A luxury vacation is a chance to let loose and unwind, but we all know that packing for said vacation can be a stressful affair. I find that it tends to go one of two ways: you either panic and pack the entire contents of your home, or relax a little too much and turn up with only the bare necessities (if you’re lucky). That’s why I’ve created this list of everything you need to pack for Bali, so that you’ll have all the right gear to enjoy your time on the magnificent Indonesian island. 

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The Basics 

Packing Cubes 

Packing cubes are the secret of every luxury traveler. I mean, how else can you take all of your best dresses with you on vacation and still leave room for souvenirs? These babies will make packing for Bali so much easier. The island’s markets are full of great finds, so even if you manage to pack light on the way there, they’ll definitely come in useful on the way back. 

Mosquito Repellent

Bali is hot and humid, which is precisely the kind of environment that mosquitoes love. If you’re prone to bites, make sure you pack plenty of tropical-strength insect repellent. 

First Aid Kit 

It’s good sense to take a first aid kit wherever you travel to. They’re small and relatively inexpensive, so there’s no excuse not to pack one for Bali! 

Power Bank 

There’s a good chance you’ll be out and about for much of the day in Bali, without a chance to charge your phone. If you know your phone battery won’t hold out, bring a power bank with you. Just remember that you can’t put power banks in your checked luggage, so pack this in your carry-on bag.

Plug Adapter 

In Bali you’ll find the same two-pin plugs as in Europe so if you live elsewhere, you’ll need an adapter if you want your devices to work. 

Clothing 

Summer Dresses

One for the ladies! Include plenty of summer dresses when you’re packing for Bali, because you don’t want to be walking around a tropical country in jeans. Flowy dresses are most definitely the way forward – and they’re hugely helpful when it comes to taking those all important Instagram pictures. 

Active Wear

You’ll definitely need some decent active wear for all of your Balinese adventures. I recommend packing several pairs of leggings and moisture-wicking shirts to keep you fresh and comfortable throughout the day. Oh, and yoga pants are a must for getting your zen on.

Backpack 

It’s a good idea to wear a backpack when wandering around busier areas. If your bag is easy to grab, an opportunistic thief on a moped might try to swipe it. Backpacks are a bit more secure, and thus a safer bet than handbags or totes.

Sarong/Wrap

Don’t forget a sarong or wrap when you’re packing for Bali. Not only are they ideal beach cover-ups, they’ll also come in super handy when visiting temples and cultural sites. Women must cover their shoulders and knees at sacred sites, so keep a sarong in your backpack to be on the safe side. 

Sunglasses

What’s a tropical vacation without a killer pair of sunglasses? Not only do they look cool, a good-quality pair of lenses will block out UV rays. Local markets sell all kinds of fun frames, but sadly they don’t protect your eyes in the same way. 

Swimwear

Whether you’re a beach addict or a pool lover, you’ll definitely need to pack some swimwear for Bali. From beach clubs to boat tours, there are so many water-based activities on this island, which is why I recommend packing several pieces for your trip. 

Skincare

Sunscreen 

It’s hot hot hot in Bali and the sun is strong. Make sure you’ve got a reliable, high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. 

For more about protecting your skin, check out this article on the best products to prevent dry skin when flying. 

BB Cream 

It’s far too hot for a full face of makeup in Bali, but you might want to give your skin a boost as you head out for the evening. A BB cream will give you a hint of coverage without feeling sticky or melting off your face halfway through the night. 

After Sun 

Tans are enviable but sunburn most definitely is not. You don’t want to return from your vacation looking like  a lobster, so be sure to pack a soothing after sun product, just in case. Ensure you choose a product without alcohol as this can further dry out the skin. Aloe vera, on the other hand, is a very soothing ingredient that can help with post-sunbed soreness. 

Photography 

GoPro

Bali is home to some truly incredible marine life and with a GoPro, you can get it on film. In fact, with one of these babies you can capture footage of all the awesome things you get up to in Bali, from watersports to relaxing in an infinity pool in your luxury digs. 

Selfie stick 

They might have a bit of an embarrassing reputation, but selfie sticks can actually help you to capture some amazing shots, especially if you’re traveling solo. Hey, a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do…

Underwater Phone Case 

An underwater phone case will keep your smartphone safe and let you snap away whilst you’re in the pool or ocean. It’s a win-win. 

Footwear 

Sandals

A pretty, yet comfortable, pair of sandals is a must for beach days and cafe-hopping. Choose ones you can slide on and off for added convenience. 

Sneakers 

Take a comfy pair of sneakers with you for adventure days. Sandals are cute, but they won’t cut it when you’re hiking a volcano or trekking through a forest. 

Water Shoes

So much adventure awaits you in Bali, from exploring waterfalls to snorkelling shipwrecks. If you’re planning on doing something like this, I highly recommend investing in a pair of water shoes to protect your feet. No, they won’t be winning fashion awards any time soon, but they’re a lot better than cutting your feet on sharp rocks. 

So now that you know what to pack for Bali, where are you going to stay? Check out my list of the best luxury Airbnbs in Bali here. Meanwhile, for more information on where to go and what to do, be sure to read my Bali travel guide.