The Ultimate Bali Travel Guide – Part 1

From Pre-Departure Preparation to Escaping the Airport Like a Pro

Bali is one of the most popular destinations for travellers from around the world.
Yet surprisingly, much of the information you'll find online is outdated or incomplete.

After multiple trips and plenty of trial and error, I realised one thing: Most people waste their first few hours in Bali.

They spend too much time looking for an ATM, overpay for transport, struggle with SIM cards, or exchange money at poor rates. Before they know it, half the day is gone.

This guide covers everything you need to know from what to pack before your flight to leaving the airport quickly and efficiently.

What to Prepare Before Your Flight

1. Bring a Sarong

Bali is home to countless beautiful temples, and many require visitors to wear a sarong.

Popular examples include

Uluwatu Temple

Tanah Lot Temple

Tirta Empul Temple

Although sarongs are often available to rent at the entrance, bringing your own is more comfortable, more hygienic, and makes for much better photos.

If you're planning to buy one in Bali, local lifestyle brands such as Bali Pusarong and Mama Roxy offer stylish, high-quality options that double as great souvenirs.

2. Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Bali's beaches and coral reefs are breathtaking, but many conventional sunscreens contain chemicals that can damage marine ecosystems.

If you're planning to swim, snorkel, or spend time in the ocean, pack a reef-safe sunscreen.

It's better for the environment and just as effective at protecting your skin.

3. Download Offline Google Maps

Internet coverage is generally good across Bali, but there are still areas where mobile reception can be unreliable, especially around: Uluwatu, Northern Bali, Mountain roads

Before your trip, download the entire island on Google Maps for offline use.

You'll thank yourself later.

4. Pack a Small Day Bag

A large backpack quickly becomes inconvenient when you're moving between cafés, beach clubs, and sightseeing spots.

A lightweight crossbody bag is usually all you need.

Recommended essentials

Sunscreen

Power bank

Wallet

Water bottle

Sunglasses

A lightweight shirt or cover-up

Your First Stop After Landing

One of the biggest mistakes travellers make is wasting time searching for cash.

The easiest option?

5. Use a BNI ATM.

There's a convenient BNI ATM located just outside the airport, and it generally has shorter queues than most others.

Hidden ATM Tip!

1. After arriving, take the lift down towards the Visa on Arrival area.
2. Near the immigration section, you'll find an ATM area hidden behind temporary partition walls.
3. Many travellers walk straight past it, meaning the queues are often much shorter.
4. This simple tip can easily save you 30 to 40 minutes.

6. Consider Using an eSIM

Instead of buying a physical SIM card at the airport, consider installing an eSIM before your trip.

Benefits include

Instant internet access after landing

No waiting in SIM card queues

No need to swap physical SIM cards

Just make sure your phone supports eSIM before departure.

7. What NOT to Do at the Airport

Avoid accepting rides from drivers who approach you inside the arrivals hall.
Instead, book a ride through Grab or Gojek.

Walking a short distance to the designated pickup area can save you a significant amount of money compared to unofficial airport taxis.

8. Arriving Too Early? Here's a Great Solution

If your flight lands early in the morning or your hotel check-in is still several hours away, don't waste time sitting in a café with your luggage.

Instead, consider visiting Santai Lounge Bali.

This hidden gem is ideal for travellers who need a place to freshen up before starting their holiday.

Facilities include

Hot showers

Luggage storage

Comfortable lounge area

Air conditioning

Free Wi-Fi

Night pass options

It's especially useful before heading to a beach club or exploring the island.

A Smart First-Day Itinerary

Airport

↓

Withdraw cash from a BNI ATM

↓

Book a Grab

↓

Freshen up at Santai Lounge Bali

↓

Check into your hotel

↓

Enjoy a Balinese massage

↓

Visit a café

↓

Watch the sunset

↓

Finish the day at a beach club

This route helps minimise travel fatigue and lets you enjoy your first day instead of spending it dealing with logistics.

Pre-Departure Checklist

✔ Passport

✔ International Driving Permit (if you plan to rent a scooter or car)

✔ Sarong

✔ Reef-safe sunscreen

✔ Offline Google Maps

✔ Small day bag

✔ Power bank

✔ Universal travel adapter

✔ Credit or debit cards

✔ Some cash

✔ Grab app installed

✔ Gojek app installed

Coming Up Next...

The Ultimate Bali Travel Guide 2026 – Part 2

Why Choosing the Wrong Area Can Ruin Your Bali Trip

We'll compare Bali's most popular regions, including

Canggu
Seminyak
Uluwatu
Ubud
Nusa Dua
Sanur

You'll learn which area best suits your travel style, budget, and itinerary—because in Bali, choosing the right location can make all the difference.

---

TAEZA PRESENTS.