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Around a six-and-a-half-hour flight from Sydney and Melbourne, Bali has, without a doubt, been a year-round hotspot for Aussies. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing, sun-soaked break from the daily grind or seek a little taste of adventure, Bali’s tropical charm caters to all discerning travellers.
Natural beauty, cultural exploration, immersive hospitality experiences, and endless opportunities to luxuriate under the sun complete Bali’s reputation as a cultural and spiritual hub for the mind, body, and soul. The coveted Indonesian island has notably seen a 15 per cent increase in interest year-on-year, according to Expedia, who ranked Bali number 2 on their Island Hot List for 2025.
Since the climate is tropical and humid year-round, packing for Bali can feel tricky. But how you pack can shape your experience, keeping you protected from strong sun, sudden rain showers, and helping you travel smarter.
In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to pack for a trip to Bali – from lightweight wardrobe staples and versatile layering pieces to travel essentials and tech must-haves – so you can get the most out of your Bali experience.
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BEAUTY OF JOSEON
Dynasty cream 50ml
BELLROY
Cinch backpack
LE SPECS
Outta Love sunglasses
JULY
Carry on
See also 10 best luggage brands to consider for your next stint away
Bali clothing essentials
When packing clothing for Bali, consider the island’s tropical climate, which is warm and humid throughout the year. Natural fabrics, such as cotton and linen, will be your best friend in this ever-present humidity. Pack a rotation of T-shirts, tanks, shorts or summer dresses (enough for a fresh change once or twice a day), plus I like to pack at least three sets of swimwear. The evenings can cool ever so slightly, so pack a lightweight jumper or cardigan. Modesty matters during temple visits: a lightweight button down or sarong will work. Round out your bag with comfortable sleepwear, activewear, and something nice for evening dinners and cocktails.
The essentials:
- Lightweight tops
- Button-up shirts
- Loose shorts
- Lightweight trousers
- Sarong or wrap
- Swimwear
- Lightweight dress or kaftan
- Activewear
- Light jumper or cardigan
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Sleepwear
- Undergarments
BONDI BORN
Mackinley one piece
CASTLERY
Linen pareo
COS Relaxed textured
cotton resort shirt
MJ BALE
Aruba swim short
Footwear and accessories
Comfort and versatility are two things to keep in mind when packing shoes for Bali. Flip-flops or thongs are non-negotiable for lounging by the pool, strolling along beaches, or quick slip-on use; brands like Havaianas or Archies are a reliable choice. For casual evenings spent sipping cocktails or browsing boutiques, walking sandals are a must, though a pair of reliable sneakers also works for a more relaxed affair. These sneakers will see you through hikes, scooter rides, and early-morning adventures. Take note if you need something dressier for restaurants and consider how much room you have in your luggage.
As for accessories, a wide-brimmed hat or cap and polarised sunglasses are not only chic but practical for sun protection. A day pack or small backpack is perfect for carrying essentials like sunscreen, water, and your phone, while a beach tote or waterproof bag keeps belongings safe from sand and water. Keep your essentials close with a crossbody bag, and consider a reusable water bottle or water-resistant jewellery for added convenience.
The essentials:
- Flip-flops/thongs
- Walking sandals
- Lightweight sneakers
- A dress shoe
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Day pack, crossbody bag or small backpack
- Beach tote
- Light scarf or wrap
- Compact rain poncho
- Minimal jewellery
SALOMON
XT-6 sneakers
EUGENIA KIM Ricky
grosgrain-trimmed hemp visor
ARCHIES
Arch support thongs
ON
All-day cap
Skincare and sun protection
Skincare and sun protection is essential if you want to survive Bali’s sun and tropical humidity. Broad-spectrum sunscreen is a must, and should be reapplied every two hours, particularly after a dip in the sea. Lightweight, oil-free moisturisers keep skin hydrated without feeling heavy in the tropical humidity, while an aloe vera or after-sun gel soothes any sunburns and irritation. Don’t forget a pair of sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, makeup and sunscreen at the end of the day.
Opt for biodegradable products, although shampoo, body wash and soap should be available at your hotel. Bringing your own selection of sanitary products is recommended as options can be limited in Bali. Additional protection includes mosquito repellent, a medical kit and prescriptions.
The essentials:
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Lip balm with SPF
- After-sun gel or aloe vera for soothing sun-exposed skin
- Lightweight, wide-brimmed hat
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Gentle facial cleanser (gel or foaming for humid climates)
- Makeup remover or micellar water
- Skincare: moisturiser, hydrating serums
- Travel-size deodorant
NATIO
Moisturising lip balm
ULTRA VOILETTE
Supreme screen hydrating facial skinscreen
VACATION
Classic lotion SPF 50
MERIT BEAUTY
The Uniform tinted sunscreen
Travel and tech essentials
For a seamless and stress-free travel experience, these essentials are a must. A universal travel adapter is best, though the island uses a European-style two-round-pin plugs (Type C/F) with 230V. I always travel with a mini power strip as one socket per room can be a common occurrence. I also never travel without a powerbank to ensure by phone is constantly powered. Good headphones are essential for flights and local commutes, while a lightweight daypack keeps your gadgets, sunscreen, water bottle, and daily essentials close at hand.
The essentials:
- Universal travel adapter (Type C/F for Bali)
- Mini power strip for multiple devices
- Portable charger/power bank
- Charging cables
- Reliable headphones or earbuds
- Camera (waterproof preferred)
- Extra memory cards / SD cards
- Lightweight daypack
- Small, secure bag
- Beach tote
- Rain poncho
LENCENT
Universal travel adapter
BOSE QuietComfort
Ultra headphones
ONE BEAT
Power board
ANKER
Nano power bank
FAQs
To have a fun, stress-free Bali experience, there are a few things to consider before packing. Bali’s warm, tropical climate means you should pack light, breathable clothing. Essentials that are easy to layer will keep you prepared for sudden rain showers, as well as for visiting sacred sites where covering up is necessary. Bring a lightweight rain jacket that can be folded and stored neatly, like this Pocket-It two-layer rain jacket from Kathmandu. Also, make sure you’re packing the right amount of clothes: will you need to visit a laundromat? Can these items mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe? Thinking strategically about layering will pay off in the long run.
There are also the less-fun essentials. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of entry, as this is required for most travellers entering Indonesia, while travel insurance offers peace of mind against unexpected hiccups. An eSIM is also important if you want to stay connected for maps and contacting others. Finally, consider whether an international driver’s licence is necessary, for example if you plan to rent a moped to get around the island.
When it comes to packing for a trip, a balanced wardrobe will not only help you seamlessly get dressed in the morning, but it also means you won’t need to stress about overpacking, or whether or not something will get dirty (and a laundromat is not near). That is where the 5 to 1 rule comes in. The idea is to pack five tops for every bottom, such as pants or skirts, since tops tend to get worn out or tarnished faster during a trip. following this rule is great for destinations like Bali where you may need clothing for both sightseeing and relaxing on the beach.
Bali is tropical year-round, so seasonal packing isn’t strictly necessary. However, Bali does have a wet and dry season, so if you’re traveling during the rainy months (typically November to March), it is wise to include a compact rain jacket or travel-friendly poncho in your luggage. Daytime temperatures are consistently warm, around 27–32°C, with high humidity, while nights are slightly cooler. This is why it is important to pack intentionally, with layering and the 5 to 1 rule in mind.
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