Planning your first trip to Bali? You’re in the right place.
Bali is a dream destination for many, but planning your itinerary, setting a budget, and managing bookings can feel overwhelming — especially if it’s your first time. That’s where we come in.
Planning a trip to Bali has never been easier. Gone are the days when you needed a travel agent or a fixed package deal — today, you can customize every part of your Bali adventure from the comfort of your home.
At BookingsScanner, we make the entire travel planning process simple and stress-free so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your trip. This complete Bali travel guide walks you through every step — from booking flights and getting a visa, to choosing the best areas to stay, packing essentials, and must-visit attractions around the island.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Choose Your Travel Dates and Trip Duration
Bali is a dream destination year-round, but the best time to visit really depends on the kind of experience you’re after.
Let’s break it down:
Dry vs. Wet Season
- Dry Season (May to October): This is Bali’s peak season for a reason. Expect sunny skies, warm beach days, and minimal rain. It’s perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking Mount Batur or chasing waterfalls.
Pro Tip: Avoid traveling in July and August if you don’t like crowds — it’s the school holiday rush and prices skyrocket. - Wet Season (November to April): Tropical rain showers hit in the afternoons, but they’re usually brief. The island looks lush and green, and tourist areas are much quieter (and cheaper!).
Heads-up: Mountain regions like Munduk and Bedugul get heavier rains — better to stick to coastal areas like Uluwatu, Seminyak, or Sanur during this season.
Peak vs. Off-Peak Travel
- Peak Season: July, August, Christmas, and New Year’s
Bali is buzzing with energy, festivals, and events. If you plan to visit during these months, book your flights and accommodation at least 3-6 months in advance. - Off-Peak Season: March, April, and October
These are sweet spots: good weather, fewer crowds, and better deals on hotels and activities.
Insider Tip: Flights to Bali are often cheaper in March and October compared to the peak season.
Local Celebrations to Keep in Mind
- Nyepi – Bali’s Day of Silence
One of the most unique cultural experiences you can witness. The entire island shuts down for 24 hours — no flights, no driving, no beach lounging. It’s a time for self-reflection and silence.
Next Nyepi: 19th March 2026 - Galungan & Kuningan – Bali’s Spiritual Festivals
A beautiful 10-day celebration when Balinese Hindus believe ancestral spirits visit Earth. You’ll see penjor (bamboo poles decorated with offerings) lining the streets and lively ceremonies across the island.
How Long Should You Stay?
The length of your trip depends on what you want to experience. Here’s a quick guide:
| Trip Length | Perfect for | Highlights |
| 3–4 Days | Weekend getaway | Beaches, spa days, a temple visit |
| 7–10 Days | Classic Bali trip | Mix of culture, adventure, beaches, and Ubud |
| 2+ Weeks | Deep exploration | Island hopping (Nusa Penida, Lombok), wellness retreats, surfing lessons |
Our Tip: If it’s your first time, 7-10 days is ideal to get a true taste of Bali without feeling rushed.
Step 2: Set Your Travel Style and Interests
Before you book anything, it’s important to think about what kind of Bali experience you’re craving. Bali has so many sides — it can be a surf trip, a spiritual retreat, a luxury vacation, or an epic adventure — all depending on what you want!
Here’s how to figure it out:
What Type of Traveler Are You?
Beach Bum: Dreaming of endless beach days, vibrant sunsets, and cocktails by the sea?
Best areas: Seminyak, Canggu, Uluwatu, Sanur.
Adventure Seeker: Ready for hikes, waterfalls, volcano treks, and surf sessions?
Best areas: Ubud (for jungles and waterfalls), Amed (for diving and snorkeling), Canggu (for beginner surfing).
Culture Lover: Want to immerse yourself in temples, traditional dance shows, and local village life?
Best areas: Ubud, Sidemen, and smaller villages like Tegalalang.
Wellness & Yoga Enthusiast: If you’re looking for retreats, daily yoga classes, and healing spa treatments, Bali is paradise.
Best areas: Ubud, Canggu, Uluwatu.
Luxury Traveler: Think 5-star resorts, private pool villas, fine dining, and VIP service.
Best areas: Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Uluwatu.
Family Traveler: Bali is family-friendly too, with water parks, safe beaches, and lots of kid-friendly resorts.
Best areas: Sanur, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran.
Digital Nomad: Bali is one of the world’s top remote work hubs, with trendy cafes, coworking spaces, and vibrant expat communities.
Best areas: Canggu, Ubud.
Of course, you don’t have to pick just one! Many travelers mix beach days, cultural activities, and wellness time into one trip.
Add a Day Trip to Nearby Islands
Want to see even more? Plan a day trip to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, or Gili Islands for epic beaches, snorkeling, and jaw-dropping views.
Tip: Choose 2-3 different bases during your trip (like 4 nights in Ubud, 4 nights in Seminyak or Uluwatu, plus a day trip to a nearby island) to experience different sides of Bali without feeling rushed.
Step 3: Check Visa & Entry Requirements
Before booking anything, check if you need a visa to enter Bali. Some nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 30 days, while others must apply for a visa in advance or get a Visa on Arrival.
- Visa-Free Entry: Citizens from Southeast Asian countries like Brunei, the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam can enter Bali visa-free for up to 30 days. This stay cannot be extended.
- Visa on Arrival (VoA/e-VOA): If you’re from a country not eligible for visa-free entry but are on the VoA or e-VOA list, you can enter Bali with a Visa on Arrival or apply online for an Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA).
It’s valid for 30 days and extendable once (for an additional 30 days). Eligible countries include: USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, all EU countries, Japan, India, China, and many more.
Tip: Apply online before arrival to avoid long lines at the airport. - Tourist Visa: If you’re planning to stay longer than 60 days or your country isn’t on the VoA list, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa in advance through an Indonesian embassy or consulate.
Tip: Always check the latest visa rules before you travel! Visit Indonesia’s official immigration website or contact your local embassy for updates.
Step 4: Plan Your Budget
Now it’s time to decide your budget. Whether you’re keeping things simple, going for something in the middle, or living the luxe life, Bali has something for everyone.
Pro Tip: Eating local and renting a scooter are great ways to save a bit while still having an amazing time!
Step 5: Book Your Flights
Got your travel dates locked in? Awesome! Now, it’s time to book those flights.
We recommend using Skyscanner to compare airlines and find the best deals. It’s super easy to navigate, and you can see prices across different dates and carriers in one place.
Tips for Scoring the Best Price:
- Don’t book too early or too late – Aim for about 2–3 months ahead of your trip, or 4–6 months if it’s peak season.
- Be flexible with your dates – If you don’t have fixed travel dates, use Skyscanner’s “whole month” view to see which days are cheapest.
- Set price alerts – Let Skyscanner track fares for you and send notifications when prices drop.
Flight Timing & Arrival:
Most international flights to Bali tend to arrive late at night – and that’s totally normal. Just make sure your hotel allows for late check-ins or has 24/7 check-in available.
Also, download the Grab app (like Uber but for Southeast Asia) or pre-book an airport pickup to make things easier when you land.
Related Read: Bali Airport to Ubud – Best Travel Options & Insider Tips
Bonus Tip: Consider flying with Etihad, which sometimes offers a free 2-day stopover in Abu Dhabi, complete with a hotel stay. We did this, and it was an amazing experience! You can also find similar deals with other airlines, including free or budget-friendly stopovers that often include hotels, meals, and even city tours. It’s a great way to explore a new city on your way to Bali.
Once you’ve got your flight booked, you’re officially in travel mode. The rest will fall into place!
Step 6: Decide Where To Base Yourself
Bali is a stunning and diverse island with so much to offer, and choosing where to stay is key to having the best experience. As an expert Bali tour guide, I’m here to help you choose the perfect base for your vacation. Here are the top regions and nearby islands to consider, depending on what you’re looking to get out of your trip:
Here’s a breakdown of popular areas:
- Seminyak: Ideal for those seeking a luxurious, trendy, and vibrant experience.
- Ubud: Perfect for exploring Bali’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.
- Canggu: A good choice for those who enjoy a relaxed, beach-focused lifestyle, with surf culture and social scenes.
- Sanur: A centrally located beach town that’s well-suited for families and those who want to experience a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Nusa Dua: A gated community known for its luxury resorts and pristine beaches.
- Uluwatu: Located on the Bukit Peninsula, offering stunning views, cliffside temples, and surf breaks.
- Kuta: Famous for its beaches, surfing, and vibrant nightlife.
- The Nusa Islands: Just a short boat ride from Bali, the Nusa Islands—Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan—offer a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- The Gili Islands: Known for their white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, the Gili Islands are a paradise for snorkelers, divers, and beach lovers.
How to Plan Your Stay
When planning your stay, think about whether you’d like to base yourself in one area for the entire trip or explore multiple places around the island. This decision will depend on how much time you have and what type of experience you want.
If you prefer a relaxing, all-in-one location, you might want to stay in one area, like Seminyak or Uluwatu, and take short day trips. But if you’re eager to explore more of Bali, consider spreading your time between different regions.
For first-time visitors, here’s a suggested itinerary to get the best of both worlds:
Start: Spend 4-5 nights in Ubud to enjoy the culture and nature.
Middle: If you have more time, add 2-3 nights in areas like the Nusa Islands, Kintamani, or Amed for a mix of adventure and relaxation.
End: Finish your trip with 3-4 nights in the south, at places like Seminyak, Uluwatu, or Sanur, to enjoy the beaches and luxury vibes.
This combination of locations offers a nice balance of Bali’s culture, nature, and beach life!
Step 7: Book Your Accommodation
Where you stay can totally shape your Bali experience. Whether you’re dreaming of a beachfront villa, a cozy hotel in Ubud, or a peaceful escape in Uluwatu, Bali has endless options for every style and budget.
Take a little time to read reviews and check ratings to make sure you’re getting great service and a comfy spot. I usually recommend using Booking.com — it’s easy to use and has tons of choices, from affordable gems to full-on luxury resorts.
Step 8: Plan Your Itinerary
Now that your flights and hotel are sorted, it’s time for the fun part—planning what you’ll actually do in Bali!
We like to start by making a simple list of all the places and activities we don’t want to miss. Trust us, having everything visualized makes your trip so much smoother. Once you’ve got your must-see spots listed, you can start sketching out a rough day-by-day plan.
(And don’t forget to leave some lazy days open for beach lounging or a spontaneous adventure!)
Step 9: Decide On Transport
Scooter Rentals
One of the most flexible ways to get around Bali is by renting a scooter. It’s a popular transport option among travelers who want the freedom to explore the island without depending on fixed schedules. While renting a car may seem comfortable, the narrow roads and heavy traffic can make driving more stressful than expected. That’s why scooters are the main option we recommend, especially for those who are already experienced drivers and carry an International Driver’s Permit.
Many rental services, like Bikago, offer convenient options including drop-off and pick-up at your accommodation. With several branches across the island, they make it easy to book ahead or arrange rentals on arrival.
Rent a Scooter from Bikago
Private Drivers
If you’re planning day trips to multiple destinations in Bali, hiring private drivers is one of the most affordable and convenient ways to explore the island. These drivers are often very knowledgeable, making it easy to plan your day. You can share a list of places you want to visit, and they’ll help organize everything smoothly in one go. It’s a smart option when you want to see a lot without wasting time figuring things out on your own.
For larger groups, this option brings great value and avoids the hassle of getting multiple taxis. You can easily arrange a driver using an online booking form, which makes the process simple and quick. Once booked, your private driver will handle the route and schedule, so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
Hire a Bali Private Car Rental with Driver via Klook
Online Taxis (Ride apps: Grab and Gojek)
For A-to-B journeys like moving between your accommodation and a specific attraction, many travelers prefer using online taxis like Grab or Gojek — both of which work similarly to Uber. All you need to do is download the app, create an account, and then order a car or scooter taxi from almost any place on the island.
This makes getting around Bali easy and efficient. Just keep in mind that there are some Gojek-free zones, so it’s important to be aware of them before you travel. You’ll also need to ensure that you have mobile data to use the app effectively.
Get Started: Download Grab (for Apple | Android) or Gojek (for Apple | Android)
Step 10: What to Pack for Bali
Packing for Bali is pretty simple once you know what to expect. Think lightweight clothes for the heat, a few modest outfits for temple visits, swimwear for the beaches, and good walking shoes for exploring. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a rain jacket if you’re visiting during the wet season. Need a complete checklist?
Read our full guide here: Bali Packing List: What to Pack for Bali? (Guide & Pro Tips)
Step 11: Prepare Your Travel Documents
Before you head to the airport, make sure all your travel documents are sorted—this will save you time, stress, and potential headaches when arriving in Bali.
Essentials to Prepare:
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
- Visa: If you’re from an eligible country and staying under 60 days, apply for the e-VOA before arriving in Bali to skip airport queues and save time.
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, trip delays, or cancellations.
- NEW (2024): Complete the SATUSEHAT Health Pass 2–3 days before departure—required for all travelers entering Indonesia.
- Tourist Tax Payment: Pay the Bali tourist tax (IDR 150,000) online before you go via Love Bali and save the QR code.
- Customs Declaration: Fill out the Electronic Customs Form (E-CD) within 72 hours of your arrival.
- Accommodation Info: Keep your first hotel address handy—it may be required on arrival.
- Return Flight Ticket: You may be asked to show proof of onward travel at immigration.
Optional but Useful:
- Local SIM card – Not mandatory, but super useful for Grab rides and Google Maps.
- Airport transfer booked – Optional, but helpful if your flight arrives late.
Bonus tip: Print your documents and save digital copies on your phone. You never know when your battery or internet might fail!
With the right planning, your Bali vacation will be everything you dreamed of — and more. Take your time, go with the flow, and don’t forget to leave room for some spontaneity.
Selamat liburan (Happy holidays)!
