Bali has long been considered a dream destination for budget travellers: a place where you can sip fresh coconut water on a white sand beach, get a massage for less than the cost of a coffee back home, and stay in tropical vizllas without torching your savings. But if you’ve been watching TikToks or travel vlogs lately, you might be wondering: is Bali still cheap, or at least as cheap as it was?
Short answer: Yes... but with an asterisk. Bali remains one of the more affordable international destinations, but prices have definitely crept up, especially in hotspots like Canggu and Ubud. Still, if you're savvy and flexible, backpacking Bali in 2025 can absolutely still be budget-friendly and awesome value.
Here’s a breakdown of Bali travel costs plus a few insider tips to help you keep your trip affordable while living your best life. Also, we kind of had Bali on our own radar so...this is for us, too.
When to Go Backpacking in Bali
Bali’s tropical climate means it’s warm year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of adventure you’re after. The island has two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Each offers a different vibe and experience, so it’s worth planning ahead to make the most of your trip: nobody wants to get caught in a monsoon when they’re trying to chill on the beach!
Dry Season (April to September)
This is Bali’s peak tourist season and for good reason. The weather is sunny, warm, and mostly dry — perfect for hitting the beach, surfing, hiking up Mount Batur, or exploring temples without worrying about sudden downpours. The dry season also means great visibility for diving and snorkelling around Bali’s stunning reefs. Nights can be a bit cooler in the highlands, but still very pleasant.
- Best Activities: Surfing in Canggu or Uluwatu, hiking Mount Batur at sunrise, visiting Ubud’s rice terraces and temples, island hopping to Nusa Penida.
- Festivals: Nyepi Day (the Balinese Day of Silence) usually falls in March and is a unique cultural experience. The whole island shuts down for 24 hours — no flights, no traffic, just quiet reflection. Definitely worth planning your trip around if you want to experience something truly special.
Wet Season (October to March)
Expect afternoon or evening tropical showers, sometimes heavy but usually short-lived, with lots of humidity and lush green landscapes. The wet season means fewer tourists and often lower prices on accommodation and tours, which is great if you don’t mind a bit of rain. Some outdoor activities like trekking or boat trips might be less reliable during this time, but the island still has plenty to offer.
- Best Activities: Exploring waterfalls and jungles when they’re at their most vibrant, visiting temples, enjoying the spa and wellness scene, sampling Bali’s incredible food without the crowds.
- Things to Avoid: Avoid planning beach days on stormy afternoons and be cautious of slippery trails if you’re hiking in the rain. Also, some dive sites can be rough due to strong currents during the wet season.
Shoulder Season (April-May and September-October)
These months are a sweet spot with a mix of dry and occasional rain showers, fewer tourists, and often better deals. It’s a great time to enjoy Bali’s highlights without the busy crowds or intense heat.
Overall Budget Needed
Backpacking Bali can be super affordable, especially if you’re happy to stay in hostels, enjoy local warung food (which you definitely should — Balinese cuisine is absolutely delicious), and use the island’s plentiful scooters or public transport. Bali offers plenty of options for budget travellers, but costs can vary depending on where you go and how you like to travel. A solid daily budget usually falls between £20 and £40, but of course, it depends on your style. Here’s a quick guide:
- Low-End Budget: £15-£25/day: Ideal for travellers wanting to keep costs low without missing out on the essentials. Expect to stay in basic dorms or budget guesthouses, eat street or warung food, and get around on scooters or local bemos (shared minivans).
- Mid-Range Budget: £25-£45/day: Allows for a bit more comfort like, say, private rooms in cosy guesthouses or budget hotels, meals at local cafes and restaurants, plus occasional taxi rides or scooter rentals to explore more freely.
- High-End Budget: £45-£70+/day: For those who want a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. This might include boutique hotels or villas, dining at a mix of international and upscale restaurants, private drivers, and spa days to relax after all that exploring.
Daily Budget Overview
Low-end (£20–£30/day)
- Dorm beds
- Local food (nasi goreng 4 life)
- Public transport or scooter hire
- Free activities like beach hopping
Mid-range (£30–£50/day)
- Private guesthouses
- Café brunches
- Paid activities (e.g. surf lessons)
- Occasional Gojek rides
High-end (£50+/day)
- Boutique villas
- Western restaurants
- Tours
- Private drivers
- Bali swing selfies
Cost Breakdown
Accommodation
Hostels are still very affordable in Bali. You can find dorm beds for £5–£10 per night and decent private rooms for £15–£25. Prices do climb in trendy areas like Seminyak or Canggu, where a mid-range hotel can set you back £40+ per night. Ubud and Amed tend to be a bit cheaper, especially for long-term stays.
Tip: Many places offer discounts for weekly or monthly stays, so it’s perfect if you’re slow travelling.
Food & Drink (Mm)
Food is where Bali can be either oh so very cheap or sneakily expensive. Local warungs serve dishes like mie goreng, satay, and nasi campur for £1.50–£3 per meal. Western-style cafés or vegan brunch spots, on the other hand, will run you £5–£10 per meal.
Alcohol? Imported wine and spirits are taxed heavily. Bintang (local beer) is your best bet at £1.50–£2 a bottle. Cocktails in beach clubs can easily cost £7–£12.
Transport
Scooter rental is the most affordable and flexible way to get around, especially outside the main cities. Expect to pay £3–£6 per day for a scooter. Fuel is cheap at about £1.20 for a full tank.
For short rides or if you’re not comfy driving, Gojek or Grab (local ride apps) offer affordable motorbike and car rides. A short Gojek ride might cost as little as £0.80–£2.
Longer transfers (like airport to Ubud) can be arranged for £10–£20.
Activities
- Temple entry fees: £1–£3
- Surf lesson in Kuta: £10–£20
- Mount Batur sunrise hike: £20–£30 with guide
- Cooking class: £25–£40
- Yoga drop-in class: £6–£10
There are plenty of free things to do! Think gorgeous waterfalls, beach days, rice terrace wandering, and people-watching in cafés. You are spoilt for choice in Bali!
Budgeting for a 3-Month Trip
Backpacking Bali for three months is an unforgettable way to dive into its lush jungles, temple-dotted landscapes, vibrant surf culture, and tropical island life. Below is an estimated cost for a 3-month backpacking trip in Bali. We’ll assume a mid-range budget for ease.
Cost Range
- Accommodation: £750 – £1,800
- Food & Drink: £600 – £1,200
- Transportation: £150 – £400
- Activities & Tours: £500 – £1,000
- Miscellaneous (you just never know what you’ll need/want...): £200 – £500
- Total for 3 months: £2,200 – £4,900
This should give you:
- £24/day on the low end
- £55/day on the high end
Pro Tips to Help You Save Money
- Choose Budget Accommodation: Hostels, guesthouses, and homestays are everywhere in Bali, especially in backpacker favourites like Ubud, Canggu, and Uluwatu. Dorm beds can be found for as little as £5 a night, while basic private rooms are often under £15.
- Eat Local: Bali’s warungs (small family-run restaurants) serve up tasty meals for £1–£2. Stick to Indonesian staples like nasi goreng, mie goreng, and gado-gado for cheap, filling eats. Western food tends to cost more, so go local when possible. It’s also a great way to experience life a little more like a local.
- Use Public Transport (or rent a scooter): While Bali doesn’t have a comprehensive public transport system, scooter rental is affordable and popular — you can rent one for about £30–£50 per month. Apps like Gojek and Grab also offer cheap, safe rides.
- Take Advantage of Free or Low-Cost Activities: Waterfalls, beaches, temples, and scenic hikes are either free or charge small entrance fees. Many cultural experiences, sunrise treks, or yoga classes in Ubud are low cost and totally worth it.
- Get a Local SIM Card: You can pick up a SIM card with several gigabytes of data for around £7–£10 from providers like Telkomsel or XL Axiata. Staying connected makes navigation, bookings, and keeping in touch much easier and cheaper. Convenient!
Health and Safety Considerations for Backpacking in Bali
Bali is generally a very safe, peaceful, and backpacker-friendly destination, but like anywhere, it’s wise to travel prepared. From tropical bugs to scooter accidents, a few simple precautions can help you stay healthy, safe, and stress-free during your sun-drenched Balinese escape. Here’s a quick guide with a few things to keep in mind before you go.
Health Risks to Watch Out For
Food and Water Safety
- Foodborne Illnesses: Bali has an exciting food scene, but “Bali belly” (traveller’s diarrhoea) is common. Stick to places with good hygiene — busy warungs and popular local spots are your best bet. Avoid raw or undercooked meat,and be cautious with seafood in remote areas.
- Traveller’s Diarrhoea: Don’t drink tap water. Stick to bottled water (with a sealed cap), and avoid ice unless you know it’s made from purified water. Peel fruits and opt for cooked veggies. Bring anti-diarrhoeal medication like Imodium, just in case.
- Pro Tip: Oral rehydration salts are great to pack — they’re widely available in Bali too, but handy to have on you.
Mosquito-borne Diseases
- Dengue Fever: This is the most common mosquito-related risk in Bali, especially during rainy season (roughly November to April). Wear mosquito repellent with DEET, cover up at dawn and dusk, and sleep under a mosquito net or in screened rooms if you're in rural areas.
- Malaria and Zika Virus: Malaria risk in Bali is low, so anti-malarial tablets are usually not necessary unless you’re heading off to remote parts of Indonesia. Zika has been reported in the past — those who are pregnant or trying to conceive should seek specific medical advice.
Heat and Sun Exposure
Bali’s tropical sun is strong, and it’s easy to get dehydrated or sunburned without realising.
Pro Tip: Drink lots of bottled water (hydration salts can help), wear high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and loose, breathable clothing.
Road Safety
Scooter accidents are a leading cause of injury for tourists in Bali. Traffic can be chaotic, road conditions vary, and rules aren’t always followed.
Pro Tip: If you’re riding a scooter, always wear a helmet, make sure your travel insurance covers motorbike use, and have a valid licence. If you’re not confident on two wheels, stick to taxis or rideshare apps like Grab.
Vaccinations
Before you travel, check in with your GP or a travel clinic about recommended jabs. Depending on your plans, you may need a few extras.
Recommended Vaccines:
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio (combined booster)
- Rabies (especially if you’re staying long-term or spending time in rural areas or around animals)
Pro Tip: Bali is rabies-endemic. Avoid petting stray dogs or monkeys (especially around places like Ubud’s Monkey Forest) and seek immediate medical attention if you’re bitten or scratched.
Why Travel Insurance Matters for Backpacking in Bali
While travel insurance isn’t mandatory legally-speaking, it’s one of those things you’ll be very glad to have if something goes wrong on your trip. Bali is a dream destination for many backpackers: warm, welcoming, and full of experiences. However, that that doesn’t mean things always go smoothly. Here’s why it’s smart to have travel insurance sorted before you go:
Medical Emergencies
From scooter spills to stomach bugs to a sudden tropical infection, unexpected medical issues can pop up even on the most chill island getaway. Medical care in Bali is available, but costs can rack up, especially if you need hospitalisation or want treatment at a private clinic with international standards. Travel insurance can cover doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, and more. No one plans to get sick or injured, but if it happens, you’ll be relieved not to worry about the bill.
Emergency Evacuation
If something serious happens and you need to be evacuated — say, to another island or even flown home — the cost can be astronomical. Insurance that covers emergency transport could save you thousands, and honestly, it’s just peace of mind in your back pocket.
Trip Cancellations or Disruptions
Flight cancellations or unexpected illness before or during your trip can throw off your entire itinerary. Travel insurance can help you recoup some of those non-refundable costs, including flights, accommodation, and prepaid activities.
Lost or Stolen Belongings
Petty theft can happen in Bali like anywhere else, especially in tourist-heavy areas. If your phone, backpack, or other valuables go missing, travel insurance can help with the cost of replacing them.
Important Tip: Keep a scanned copy of your passport and other key documents backed up online. And don’t carry all your valuables in one bag: spread them out, just in case.
Adventure Activities
Bali is big on awesome adventure — surfing, diving, volcano trekking, yoga retreats, and more. If you're planning any of these, double-check that your policy covers “risky” activities. Some insurers classify things like scuba diving or mountaineering as add-ons or exclusions.
Scooter and Motorbike Coverage
Scooters are one of the most popular ways to get around Bali, but they’re also a top cause of injury for travellers. Not all insurance policies include motorbike accidents by default — and some won’t cover you unless you have a valid licence and were wearing a helmet. So read the fine print, and ride responsibly.
Gigasure Has Your Back
Even the most epic trips can hit a bump, whether it’s a surprise illness or a last-minute flight hiccup. That’s where reliable backpackers' insurance comes in. It’s your safety net, giving you peace of mind so you can focus on the adventure, not the “what ifs.”
Gigasure has your back with Travel Insurance made for backpackers. From medical mishaps to travel delays, we cover the stuff you really care about, so you can roam freely and confidently.
Bonus: you’ll love our app! It’s like your travel buddy with 24/7 customer support. Buy, manage, and upgrade your cover anytime, anywhere. We’ve made checking and updating your policy as easy and seamless as it can be. Check us out!
General Safety Tips for Backpackers in Bali
Bali is a dream destination for backpackers—surf, sunsets, smoothie bowls—but like any adventure abroad, a little caution goes a long way. Here are some smart safety tips to help you make the most of your island time, minus the drama.
Keep Your Stuff Safe
Like most touristic places, petty theft can happen, especially in busy areas like Canggu, Seminyak, or Ubud. Don’t leave your phone or bag unattended at cafés or the beach. Use a lockable backpack or day bag and keep your cash/cards in separate spots.
Scam Awareness 101
Most Balinese locals are incredibly warm and welcoming, but every tourist hotspot has a few scams. The usual suspects:
- Transport: Stick to apps like Grab or Gojek where possible, or agree on fares before hopping into a taxi.
- ATMs: Card skimming happens. Use machines attached to banks, not freestanding ones.
- Tour deals: If it sounds too cheap to be legit, it probably is. Book activities through reputable agencies or hostels.
Scooter Safety is Serious Business
Scooters are the main way to get around Bali, but they’re not without risk. If you rent one:
- Always wear a helmet (it’s the law and your brain will thank you).
- Make sure you’re licensed to drive in Indonesia.
- Check the scooter before taking off—especially brakes, lights, and tyres.
- Avoid driving at night or in heavy rain unless you’re confident.
Water Safety
Ocean currents in Bali can be strong. Stick to lifeguarded beaches and pay attention to flag warnings before you dive into those Insta-perfect waves.
Solo Travel Tips
Bali’s a favourite among solo backpackers (especially women), and most people feel totally safe here. Still, avoid walking alone late at night, keep an eye on your drink in bars, and have a local SIM card handy so you can call a ride or check your map when needed.
Visa Requirements for Backpacking in Bali (Indonesia)
Before you’re sipping coconuts and cruising rice terraces, make sure your paperwork is in order. Indonesia’s visa system is fairly chill but don’t skip this part:
Visa-Free Entry
Indonesia offers visa-free travel for up to 30 days for citizens of many countries, including the UK, EU, US, Australia, Canada, and Japan. This entry cannot be extended, and it’s only for tourism (no work or volunteering).
Need More Time?
If 30 days isn't enough (we get it), consider getting a Visa on Arrival (VOA) instead—it also lasts 30 days but can be extended once for another 30 days. You can get it at the airport when you arrive or apply online via the official e-VOA site before you travel.
Planning a Longer Stay?
If you’re thinking of staying longer or doing remote work (yes, Bali has digital nomad dreams), you’ll need a different visa—like a social-cultural visa or digital nomad visa (if/when available). Always check the latest visa rules from the Indonesian immigration site or a local consulate.
Passport Tip
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date, and you’ll need proof of onward travel (like a flight out of Indonesia) to enter.
Final Thoughts
Backpacking Bali is an unforgettable experience filled with stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and a vibrant culture that welcomes travellers from all over the world. Whether you’re surfing the waves in Canggu, exploring ancient temples in Ubud, or soaking up the nightlife in Seminyak, Bali offers a rich mix of adventure and relaxation.
From the tranquil spiritual ceremonies to the bustling markets and mouthwatering street food, there’s always something new to discover. Planning your budget, staying mindful of health and safety, organising your visa in advance, and respecting local customs will help ensure your trip goes smoothly.
Take your time to enjoy the island’s magic: the sunsets, the food, the friendly locals. You can rest assured that Bali will leave you with memories to cherish forever. Don’t forget to try a refreshing coconut or a traditional Balinese dish while you’re there.
Selamat jalan and happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money do I need for 2 weeks in Bali?
Budget travellers can expect to spend £300–£700, depending on lifestyle. Mid-range travellers may spend closer to £800–£1,200. Remember to carefully consider your budget limitations in advance so you can plan accordingly, especially when it pertains to things like hotels and accommodations.
Is Bali safe for solo backpackers?
Generally, yes. Bali is friendly and welcoming, though scooter safety and petty theft are real concerns. However, this is not Bali-specific and applies to most places so please exert the same caution you would in any other place. A lot of the risks in Bali are risks you would face anywhere.
Is Bali cheaper than Thailand?
It depends. Accommodation and transport are often cheaper in Thailand, but Bali’s local food and scooter rentals are on par. Certain Bali hotspots (like Ubud) are more expensive than less touristy parts of Thailand. A general rule of thumb is it depends on which area of Bali or Thailand you go to.
Can I use card payments in Bali?
Card is accepted at most restaurants, shops, and hotels in touristy areas, but you’ll still need cash for local food, transport, and smaller attractions. A good rule of thumb is to have 50/50 cash/card so you can account for times where cash may be needed.
When is the cheapest time to travel to Bali?
February to May and September to November are quieter, cheaper, and still have great weather. If you’re on a budget, consider visiting during these times. This will also help you avoid the crowds, if this is something that bothers you.
