Bali has become a very popular holiday destination with affordable prices. The right budget tips can help you to explore the incredible island of Bali on a budget.
I can resolve all your doubts straight away and say YES! It is absolutely possible to travel on $25 a day in Bali. And indeed, you don’t have to sleep on the beach (which can be actually very pleasant experience) and eat only rice all day long.
I would like to share with you some information to help you out!
ACCOMMODATION
If you are a backpacker, traveling on a budget in Bali, the prices for dorm range between $3 – $7 for a bed. If you are looking for more privacy, the cost for a double-room estimates between $10 – $40 depends on your needs. However, I think you shouldn’t spend more than that. The price includes a perfect location, free breakfast and really nice environment.
FOOD
I just love everything about the local food in Bali. It is super affordable, tasty and diverse. From Mie Goreng, Ikan Bakar, to Gado-Gado and spicy noodle soup everything served with freshly squeezed juice ($1). The meal in local restaurant or warung (family restaurant) can be as cheap as $1-$3.
TRANSPORTATION ON A BUDGET
Everywhere in Bali, you can get by motorcycle. The cost to rent a motorbike in Bali ranges from $4 – $7 a day. Indeed, the gasoline costs about $0,65 per liter, so you can explore the whole island in very inexpensive way.
If you are afraid of driving a motorbike, don’t worry, you can always order a motorbike taxi! I recommend to use GO-JEK app which is super convenient and quicker alternative, especially in heavily trafficked areas. If you want to have more option like taxis, private cars and motorbikes, there is a great app called GRAB. It may help you to get to the airport or reach farther destinations.
Also, the Kura-Kura bus reaches a large number of the most popular tourist destinations in Bali. You can easily travel from Nusa Dua to Kuta or Sanur to Ubud for a reasonable price.
ACTIVITIES
If you use some of your bargaining tactics, you can have lots of fun for little money. Bali is known for some of the best surf spots all year round. For a surf lesson, you will pay from $10-$30 depending on your negotiation skills. If you are familiar with a surf board, you can rent it for a few dollars per hour.
LUXURY
Of course, if you are on holiday, you want to give yourself a little treat. However, luxury doesn’t have to be expensive. Bali is known for its affordable SPA treatments. Prices depend on the place you choose, but normally it shouldn’t cost you more than $10 – $13 for a 60-90 minutes full-body massage.
DO WHAT LOCALS DO
I always use this phrase as my travel mantra. Remember that the tourist attractions and restaurants are always overpriced. If you want to taste low-cost and real typical food follow locals! If you want to see the real side of the country, be a traveler, not tourist – follow locals! or if you want to cut half of your expenses on food and entertainment, follow locals!