🌴 THE 24-HOUR BEFORE BALI CHECKLIST
Everything You Need to Do Before You Land (So You Don’t Panic at the Airport)
Christina Voge
Bali, Indonesia
✈️ 1. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
If you're from the US, UK, Australia, Canada + most EU countries, you can get a Visa on Arrival.
• Cost: 500,000 IDR ($35 USD)
• Valid for 30 days
• Can extend once for another 30 days
• Pay by card or cash
💡 Pro Tip: You can apply online before arrival to skip long lines.
🧾 2. Fill Out the E-Customs Form
Indonesia requires an online customs declaration.
• Fill it out within 48 hours before landing
• Screenshot the QR code
• They scan it before you exit
📱 3. Get an eSIM Before You Fly
This is one of the biggest stress savers.
Why:
• No hunting for SIM cards at the airport
• No overpaying tourist booths
• Data works the second you land
Most travelers use:
• Nomad
• Saily
If you’re staying long term you can also buy a local Telkomsel SIM after arrival. There are a lot of phone shops around Bali. I usually go to Happy Cell in Berawa. Being your passport or photo of your passport.
🚗 4. Download These Apps Before Landing
Do this while you still have WiFi.
Must-download:
• Gojek
• Grab
• WhatsApp
• Google Maps offline area (download Bali map)
You’ll use Gojek & Grab for:
• Airport rides
• Food delivery
• Scooter taxis
• Massage at your villa
💰 5. ATM & Money Tips
• Don’t exchange large amounts at airport kiosks
• Use official bank ATMs (BNI, Mandiri, BCA)
• Withdraw larger amounts to avoid multiple fees
• Always decline currency conversion at ATM
💡 Bali is still cash heavy in some areas. Especially when shopping at local stores.
🛵 6. Planning to Rent a Scooter?
You legally need:
• An International Driver’s Permit (IDP)
• Your home country license
No IDP = possible fines. I don’t have one, but at least make sure you’re wearing your helmet to avoid getting pulled over and fined.
If you’re not confident driving:
Hire a private driver instead (600k–800k IDR for 8 hours).
🌦 7. Check the Weather Season
Dry Season: April – October ☀️
Rainy Season: November – March 🌧
Rainy season does NOT mean it rains all day — but expect humidity + quick storms.
🧳 8. What NOT to Bring
• Expensive jewelry
• Prescription meds without documentation
• Large hair tools (voltage difference!)
Indonesia is strict about certain medications.
🏝 9. Choose the Right Area (Very Important)
Bali is BIG. Staying in the wrong area can ruin your vibe.
Quick breakdown:
Canggu → Trendy, social, digital nomads
Uluwatu → Cliffs, beaches, chill sunsets
Seminyak → Walkable, shopping, restaurants
Ubud → Jungle, wellness, yoga
Pick based on your travel personality.
🚨 10. Airport Exit Strategy
When you walk out of Denpasar Airport:
• Use Grab/Gojek pickup zone
• Or pre-book airport transfer
Typical ride prices if using a random Taxi-
Canggu → 250k–350k IDR
Uluwatu → 300k–400k IDR
Ubud → 350k–450k IDR
🌴 Final Tip Most Tourists Don’t Know
Traffic in Bali is REAL.
What looks like “20 minutes” on the map can take 45–60+ minutes.
Choose accommodation close to where you plan to spend most of your time.
💌 Want My Full Bali Guide?
Inside my full guide I share:
• My favorite restaurants
• Best beach clubs
• Hidden beaches
• Where I’d actually stay
• Exact villa/hotel recommendations
Op zoek naar dingen om te doen?
Bekijk mijn gids voor de beste gratis dingen om te doen, evenals routes en reistips om uw reis onvergetelijk te maken.