Ultimate Bali Packing Guide: Essentials for Your Island Getaway
- Infinite Milam
- Jun 13
- 5 min read
Whether you're coming with BeNomadic on our Bali Retreat in August 2025 or planning a trip on your own, there are a few items you absolutely will want to pack! Bali is a tropical paradise offering stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes -- so you don't need much to make the most of your adventure. Packing smart and light is key.
Below you will find a comprehensive packing guide for specific must-haves to ensure you're well-prepared for your Balinese escape. (Don't forget to pack your personal essential items as well! 🩲 😉)
Disclaimer: There are a few affiliate links below that may offer our team a percentage of any sales made from that direct link.
Clothing: Embrace Comfort and Culture
Lightweight Attire: Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Think tank tops, t-shirts, shorts, and flowy dresses to stay cool in the humid climate.
Swimwear: Pack multiple swimsuits for beach days, pool lounging, and water activities.
Compression Socks: great for the plane or long days on our feet. It's important to make sure you get the right size, whether that is small/medium or large/xlarge, you want to make sure they are effective.
Rain Coats/Poncho: With the unpredictable nature of the weather in Bali, having a rain jacket or poncho accessible is never a bad idea. Something easy and light weight is ideal. Here are my choices:
Modest Outfits: When visiting temples or local villages, it's respectful to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. A sarong or scarf can be handy for such occasions.
Evening Wear: A casual dress or smart-casual outfit is perfect for dining out or enjoying Bali's nightlife.
Footwear: Function Meets Style
Flip-Flops/Sandals: Ideal for the beach and casual outings. Easy to slip on and off when entering temples or homes.
Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring markets, trekking through rice terraces, or embarking on nature walks.
Water Shoes: Protect your feet during water activities or when exploring rocky shorelines.(Check out some of our favorites!) These water shoes are ideal for transitions. With a sleek look transitions from Beach to walking, then into the water again. You can dress them up or down, we’ve got a winner!!
🛌 Recommended Extras to Bring:
Sleeping Bag Liner: If you are like me, you want to be as comfortable as possible when you rest. I always bring a sleeping bag insert out of a personal preference of my own. Here are my favorites:
Both are great options, I just suggest washing before!
🧴 Toiletries & Health Essentials
No-Jet-Lag: The flight to Bali is LONG, and the time difference is huge, so our bodies will be effected. I highly suggest using a homeopathic like "No-Jet-Lag"to help offset this. These ones are plant based, and chewable.
Sunscreen: A high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen is crucial to protect your skin and marine life.
My choice for US Black and Brown folk! No White-Residue SPF! → Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
Insect Repellent: I'm not going to lie to you, in Bali, the mosquitoes will be there, especially during the rainy season, so it's best to come prepared! Here are a couple items I always bring with me whenever I'm traveling to a climate like Bali.
Insect Repellent Lotion, I use daily and contains Picaridin instead of DEET.
Personal Medications: Bring any necessary prescriptions, along with basics like pain relievers, antihistamines, and remedies for digestive issues.
First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any other essentials for minor injuries.
Hand Sanitizer: Don't forget to bring your favorite hand sanitizer, great for the plane, airport, and throughout the trip.
I personally like this one from The Honest Company and it kills 99.9% of Germs, is Hypoallergenic, and natural plus it's only a few dollars!
Activated Charcoal: I'm no nutritionist but think these are a great addition to your medicine bag as it supports digestive health and can naturally remove toxins and reduce bloating. These are the ones I personally take,
🎒 Accessories & Gadgets
Daypack: A lightweight backpack is perfect for day trips, carrying water, snacks, and other essentials.
Reusable Water Bottle: One of the best ways to stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste, is a great reusable water bottle. And while many accommodations offer water refill stations, I personally like having a bottle that has a built in purifier as well to make sure I am extra cautious, because you never know!
This is the one I have → GeoPress Water Purifier Bottle
Travel Adapter: Bali uses the European-style two-pin plugs (Type C and F). You definitely will want to pack a couple of these, and be sure to double check that they are compatible with the devices!
My advice is that you can't be too prepared when it comes to charging your devices, these are the adapters I recommend:
Portable Charger: Keep your devices powered during long excursions.
The Charmast Portable Charger is great and plugs directly into the wall for easy re-charging.
Tracking Tags/Tiles: On long trips like this, having some extra security for your belongings is never a bad idea. I personally use the Apple AirTags and Amazon has a pack of 4 for a good price:
I suggest dropping one in your checked luggage, your everyday bag with your important belongings, and on anything else you want to keep track of.
Dry Bag: Protect your electronics and valuables during water-based activities.
Check out this Pelican Marine Waterproof Phone Pouch
Portable Speaker:
I personally love the JBL 5 Clip!!
🧳 Packing Tips
Packing Cubes: Organize your luggage efficiently, making it easier to find items and maximize space.
Here are a couple I recommend:
Compression Packing Cubes, great for saving space.
Packing cubes and shoe bag, great for staying organized.
Moisture Absorption Packs: Bali is humid, and that humidity can greatly effect belongings, especially clothing (shoes!!) technology and food. These ones are sustainable and safe to use.
Laundry Bag: Separate dirty clothes to keep your suitcase fresh.
Our Advice → Take a Minimalist Approach: Bali's laid-back vibe means you can pack light. Remember, laundry services are affordable and widely available.
🌺 Cultural Considerations
Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when required, and be mindful of local traditions and etiquette.
Eco-Friendly Choices: Support Bali's environmental efforts by using reusable items and avoiding single-use plastics.
Embarking on a journey to Bali promises unforgettable experiences. With this packing guide, you're set to enjoy all the island has to offer, from its serene beaches to its rich cultural heritage. Safe travels and selamat jalan!
Comments