Staying Safe in Bali 2026: Essential Tips for a Worry-Free Holiday
How safe is Bali? Maybe that would come to mind before visiting here. Well, Bali is generally considered to be a safe place to visit. It is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when travelling to a new place. Whether you’re an experienced traveller or a first-timer, it’s always important to stay safe and secure when visiting a new destination. Bali is no exception! With its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and stunning natural views, Bali is a popular tourist destination. However, it’s important to remember that there are a few precautions you should take to ensure that your trip runs smoothly and safely. After all, tourists are often targets of crime and fraud in almost every tourist destination in the world.
Foreign governments such as Canada advise their citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Indonesia, due to terrorist attacks and political tension, but in fact, Bali is one of the safest places in Indonesia. Riot might happen due to the politics in the region but its extremely rare to happen. Just be aware that during international events/summits, you may encounter protesters. We advise you to stay as far away as possible to avoid any unfortunate situation.
That’s why we want you to be comfortable when you come to Bali with the intention that it can happen to you. Not to scare, but to raise awareness of the level of vigilance needed for your security and your belongings.
So, pay attention to our short list about staying safe in Bali.
Simple ways to keep yourself safe while visiting Bali
Bali is a peaceful place with very welcoming and friendly people. It’s one of the top destinations for travelers because it’s safe and has beautiful views. Bali has some active volcanoes, like Mount Agung, which has erupted a few times recently. Make sure to keep up with the news and stay somewhere safe from volcanoes. Bali is mostly safe, but, like many places, petty crimes like theft can occur. Just be careful and watch your stuff, but mostly, you can relax and enjoy Bali.
Keep Your Belongings Safe
it’s advisable to always keep your belongings secure and within your sight. This means not leaving items such as bags, electronics, or travel documents unattended in public places, beaches, cafes, or even in rented vehicles. The practice of safeguarding your possessions not only prevents theft but also ensures a stress-free, enjoyable experience while exploring the beauty and cultural richness of Bali.
Read More : Living in Ubud: Ultimate Guide to Bali’s Cultural Paradise
Always use Authorized Money Changers
It’s no secret that money exchange places are prone to fraud, especially when we don’t fully understand the exchange rate of the destination currency. Advertisements for changing money at street stands are often seen, and the high exchange rate offers to tempt many tourists.
Instead, come to an official money changer. The fact that they advertise without commission, with the certificates and licenses they have in front of the store.
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Beware of Theft and Mugging
Theft and mugging can happen anywhere and anytime. Generally, theft and mugging happen when the victim is walking and carrying a bag in his arm or holding a cell phone in his hand. The Thieves usually use motorbikes to snatch your belongings. In some cases, the victims were injured.
Safety isn’t only important when you go out and about in your travels. You also need to keep an eye on your belongings in the villa. This is because most of the villas have a nice design but are quite open. Therefore, always store your valuables in a safe and locked place. If you’re unlucky enough to be in one, try not to risk confrontation or things might go out of control. Try to contact local authorities for help.
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Only Ride a Motorcycle When You Are Experienced and Licensed
Driving in Bali can be quite different from what many visitors are used to back home, and this sometimes leads to mix-ups and accidents.
Especially with scooters, the go-to way to get around in Bali, accidents happen more often than we’d like. A lot of the time, it’s because tourists aren’t quite used to the way things are done on the roads here.
Even though riding a motorbike is fun and makes your mobility easier to get to the best spots in Bali, don’t take the risk if you are inexperienced. You can’t plan a vacation by learning to ride a motorbike; accidents can happen.
Unlike the case when you come with experience and a license, you can rent a motorbike to make it easier. However, it should be noted that when there is a problem with the motorcycle, the repair liability will make your day complicated.
For a complete overview of getting around the island, you can visit our Bali Travel Guide.
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Use Reliable Transportation to Stay Safe in Bali
Since you first arrive, the people here will offer to take you to your destination, either by car or motorbike. This is common when you arrive in Bali. Sometimes it’s a bit overpriced. So, stay calm and take a moment to survey a few options before taking your pick.
If you’re not sure about the transport at the airport, you can use an online transportation apps. One of the biggest advantages is that prices are set after choosing the destination (before placing the order), so there’s no negotiation. Furthermore, the application guarantees security, registers and licenses the driver, and tracks your trip. Better yet, contact your accommodation before traveling and ask them to arrange transport for you in Ubud.
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Don’t Carelessly Drink Liquor
Bali has a more common culture of liquor than other regions in Indonesia. In Bali, you can see many types of drinks here (mainly Arak). Some are getting drunk after drinking, not only tourists but also local residents.
To avoid this, try to buy drinks with clear labels. However, this might mean that you have to pay a higher price as liquor taxes are quite high in Indonesia. Or you can choose a beer or cocktail that is pocket-friendly. Start paying attention to how much you drink and try to measure it. Avoid drinking too much to avoid unwanted scenarios that could put you in danger.
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Don’t Drink Water From the Tap place
Tap water in Bali is not safe to drink. Unlike some countries where tap water is potable, Indonesia’s water supply is not treated to drinking standards, and consuming it can cause stomach issues ranging from mild discomfort to a full case of Bali Belly.
Stick to:
- Bottled water from supermarkets or minimarkets
- Filtered water dispensers are provided at your villa or hotel
- Drinks made with boiled or purified water
If you do get sick while drinking from the tap water, don’t panic; it’s very treatable. Read our full guide on Bali Belly.
Source: Pexels
There is No Mercy for Drugs For Staying Safe In Bali
Always remember that although Bali is more popular than Indonesia, it is still and always will be a part of it. You can face punishment under Indonesia’s strict drug laws. Many “Magic Mushroom” stores in south Bali, often described as “poor man’s acid,” operate in a somewhat grey legal area, and dengue fever in Ubud. The effects may be extremely intense and discomfortingly intense, and may cause you to become the focus of the police for unrelated reasons. Always try to stay away from things related to drugs. It’s better not to do drugs to stay safe in Bali and Indonesia.
Things to Know: Drug Laws in Bali (Indonesia)
Indonesia takes drug offences extremely seriously. The country has one of the strictest narcotics laws in the world, outlined in Law No. 35 of 2009 on Narcotics. Substances are divided into three categories, with penalties that depend on the type and amount involved.
1. Types of Substances
- Category I (Golongan I):
- This includes marijuana (cannabis), heroin, cocaine, LSD, ecstasy (MDMA), and crystal meth (shabu).
- These are completely banned — possession, trafficking, or use are all criminal acts.
- Category II (Golongan II):
- Covers drugs used in limited medical contexts, such as morphine and certain prescription opioids.
- These are allowed only under strict medical supervision and proper licensing.
- Category III Drugs (Golongan III):
- Includes medications with lower addictive potential, like codeine.
- These drugs are available only with a doctor’s prescription.
2. Legal Drugs Penalties You Should Know
Penalties for drug offenses are extremely severe:
- Possession or Use of Category I drugs can lead to a minimum of 4 years in prison and fines starting from IDR 800 million. Larger amounts or trafficking can result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty.
- Drug Trafficking or Smuggling is treated as a major criminal offense with possible life imprisonment or death depending on the severity of the case.
- Foreign Nationals face the same penalties as Indonesian citizens — there is no leniency based on nationality.
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Stay Away From Dengue Fever
Every monsoon, dengue cases surge in Bali. It is not advisable to catch dengue fever, even if you see the white bands on the mosquitoes’ legs (if you can see them). Ensure your bed has mosquito netting and use repellent if mosquitoes tend to bite you. If you return to your home country and exhibit dengue symptoms, inform your doctor that you have been in a dengue-affected location with dengue fever Ubud (otherwise, they may think you have the flu).
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Understanding local laws in Bali as a foreign visitor
There are some local laws that you must obey while in Bali. Here are the things you must obey:
- In some places in Bali, smoking is illegal. And you will be penalised if you do it.
- The age allowed to drink alcohol is over 21 years old
- Drugs are the most illegal thing in Bali, especially Indonesia, you will be sentenced to prison for drugs
- It is illegal to try to drive a four-wheeled or two-wheeled vehicle if you do not have an international driving permit
So, obey the local laws in Bali if you don’t want to deal with the laws in Bali, Indonesia. This is also good for you if you want to stay safe in Bali by obeying the laws.
Final Words on How to Staying Safe in Bali
This list aims to help you stay safe in Bali, a fantastic destination. The purpose of this list is not to frighten you, but to inform you. Despite your best efforts, you may still be unlucky at times. The simplest way to minimize your risks, however, is to be intelligent and use your common sense. Remember, bad things can happen anywhere.
If you are planning to book a Villa in Ubud and stay in Ubud for a few days, we offer Ubud Villas Rental by Red Lotus Property in Bali for suitable accommodation for you.
