How to Stay Safe in Bali: 14 Top Tips for Solo Travelers

Visiting Bali, Indonesia can be a wonderful and enriching experience, but it is important to take steps to ensure your safety while traveling. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Research your destination: Before you travel, make sure to gather information about the local culture, customs, and any potential safety concerns. Reliable sources such as Lonely Planet or TripAdvisor can be useful for this.

2. Get travel insurance: Accidents and unexpected events can happen when traveling, so it’s important to protect yourself with travel insurance. Look for a policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen luggage.

3. Pack light and dress conservatively: Packing light will make it easier to move around and keep track of your belongings, and dressing conservatively will help you blend in with the local culture and avoid unwanted attention. Avoid wearing revealing clothing and remove your shoes before entering temples or other sacred sites.

4. Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid walking alone at night, and keep an eye on your valuables when in crowded areas. If you feel threatened or unsafe, don’t be afraid to seek help from the local authorities or your embassy.

5. Respect the culture: Bali is a devoutly religious island, so be respectful of local customs and religion.

6. Take care of your belongings: Lock your luggage when you are not using it, and don’t leave valuables unguarded in public areas.

7. Respect the environment: Remember to take care when touching or climbing trees, and never litter or pollute.

8. Stick to official maps and transportation information: Bali is a popular destination, so be sure to take care when using unofficial maps or transportation information. Stick to the official tourist destinations, transportation hubs, and accommodation options outlined in reliable sources.

9. Don’t overstay your visa: If you’re staying in Indonesia for more than 90 days, you’ll need a visa (check the requirements of your country before planning your trip). Make sure you have enough money to cover the cost of your visa extension (around US$25), as well as any other necessary expenses such as food and transportation while in Bali.

10. Drive defensively: When driving in Bali, be sure to follow all traffic laws and pay attention to your surroundings. Use common sense and be extra cautious when driving in unfamiliar areas.

11. Avoid high-risk activities: While it may be tempting to try extreme sports or engage in risky behaviors while on vacation, it is important to consider the potential consequences. Accidents can happen, and it is important to protect yourself and be aware of your limitations.

12. Stay informed: Keep up to date on local events and news while traveling in Bali. This can help you avoid potential safety risks and be aware of any changes to local laws or customs.

13. Stay healthy: It is important to take care of your physical health while traveling, especially in a new location. Make sure to drink plenty of water, eat healthy and balanced meals, and get enough rest. If you are traveling with any medications, be sure to bring enough for your entire trip and store them in a safe and secure place.

14. Be prepared for emergencies: Make a plan for what to do in case of an emergency, such as a natural disaster or medical issue. Keep the contact information for the local embassy and any necessary emergency services handy, and consider purchasing a local SIM card for your phone in case of an emergency.

By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Bali, Indonesia. Remember to stay informed, respect the local culture, take care of your belongings, and use common sense to keep yourself safe.

Have you been to Bali? If not, is it on your bucket list? I hope so! Please tell us your tips, or share the places you dream of visiting in Bali.