What Not To Do in Bali: Avoid These Common Mistakes on Your Holiday

If you’re planning a trip to Bali, then we don’t doubt that you’re getting excited about the things you’ll do during your trip. But if you’ve ever wondered what you shouldn’t do whilst you’re here - allow us to fill you in. Keeping these rules in mind will help you avoid making common mistakes that can make your trip stressful, or worse, end rather ungracefully. 

Pura Ulun Danu Batur is one of the most beautiful temples in Bali, and it’s a place you shouldn’t miss when vacationing here.

Understand Which Visa You Need: 

One of the first things you need to do before traveling to Bali is to understand which visa you need. Many travelers face unnecessary complications simply because they haven't properly researched their visa requirements beforehand. 

Passport Validity

Before you apply for your visa, make sure that your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your intended date of arrival. This is a strict requirement, and you will be denied entry if your passport expires within six months. Don't make the expensive mistake of arriving at the airport only to be turned away – check your passport's expiration date well in advance of your trip.

Applying For A Visa 

Different nationalities have different entry requirements for Indonesia. Some can get visa-free entry or visa on arrival, whereas others need to apply for a visa beforehand. Check our VOA page for more info. As such, it’s a good idea to: 

• Check your nationality's eligibility status well in advance

• Allow at least a couple of weeks for visa processing if you need to apply beforehand

• Consider your intended length of stay and activities when choosing a visa type

Don’t Overstay 

Overstaying on your visa can result in fines or penalties, which usually amount to 1 million rupiah per day. It could also result in being denied entry to Indonesia in the future or being deported. To make sure you don’t overstay, check your visa expiration date and apply for extensions in advance. Make sure you plan around public holidays - sometimes, they can affect processing times and slow things down. 

Overstaying in Indonesia can be a very unpleasant and expensive experience. Make sure your visa stays valid while in Indonesia.

Buy Travel Insurance 

Although Bali is considered a safe place to visit, it’s important to make sure you have proper health/travel insurance. 

Why? 

• Medical emergencies can become really expensive, especially if they involve surgery or medical evacuation 

• Scooter accidents are quite common 

• Quality medical care may require evacuation to other countries

When you buy insurance, make sure that you are covered for scooter and motorcycle accidents and medical evacuation, as well as any adventure related activities you’d like to do whilst on holiday.  

Respecting Local Laws

Bali is known for many things - but its unique culture is one of things that truly stands out. With such a rich culture, there are many local laws and customs that are probably different from your home country. Getting an understanding of local laws and customs is a good way to make sure you have a nice experience.   

Substance Related Regulations

• Indonesia has strict laws regarding drugs and controlled substances

• CBD products are illegal, regardless of their legal status in your home country. Be careful of your baggage if you’ve been travelling from Thailand or other areas where edibles or CBD products are legal

• Bringing in any prohibited substances can result in severe legal consequences

• Be especially careful if traveling from countries where certain substances are legal

Cultural Awareness

Bali is home to millions of Indonesians and not just a holiday destination. Although Balinese are friendly and tolerant, it’s important to be respectful. You can do so by: 

• Dressing respectfully, especially when visiting temples or local areas

• Respect ceremonies and religious beliefs 

• Remember that Bali is not an ‘adult playground’ but a living community

Galungan is one of the major Hindu festivals celebrated by Hindus, particularly in Bali, Indonesia, which is usually marked by the presence of many Penjor or bamboo poles decorated with coconut leaves, flowers, and fruits.

Be Careful with Customs Charges 

Customs in Indonesia have some strict regulations that you should be aware of. Keep in mind that items over 500 USD could be subject to import duties or taxes. If you are travelling with expensive personal items, then remove the original packaging to avoid confusion, as you could be charged if the labels are left on. Keep your receipts handy and check with customs whether you   need to declare certain items before passing through customs inspection. 

Furthermore, ​when entering Indonesia, you are required to declare any cash or equivalent monetary instruments exceeding IDR 100,000,000 (approximately USD 6,175) to customs authorities. Failure to declare amounts over this threshold can result in administrative sanctions, including fines amounting to 10% of the total amount carried, up to a maximum of IDR 300,000,000

Don’t Work Without The Right Visa: 

Many travelers are unaware that certain activities are considered as ‘working’ according to Indonesian law. These include: 

• Promoting villa rentals on social media

• Managing property rentals

• Hosting events or workshops

• Offering goods and services for payment

If you’d like to avoid any problems, make sure you have the right visa for business and don’t promote work related activities on social media whilst on a tourist visa. To explore your options for working or running a business in Bali, please have a look at our News Section for more info, or don’t hesitate to reach out to us. 

Some Final Thoughts: 

Remember to keep a copy of your important documents and have some emergency money ready just in case. If you are well prepared and have these things in mind, your holiday should be smooth and fun. Whatever you do, remember to have a good time! 

If you need any help with the visa application, knowing what you need to prepare, staying longer term in Bali or you simply want to learn more about Balinese culture, we’re here to help. You can browse our website which is full of useful resources about Balinese culture and travel, or for visa related queries, feel free to contact us directly via Whatsapp or at our office in Pererenan.

Written by Team Bali Solve

07 April 2025