Bali on a Budget in 2025 [Updated]: Smart Ways to Save on Food, Stays, and Fun

Dreaming of Bali’s lush rice fields, vibrant beaches, and legendary sunsets in 2025—but think it’s out of reach? You’re not alone. Thousands set their sights on Bali as a bucket-list trip, and the good news is, you don’t have to empty your wallet to make it happen.

Bali is packed with budget-friendly choices that let you enjoy local culture, taste real Balinese food, and stay in comfort, all for less than you might expect. In this post, you’ll find the latest money-saving tips for food, transport, places to stay, and fun experiences. There are also new insider tricks that make traveling Bali on a budget in 2025 easier than ever.

Ready for your Bali adventure without the stress of overspending? This guide gives you everything you need to travel smarter and make the most of every dollar.

Essential Pre-Travel Tips for Bali on a Budget

Getting ready for Bali shouldn’t leave you with sticker shock. A few clever decisions ahead of time can save you big money, make your trip smooth, and help you avoid hidden costs. Here’s what you need to know before you set foot on the Island of the Gods.

Visa Requirements for Bali in 2025

Start with your paperwork. Most travelers need a visa to visit Bali. For many, a Visa on Arrival is the best pick. It lets you stay up to 30 days and is available for citizens from dozens of countries. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your entry date.

• Visa on Arrival Cost: Expect to pay about $35 USD (paid in cash or card at the airport).
• Extension Option: If you want to stay longer, you can extend your visa once for another 30 days.
• Proof of Funds: Some travelers may be asked for proof of financial stability on arrival, typically a recent bank statement or credit card.

For the most up-to-date entry rules, double-check the Indonesia International Travel Information and read this Bali Visa Guide | Updated 2025 Entry Requirements before departing.

Best Time to Visit for Cheaper Rates

The timing of your Bali trip heavily impacts how much you’ll spend. Want fewer crowds and better deals? Go during the low season.

• Cheapest Months: October to March offers discounted hotels, flights, and tours thanks to fewer tourists and the rainy season.
• Popular Months: July, August, and late December see a spike in visitors and prices.
• What to expect: Rain showers are short and often predictable, with most days still plenty warm and activities open.

You’ll find more details and tips on scoring great deals in this rundown of the best time to visit Bali for affordable rates.

Typical Flight Costs to Bali

Flights will be your biggest upfront cost. Booking early and being flexible with your travel dates scores the best bargains.

• Roundtrip Prices: Flights from the US, Europe, and Australia range from $400 to $1,000 roundtrip, depending on the season and your city.
• Price Drops: October through March has more deals and flash sales.
• Compare Prices: Use platforms like Google Flights for Bali to set alerts so you never miss a big price drop.

Securing a flight a few months in advance, or grabbing a last-minute deal if you’re flexible, keeps your transportation costs in check.

What to Expect on Arrival: Money-Saving Moves

Once your plane lands, a bit of know-how can protect your wallet from day one.

• SIM Cards: Skip overpriced airport stands. Grab a local SIM just outside the airport or in town for reliable data at local rates.
• Currency Exchange: Best rates are outside the airport or at authorized money changers in town. Avoid unofficial kiosks or offers that seem too good to be true.
• Airport Transport: Ignore aggressive drivers near the exit. Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Bluebird taxis. Always agree on a price before getting in a regular taxi.
• Customs and Arrival Steps: Complete the electronic customs form before you land to save time. Baggage claims and arrivals can be hectic, so keep your cool and watch your belongings.

If it’s your first time, check out these 18 expert tips on arrival at Bali – Denpasar Airport for more ways to avoid common surprises.

Prepared travelers save more and stress less, making Bali feel friendly from the start.

Affordable Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bali for Less

Bali offers some of Southeast Asia’s best value-for-money places to stay, making it easy to stretch your travel funds without sacrificing comfort or experience. In 2025, travelers will find cheap beds, charming budget hotels, and stylish hostels in every corner of the island. It’s all about knowing where to look and how to book smart.

Best Areas to Find Budget Accommodation

Bali’s character changes from beach town to jungle to sleepy coast, and each region comes with its own vibe and price range. Here’s a quick guide to the most popular spots for travelers who want low costs but lots of character:

• Ubud: Famous for its rice terraces and yoga scene, Ubud is ideal for nature lovers and solo travelers. Dorms start around $6–$10 USD. Expect lush scenery, healthy cafes, and quiet nights.
• Canggu: Hot with digital nomads and surfers. Hostel beds go for $8–$15 USD, with guesthouses and private rooms easily found. Buzzing cafes and beach bars are everywhere, but you’ll pay a little more the closer you get to the beach.
• Sanur: More relaxed than the west coast, Sanur draws families, couples, and anyone craving calm. Find great-value hotels from $12–$25 USD per night. It’s easy to explore the east coast and beyond from here.
• North and East Bali (e.g., Lovina, Amed, Sidemen): For the best bargains, look away from the crowds. Places like Lovina and Amed offer cheap homestays, friendly guesthouses, and less hustle. Rooms here can dip to $8–$20 USD per night, and you’ll get more local flavor.

Location matters—staying slightly outside tourist hotspots can mean lower rates and quieter nights. If you want a breakdown on neighborhoods and options, check this local-styled guide on best places to stay in Bali for every budget.

Types of Affordable Accommodation and Booking Tips

Bali has a full spectrum of budget sleeps that go way beyond basic hostels. Here’s what you’ll find, plus some smart ways to maximize savings:

• Hostels: The cheapest choice for solo travelers or those wanting to make friends. Expect clean dorms, social lounge spaces, and often free breakfast. Many have private rooms for a step up.
• Homestays: Genuine Balinese hospitality. Stay with a local family, enjoy fresh breakfasts, and pick up tips about the area. Ideal for cultural explorers.
• Guesthouses: Small hotels run like a family home. Usually include private rooms, sometimes a pool, and a relaxed, social vibe. Good for couples or peaceful solo trips.
• Capsule Hotels: Newer, stylish, and popular with young backpackers. Tiny but private pods with modern shared bathrooms. Great mix of privacy and affordability.
• Budget Hotels: More traditional, with daily cleaning, air-conditioning, and pools. Widely available even in top tourist zones. Rates for 2025 often stay between $12–$30 USD per night.

To make the most of your money, keep these booking tips in mind:

1. Book Early or Shop Late: Peak season means higher prices, so book in advance for the best choices. Last-minute deals do pop up—check platforms and direct sites.
2. Travel Off-Season: Bali’s rainy season (October–March) means fewer tourists and better deals.
3. Contact Owners Directly: Many local guesthouses and homestays offer lower rates if you reach out through their website or WhatsApp instead of big hotel sites.
4. Stay Longer: Some places discount weekly or monthly rates. Don’t be shy about asking.
5. Comparison Shop: Use sites that curate the top value spots, such as the best cheap hotels in Bali for 2025 or handpicked collections of affordable hotels for couples and solo travelers.

Locking in your room a few weeks ahead or taking a chance on arrival both work, but a little research can turn up amazing stays for less. With these strategies, you’ll have a comfy base for your Bali adventure—and more rupiah left for the beach, massages, or those famous smoothie bowls.

Cheap Eats: How to Eat Well Without Overspending

Eating well in Bali doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With just a few dollars, you can enjoy local flavors, fill your stomach, and still feel like you’re getting the real Bali experience. Whether you’re grabbing quick street food or sitting down in a family-run warung, tasty Balinese food is everywhere for travelers on any budget. Here’s how to get the most value from every meal.

Top Local Dishes and Where to Try Them for Cheap

Balinese food is bold, full of spices, and designed for sharing. The best news? Most traditional dishes can be found for $1–$5 at local markets and humble warungs across the island. Set your sights on these must-try eats:

• Nasi Campur: Think of this as Bali’s version of a lunch sampler. You get a scoop of rice topped with a mix of veggies, meats, eggs, peanuts, and chili sambal. Many small warungs serve it fresh daily. Look for “Warung Nasi Campur” signs, or try popular spots like Warung Murah in Seminyak.
• Babi Guling: This is Bali’s iconic spit-roasted pork, seasoned with turmeric and spices, then slow-cooked until crispy. A plate often comes with rice, lawar (spiced veggies), and crackling. Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka in Ubud is the classic pick, but you’ll also find smaller warungs serving it for under $5.
• Nasi Goreng: Fried rice with a local twist, usually topped with a fried egg. You’ll spot it everywhere from street stalls to hotel restaurants, but the cheapest plates start at $1 at roadside carts and open-air warungs.
• Satay: Skewers of grilled meat (often chicken, pork, or tofu) dipped in peanut sauce. Five to ten sticks with rice should cost no more than a couple of dollars at night markets.
• Gado-Gado: Bali’s beloved vegetarian choice—steamed veggies, tofu, and tempeh, all drenched in creamy peanut sauce. Fast, fresh, and always affordable.

To dig deeper into these flavors, check out this guide to must-try Balinese street food dishes, which covers everything from hidden gems to classic favorites.

Don’t just stick to restaurants when searching for a meal—some of the tastiest and cheapest food comes from street stalls and family kitchens. You’ll spot warungs on nearly every street, each with their own take on these classic dishes.

Best Budget Eats by Region

Bali’s food scene shifts from region to region, and every area has its own local legends when it comes to cheap eats. Whether you’re in the green heart of Ubud or down by the surf in Canggu, finding a filling meal for a few bucks is easy if you know where to look.

Ubud

Ubud is a hotspot for cheap and healthy options, thanks to its artsy vibe and mix of locals and tourists.

• Warung Bintangbali: Tucked among rice fields, known for nasi campur and cheap, cold Bintangs.
• Dewa Warung: Right in the center, this laid-back spot offers massive portions of gado-gado, curries, and fresh juices for just a few dollars.

Seminyak

Seminyak may seem upscale, but there are plenty of low-cost finds if you venture away from the main streets.

• Warung Murah: The name says it all (“cheap warung”). Eat nasi goreng, bakso (meatball soup), and Indonesian barbecue straight from the grill for local prices.
• For a handpicked list, try this street food in Seminyak guide for insider picks.

Canggu

Canggu’s food scene is split between hipster cafés and roadside warungs. Comfort food and vegan eats are everywhere.

• Warung Local: A favorite for mix-and-match Indonesian comfort food. Fill your plate for under $3.
• Bu Mi: Endless buffet-style choices and fresh watermelon juice—perfect after a surf session.

Uluwatu

Uluwatu draws travelers with its cliffs and waves, but you’ll still find authentic eats on a slim budget.

• Warung Bejana: Locals go here for daily specials and satay—large plates for small change.
• Warung Kita: Classic Indonesian favorites just steps from the surf, with friendly prices.

Other Hotspots

• Sanur: Try Nasi Bali Men Weti, famous for spicy chicken and sambal, all for a few dollars.
• Lovina & Amed: Beachside warungs serve grilled fresh fish, nasi goreng, and smoothies, often at half the price of the big tourist towns.

If you want more options with reader reviews, check out this lineup of the best cheap eats in Bali.

For even more places to eat across Bali’s hotspots, the 30 Best Cheap Eats in Bali guide covers top-value spots that locals and regular visitors love.

The secret? Follow the crowds, look for busy warungs, and trust your nose—almost any place packed with local families will serve something tasty and cheap. Eating like a local in Bali isn’t just good for your wallet—it’s the fastest way to taste the real Bali.

Getting Around: Budget Transportation in Bali

Transportation can take a big chunk out of your budget, but smart choices keep costs low and give you the freedom to explore every corner of Bali. From zipping around on a scooter to tapping a ride-hailing app, you’ve got plenty of options in 2025—even with a few changes in public transport to know about. The right mix depends on where you’re staying, how far you want to roam, and your comfort level with local roads.

Scooters and Motorbike Rentals: Pros, Cons & Safety

Renting a scooter is the classic way visitors see Bali on a budget—and for good reason. It’s cheap, flexible, and gets you almost everywhere the tour buses won’t go.

Typical daily rental prices for a basic scooter start around $5–$8 USD per day (80,000–130,000 IDR), with weekly rates as low as $25–$40. Powerful motorbikes cost more but are usually not needed in most tourist areas. Fuel costs are also friendly; a full tank will run about $1.50–$2 USD and lasts for days.

Before you hit the road, keep these essentials in mind:

• License Requirements: By law, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement, plus your original license. Local police do stop and fine tourists without proper paperwork—often on the spot. It pays to do things right.
• Helmet Laws: Wearing a helmet is required for both riders and passengers. Police checks are frequent, especially near Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak. Always strap up—even for short rides.
• Safety: Bali roads can be challenging. Traffic is dense, road quality is inconsistent, and rules are loosely followed. Serious injuries are not rare. If you haven’t ridden a scooter before, the island’s busy spots are not ideal for learning.
• Insurance: Most local rentals offer little or no insurance. Consider buying travel insurance that covers accidents on scooters.
• Best Use Case: Scooters shine for short trips, connecting beach towns, or exploring rural areas where public options can’t reach. If you plan to tour far regions—like north or east Bali—a car or driver might be safer.

Pros:

• Cheapest option for solo travelers and couples
• Ultimate freedom on your schedule
• Park easily anywhere

Cons:

• Risk of accident or theft
• Not suited for heavy rain or unpaved roads
• Not family-friendly

Rent a scooter if you have experience, carry the legal paperwork, and mostly want to travel locally each day. If you prefer safety, air-con, and someone else handling the wild traffic, stick to cars, taxis, or shuttles. For a lay of the land and rider reviews, check out feedback from travelers using Cheapest Bali Transport.

Ride-Hailing, Public Transport, and Local Buses

In 2025, Bali’s ride-hailing scene and public transport options have changed—better in some ways, tougher in others. Here’s how the main options stack up if you’re budget-focused:

Ride-Hailing Apps

Grab and Gojek are Bali’s superstars for quick and cheap rides. You can book scooters or cars with a few taps, often at lower rates than taxis. Fares for a short trip (e.g., Seminyak to Canggu) start at $1–$2 USD for scooter rides, while car trips begin around $3–$5 USD. Apps show exact prices before you book.

Key tips:

• Apps work best in major areas—Denpasar, Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud.
• Drivers sometimes can’t pick up in certain tourist hotspots due to local taxi “mafia” restrictions. Walk a block or two to get around this.
• Both apps also deliver cheap food if you want to eat in.

Bluebird Taxis

Bluebird is the only taxi brand with a clear meter and solid reputation. Short rides cost from $3 USD, going up with distance. You can flag them on the street or use their app. Always check for the Bluebird logo, as fake “Bluebird” cabs still appear.

Public Transport and Shuttles

Important update for 2025: Many public bus and shuttle routes have closed or are on hold across Bali due to funding issues, especially outside main tourist hubs (details from Jakarta Post). But Denpasar and key tourist corridors now benefit from improved routes, especially new Trans Metro Dewata lines connecting Denpasar, Sanur, and Ubud (source on routes).

• Fares: Most public buses or shuttles run from $0.50–$2 USD per trip. Payment is by prepaid card.
• Coverage: Service is best between Denpasar, Sanur, and Ubud. Other regions depend on local minibuses (bemos) or private drivers.
• Convenience: Buses and shuttles are less frequent than apps or taxis. If your schedule is tight, ride-hailing wins every time.

If you want an up-to-date public transit map for Denpasar and surroundings, see the official 2025 Denpasar transit map.

Summary Table: Getting Around Bali on a Budget

Mixing scooters, ride-hailing, and public transport is your ticket to seeing Bali for less in 2025. Always check the latest on which routes are running and compare your options for each journey to keep both your spending and stress under control.

Unique Bali Experiences That Won’t Break the Bank

Traveling Bali on a budget isn’t about sacrificing fun or missing out on memorable moments. The best experiences here don’t have to come with a high price tag. From enchanting temples to hidden waterfalls, let’s explore the top free and low-cost ways to enjoy Bali in 2025—and learn the best insider tips for enjoying authentic activities without feeling like a packaged tourist.

Top Free and Low-Cost Activities in 2025

Bali shines with activities that are affordable and one-of-a-kind. Here’s a short-list of favorites under $5–$10, offering every traveler a real taste of the island:

• Rice Field Walks: The Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Ubud is iconic and completely free to wander (a small donation of $1-2 may be requested for upkeep). The Campuhan Ridge Walk is another favorite for sunrise or golden hour photos, and costs nothing except maybe for a juice at the end.
• Temple Visits: Many temples ask only a small entry fee (about $2–$3). Top options are:
  • Pura Tirta Empul: Cleanse yourself in holy spring waters for around $2.
  • Pura Taman Saraswati: See breathtaking lotus ponds in central Ubud with free entry.
  • Pura Tanah Lot: Catch unforgettable sunsets for about $3–$4 per person.
• Waterfall Adventures: Bali’s waterfalls reward you after short hikes. Entry fees tend to be $1–$3 each.
  • Dusun Kuning Waterfall: Less crowded and surrounded by lush forest.
  • Tegenungan Waterfall: Closer to Ubud, with dramatic views and local snacks nearby.
• Public Beaches: Legendary beaches like Nusa Dua, Sanur, Balangan, and Kuta are all free to access. Pack a picnic, rent a sun bed for a couple of dollars, and watch surfers at play.
• Local Markets: Stroll through markets in Ubud, Gianyar, or Denpasar to see artisans at work and try free food samples. Even if you don’t buy, it’s a feast for the senses.
• Free Cultural Events: Keep your calendar open for temple ceremonies, street parades, or even free classes at local community centers. Ask at your guesthouse or check community boards for what’s on.

For a fresh roundup of the best wallet-friendly fun this year, check the 10 Best Free Things to Do in Bali (2025) and these cheap things to do in Bali that travelers rate highly.

How to Find Authentic Experiences Without Overpaying

Finding the real Bali without paying tourist markups is all about how and where you look. Here’s how to unlock authentic moments that locals love—without splurging on expensive tours.

• Go Direct: Skip big tour operators and connect with small, local guides found via your homestay or recommendations from other travelers. Many offer the same experiences at a fraction of packaged tour prices.
• DIY Your Adventures: Bali is perfect for self-guided exploring. Rent a scooter for $5–$10 a day and create your own route—whether it’s temple-hopping or chasing hidden waterfalls. This is often faster, more fun, and lets you stop where you like.
• Join Small Group Classes: Many art studios and community centers have batik, cooking, or music workshops for $5–$10. These are often taught by locals and feel more genuine than anything booked through hotel desks.
• Eat Where Locals Eat: If a place is full of Balinese families, you’re likely getting great value and local flavor. Avoid beachfront restaurants with laminated tourist menus, and look for warungs with handwritten signs and busy tables.
• Track Down Free and Low-Cost Events: Ask staff at your hostel or guesthouse, check posters at yoga cafés, or browse online. Temple festivals, dance performances, and market fairs happen weekly across the island—and are often free.
• Avoid Overpriced Packages: Be wary of “all-inclusive” day trips that seem too slick or cram in too many stops. You’ll often pay more for less flexibility and see the same attractions you could visit yourself for half the cost.
• Bargain Politely: It’s okay to negotiate prices at art markets and with independent guides, but always be respectful. Don’t haggle at temples or food stalls.
• Use Trusted Resources: Guides like Bali on a Budget: 10 Must-Do Experiences for Savvy Travelers and recent blog tips on Bali on a Budget: Insider Tips for First-Time Travelers help you spot true value and avoid tourist traps.

Sticking to these simple strategies lets you experience the magic of Bali from the inside, making real memories without making a dent in your wallet.

Insider Hacks for Saving Even More in Bali

Bali can be super affordable if you know a few tricks locals and veteran travelers use to cut costs every day. Some of the best savings come from quick decisions and small habits that add up big time. Here’s how to tap into real insider hacks, from bargaining in markets to eco-friendly habits that save you cash while making your trip better.

Always Haggle—But Do It Politely

Prices in Bali’s markets and sometimes even for rides or local souvenirs aren’t set in stone. Haggling isn’t just accepted; it’s expected. Vendors often start high, so it’s normal to counter with an offer that’s about half of the opening price, then meet somewhere in the middle. Smile, keep your tone friendly, and don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re not happy. Often, you’ll get a better deal once you step back.

• Avoid aggressive bargaining, especially for handmade items—be fair and respectful.
• Bundle items at one stall for extra discounts.
• Learn a little Bahasa Indonesia (“berapa harganya?” means “how much is it?”) for goodwill.

For more tips and examples, check out these 23 Bali travel tips you need to know in 2025.

Use eSIMs and Local SIM Cards for Cheap Data

Staying connected in Bali can cost you next to nothing with the right SIM choice. Skip airport stalls and overpriced prepaid cards. Instead, buy your SIM or set up an eSIM from a local provider like Telkomsel or XL at a minimart, phone shop, or even from a reputable booth in a bigger supermarket.

• eSIMs are fast and easy. Many travelers use apps or providers to install an eSIM as soon as they land, often for just a few bucks.
• If you’re staying for a few weeks, compare packages before you commit. LTE data is cheap and reliable in most tourist areas.
• Free Wi-Fi is common in cafes—take advantage instead of burning through mobile data.

To learn about the latest mobile data options, see this straightforward insider guide for tourist eSIMs and data hacks.

Check for Discounts and Special Deals

Lots of businesses across Bali offer last-minute deals, flash sales, or discounts for booking direct or in cash. You’ll see signs in cafes (“free coffee before 11am”), scooter rental shops, yoga studios, or even when booking snorkel trips.

Look for deals here:

• Hostel bulletin boards—local tours and activities almost always post flyers with promo codes.
• Apps and social media—Instagram accounts for Bali hostels and cafes often advertise happy hours or 2-for-1 specials.
• Walk-in discounts—many homestays and rental shops offer a better price if you show up in person and ask.

There’s a great cheat sheet full of these kind of savings in the Ultimate Guide to Saving Money in Bali.

Solo vs. Group Travel Costs: Know When to Team Up

Traveling solo in Bali is easy, but sometimes it pays to partner up. Many activities, drivers, and rentals charge per car or guide—not per person—so grouping up saves everyone money.

• Split costs for private drivers and long tours. Bringing two or three new friends on your trip can cut a $60 day-trip down to $20 each.
• Sharing meals is common: Bali’s generous dishes and family-style servings mean you can order fewer plates and still eat well.
• Hostels, online travel groups, and community boards make it simple to find others who want to split boats, taxis, or even villa stays.

Eco-Friendly Habits That Also Save Money

Traveling green in Bali is just as good for your wallet as it is for the planet.

• Carry a refillable water bottle. Most hostels, cafes, and many guesthouses offer free filtered water stations, so you’ll skip buying plastic bottles every day.
• Bring your own bag to markets—vendors appreciate it, and some pass on a discount for those who say no to plastic.
• Say no to single-use items like takeout cutlery, straws, and bags. Not only is it better for the island, but cafes often offer small savings if you bring your own cup.

You can find even more budget- and eco-friendly travel hacks in this extensive Bali budget travel guide.

Using these simple tricks ups your Bali savings every single day. Haggling, finding deals, choosing smarter travel groups, and living a little greener all keep more rupiah in your hands—so you can travel longer or treat yourself to one more sunset drink.

Conclusion

Bali in 2025 proves that a dream island escape can truly fit any budget. Smart choices—like eating local, staying in affordable guesthouses, and mixing up transport—help you get more out of every dollar, without missing the highlights. With a little planning and the right tips, you’ll enjoy incredible food, friendly places to stay, and rich Balinese culture while keeping costs in check.

Mindful, sustainable travel makes a real difference. Supporting local businesses, reducing waste, and learning a few words in Bahasa Indonesia help your rupiah go further and leave a positive mark on the island. Bali isn’t just for luxury travelers—careful planning opens the door for everyone to experience its best side.

Thanks for reading and being part of a respectful travel community. Share your own Bali savings tips or questions below—let’s help each other travel smarter.