Bali—a paradise adorned with swaying palms, ancient temples, vibrant art, and soul-soothing beaches—continues to captivate travelers across the globe. Though it’s often viewed as a luxury destination, the island holds treasures accessible even to those traveling on a shoestring budget. 💰
Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a digital nomad, or a family on a tight budget, you can fully immerse yourself in Bali’s beauty without spending a fortune. Here are seven smart ways to save money in Bali—without missing out on what makes this island so magical.
🛏️ 1. Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodations
Bali’s diverse lodging options mean you don’t have to compromise comfort or safety for affordability.
🌸 Homestays
Traditional Balinese homestays, often run by local families, offer an intimate glimpse into local life. Rooms usually come with breakfast and stunning garden views—at a fraction of the cost of hotels. A great place to try this is Ubud, where many hosts include cultural experiences like cooking or offering ceremonies.
🛖 Guesthouses
Located in areas like Canggu, Uluwatu, or Lovina, guesthouses are ideal for both privacy and budget. Some have pools and lush gardens, with prices starting as low as $10–15 per night.
🧳 Hostels
For those seeking a social atmosphere, hostels in Kuta, Seminyak, or Ubud offer not only beds but connections with travelers worldwide. Most include Wi-Fi, shared kitchens, and even yoga classes or surf lessons.
🏡 Airbnb or Villas
If traveling in a group, renting an Airbnb or villa often works out cheaper per person. Look for places with kitchens so you can save even more by cooking some meals yourself.
🍛 2. Eat Like a Local at Warungs
Dining out in Bali doesn’t have to burn a hole in your wallet. Skip fancy restaurants and head to warungs—small family-run eateries that serve authentic Indonesian food at local prices.
🍲 Must-Try Dishes:
- Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice): Spiced to perfection and topped with an egg, this dish is simple, satisfying, and rarely costs more than $2.
- Mie Goreng (Fried Noodles): A delicious plate of stir-fried noodles with vegetables, tofu, or chicken.
- Gado-Gado: A mix of steamed vegetables, tofu, and tempeh topped with rich peanut sauce—a vegetarian’s delight.
- Ayam Betutu: A flavorful slow-cooked chicken dish infused with local spices.
- Tempeh & Tahu (Tofu): Bali offers many plant-based meals, and these proteins are common, healthy, and affordable.
📍Tip: Stick to warungs with lots of locals—that’s always a good sign of quality and value.
🛵 3. Use Cost-Effective Transportation
Transportation can eat into your budget if you’re not strategic. Luckily, Bali has many affordable ways to get around:
🛵 Scooter Rentals
Renting a scooter costs about $5–$7 per day. It’s the most efficient and affordable way to explore the island. Just make sure to wear a helmet and have an international driver’s license.
🚗 Ride-Hailing Apps
Apps like Gojek and Grab are your best friends. You can book cars or scooters at reasonable rates and avoid the hassle of bargaining.
🚌 Public Transport
Though limited, the Trans Sarbagita bus line connects major towns for just a few cents. You can also hop on bemos (shared minibuses) for short distances.
🚶 Walk or Cycle
In pedestrian-friendly towns like Ubud and Canggu, walking or cycling can save money and help you take in the sights more intimately.
🌄 4. Discover Free or Low-Cost Attractions
Experiencing the beauty of Bali doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. Many of the island’s most stunning attractions are free or cost very little.
🌾 Tegallalang Rice Terraces
These iconic rice fields in Ubud are not only Instagram-worthy but also free to enter (with a small donation). Visit in the morning for the best light and fewer tourists.
🌿 Campuhan Ridge Walk
This scenic hiking trail in Ubud offers stunning views of the lush countryside. It’s peaceful, free, and ideal for early risers.
🛕 Temples
Bali is dotted with temples. Many are free or require a minimal fee:
- Pura Taman Ayun – A peaceful temple surrounded by water.
- Pura Ulun Danu Beratan – A picturesque lakeside temple.
- Pura Lempuyang – Famous for the “Gates of Heaven” photo.
🎒Remember to wear a sarong (many temples lend them for free or for a small fee).
🏖️ Beaches
Some beaches in Bali are free, while others charge small entrance or parking fees. Visit:
- Padang Padang for surfing,
- Sanur for calm waters,
- Amed for snorkeling.
🛍️ 5. Shop Smart at Local Markets
Markets in Bali are not just places to shop—they’re cultural experiences.
👜 What to Buy:
- Handwoven sarongs
- Bamboo bags
- Balinese paintings
- Wood carvings
- Natural soaps and oils
💡 Bargaining Tips:
Bargaining is expected. Start by offering 50% of the initial price, then meet in the middle.
🛒 Recommended Markets:
- Ubud Art Market – A classic, filled with handmade goods.
- Sukawati Market – Known for textiles and traditional art.
- Seminyak Flea Market – Trendier and great for souvenirs.
Pro tip: Shop in the morning for the “morning price” (first sale luck) and better deals.
📆 6. Visit During Off-Peak Seasons
The time you visit Bali can make a big difference in how much you spend.
📉 Off-Peak Travel Months:
- April–June and September–October are the best months for deals. You’ll get cheaper flights, discounted hotels, and fewer crowds.
✈️ Book Early
Flights and accommodations booked in advance (ideally 6–9 months ahead) are generally cheaper.
🧳 Avoid These Peak Periods:
- July–August (European summer holidays)
- Late December–Early January (New Year & Christmas)
- Nyepi (Balinese New Year) – Although culturally enriching, everything shuts down for a day.
🌱 7. Travel Sustainably and Respectfully
Being a respectful and sustainable traveler not only enhances your own experience but also helps preserve Bali’s unique culture and environment.
♻️ Tips for Eco-Friendly Travel:
- Bring a reusable water bottle (many cafés offer refill stations).
- Avoid single-use plastics—carry a fabric bag when shopping.
- Choose eco-resorts or green-certified hostels.
👐 Support Local Communities:
- Join community-based tours like cooking classes, organic farm visits, or cultural performances.
- Eat at warungs, buy from local artisans, and tip service staff generously.
🙏 Respect Local Customs:
- Dress modestly when visiting temples.
- Don’t step on offerings (small flower baskets on sidewalks).
- Learn basic Balinese greetings—it goes a long way.
🌞 Final Thoughts
Bali doesn’t have to be a luxurious escape only accessible to the wealthy. With a bit of planning and a willingness to embrace the local way of life, you can stretch your budget while still soaking in the island’s rich culture, nature, and spirituality.
The secret? Travel with intention. Seek out authentic experiences. Go where the locals go. And remember: the best things in Bali often don’t come with a price tag—they come with a smile, a sunrise, or a shared plate of nasi goreng under the stars. 🌌
