The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Bali Travel Budget (2025)

/ Indonesia, South East Asia / By

Ah, Bali – the Island of the Gods! ✨ From its sun-kissed beaches and terraced rice paddies to ancient temples and vibrant nightlife, this Indonesian paradise has something for everyone. But, how much does a trip to Bali really cost? I’ve just come back from an unforgettable trip, and I’m here to share the nitty-gritty of budgeting for Bali in 2024. Grab a coffee, and let’s dive in! ☕️ – Bali Travel Budget

Flights: Getting to Bali

Depending on where you’re flying from, flight costs can vary significantly. Here’s what you’re looking at:

  • From the US/Canada: Return tickets can range between US$800-1,200.
  • From Europe: Budget around US$600-1,000 for a round trip.
  • From Asia (e.g., Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur): Prices range from US$100-500 depending on proximity and airline.
  • From Australia/New Zealand: Flights start at US$300-600 for a return trip.
  • From Latin America: Expect to pay US$1,000-1,500+, as these are longer journeys.

Tips:

  1. Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner and Google Flights.
  2. Book at least 3-4 months in advance for the best rates.
  3. Travel during Bali’s low season (January to April or October to November) for cheaper fares.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bali

Bali caters to all types of travellers – from backpackers to luxury seekers. Here’s the breakdown:

  • Budget Stays: Hostels and guesthouses start from US$5-15 (IDR 75,000-230,000) per night.
  • Mid-Range Hotels: Expect to pay US$30-80 (IDR 460,000-1,230,000) per night.
  • Luxury Resorts: Lavish stays can cost anywhere between US$150-500+ (IDR 2,300,000-7,700,000) per night.

I stayed in a cosy mid-range villa in Ubud for US$50/night, complete with a private pool and jungle views. Definitely worth it! 🌴✨

Tips:

  • Use platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb for deals.
  • Check reviews on TripAdvisor.
  • If you’re travelling solo, hostels like “Pillow Inn” in Canggu are highly rated.

Food and Drinks: Eating Out in Bali

Oh, the food! From local warungs to upscale dining, Bali’s food scene is incredible. Here’s how much you’ll spend:

  • Street Food (Warungs): US$1-3 (IDR 15,000-45,000) for classics like Nasi Goreng or Satay.
  • Cafés and Mid-Range Restaurants: Meals cost US$5-15 (IDR 75,000-230,000).
  • Fine Dining: Fancy spots like “Sundara” can cost US$30-50+ (IDR 460,000-770,000) per person.

Don’t miss Bali’s Instagrammable cafés! I adored “Kynd Community” for its smoothie bowls (about US$8 each). 🍍❤️

Tips:

  1. Eat local for the most affordable and authentic meals.
  2. Check out happy hours for cocktails – some places offer drinks for as low as US$3.
  3. Bring a reusable water bottle; many places have refill stations.

Transport: Getting Around Bali

Public transport isn’t a thing in Bali, so you’ll need to rely on these options:

  • Scooter Rentals: US$5-7/day (IDR 75,000-100,000). Ensure you have an international driving permit!
  • Taxis/Private Drivers: Short trips cost US$5-10 (IDR 75,000-150,000), while full-day tours cost around US$40-60 (IDR 615,000-920,000).
  • Ride-Hailing Apps: Use Grab or Gojek for affordable rides (cheaper than taxis).

I rented a scooter for a week for just US$30 and loved the freedom it gave me! Just remember to wear a helmet. Safety first! 🏍️

Activities and Experiences

Bali’s activities range from free temple visits to luxury yacht tours. Here’s a cost snapshot:

  • Temples: Entrance fees are around US$2-5 (IDR 30,000-75,000). Must-visits: Uluwatu, Besakih, and Tanah Lot.
  • Surfing Lessons: US$20-30 (IDR 300,000-460,000) for 2 hours.
  • Yoga Classes: Drop-in classes cost US$10-15 (IDR 150,000-230,000).
  • Snorkelling/Diving: US$50-100 (IDR 770,000-1,540,000) depending on the location.
  • Day Tours: Join group tours for US$20-50 (IDR 300,000-770,000) or hire a private guide for more flexibility.

I did a sunrise trek to Mount Batur for US$35 (IDR 540,000), and it was one of the most breathtaking experiences of my life! 🌄

Tips:

  1. Book tours through reputable agencies like GetYourGuide or local operators.
  2. Haggle for better prices, especially for activities and souvenirs.
  3. Don’t forget entrance fees for beaches (around US$1-3).

Miscellaneous Costs

  • SIM Card with Data: US$6-10 (IDR 92,000-150,000) for 10GB. Purchase at the airport or local shops.
  • Souvenirs: Handicrafts, Batik, and silver jewellery can cost US$5-50+ depending on what you buy.
  • Travel Insurance: Around US$50-100 for a 2-week trip. Never skip this!

Sample Budget for a 7-Day Trip (Excluding Flights)

Here’s a rough idea of what you’ll spend on a week-long Bali trip. Note: These budgets do not include flight costs, as they vary widely based on your location.

Budget Travel

  1. Accommodation: US$50 (hostels or budget stays).
  2. Food: US$50 (local warungs).
  3. Transport: US$30 (scooter rentals).
  4. Activities: US$50.
  5. Miscellaneous: US$30.

Total: US$210 (IDR 3,200,000).

Mid-Range Travel

  1. Accommodation: US$200 (mid-range hotels).
  2. Food: US$105.
  3. Transport: US$50.
  4. Activities: US$150.
  5. Miscellaneous: US$50.

Total: US$555 (IDR 8,600,000).

Luxury Travel

  1. Accommodation: US$1,000 (luxury resorts).
  2. Food: US$300 (fine dining).
  3. Transport: US$150 (private drivers).
  4. Activities: US$300 (premium experiences).
  5. Miscellaneous: US$100.

Total: US$1,850 (IDR 28,500,000).

Final Thoughts

Bali is magical, and it’s surprisingly affordable if you plan well. Whether you’re a backpacker on a shoestring or a luxury traveller, Bali has something for everyone. Just set a budget, keep it flexible, and let the island’s charm sweep you off your feet. Happy travels! 🌟

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