Bali on a Budget

Travel tips for backpackers going to Bali

The beautiful Indonesian island of Bali appeals to a cross-section of travellers. From budget backpackers going on a big adventure to honeymoon lovers on vacation. Bali has something for everyone, boasting volcanoes and mountains in the north and pearl white beaches along its southern fringes.

With some clever travel tips, you can sleep, eat, shop and travel around Bali on a budget. Visiting this island destination is easy and although some of the resorts are in the luxury sector, there are ways to enjoy a cheap Bali vacation.

Here are some tips on how to holiday in Bali on a backpackers budget.

Free things to see and do

Image by Thomas Depenbusch (Flickr/Creative Commons)

With so much scenery available, from turquoise seas and mountain vistas, to Hindu temples and royal palaces, you’ll soon discover that most attractions in Bali are free. Some temples may ask you to pay a donation at the gates, but that won’t set you back much.

Go local at dinnertime

Image by dean walliss (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Avoid European restaurants as they’ll come with a big price tag. Go local instead and you can eat delicious Balinese cuisine for little as €1 per dish. Warungs are street food vendors selling traditional local food, such as meatball soups, fried rice and noodles.

If you want to have a sit down meal, local restaurants are the best option with 2-3 three course meals rarely costing more than €10.

Party on the cheap

If you’re running low on cash, then grab some beers from the local supermarket and head to the beach. If you want to be closer to the action, the club strip in front of the island’s beach bars are free to access as well.

Watersports and outdoor activities

Bukit, Medewi or Balian are the best places to pick up some waves if you want to so surfing. For divers and swimmers, then we recommend you head over to Pemuteran, Amed and Nusa Lembongan for the richest seas.

When to go?

The best time to visit Bali is from April to October, which is the dry summer season, and the western side of the peninsula has some of the world's best waves.

Where to stay?

Image by Aristocrats-hat (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Backpacker hostels in Bali are located in Kuta, Legian and Denpasar, while some cheap guesthouses are available in resort areas such as Sanur and Ubud. Some hostels have dorms available from around €4 per night - an incredible price. Find out where to book your holiday here.

*Header image by Kai Lehmann (Flickr/Creative Commons)