What to Wear in Bali

Bali is a beautiful island in Indonesia with warm, tropical weather. It’s famous for its stunning beaches, exciting temples, and fun nightlife. You can relax on the beach, visit old temples, and enjoy nature while doing activities like hiking, surfing, and exploring. Bali has something for everyone, whether you want adventure or peace.

When visiting Bali, it’s important to dress in a way that respects the local culture while staying cool in the heat. Bali has strong traditions, especially when it comes to visiting temples and sacred places. You should wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees when going to these spots. But when you’re at the beach or doing outdoor activities like hiking, you can wear comfortable clothes for the warm weather.

This guide will help you pack the right clothes to wear in Bali for all your activities. Whether you’re visiting temples, hiking mountains, or just relaxing on the beach, dressing the right way will help you have a great time and show respect for the local customs.

Cultural Considerations for Dress Code in Bali

When visiting Bali, it's important to respect the local culture by dressing modestly, especially when going to temples or rural areas. Balinese people value their traditions, and dressing appropriately shows that you respect their way of life.

In many areas, especially around temples, modest clothing is a sign of respect for the local culture. Carrying dresses for Bali trip that cover your shoulders and knees is considered polite and helps you connect better with the people.

When visiting temples, there are specific clothes to wear in Bali that you must follow. Both men and women are required to wear a sarong, which is a cloth wrapped around the waist. You will also need to wear a sash tied around the waist as part of the traditional dress.

It's also important to cover your shoulders and knees. This dress code is to show respect for the sacredness of the temple. If you don’t have a sarong, many temples will provide one for you at the entrance, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own.

In general, Bali has a strong sense of modesty, so it's important to avoid wearing overly revealing clothes in public spaces. This means you should avoid wearing things like short shorts or tank tops when you're not at the beach or pool.

Instead, it’s better to wear clothes like T-shirts, long pants, or skirts. This will show that you respect the local customs and will help you blend in better with the local culture.

What to Wear in Bali for Different Activities

Beachwear

For the beach, wear swimsuits, cover-ups, flip-flops, and a sun hat to stay cool and protected from the sun. Choose quick-drying dresses for Bali trip, like polyester or nylon, to dry faster after swimming.

UV-protective clothes are also a good idea, especially for long hours in the sun. These clothes help protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a beach towel to stay comfortable while enjoying the beautiful beaches.

Temple Visits

When visiting temples in Bali, wear a sarong, long skirts or pants, and shirts with sleeves to show respect for the sacred places. Many temples provide or rent sarongs at the entrance if you don’t have one. It’s important to cover your shoulders and knees to enter temples, as they are holy sites. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay comfortable in the tropical heat. Always check the temple’s dress code to make sure you’re dressed appropriately before entering.

Exploring Ubud and Rural Areas

In Ubud and rural areas, wear comfortable, breathable clothes like lightweight pants, maxi dresses, or long skirts. These clothes will help you stay cool while exploring but also keep you respectful to the local culture.

Comfortable walking shoes are important for exploring the shops, temples, and nature. It’s a good idea to carry a light scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders if needed. This will help you stay modest when visiting villages or temples while still being comfortable in the heat.

Nightlife and Dining

For nightlife and dining in Bali, wear smart-casual clothes like sundresses, linen shirts, and sandals for a nice, relaxed look. If you’re going to an upscale restaurant or beach club, be sure to check if there’s a dress code, as some places require more formal attire.

Choose clothes that are stylish but comfortable for evening events. Bali’s nightlife is fun, but make sure your outfit suits the place you’re going. You’ll look great and feel comfortable while enjoying dinner or a night out.

Adventure Activities

For adventure activities like hiking or water sports, wear activewear that is comfortable and breathable, such as moisture-wicking clothes. If you’re doing water sports, a rash guard helps protect your skin from the sun and water.

Sturdy shoes are important for hiking or biking, while flip-flops aren’t safe for these activities. Pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket for unexpected rain showers, especially if you’re doing outdoor activities. Be sure your clothes can handle sweat and water, and keep you comfortable during your adventures.

Footwear Essentials for Bali Trip

When visiting Bali, it’s important to choose the right footwear for different activities. First, comfortable sandals are perfect for beach days and casual outings. They are easy to slip on and off, which is great for the beach or when you’re just walking around the hotel. Sandals are breathable and keep your feet cool in the tropical weather.

For exploring Bali’s beautiful rice terraces, going hiking, or taking walking tours, you will need walking shoes. These shoes should be comfortable, supportive, and good for walking long distances. Hiking shoes or sneakers with sturdy soles are the best choice to keep your feet safe and comfortable when exploring Bali’s natural beauty.

If you're planning to do water activities like snorkeling, rafting, or visiting areas with coral reefs, water shoes are a must.

They protect your feet from sharp rocks, coral, or other underwater dangers. Water shoes are lightweight and dry quickly, making them perfect for water activities.

Lastly, flip-flops are great for quick trips or for wearing around the beach. They’re easy to put on and off and perfect for walking on the sand. Just remember, flip-flops aren’t suitable for hiking or exploring, as they don't offer enough support or protection.

Accessories and Extra Items to Carry for Bali Trip

Sun Protection: Bali’s sun can be very strong, so it's important to protect yourself. Bring a wide-brimmed hat to keep your face shaded from the sun, sunglasses to protect your eyes, and sunscreen to keep your skin safe from sunburn. Make sure to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially if you're spending time outdoors or on the beach.

Rain Gear: Bali has a rainy season, so it's a good idea to bring lightweight rain gear. A rain jacket or poncho is easy to carry and will help keep you dry if you get caught in a sudden downpour. The rain usually doesn't last long, so a light jacket or poncho is all you need to stay comfortable.

Day Bag: A small backpack or tote bag is perfect for carrying your essentials while exploring Bali. It can hold things like water, snacks, a map, and even a sarong for when you visit temples. Having a day bag keeps everything organized and easy to carry as you go on your adventures.

Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is very important in Bali because of the hot weather. Carry a reusable water bottle with you to make sure you always have water on hand. It’s also eco-friendly, helping to reduce plastic waste, so it’s good for both you and the environment. Refill your bottle whenever you find a water station.

What to Pack for Bali Trip

Layering: In Bali, the weather is warm, but it can also get cooler at night or in certain places like the mountains. To stay comfortable, try layering your clothes. Pack lightweight shirts, dresses, and pants that you can mix and match. This way, you can add or remove layers depending on the temperature.
Fabric Choices: Choose breathable dresses for Bali trip, like cotton and linen, because they are cool and comfortable in the tropical heat. If you're doing outdoor activities, moisture-wicking materials are great because they keep sweat away from your body and dry off quickly. These fabrics will help you stay fresh while you explore.
Minimalist Packing: Try to pack light by choosing clothes that are versatile. Focus on clothes that can be worn in different ways, such as shirts or dresses that can be dressed up or down. By packing only the essentials, you'll have more room for souvenirs and find it easier to carry your bag around.
Laundry Services: Don’t worry about packing too many clothes to wear in Bali. Laundry services are easy to find in Bali and are usually very affordable. You can have your clothes cleaned while you explore, so you don’t need to pack as much.

What Not to Wear on Bali Trip

Avoiding Offensive Clothing: In Bali, it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or rural areas. Overly revealing outfits, like short shorts or tank tops, should be avoided in these places. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering temples. It’s respectful to wear clothing that is a little more covered, like long skirts, pants, or dresses.
Heavy Clothing: Bali is hot and humid, so packing heavy clothes to wear in Bali is not a good choice. Avoid packing clothes made from thick fabrics or clothes that have too many layers. Instead, choose light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. These fabrics will keep you comfortable and cool while you enjoy the warm weather.
Expensive Jewelry: While in Bali, it’s best to leave expensive jewelry at home. Wearing valuable items like big rings, watches, or necklaces can attract unwanted attention and may increase the risk of theft. It's safer and more practical to leave your valuable jewelry in your hotel and wear simple, inexpensive accessories. This way, you can enjoy your trip without worrying about losing anything important.