Budget Travel to Bali
Welcome to your one-week, suss-out-Bali expedition!
Let's get to know Bali a little better. No doubt it's well-known for its luxury resorts, glamorous beach clubs and world-class meditation retreats, but there's so much more to Bali than meets the eye. It’s actually my favourite spot to soak up the sun, culture and natural beauty without spending a ton.
Let’s get into how you can visit Bali for a week on budget that won’t leave you stressing when it’s time to check your bank balance!
When to visit Bali?
It doesn’t matter what time of year you decide to travel to Bali, the island can be captivating all year around.
Dry season - April to October:
In the dry season, the island is bathed in sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring temples. The clear skies make it ideal for beach days, island hopping and diving into crystal-clear waters.
Rainy season - November to March:
Although the consensus might be to avoid travel during the rainy season, it actually has its own charm, with lush landscapes and fewer tourists (which is a bonus). While you may encounter afternoon showers, this is a great time to enjoy Bali's vibrant culture, indulge in spa treatments and explore the island's waterfalls, which are at their most powerful. The rain also brings a serene, peaceful atmosphere, making it an excellent time for yoga retreats and relaxation.
Bali offers diverse experiences in both its dry and rainy seasons, so the best time to visit depends more on your budget than the weather. To save money, aim to travel outside of school holidays and during airline specials, rather than letting the island's seasons dictate your plans.
Where to Stay in Bali?
When traveling to Bali on a budget, accommodation is one area where you can save significantly without sacrificing comfort or experience. The island is filled with affordable options that cater to different preferences and needs. If you enjoy a vibrant social atmosphere, there are plenty of hostels that provide a great environment to meet fellow travellers. Websites like HomeToGo and Hostelworld offer options starting as low as $10 per night. One of the perks of using Hostelworld is that you can join the hostel's chat before you arrive, allowing you to connect with others who are either planning to stay or are already there. This is especially beneficial for solo travellers who are looking to make new friends and explore Bali together.
For those who prefer a more private and tranquil stay, renting a villa might be the perfect option. My personal favourite is finding a private villa on Airbnb, where you can discover unique accommodations that offer everything from jungle vibes to stunning pools and cliff-side views. With some research, you can find incredible deals. Prices start at around $50 USD per night. These villas provide a more secluded experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Bali's beauty.
If you're more inclined towards traditional hotel accommodations, websites like Kayak offer a wide range of budget-friendly options. You can find 3-star hotels starting from just $9 per night, making it easy to compare and choose the best fit for your stay. Similar to Booking.com, Kayak allows you to filter through different properties based on price, location and amenities, ensuring you find the best deal.
Where to Eat in Bali?
There are plenty of delicious and cheap options, food-wise, in Bali. The main dishes to look out for are nasi goreng (fried rice), curry chicken and rice, (soy sauce) kecap chicken, mee goreng (fried noodles), and various other dishes. For an authentic taste of Bali, head to local warungs—small food stalls serving traditional Indonesian fare. You’ll easily spot them by their simple setup, usually with a tarpaulin roof and plastic chairs. These warungs are popular with locals and offer genuine, flavourful dishes at fixed prices. Some must-try dishes include nasi ayam (chicken rice) and nasi campur (white rice served with a variety of side dishes). If you’re not a fan of spicy food, just ask for your meal without sambal (chili paste).
While larger restaurants in Bali can also be reasonably priced, it's wise to check if they add tax to the bill, as it can sometimes be as high as 20%. This additional charge can significantly increase your total, so it's always a good idea to enquire beforehand. For those who prefer something simple and familiar, you'll find places like BreadTalk in larger shopping centres, offering simple bread options.
If you’re staying in a villa and prefer to prepare your own meals, Bali’s supermarkets, such as Carrefour, have everything you need. Stock up on local ingredients, but keep in mind that imported items like cereals and spreads can be pricey. You’re better off bringing small items like these with you when you come.
And finally, you cannot go to Bali without visiting a night market for an authentic and affordable dining experience. An example is the well-known Kuta Night Market, where you’ll find a variety of cheap local foods in a lively atmosphere.
What Types of Activities Can You Do In Bali?
Exploring Bali on a budget is easy, and hiring a local driver for a day trip is a great way to see the island's highlights without spending a fortune. For around $30 USD for the entire day, you can hire a driver to take you around. Make sure to agree on the price beforehand and be prepared for Bali's notoriously slow traffic. Starting your day early can help you avoid peak traffic times and make the most of your trip.
Some must-see sites with your driver are Lempuyang Temple, aka Gates of Heaven (entry around $7 USD), the Ubud Monkey Forest (entry $6 - $7 USD), or the Tegalalang Rice Terrace (entry about $1.50 USD).
Another affordable activity that no one should miss is getting a massage. Bali is known for its abundance of massage parlours, and you’ll find plenty of options on nearly every corner. Prices typically range from $10-$20 USD for an hour of relaxation. It’s definitely worth every penny, but be sure to do some research beforehand. Check online reviews to find a place with good ratings.
For those interested in wellness, Bali offers a variety of yoga and wellness retreats that cater to different budgets. Websites like BookYogaRetreats offer plenty of options to choose from.
Last but not least, no trip to Bali would be complete without spending time on its beautiful beaches. Many beach bars provide affordable drink prices and comfortable lounge chairs, making it easy to relax and soak in the stunning views.
How to Travel In Bali?
When it comes to getting around Bali on a budget, there are many options that won't break the budget. While taxis are convenient, they tend to be the most expensive mode of transport on the island.
If you're looking to save money, renting a motorbike is a popular and cost-effective alternative. Motorbikes give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and can be rented for just a few dollars a day. If you are hiring a motorbike to ride, however, please be aware of the following super important points:
Ensure you get a helmet with your rental.
Be super, super cautious and weary while driving. The same road rules don’t apply in Bali as to your home country.
Make sure you get insurance that also covers you for motorbike accidents – trust me!
If you’re not comfortable driving a motorbike yourself (smart move), there’s still an affordable and convenient way to get around. Download the GO-JEK and Grab apps, which offer an Uber-like service on the back of a motorbike. These apps are widely used in Bali and are perfect for those who want to avoid the hassle of navigating the island's roads. For as little as $1-$2 USD, you can hop on the back of a bike and reach your destination quickly and affordably. If you'd rather travel by car, the apps also offer car rides, with prices ranging from about $2-$4 USD for a half-hour ride. These app-based services are a fantastic way to experience Bali like a local while sticking to your budget.
Note:
When you first arrive in Bali, you’ll be hounded by taxi drivers when you leave the terminal. Don’t get overwhelmed, There will be an official counter where you can book a prepaid taxi service, or simply walk out of the airport and order a rideshare from the app. However if you do decide to get a taxi, ensure you agree on a price before you get in. If they don’t agree or insist on using the meter, find another ride. This is an easy way for them to overprice tourists who don’t know any better.
