If you only take one trip to Bali, make it from Australia. We're just a 6-hour flight from Denpasar, flights are frequent and affordable, and Australian debit cards work at most Bali ATMs. But what you pack matters enormously. Here's the definitive guide to travel gear for Bali, written specifically for Australians.
What Makes Bali Different to Packing for Other Destinations
Bali is hot and humid year-round (28–35°C). It rains heavily from November to March. The roads are dusty and scooter-busy. You'll switch between beach, temple, rice paddies, restaurants and bars in a single day. Your gear needs to handle all of it.
The Best Bag for Bali
You have two options depending on your trip length:
- 1–5 days: A crossbody or sling bag as your only bag. The Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag fits everything you need for a weekend — passport, cards, phone, sunscreen, a change of clothes — with hidden zippers and slash-resistant straps for crowded markets.
- 7+ days: A carry-on backpack or soft-shell carry-on. The Smart Expandable Carry-On Backpack expands to fit 10 days of Bali-appropriate light clothing and compresses back down for the flight home.
Security Gear for Bali
Petty theft exists in Bali, particularly in Kuta, Seminyak and Legian. ATM skimming devices are occasionally found at tourist-area ATMs. Two items solve both problems:
- ZenShield™ RFID Card Wallet — blocks skimming signals, holds your cards and cash securely
- JetPocket™ Passport Wallet — keeps your passport and boarding pass together with RFID protection
Power and Adapters
Bali uses Type C and F plugs at 220V — completely different to Australia's Type I. Without an adapter, you can't charge anything. The PlugMate™ Universal Travel Adapter covers Bali and 200+ other countries with built-in USB-A and USB-C ports. Some Bali villas and older hotels have limited power points — carry the GlobeCharge™ Power Bank for long day trips.
Toiletries for Bali
Bali's heat means you'll go through sunscreen, insect repellent and deodorant faster than usual. Pack these essentials in a PackTidy™ Toiletry Bag with a waterproof lining — essential when humid air and wet swimwear make everything damp. Use refillable travel bottles for shampoo, conditioner and body wash to stay under the 100ml carry-on limit.
If you want to go completely liquid-free for toiletries, the SilkBar™ Shampoo Bar is TSA-approved, plastic-free and lasts for months — it's perfect for Bali where the hot, salty water can be tough on hair.
What to Wear in Bali (Packing Guide)
- Lightweight t-shirts and singlets (quick-dry fabric)
- Light shorts, dresses and sarongs
- One lightweight long-sleeve layer for temple visits (shoulders and knees must be covered)
- Swimwear — 2 to 3 sets
- Thongs and comfortable walking sandals
- Light rain jacket or packable umbrella
What NOT to Bring to Bali
- Heavy jeans or jumpers — completely unnecessary
- Expensive jewellery — leave it at home
- More than 2 pairs of shoes
- Drugs of any kind — Indonesian drug laws are extremely serious and unforgiving
Quick Bali Packing Checklist
✅ Travel adapter (Type C/F)
✅ RFID wallet and passport holder
✅ Anti-theft day bag
✅ Lightweight clothing (no heavy layers)
✅ Swimwear (2–3 sets)
✅ Sunscreen SPF 50+
✅ Insect repellent
✅ Toiletry bag with refillable bottles
✅ Power bank
✅ Compression bags if checking luggage