School holidays are coming, and that means the annual pilgrimage of Australian families to warmer shores begins. For 1.248 million Australians each year, those warmer shores are in Indonesia. Trips to our northern neighbour have increased by 546 per cent in the last decade according to Traveller, and the country has become Australia’s most visited, with a huge portion of Aussie travelers hitting up Bali for some much needed R&R.
And while your mind might already be reclining on a sun-soaked beach, there is a long list of things to do before taking off, including putting together a packing list, clothes to wear, and essentials to take along for the journey. Things to take for a trip can make or break your holiday so don’t be left short-changed and regretting leaving something off the list. Never fear, BHG to the rescue, with our comprehensive guide on what to pack for Bali.
Clothing items
Let’s kick off your ‘what to pack for Bali’ guide with the fun stuff; the clothing. Beaches, bars, and natural wonders, dressing for comfort is key on your trip to Bali. But that doesn’t mean chucking a single bikini or speedo into your suit case and heading on your merry way. You’ll need a few more essentials…
Scarf – “Instead of reaching for the airlines blanket, bring a large scarf that can be used as a blanket, as well as a scarf, sarong or skirt on your travel” recommends Laura Tebb, travel-guru from The Leisure.
Closed shoes – Yes, although you’ll be living on the beach and wearing thongs the majority of the time, dirt roads and lots of walking will mean that your feet will need protection. Look after them, and pack some closed-toe shoes or sneakers.
Thongs – Purely for transport from your villa to the sand.
Shorts – You could opt for long pants as well, but the Bali heat means shorts are acceptable attire in most establishments.
Shirts – You may want to work on your tan around the clock, but be sun safe. Pack a shirt AND wear it.
Hat – ‘No hat; no play’. One of the most well known Aussie marketing slogans and one that applies well into adulthood. Protect yourself from the elements even when you’re on holiday.
Sunglasses – That’s right, get shady, wear your sunnies. The sun bouncing off the ocean is beautiful, but so is your eyesight, so remove the glare and stay protected.
Swimwear – If this wasn’t already in your mind, I’m not sure what you were planning to do in Bali. Pack a few pairs to give the used ones time to dry (and of course buy a few fresh pairs for those Instagram shots).
Underwear – … you’d be surprised how many people forget this one in the excitement of packing.
Day trip items
Bali is a beautiful natural landscape, so it’s warranted that you’ll want to do some day trips to local hotspots, watering holes, and villages. However what isn’t warranted is living recklessly, leaving waste, and being unprepared. Pack the following items to reduce your impact on the local environment, limit your plastic usage, and to make sure you’re prepared for anything a day in the tropics can throw at you.
Daypack – this can be a small foldable backpack or canvas bag that fits nicely into your larger luggage, but unfold enough to hold essentials for a day of adventuring.
Water bottle – Staying hydrated in the Bali heat is a must, so make sure a water bottle is always within reach. Keep on top of your hydration, drinking water before the symptoms of thirst kick in.
Camera – I know, I know… we all have our phones on us at all times, which means that a camera is never far away. But just for argument’s sake, what happens if you decide to you want to use your vacay as a chance to disconnect from the world and enjoy your surroundings? Oh, and you still want to
Chargers – Phone and camera chargers plus a reliable adapter. Remember them. OK? In fact, put this article down and head to your suitcase now. Put them in, then come back and continue. And throw your Passport in while you’re there.
Nightlife items
Going out in Bali is a rite of passage (well, maybe not if you’re there with the kids). But as with going out at night anywhere, safety needs to be a major priority. Be prepared and you’re already on track to having a good time.
Money pouch – It may be the nerdy stuff of nightmares, but pack an over-the-shoulder money pouch than can fit underneath your shirt. It doesn’t have to be bulky, and unless your dressed in your tightest attire, most people won’t even notice it’s on you.
Toiletries
Bandaids –
Sunscreen – “The weather in Bali is hot and the sun is smouldering so make sure you bring a hefty dose of non-greasy sunscreen,” says Laura. “This will be your go-to item from the beach to arvo drinks.”
Insect Repellent – Laura continues “from the villa pools, sunset drinks by the water – tropical mosquitoes are everywhere. Don’t go home looking like you have a bad case of chickenpox and invest in a quality Mosquito repellent.”
Mini-size – Another one of Laura’s top Bali tips, “avoid packing large items and invest in travel-sized toiletries, allowing you more space in your suitcase for all of you your new purchases!”
Medication – To avoid spending your holiday hanging out in the bathroom with a case of the infamous Bali Belly make sure you have a box of Travelan Diarrhea Tablets handy for those less than pleasant circumstances.
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