How to Stay Safe in Bali – Travel Safety Tips You Need to Know - Article

Bali is a beautiful and welcoming island, attracting millions of visitors every year with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich traditions. However, just like any popular travel destination, it is important to stay aware and take precautions to ensure a safe and hassle-free trip.

From avoiding common scams to staying healthy in the tropical climate, here are the top safety tips you need to know before traveling to Bali.

1. Be Aware of Common Tourist Scams

While Bali is a friendly and generally safe place, some areas are known for tourist scams. Being aware of these tricks will help you avoid unnecessary stress and loss of money.

Common Scams in Bali and How to Avoid Them

Unlicensed Money Changers – Some money exchange booths offer high exchange rates but trick tourists by using quick hand movements to steal cash.

How to avoid it: Only exchange money at reputable places like BMC, Central Kuta Money Exchange, or banks.

Taxi Overcharging – Many taxis, especially those outside airports and tourist hotspots, refuse to use the meter and charge inflated fares.

How to avoid it: Use Blue Bird taxis or ride-hailing apps like GoJek or Grab.

Fake Tour Guides or Ticket Sellers – Some people sell fake tickets to attractions or claim to be official guides at tourist sites.

How to avoid it: Always book tours through official websites, reputable tour companies, or your hotel.

Rental Damage Scams – Some motorbike or car rental shops claim you caused damage that was already there and demand extra payment.

How to avoid it: Take photos and videos of the vehicle before renting, and choose trusted rental companies.

2. Stay Safe on the Roads – Traffic in Bali Can Be Chaotic

Bali’s roads can be busy, unpredictable, and filled with motorbikes, so extra caution is needed when navigating the streets.

How to Stay Safe on Bali’s Roads

Be careful if renting a scooter. Traffic rules are often ignored, and accidents involving tourists happen frequently.
Wear a helmet and have an international driving permit. Riding without these can lead to fines and serious injury in case of an accident.
Avoid driving at night on unfamiliar roads. Many streets are poorly lit, with sharp turns and potholes.
If you don’t feel comfortable riding, hire a private driver. It is affordable and much safer for long-distance travel.

3. Protect Yourself from Bali Belly (Food and Water Safety)

Many travelers experience digestive issues in Bali, commonly known as Bali Belly, caused by consuming contaminated food or water.

How to Avoid Getting Sick in Bali

Drink only bottled or filtered water. Avoid tap water, even for brushing your teeth.
Eat at busy and reputable warungs or restaurants. High turnover means fresh ingredients and lower risk of foodborne illness.
Avoid ice from unknown sources. Stick to restaurants and cafés that use purified ice.
Wash your hands regularly. Carry hand sanitizer for extra protection.
Pack activated charcoal or rehydration salts. If you get sick, stay hydrated and rest.

4. Respect Local Culture and Traditions

Bali is deeply rooted in Hindu traditions, and respecting local customs is important for a smooth and positive travel experience.

Key Cultural Etiquette Tips

Wear a sarong and sash when entering temples. Many temples provide rentals, but bringing your own is a good idea.
Do not touch people’s heads. In Balinese culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body.
Use your right hand for giving and receiving items. The left hand is considered unclean.
Respect religious offerings (Canang Sari). These small baskets filled with flowers and incense are placed on the ground. Be careful not to step on them.
Be mindful during Nyepi (Day of Silence). On this day, everything on the island shuts down, including flights, businesses, and even the internet in some areas.

5. Be Cautious at Beaches and in the Ocean

Bali’s beaches are breathtaking, but the ocean can be unpredictable, with strong currents and large waves.

Beach Safety Tips

Swim only in designated areas. Red flags mean dangerous currents, so never swim in flagged areas.
Be careful with strong rip currents. Some beaches, like Echo Beach, Padang Padang, and Dreamland, have strong undercurrents. If caught in one, swim parallel to the shore instead of against the current.
Watch out for sea urchins and jellyfish. Wear reef shoes if snorkeling near rocky areas.
Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach. Petty theft can occur, so use waterproof bags or lockers.

6. Avoid Stray Dogs and Monkeys

Bali has many stray dogs and monkeys, especially in tourist areas like Uluwatu and Ubud’s Monkey Forest.

How to Stay Safe Around Animals

Avoid petting stray dogs. Some carry rabies, and a bite requires immediate medical attention.
Don’t feed the monkeys. They can become aggressive and try to steal food, sunglasses, or phones.
Keep small items secured in bags. Monkeys at Uluwatu Temple and Monkey Forest are known to grab loose items.

If bitten by an animal, seek medical help immediately for rabies vaccination.

7. Know Emergency Contacts and Where to Get Medical Help

It is important to know where to go in case of an emergency.

Important Contacts in Bali

Emergency (Police, Ambulance, Fire): 112
Tourist Police: +62 361 759 687
BIMC Hospital (Tourist-Friendly): +62 361 761 263
Siloam Hospital (Private Hospital): +62 361 779 900

Where to Get Medical Help

BIMC Hospital in Kuta, Ubud, and Nusa Dua has English-speaking doctors and is tourist-friendly.
Guardian and Kimia Farma pharmacies are widely available for over-the-counter medicine.

Having travel insurance before your trip is highly recommended in case of accidents, illness, or emergencies.

Enjoy Bali Safely and Responsibly

Bali is a magical and welcoming island, but staying safe requires awareness and preparation. By following these essential travel safety tips, you can enjoy everything Bali has to offer while avoiding common risks.