First Time Visiting Bali? Avoid these 10 Mistakes!

If you’re planning a trip to Bali soon or even just wanderlusting, I’m so excited for you! Bali is one of my favorite places, in fact, I almost moved there! It’s on so many people’s bucket lists and I want you to know that it’s definitely obtainable!

There are so many misconceptions about Bali and after planning my own trip and spending a month there, I know that the island can feel quite overwhelming. There are some things you should know before planning your trip and also while there, so I put together this quick list of some of the common mistakes.

Before visiting Bali, read through these 10 common mistakes and how to avoid them to make the most of your trip! Save this post below if Bali is further in your future.

Avoid these 10 Common Mistakes When Visiting Bali

Mistake #1

Thinking the Island is Small

Many people look at the map and think Bali is a small island. However, it’s actually a huge island! It takes about 6 hours from one side to the other and often with traffic it can take hours to get anywhere. This leads me to my next mistake…

Mistake #2

Not Planning a Long Enough Stay

There is so much to do in Bali, it’s impossible to see it all in 5-7 days. I spent an entire month there and still didn’t see close to everything I wanted. If you have the time, plan to spend a longer time to ensure you can see all of the island and surrounding areas (Gili Islands, Lombok, Flores Island, etc.). With limited time, prioritize the areas that are key so you don’t spend your entire vacation in a taxi or on the back of a scooter.

Mistake #3

Spending Too Much Time in Transit

Now that you read #1, I suggest looking at the map of Bali to truly understand the different areas. Prepare for realistic times between places and always plan on traffic -especially during peak season.

Mistake #4

Not Feeling Comfortable Enough to Rent a Scooter

Scooters are by far the best and easiest way to get around. But if you’re coming from a country that doesn’t use scooters as a main form of transportation, the idea of renting a scooter may seem scary. However, renting a scooter will save you so much time in traffic. You’ll be able to zip around a lot quicker than in a taxi.

When you go to the scooter shop, ask if you can do a test drive around to get the feel of it. Another option is if someone you are traveling with is more comfortable, they can rent the scooter and you can practice during low-peak hours of the day.

Mistake #5

Worrying About the Weather

I fall victim to this often. When I arrived in Bali in June, the forecast projected rain for the entire first week I was there. I was so disappointed. However, it only rained one day out of the entire month. Peak season in Bali is July-August and December-January, while wet season is October – April.

Mistake #6

Not Realizing How Crowded it is in Kuta and Seminyak

Kuta and Seminyak are the 2 main tourist areas. Their streets are packed full of touristy shops, beach clubs, and tons of people. If you’re planning to go anywhere else in Bali upon arrival (which you should), you’ll likely drive through this area. It’s beyond congested and takes so long to even drive through.

This tourist area was my first impression of Bali as I drove through to Canggu. I was so happy to arrive in Canggu and discover it’s the complete opposite. It’s such a chill little surf town.

Kuta and Seminyak are fun to spend a night in partying but there are way better places to visit outside of this tourist area.

Mistake #7

Not Spending Enough Time in Places

One of the biggest mistakes visitors make is underestimating the time needed to truly experience each location. Slowing down and savoring each place is the key to an unforgettable Balinese adventure.

Mistake #8

Being Cheap and Not Hiring a Guide in Some Places

I get it. I’m a budget-friendly traveler myself, so I typically try to be independent. Especially in an English-speaking country, I try to figure it out myself. One of the wonderful things about traveling in Asia though is that a guide doesn’t cut into your budget. In the long run, hiring a guide will save you time and time is money – right?

While I’m all for the adventure. If you’re not stretched for time, getting lost and ending up somewhere else is fun. But with limited time, you’ll want to hire a local guide. They’ll know the best route and times to go places and often provide a lot of history along the way. I’d suggest hiring a guide for certain areas and activities (Mt. Batur, Ubud, Nusa).

Mistake #9

Missing a Sunrise

Whether you’re a morning person or not, get up and watch at least one Bali sunrise! They are stunning and unforgettable. Take advantage of your jet lag and get outside. Some of my favorite places for sunset are Canggu Beach and Mt. Batur.

Mistake #10

Thinking Bali is Too Expensive

Before I moved to China, Bali was my dream destination. I always thought it was so expensive and unattainable. Flash forward and I was able to spend a month in Bali without spending an arm and a leg.

There are great accommodations, dining, and activities for every budget. While there are some really gorgeous and expensive resorts in Bali, there are also adorable homestays, boutique hotels, and even private hostels ranging from $10-60 per night. A lot of things in Bali are outdoors so there are plenty of free things to do.

I hope this advice will allow you to skip these mistakes while visiting Bali. It’s an incredible island and definitely not a place to rush through. For more information, check out these other Bali posts.

Check out my list of the 9 top places to visit in Bali here which provides entrance and tour package costs.

Did these mistakes help you? Let me know in the comments below!