

From chic swimwear to practical footwear, what to wear in Bali when visiting temples, to essential gadgets, cosmetics and healthcare, this guide is your trusty companion in curating the perfect suitcase (for her or for him!)

What to know about Bali weather

You’re dreaming of those mythical Bali hues bathed in sunlight. Rice paddy fields, paradisiacal islands, basking in the tropical Bali climate, where the stars dances across the sky at night and the sun casts a golden glow on verdant landscapes and beautiful shores.

But what will the weather be like?

The good news is that Bali is warm all the time! However, the island can experience humid conditions, particularly during the rainy season from November to March, with temperatures averaging in the early 30s°C (80s°F)

During the dry season, from April to October, the island is usually full of clear skies and gentle sea breezes with temperatures averaging around 29°C (84°F). 

Although even the dry season can see the odd rainy day. The rain is what makes Bali so beautifully lush and green after all!

Tegalalang Rice Terraces Bali Honeymoon in Indonesia

The things you shouldn’t add to your Bali Packing List

When packing for a Bali honeymoon, it’s just as important to know what to leave behind as it is to know what to bring.

Don’t over pack as a lot of items can be purchased in Bali. In fact, they might be cheaper than at home!

Plus, you can easily do laundry locally. Unlike hotels which will charge by the item, local services measure your laundry by weight and have it back in 24 hours. One of our favourite things about travelling in Asia is that you don’t have to face that laundry pile when you get home!

Here are some things to leave behind:

Warm Clothes – Leave heavy clothing off your Bali packing list as the tropical climate means you won’t need thick clothing. Even when it rains, it’s warm. However, if you’re planning a sunrise hike on Mount Batur or Mount Agung a warm layer is recommended.

Heeled shoes – High heels and formal shoes are rarely needed so leave these off your Bali packing list. The island’s relaxed vibe and sometimes uneven terrain make this kind of footwear impractical.

Gadgets – While your camera, e-reader, smartphone (or even your drone) might be essential items on your Bali packing list, avoid overloading your luggage with too many electronic devices. Embrace the chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Bali.

Too many makeup products – The humid climate of Bali can make heavy makeup not only uncomfortable, but not very long lasting. Pack your most paired back products.

Snorkelling or scuba diving gear –  Unless you’re particularly attached to your own water gear, scuba diving and snorkelling excursion operators will provide all the necessary equipment. However for hygiene reasons you may want to bring your own.

Expensive jewellery – Although you want to wear your engagement and wedding rings – make sure they’re not loose! Leave other expensive jewellery at home to avoid any mishaps.

Single-use plastics – In an effort to reduce your footprint on an island that suffers from over tourism, make your honeymoon sustainable – consider reducing the use of single-use plastics in your packing. Opt for reusable items where possible.

Now it’s time to get packed with the Ultimate Bali Packing List!

aerial view of yellow sand and emerald ocean nusa penida beach bali indonesia

The Ultimate Bali Packing List

Essentials

Most nationalities can enter Bali for up to 30 days if they get a visa either on arrival or by applying online. We’d recommend arranging before travel to avoid queues. Plus, it only costs about $5 more than on arrival.

You need proof of a departure flight. Your passport should have an ‘expiry date’ that is at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Bali.

Most documents are electronic now, so make sure you have your boarding pass or e-ticket on your phone along with your transport, hotel and tour confirmations.

Travel vaccinations are recommended for Bali. We encourage you to visit the Centers for Disease Control website for up-to-date travel vaccination recommendations or speak to a Tropical Medicine Specialist.

The currency is the Indonesian Rupiah. Cash is still king in Bali and although you can pay by card in luxury hotels and resorts, it’s best to have cash on hand.

You can take out cash at ATMs at Bali airport and around the major tourist centres. If you bring cash to exchange locally, they must be fresh / undamaged notes. Let your bank know you’re travelling and check if there is anything you need to do to avoid issues using your card abroad.

Tipping is not compulsory in Bali but in a place where wages are low, rounding up or adding 5-10% to your bill is appreciated.

  • Passports
  • Travel Documents / Confirmations 
  • Tickets, Boarding passes + Vouchers 
  • Visa & Entry Requirements Information 
  • Travel insurance details 
  • Travel Vaccination Certificate 
  • Padi Scuba Diving Certificate (if relevant)
  • Emergency contact numbers 
  • Credit / Debit Cards 
  • Driving license 
  • Local currency 
  • Money wallet/belt 

Clothing & Accessories 

Bali is super casual, so there is no need to pack full on glam. You’ll spend most of your time in shorts, tops and swimwear.

Add some light summer dresses and playsuits to your Bali packing list for evenings

Bali also has some beautiful boutiques and fun markets, so when you’re planning your Bali packing list, think about travelling light as you might pick up some pieces locally. However, sizing in Asia is tiny, so if you are a ‘curvy’ person (for want of a better phrase!) it’s tough to find clothes to fit. When we say ‘curvy’ we mean over a size UK14 / US10. Yes, really!

Bali is also a relatively conservative destination, so when you’re visiting temples and other sacred sites you will need to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and legs such as a sarong, a dress with longer sleeves and length or light trousers.

Sunglasses are an essential addition to your Bali packing list.

We mentioned that you should leave the heels at home, but cute flip flops/thongs, sliders and sandals are a must.

Sometimes you have to take shoes off (for example in temples) and leave them at the door. So leave the expensive Chloe sandals at home or have a bag to throw them in rather than leaving them for someone to steal!

You may also want to go hiking or be visiting the jungle, so decent hiking boots or more practical footwear is an essential addition to your Bali packing list. A light rain jacket can be needed. We’re obsessed with our Rains waterproof jacket as the material is so soft.

Don’t forget a sun hat and a chic beach bag (we adore this monogrammed one).

Cover up with a rashguard during the day and pick up some water shoes / aqua shoes for snorkelling adventures. 

Pack some comfy clothes for the plane — athleisure wear, sneakers, scarves, socks. 

Gym lovers may want to bring their gear. Although, we’d recommend a barefoot jog along the beach and sunrise yoga instead of hitting the gym!

A practical day backpack is essential to fit in all your essentials when you’re on excursions to waterfalls, temples and rice paddy fields.

We love our Dock and Bay quick-dry towels which are compact and come in an array of cute colours.

  • Light evening dresses
  • Summer Dresses 
  • Skirts / Shorts 
  • Leggings 
  • T-shirts 
  • Blouses / Shirts 
  • Vests / Tank Tops
  • Swimwear – bikinis / swimsuits 
  • Beachwear – kaftans / cover-ups 
  • Light knitwear / cover-ups 
  • Flat evening footwear 
  • Flip Flops / Thongs / Sliders 
  • Sandals 
  • Trainers / Sneakers
  • Hiking Shoes
  • Rain Jacket
  • Socks
  • Bras 
  • Briefs / Panties
  • Shapewear 
  • Other lingerie 
  • Nightwear 
  • Scarves 
  • Sunglasses 
  • Hats 
  • Belts 
  • Day bag
  • Evening bag
  • Necklaces / Chains 
  • Bracelets / Bangles 
  • Rings 
  • Earrings 
  • Watch 
  • Beach Bag 
  • Beach Towel 
  • Activewear
Nusa Penida Bali Honeymoon in Indonesia

Personal Care

Personal care is just that, personal! So take what you need from this section to add to your Bali packing list.

For example, you may love your own hair dryer, but if you’re staying in a half decent hotel they will have one, so there may not be a need to bring your own.

One of the most important things to add to your Bali packing list is reef friendly sunscreen. Sun Bum is our top pick.

If you haven’t got a hanging toiletries travel bag, then now is the time. These handy bags just hang on the back of a door.

A lot of cosmetics in Asia, including brands you might be familiar with, have whitening agents added to their formulas, so we’d recommend adding your own favourite skincare including SPFs to your Bali packing list.

However, you can pick up coconut oil and aloe vera aftersun lotions locally.

  • Reusable cotton pads 
  • Cotton buds / Q-tips 
  • Face Cloths / Body Cloths or Brushes 
  • Cleanser 
  • Toners / Serums / Face masks / Oils 
  • Moisturiser 
  • Face SPF 
  • Body Wash / Shower Gel 
  • Body Lotion 
  • Body SPF 
  • Aftersun Lotion 
  • Deodorant 
  • Perfumes 
  • Shampoo 
  • Conditioner / Hair Masks 
  • Styling products
  • Hair Dryer 
  • Hair Straightener / Curlers 
  • Hair Brushes / Combs 
  • Hair ties / pins / clips 
  • Toothbrush 
  • Toothpaste 
  • Floss / Interdental brushes 
  • Mouthwash 
  • Razors / hair removal products
  • SPF lip balm 
  • Hand Lotion 
  • Nail File 
  • Nail clippers 
  • Nail Oil 
  • Tweezers 
  • Eyedrops 
  • Feminine hygiene
  • Tissues 
  • Massage Oils / Lubricant
  • Toiletries Bag
  • Clear travel liquids bags 
aerial view of yellow sand and emerald ocean nusa penida beach bali indonesia

Healthcare 

Healthcare is another personal aspect of packing for Bali, so add what you need.

It’s essential to have travel insurance in place when you’re travelling. We don’t want to sound gloomy, but you need cover in case you fall seriously ill. 

If you don’t have travel insurance, check out World Nomads to learn more.

World Nomads provide travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance from World Nomads.

There is a prevalence of mosquito borne diseases such as Dengue Fever and potentially Zika virus in Bali.

Anti mosquito protection such as DEET, Avon Skin So Soft Dry Oil, a Bite Pen, and insect repellent bracelets should be at the top of your Bali packing list.

Many hotels will spray your room or provide a mosquito net so it isn’t necessary to add one to your Bali packing list unless you want to be extra cautious or are staying in budget accommodation.

Another almost inevitable aspect of travelling to Bali is the dreaded Bali Belly. Make sure you’ve packed your favourite brand of antidiarrheal medication, like Imodium and a domperidone like Motilium although you can purchase medications from a local pharmacy, too.

Hand sanitiser is also an essential addition to your Bali packing list.

  • Contraception / Birth Control 
  • Vitamins & Supplements 
  • Bandaids 
  • Pain relief – aspirin/paracetamol 
  • Hand Sanitiser/Antibacterial wipes 
  • Insect repellent / DEET / Bite Pen 
  • Travel sickness medication 
  • Antihistamine 
  • Anti-diarrheal 
  • Prescription medications 
  • Contact lenses/glasses

Cosmetics

Bali is humid so we’d really recommend only bringing your most paired-down look.

Here’s our list so you don’t forget to add your favourite makeup products to your Bali packing list.

  • Make-up Bag 
  • Micellar Water 
  • Primers 
  • Foundation 
  • Concealer 
  • Highlighter 
  • Contour 
  • Powder 
  • Blushes 
  • Eyeshadows 
  • Eye Liners 
  • Mascara 
  • Brow products 
  • Lip Liner, Lipsticks & Lipgloss 
  • Make-up Brushes 

Electronics

In Bali, they use European two round prong plugs which are 230 volts / 50 Hz. A universal travel plug adapter is an essential addition to your Bali packing list. This one with USB connections is super handy.

Many couples just use their smartphone for photography but Bali is one of the most photogenic and instagram-worthy honeymoon destinations in the world so if you have a camera, bring it. We have the Sony ZV1

A waterproof phone cover will be one of the best things to add to your Bali packing list, too.

Selfie sticks may feel a little silly but we still think it’s the best way to get that perfect insta image without getting other people involved. If you want to feel less conspicuous opt for a Gorilla Pod instead.

Thinking about bringing a drone and living your best influencer life? For beginners, consider investing in a DJI Mini.

Add your Apple AirPods or your favourite headphones to your Bali packing list (and make your own honeymoon songs playlist before you leave).

Physical books are our favourite so bring at least one must-read for days around your private pool suite or on the beach. However, if you’re voracious readers like us, then load up your Kindle with all the books you’ve been meaning to read.

If you have a lot of cables, then consider this chic travel case to keep them tidy.

  • Universal plug adapters
  • Camera + SD cards + battery/ charger
  • Drone + SD + battery / charger
  • Selfie Stick or Gorilla Pod
  • Smartwatch + charger
  • Phone + charger + power bank 
  • Headphones
  • Laptop or Tablet + charger 
  • E-Reader + charger 
  • Travel speakers + charger 
Gili Trawangan aerial view of sea with boats and beach

Miscellaneous

All the other things you may or may not need! 

Should you bring a suitcase or a backpack to Bali? It really depends. If you’re planning a more luxurious trip with private transfers, then a suitcase is absolutely fine. If you’re planning a more backpacking style trip using local transport then a backpack might be better.

We love classic luggage from Samsonite. Don’t forget an Apple AirTag, the best luggage tracker to add to your Bali packing list (in case the worst happens!).

We’re total overpackers but a Bali honeymoon often means moving around. Plus, if you’re going on a multi-destination honeymoon, you need to stay organised.

Enter TikTok favourite packing cubes. They’re great if you don’t want to compartmentalise and save you from having to unpack everything. Don’t forget TSA approved locks for your luggage.

A dry bag can be handy to keep any essentials away from the water. A small flashlight or torch is useful when you’re staying in rural areas.

  • Suitcases
  • Air Tag / Luggage Tracker
  • Packing Cubes
  • Landry Bag
  • Luggage locks
  • Sewing kit 
  • Fans
  • Pens / Notebook or Honeymoon Journal 
  • Dry Bag
  • Wet bag
  • Flashlight

For the flight

You’re likely travelling from afar to get to Bali so make sure you’re comfy, particularly if you’re flying economy.

  • Travel blanket / Pillow – we have this 2 in 1 blanket and pillow which we love and it just slips on to your cabin suitcase.
  • Eye Mask
  • Ear plugs 
  • Flight Socks – want to prank your love? get their face on some socks for the flight
  • Deck of cards
  • Kindle, Books or Magazines
  • Snacks
nusa penida bali indonesia

Sustainable Bali packing list tips

To make your Bali honeymoon more sustainable – consider reducing the number of single-use plastic in your Bali packing list.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Bali but bottled water is available everywhere. However it means using a lot of plastic bottles. Instead, consider a water filtration and purification travel bottle like Grayl

Some useful things to pack:

Want to get our full downloadable packing list bundle which includes an outfit planner and a checklist? Visit the shop and add code BALI to get our full honeymoon packing list bundle for just $5!

We hope our Ultimate Bali Packing List has made getting ready for your dream honeymoon a lot easier! Is there anything we’ve missed? Let us know in the comments!

Happy Packing x