Full First Timer Guide to Bali For Female Solo Travellers

You’ve been thinking about this trip for a long time and now it’s finally happening! This will be the first of many times you will visit Bali, I always say this and it’s so true.

However, as a fellow female solo traveller, I understand the mix of excitement and nerves that come with embarking on such a journey. But luckily for you, I’ve done the heavy lifting already and in this blog post, I will give you the full first-timer’s guide to Bali for female solo travellers like you.

You will know exactly what you need to know and book for your trip to the Island of Gods. 

If it is your first time in Bali you will quickly see how much runs through your phone. From ride apps to bookings, you need a working connection as soon as you arrive. I use Ubigi eSIM because it is reliable and I do not have to depend on the patchy Wi Fi many guesthouses offer. 👉 Order your plan here and pop in OBSERVER10 for 10% off!

#1 Plan a Loose Itinerary

Once you book your flights (I recommend using 👉 Skyscanner for the best deals!), we have to think about where we are going to be!

As a first-timer in Bali, it’s helpful to have a loose itinerary to guide your adventures while still allowing for flexibility and spontaneity. I would suggest only planning 1 activity per day so that you can move things around.

Bali is one of these places where you never know what you will get yourself to try. I’ll give you an example. when I went the first time, I saw 2 people on a scooter with a suitcase and 2 backpacks – I was amazed and shocked that was even a thing – I thought I would never be in that situation.

And then 3 days later, there I was on a scooter with a friend I met at the hotel, taking me to my next accommodation on the scooter with my 2 backpacks and a suitcase. The same went for surfing, dancing salsa and so much more!

Anyway, you got my point! I’ll share some of my favourite itinerary suggestions, from exploring the cultural spots in Ubud to watching the most amazing sunsets in Uluwatu or Nusa Lembongan.

#2 Explore Accommodation Types in Bali

Now that you have a rough idea about where you want to be, you need to think about what kind of accommodation you want to go for.

Bali is super safe, but I always suggest homestays for the first time because it’s like going to a new family. You will get help with anything you want to do, support if you’re not feeling well and you get to learn a lot about the local culture.

Here’s a list of accommodation options in Bali suitable for female solo travellers, along with the pros and cons. If you are reading this table on your mobile, scroll left and right for full visibility!

Accommodation Type	✅ Pros	❌ Cons	🔗 Booking Link
Homestay	• Local hosts • Easy to meet other travellers• Affordable with good locations	• Not always luxurious• May lack essentials (read more)	👉 Book a homestay
Hotel	• Comfortable and private• Amenities like housekeeping & reception	• Less social• Can be more expensive	👉 Book a hotel
Hostel	• Budget-friendly• Great for meeting people	• Shared bathrooms• Limited privacy	👉 Book a hostel
Villa	• Privacy and space• Often luxurious with private pools	• Expensive for solo travellers• Better for groups or couples	👉 Book a villa
Boutique Hotel	• Unique style• Personal service	• Higher price• Fewer rooms, book early	👉 Book a boutique hotel
Eco-Lodge	• Sustainable and nature-focused• Peaceful setting	• Basic amenities• Often pricier	👉 Book an eco-lodge (select lodge in the filters)
Surf/Yoga Camp	• Skill-building with instructors• Connect with like-minded travellers	• Pricier than drop-in classes• Fixed schedules	👉 Find a yoga camp 👉 Find a surf camp
Glamping Site	• Stylish nature stays• Fun and Instagrammable	• Remote locations• Limited access to shops	👉 Book glamping
Co-Living Space	• Ideal for digital nomads• Social and collaborative	• Less privacy• Can be noisy	👉 Book co-living

Now that you have an idea about what place to book, check out my recommendations below!

#3 Get Your Visa and Insurance Sorted

Now let’s address the boring things. Make sure you have a valid visa for Indonesia, depending on your nationality – check out this blog post for more information. Generally, all you have to do is get the “Visa on arrival” which is a 30 or 60-day permit starting from $74.

You can get yours online (website here) or on arrival in Bali and that’s it! I would suggest getting it online as there might be a queue to buy it at the airport.

While Bali is generally safe, make sure you get your travel insurance. I would recommend HeyMondo! I had an accident surfing and got the “Bali belly” quite a few times, so I used my travel insurance A LOT.

#4 Book Your Driver For Your Arrival

Right, now that the boring things are done from step 3, make sure you book your driver! Especially if you are arriving late or with lots of luggage.

👉🏽 Klook is the best platform for private drivers (especially from and to the airport). This company is widely used in Bali and totally trustworthy – they even have an office at the airport!

The driver will be able to track your flight on the go and will wait for you!

Once you get to your accommodation, you can hire your scooter through 👉🏽 BikeAgo (most popular and reliable place) or book Grab rides if you don’t feel confident driving 🙂

#5 It’s Time to Pack (Light!)

The secret here is packing light because you might end up travelling on a scooter or boat with your suitcase. Plus you are the one carrying it so do yourself a favour and pack a carry-on!

#6 Read Some Useful Local Information

Before heading to Bali, familiarise yourself with essential local information, I’ve included some here below if you want to give a quick glance.

Religion in Bali

Religion plays a significant role in Balinese culture, with Hinduism being the predominant faith practised by the majority of the island’s population. Balinese Hinduism is a unique blend of Hinduism, Buddhism, and animism, characterised by elaborate rituals, colourful ceremonies, and a deep reverence for the natural world.

Temples, or “pura,” dot the landscape, serving as spiritual and social hubs for local communities. Visitors to Bali will often notice intricately decorated temples, where they can witness traditional ceremonies and rituals, such as offerings, processions, and dance performances.

Balinese Hinduism permeates every aspect of daily life, from family gatherings to agricultural practices, making it an integral part of the island’s identity and cultural heritage. Always remember to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting a temple!

Currency

The official currency of Indonesia, including Bali, is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). While some businesses in tourist areas may accept major foreign currencies like US dollars or euros, it’s generally more convenient to use the local currency for transactions.

ATMs are widely available throughout Bali, particularly in popular tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud, allowing travellers to withdraw cash using international debit or credit cards. However, it’s advisable to notify your bank of your travel plans beforehand to avoid any issues with card usage abroad.

Additionally, carrying a mix of cash and cards is recommended, as some smaller establishments may only accept cash payments. It’s also worth noting that currency exchange services are readily available at banks, money changers, and hotels, but rates may vary, so it’s wise to compare rates before exchanging money to get the best value for your currency.

👉🏽 Make sure to get a Wise card, it’s the best card to use in Indonesia to have fair exchange rates!

International Plugs

When travelling to Bali from countries with different electrical socket standards, it’s essential to bring the appropriate plug adapters to ensure compatibility with local outlets. In Bali, the standard voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz, with power outlets typically accepting two-pin plugs.

Most accommodations and public spaces offer a mix of socket types, including Type C (European), Type F (Schuko), and Type G (British), so it’s advisable to carry a universal adapter that can accommodate various plug types. Additionally, some hotels and coworking spaces may provide adapters upon request, but it’s always best to come prepared to avoid any inconvenience during your stay.

Guesthouse Wi Fi in Bali is rarely reliable, especially during rainy season. Some days it works, other days it just does not. I stopped stressing about it once I started using Ubigi eSIM. 👉 Check the plans here!

#7 Get Ready For Your Long Flight to Bali

Last but not least, be prepared for your long flight to Bali! It’s not going to be torture trust me! Remember to pick up your neck pillow, eye mask and a few face masks for a nice skincare routine on the flight!

You can also choose special meals if you have any dietary requirements. Also, I’m the queen of long flights so I wrote my secret strategy to get through them and a list of things to do on board here!

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap girl! You are good to go now! I hope you enjoyed my full first-timer guide to Bali!

If you want to make sure you are not forgetting anything when planning your trip to Bali, get this free downloadable checklist – it’s my quick list I’ve refined for years of visiting Bali before moving here permanently! It’s perfect!

Ciao for now,

Silvia x

Related Blog Posts:

Bed Bugs in Bali: What I Wish I Knew Before Today

Looking for a Homestay in Canggu, Bali? Check these out!

How to Get from Bali Airport to Canggu for Female Solo Travellers

Ubigi eSIM In Bali: My Honest Review As A Long Term Bali Resident

Best Places to Stay in Nusa Lembongan for Female Solo Travellers

What To Do If You Get Sick In Ubud: Guide For Solo Travellers

Best Coworking Spaces in Ubud for Solo Travellers

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