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Planning an adventure to Indonesia and wondering what to wear in Bali? This Bali packing list will show you exactly what you need to bring on your trip!
What to Pack for Bali
Table Of Contents
Bali is one of my most memorable destinations. There’s something magical about all the Indonesian islands. I’ve been there four times and I find it more extraordinary each time.
A packing list Bali is uniquely laid back and bohemian. Its a particularly popular vacation destination for surfers, scuba divers, and yogis and is an essential stop on every backpacker’s Southeast Asia itinerary, a cheap home base for digital nomads, and a sought-after location for spiritual retreats.
With a gorgeous tropical atmosphere, Bali fashion is generally laid-back and comfort-focused. When planning what to wear in Bali, it’s all about lightweight fabrics to keep you cool in the humidity!
(Editable) Printable Checklist
Printable Travel Checklist
If you need an all-in-one resource for planning, look no further, because we’ve developed a printable travel checklist that will make it all super simple!
The travel checklist features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently including a list of things to bring on vacation and other helpful reminders. It includes all the items listed in various categories above and has spaces where you can fill in your own information:
- Write in an item’s weight (lighter items means less overall baggage weight).
- Note if you need to purchase something or if you already own it.
- Organize where you’ll pack each item.
Our readers looove our checklist! Check out our Ultimate Packing List for Vacation to access the editable checklist, or download the print-friendly PDF version here for easy, stress-free packing.
Columbia Freezer Maxi Dress | Olukai Ohana Beach Sandals
What Do People Wear in Bali?
Bali style is very relaxed, especially in beach towns. Locals and tourists alike can be seen in shorts and tees or flowy dresses. There are a lot of sporty activities to do, so beachwear and activewear are common, too. You’ll also see lots of vibrant color palettes in Bali, so this is a great destination to have fun with your outfits and add some bright colors to the mix!
That said, Bali has a largely Hindu population and a rich, spiritually rooted culture. The island is full of beautiful temples and other religious or culturally significant sites that require modest outfits.
Shorts and coverups are fine at the beach, but when visiting temples, small towns, or non-touristy destinations, long flowy pants or dresses that fall below the knee are ideal. If you’re wearing a sleeveless top, you may also need a light wrap to cover your shoulders.
Old Navy High-Waisted Linen-Blend Pull-On Shorts | Caslon Solid Linen Blend Camp Shirt
Bali Weather
Located in the tropics, Bali is generally hot and humid all year round. Daytime temperatures typically range from 75-90°F / 24-32°C. While the temperatures don’t vary too much throughout the year, there are two main seasons in Bali: the dry season (April to October) and the rainy season (November to March).
The dry season is a tad hotter but has slightly less humidity. With clear skies and innumerable activities to partake in, the dry season is usually the most popular time of year for tourists to visit. The rainy season is quite humid and sees plenty of rain showers, though only usually in short spurts. It’s incredibly lush and vibrant this time of year, and beachgoing isn’t as popular, but there are still so many fun jungle and city adventures to be had.
The Bukit Peninsula has far less rain than any part of the island, while in Central Bali, you can see cloudy skies and rain drizzle at any time of the year. It can also be cooler at higher elevations like Kintamani or Bedugul, so you’ll need a good jacket to keep away the chills, especially at night.
Now, check out this Bali travel packing list that will ensure you have an enjoyable and comfortable trip!
Shirt | Longsleeve | Blouse | Sleeveless | Pants | Dress | Shorts | Skirts | Bag | Hat | Sunglasses | Sandals
Packing List for Bali
Pact Softspun V-Neck Tank Sizes XS-3X
Tops for Bali
When it comes to what pack for Bali trip, pick out tops that allow your skin to breathe. Cotton and linen are the best, naturally breathable fabrics for the humid weather.
Bring a few basic t-shirts as the foundation for your day-to-day outfits. Whether worn with denim shorts or skirts, they’re always an easy go-to. A tank top will feel especially cool when exploring under the sun, and it’ll pair with everything else you have packed.
The Pact Softspun tank is a solid choice that’s made from 100% organic cotton and feels heavenly in the heat. It’s comfortable and versatile, with a slimming fit and a flattering hemline.
J.Crew Etienne Oversized Linen Shirt Sizes XXS-3X
For what to wear to Bali in temples, a slouchy linen blouse will look chic and cool you down, and it can take you to dinner, too!
A white tee is also great in the Bali heat.
Quince 100% European Linen Shorts Sizes XS-XL
Bottoms for Bali
In a tropical destination like Bali, you’ll want pants that are highly breathable and will keep you mobile, as you’ll be walking around a lot and likely going on some active excursions.
Shorts are always an easy option for your daily adventures, whether hitting the beach, going on a waterfall hike, or making friends at the Ubud Monkey Forest. Linen shorts are chic and breezy, but you can never go wrong with classic jean shorts!
Quince’s linen shorts have a chic and beachy vibe. They have a comfortable drawstring waist, high-quality European linen fabric, and functional pockets.
Caslon Wide Leg Pull-On Linen Blend Pants Sizes XXS-XL
If you’ll be visiting temples or a less touristy neighborhood, opt for flowy linen pants to be respectful of the local culture while staying cool and stylish. Linen pants are a fabulous staple because you can dress them up for dinner and drinks with a blouse and cute sandals!
Readers love the Caslon linen pants for their chic wide leg silhouette, functional linen blend fabric, and effortless pull-on style!
In addition to pants, a midi or maxi skirt is another versatile piece that’s perfect for Bali. They’re cute and feminine, work well for cooler evenings, and will keep mosquitos away from your legs. They’re also modest enough to visit places of worship.
Athleta Elation V-Neck Hybrid Dress Sizes XXS-3XL
Dresses for Bali
Dresses are a must in Bali! They’re cool, comfortable, and fun. Pair them with sneakers by day and platform slides by night.
In scorching temps, you’ll love the fresh feeling of a moisture-wicking dress. Linen dresses also offer exceptional breathability and naturally moisture-wicking properties!
Athleta’s Elation dress is flowy and light as air. The fabric is quick-drying, and it has UPF 50, so it can easily handle all of those hot and sweaty days of trekking through lush jungles and shopping in Ubud.
Faherty Isha Dress Sizes XXS-XXL
The Isha dress from Faherty is another vacation-ready option. Its loose and comfortable shape looks elegant and polished. Made of 100% cotton, it’s a light and airy option that you can wear to a nice restaurant or throw on over a swimsuit!
A mini dress is cute for a night out on the town or lounging by the water, but you may also want to have a midi or maxi dress to wear when visiting temples.
Readers also suggest bringing a pair of anti-chafe shorts to wear under dresses to prevent any discomfort as you walk around in the heat!
Quince 100% European Linen Square Neck Jumpsuit Sizes XS-XL
Jumpsuits for Bail
Like dresses, jumpsuits, and rompers make easy, all-in-one outfits for travel. Whether sightseeing or getting drinks, jumpsuits are always a stylish and comfy choice.
If you want something more elevated for nights out in Bali, opt for a linen jumpsuit like this one from Quince. It’s chic, flattering, and a dream in the heat!
Athleta Brooklyn Utility Romper Sizes 0-16
On active days, a short romper with technical fabric will keep you cool, dry, and comfortable. The Athleta Brooklyn romper was made for an active day in the sun, with breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that also offers UPF 40+ sun protection.
Columbia Arcadia Ii Jacket Sizes XS-3XL
Jackets for Bali
Though it’s hot, you should still pack a jacket for Bali. Evenings and early mornings are typically cooler. You might feel some chillier breezes depending on your location and the time of year, too, especially in areas of higher altitudes like Kintamani.
And if you’re traveling in the rainy season, you’ll absolutely need a waterproof layer. Bring a lightweight, packable rain jacket that’s easy to stash in your day bag when not in use.
The Columbia Arcadia packable rain jacket is light and breathable, so it’s perfect for rainy summer days!
If you’re not expecting rain, bring a lightweight summer jacket. Denim jackets are perfect for warm evenings, and light sweatshirts are great for early morning hikes or evening strolls on the beach.
Another lightweight layer you should have in Bali is a travel wrap. The top pick with readers is the Mersea Travel Wrap, an elegant, versatile, and cozy option!
Wraps or shawls are handy if you’ll be wearing a lot of tank tops, as you’ll need to cover your shoulders at religious or cultural sites. They’re also great for shading yourself from the sun throughout the day.
Shoes for Bali
The best shoes for Southeast Asia are definitely comfortable sandals, as they’ll support your feet throughout walking-heavy days while letting them breathe. Bring a cute, versatile pair that you can dress up for nights out!
The Teva Midform Infinity sandals are seriously cute, with a stylishly strappy design and a platform sole coupled with a durable, fully water-friendly construction. From nature walks to beach days to dinner, these cuties can do it all!
Readers often suggest hiking sandals for Bali, because they’re great for walking, hiking, and any other sporty activities you might be doing. They’d also work well in the rain and have excellent traction.
If you prefer the protective fit of sneakers, just make sure they’re lightweight and breathable!
By far, the most popular style of shoes among locals in Bali is flip flops, so definitely pack a pair! Perfect for the beach and strolling around town, they’re an easy staple that you’ll get a LOT of use out of during your trip!
The Reef Cushion Breeze flip flops are always a favorite with readers, boasting soft straps and a heavenly footbed that feels like you’re walking on clouds!
Quince Italian V-Neck Bikini Top and Bottom Sizes XS-XL
Swimwear for Bail
If you plan on basking in the sun or swimming in the ocean, pack a few bathing suits! Anything goes in terms of swimwear, so bring what makes you feel comfortable and confident.
Wear a fun, colorful bikini; in fact, pack 2! Quince’s bikini top and full-coverage bikini bottoms make a lovely set that offers enough support for beach games and splashing around in the waves. It’s simple and flattering with a fun pop of color, and it has built-in UPF 50+ sun protection as an added bonus!
If you’re going to learn surfing, consider a rashguard shirt. If you plan on doing other water sports, like scuba diving, see our category on this popular pastime.
Back From Bali Sarong Beach Cover up
Pair your cute bathing suit with a slouchy, versatile button-down or sarong as a coverup. I encourage you to buy a sarong locally, but if you want to bring one, the Back from Bali sarongs are so beautiful and highly popular!
One piece bathing suits are also great because they’re a bit more secure and can be worn for sportier activities like snorkeling and surfing. Plus, you could simply throw a skirt on over it and head into town for a bite to eat!
Pact Beachside Linen Crochet Cover-Up Sizes XS-3X
You could also bring a more traditional coverup for lounging around on the sand. However, if you want to mix and match outfits, readers love the versatility of beach dresses, which make cute coverups but double as normal dresses for other occasions!
Pact’s Beachside Crochet coverup is a fabulous example, with a summery crochet knit that offers the perfect balance of slightly see-through yet not too revealing.
Wallaroo Hat Company Victoria Fedora Hat
Accessories for Bali
With the shining sun, hot temperatures, and high humidity, there are a few essential sun-safe accessories to bring with you.
A sun hat and sunglasses are a must for keeping your face and eyes protected from the strong sunshine.
The Wallaroo Victoria sun hat is a reader favorite, and for good reason! It checks all the boxes, from a secure fit to UPF 50+ sun protection to a stylish look. This is a classic that’ll look cute with any outfit!
If beach days are on the itinerary, bring a Turkish towel to lay out on and dry off with. These towels are incredible for travel, as they’re thin and lightweight yet highly absorbent and quick-drying! They’re also really pretty and make the perfect background for some beachside photos!
This Smyrna Turkish towel is extra large, ideal for sprawling out on, and easily drying off after jumping in the water. You could even use it as a shower towel during your trip.
Don’t forget sunscreen! Readers like sunscreen sticks for easy re-application throughout the day.
Lastly, pack a roomy beach bag to store all of your essentials!
Osprey Transporter Wheeled 38L Carry-On | Travelpro Maxlite 5 19″ Carry on
What is the Best Luggage for Bali?
Packing for Bali means choosing luggage that’s lightweight, practical, and durable enough to handle a mix of city streets, resort pathways, beachside adventures, and uneven terrain. Whether you’re staying in Seminyak, exploring Ubud’s rice terraces, or hopping to the Gili Islands, your luggage should support your itinerary not slow you down.
There are various things to consider when choosing the best luggage for Bali, including carry-on size restrictions for flights, weight limits, rugged streets and sidewalks, and accommodations with stairs or no elevators.
Need help choosing the perfect luggage setup for Bali? Start Here:
- Best Lightweight Luggage Under 5 lbs
- Best International Carry On Luggage
- Backpack Vs Suitcase: Which is Right for My Trip?
- Medium Checked Luggage: Lightweight 24″–26″ Suitcases
- Ultimate Guide to the Best Personal Item Bag
- Packable Duffle Bags
Compass Rose Carryon Packing Cubes
Don’t Forget Your Packing Cubes
No matter how long you’re staying, packing cubes help you use your space efficiently while keeping everything organized. They make unpacking and repacking fast and stress-free.
Our readers swear by the Compass Rose Packing Cubes, now available in two sizes:
- Slim: 13 x 5 x 2.8 inches
- Medium: 13 x 8.5 x 2.8 inches
Both fit inside international carry-ons and help compress your clothing. Use the medium for bulkier or folded items and the slim for rolled clothes or smaller pieces.
Check out our video on how to pack with cubes, it’s super easy!
Calpak Luka 15 inch Laptop Backpack | Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag
Best Purse or Day Bag for Bali
If you’ll be out and about all day exploring Bali from beach days in Seminyak to jungle treks in Ubud and temple visits in Uluwatu you’ll want a day bag that’s comfortable, secure, and spacious enough to carry your essentials.
In busy areas like beach clubs, markets, and crowded tours, pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, so opting for a bag with anti‑theft features such as RFID blocking, locking zippers, and hidden compartments offers extra peace of mind.
Here are the top bag styles travelers love for Bali:
- Anti-Theft Crossbody Bags – Great for crowded areas, tours, and open markets. Features like locking zippers, RFID pockets, and slash‑resistant straps help keep values secure.
- Classic Crossbody Purses – Perfect for beach strolls, café hopping, and temple visits. Easy to wear and access, while staying stylish and comfortable.
- Cute Backpacks – Ideal for long days exploring rice terraces, waterfalls, or scenic viewpoints. Hands‑free, roomy, and comfortable.
- Convertible Backpacks – Versatile styles that switch from backpack to tote to crossbody depending on the day’s plan great for beach‑to‑dinner transitions.
- Packable Backpacks – Great for day trips outside of where you’re staying or for unexpected shopping finds. Easy to store in your luggage when not in use.
- Sling Bags and Belt Bags – Lightweight and minimalist options for travelers who want just the essentials while exploring temples, beaches, and local markets.
- Phone Crossbody Bags – Perfect for minimalists and photo lovers. Keeps your phone secure and easily accessible while snapping photos of Bali’s stunning scenery.
Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet
Suggested Anti-Theft Accessories for Bali
Safety is a concern whenever you travel, and in busy, touristy areas, pickpocketing can be a common occurrence. Taking a few safety precautions can help you feel less stressed during your travels. Be aware of your surroundings and be practical about your belongings.
Be cautious about where you stash your cash so you don’t fall prey to muggings and pickpocketing. Add items like the Secret Bra Pocket and Money Belts to your packing list.
And be mindful of purse snatchers! They either slash the bottom of your bag so the content falls out or they slash the strap.
Wear your purse strap across your body and the zipper towards the front. For extra security, check out the “theft-proof” bags featured in this post about crossbody purses.
Safety is a concern whenever you travel, and in busy, touristy areas, pickpocketing can be a common occurrence. Taking a few safety precautions can help you feel less stressed during your travels.
These are articles with other suggested anti-theft products:
What are your tips on what to wear in Bali? Share in the comments!
For more Asia packing posts:
- The Packing Guide to Backpacking Southeast Asia
- Best Shoes to Wear to Southeast Asia
- What to Wear in Japan
- What to Wear in Singapore
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These are my favorite posts! It’s easier to mimic an existing packing list from pictures than it is to just invent one! This Bali list was the first one I found and followed on our first big international vacay. Since then, I always come back to this page!
Thank you so much for this! Heading to Bali in June and there are some great tips here.
Robin I am also going in June! See you there my beautiful friend 🥰🌸
Reading what to pack is my favorite! Try Bali lists is great…having been there once already, I have a general idea of what to bring! An added bonus is laundry service is cheap and readily available. We used it last time and we’re able to back light for a 10’day trip!
Hi Alex,
I’m planning a trip to Bali in summer 2023 with my husband for anniversary celebration. Is 2 weeks enough time in Bali and which areas do you recommend us visiting?
Hi there
I am going to Bali in October with my best friend to celebrate my birthday
this post has been the most helpful to ease my anxiety SO thankyou for this.
I will be staying in Ubud and in seminyak . Any great things like shopping places etc will be helpful to.
Hi Megan, so happy you found the post helpful!! Let me look into this for you! Have the most amazing time with your best friend and Happy Birthday!!! 🙂
I love reading your lists and travel tips. I have two separate trips planned later this year to Koh Samui and Bali so I will be taking your advise and I see how I go.
I have been sharing your pages with my friends too!
Hi Kathy, thank you so much for your lovely feedback, so glad you love the travel tips and thank you for sharing our page!! Have a fantastic time on your trips to Bali and Koh Samui!! 🙂
Hi just wanna that is it ok to travel in bali on dec? because we are planning to go in Bali to celebrate our christmas and what are your advises or recommendation. Thank you in advance
Hi Bella, thank you for your question! Have a look at these TFG articles on bali for some ideas: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/bali-travel-fashion-ubud-street-style/ https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-bali/ Hope these help. Have a fantastic trip to Bali!! 🙂
Hi Me and my wife are going to bali very soon on our honeymoon. So please suggest the dress for beaches and hotel swimming pool because my eagerly to wait wearing bikinis and short dresses.
Hi Karan, thank you for your question! Have a look at this article on Bali: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/bali-style-what-to-wear-in-bali/ Also have a look at these articles about dresses to wear on the beach: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/beach-dresses/ https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-stylish-dress-sandals-for-your-beach-getaway/ Congratulations, have a fantastic time on your honeymoon! 🙂
My husband and I are going to Bali soon this post has been very useful. thks
Hi Mandy, thank you for your feedback, glad you found the article helpful! 🙂
Hi Alex, thanks for the info. Traveling to Bali next week with 6 other friends. Few are getting there early. I’m wondering, how safe it is to take a taxi at night? And, is it expensive? Any tip on what to look for if taking taxi so we don’t get rip off?
thank you
Hi Alex – I am traveling to Bali and Thailand in July. I planned on bringing only warm weather clothes, but I recently booked a volcano trek in Bali and I’m wondering how cold it will get and what I’ll need for it. It’s a sunrise trek so we are starting out super early in the morning. Any tips? Love your blog. Thanks!
Hi Kristyn, I would definitely plan to bring hiking trousers (or leggings) and a fleece jacket or similar. I did one in Mt Banur and it was beautiful but cold in the morning. Bring a head lamp like this one: https://travelfashiongirl.com/headlamp/
I just booked a trip to Bali, single female. Staying in Ubud. Are the sunrise trekking trips down mountain safe for single female? how much do those normally cost? I was going to purchase through the homestay I’m staying at.
Looking forward to rejuvenation. Should I bring mosquito spray?
Hi Mel! Yes to mosquito spray (don’t find it as effective over there), sunrise trekking seemed safe when I did it (see if you can join other travelers once you’re there, this is common), they vary in price I think I paid $20-$40 usd. Have a great trip!
I’m going to Bali next month, I’m very excited specially when I get to run w/my grand children Matthew & Isabella on the beach. Love them with all My heart.
Hi Alex,
This list is great! I love the Birkenstock sandals you pictured, I was wondering what is the name of the style? Thanks!
They’re the Gizeh 🙂
Hi there! We are planning a trip in August 2017.. I am wondering how bad mosquitos are? I know in the resort areas most everywhere has air conditioning so they don’t deal with mosquitos, but I also like to get off the beaten path. Any issues with local insects?
Hi Janet, even in resorts you should plan for mosquitos. These are our best tips: https://travelfashiongirl.com/best-insect-repellent/
Hi Alex,th
Getting ready to go to Bali alone in a couple of weeks. I will be flying from Thailand. My question is, I will be arriving on Tuesday afternoon on the 12th of April. Do you think it is safe for me to take a taxi by myself from Denpasar airport to Ubud? I heard it is an hour trip or more.
Just want that I safe. I am attractive, tall, thin and blonde and usually attract attention.
Thank you,
Anna
Not all exotic islands are tropical. Check out this one in Labrador Canada. It should be on everyone’s bucket list, island or not
thanks for the tip!
Hello Travel Fashion Ladies! I’m going to Bali this December 2016. I was wondering if you would recommend a poncho or if an umbrella would suffice for the rain during this time of year? Thank you in advance for your help!
I would do some kind of poncho or coat. The wind can be really bad with the heavy rains so an umbrella wouldn’t be as useful! Happy travels! Enjoy Bali!
Thank you so much! I appreciate your advice!!
I am debating where to stay, Kuta or Seminyak. My 15 year old daughter and I are going and looking forward to beautiful water, bali culture , yoga and holistic experience, any recommendations? Is their a market we should not miss?
Thanks so much!!!
Hi Sonia, I’d stay in Ubud instead of Kuta or Seminyak if you’re after culture and yoga. Kuta has a beach but it’s not the best and it’s more of a party destination. Seminkyak is more developed and also by the sea. While Ubud isn’t by the beach it’s in a breathtaking setting. For the sea I’d recommend visiting Candidasa on the East or the north of Bali. You can also visit the nearby Gili Islands on a trip from just about any town in Bali. It’s gorgeous!
I went to Bali in May this year and found your Bali travel tips and packing list invaluable. It took the stress out of packing and I had a great time. Love your blog and will be sure to check out your tips for my travels to Sri Lanka next year.
Yay! I’m glad you found it useful!
I’d like to print this list without including all the extra pictures and side bars. I tried to copy and paste, but that didn’t work. I’m going to Bali in May with my daughter. I really enjoyed your website and find this extremely helpful. Now I know I will be packing the right things and not stress over it. Thank you!
Thanks Connie! Happy to help 🙂 We have copy and paste disabled to prevent copyright infringement and plagiarism. We apologize for the inconvenience. Hope you have a great trip!
I am going to Ubud on February 14th and super excited. I am going alone. I need a much needed break from life.
I am having trouble getting together what I need to take. I’m going to be staying in a hostel and worry about leaving my luggage while out and about.
Hi Annette, Ubud is a wonderful, safe, and comfortable destination. You’re going to love it! It has delicious international restaurants, a vibrant female expat community, and the natural beauty of Bali of course. I highly recommend the yoga center Radiantly Alive and their holistic therapies.
Leaving your stuff in a hostel is usually pretty safe so long as you have a bag that locks. Here a few other hostel essentials: https://travelfashiongirl.com/backpacking-checklist-top-10-hostel-travel-essentials/ For more ideas, take a look at these street style pics from Ubud: https://travelfashiongirl.com/bali-travel-fashion-ubud-street-style/ have an awesome trip!
This article is just what I was looking for- thank you! Heading to Bali for the first time next week and I’m really excited.
Thanks again- love your blog!
Katie xx
Thanks Katie!
wow! I cannot explain to you how useful this post has been for me. I´m going to Bali next month and I´m a little nervous. I want this trip perfect 🙂 so thank you very much for your help
Thanks! have a great time 🙂
Hi Alex
What would you say is the price range in USD for clothes in Bali?
Hi Cali! The range is as cheap as $5 and as high as $500. Depending on the quality you are looking for, many tourist markets sell tank tops at $3, sundresses for $5, and up. Sandals average $15. Be prepared to bargain hard.
You can also buy regular priced clothing at the brand name retail stores too. I paid full price for my Roxy purse in one of the surf shops in Kuta. You can also find BEYOND expensive “designer” yoga clothing in Ubud. Hope this helps!
Thanks Alex! I was debating whether i should pack really minimal and just purchase clothes out there. I dont wish to spend more than $50 but i dont want the low quality items either (think typical cheap clothing at thai mkts)
I would just pack light – the clothing is similar to Thai markets. Have a good trip!