Q: "What do i need to keep in mind when travelling in Bali? What are travelling essentials for a family holiday in Bali?"

VISA

Planning a family trip to Bali? You'll need the right visa to make sure everything goes smoothly. Here are the main options:

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

Perfect for short visits, this one's valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days. Great for tourism, family visits, or transit. It's available for citizens of over 80 countries. 2. Single-Entry Visit Visa (C211A)

If you're thinking of staying longer, this visa is valid for 60 days, with two possible extensions (up to 180 days total). Ideal for longer stays with the family. 3. Multiple-Entry Visit Visa (D1/D2)

If you plan to visit Bali a few times over a longer period, this visa lets you come and go for up to five years (with 60-day stays). It requires sponsorship, usually from a local company. 4. Family KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit)

If you're planning to live in Bali, this one's for you. It's for spouses and children of KITAS holders, and it lets you live in Indonesia for up to two years with perks like access to local pricing and the ability to get a driver's license. 5. Ex-Indonesian Golden Visa (E32 A/B)

For former Indonesian citizens and their families, this visa can be valid for 5 to 10 years, with the option to bring family along. 6. Remote Worker Visa (E33G)

If you're working remotely for an overseas company, this visa lets you stay in Bali for up to a year, and you can bring your family too.

Pro Tips:

Extensions: Don't forget to apply for an extension before your visa expires to avoid overstaying fees.
Regulations change, so it's always a good idea to double-check with local immigration or trusted visa agencies like Bali Solve to stay up-to-date. balisolve.com

With the right visa, your family will be able to enjoy Bali hassle-free!

PACKING FOR BALI WITH KIDS

Getting ready for Bali with the kids? Here's your packing checklist to make sure you've got everything you'll need for a smooth and fun trip!

Clothing & Footwear:

Light, breathable clothes (cotton or linen work best).
Swimwear (at least two sets per person).
Sun hats & sunglasses.
A light rain jacket or poncho (for those tropical downpours).
Comfortable sandals & flip-flops.
Closed shoes for hikes or scooter rides.
A sarong or cover-up for temple visits.

For the Kids:

Rash guards for sun protection.
Floaties or small inflatable toys if they're not strong swimmers.
Light pajamas (it's warm at night!).
Water shoes (helpful for rocky beaches or waterfalls).

Essentials & Health Items:

Reef-safe, high SPF sunscreen (it's expensive here, so stock up!).
Mosquito repellent (go for DEET-free for the little ones).
Basic first-aid kit (band-aids, fever meds, etc.).
Electrolytes for hydration.
Reusable water bottles (many places offer refills).
Prescription meds (bring enough for your whole stay).
Hand sanitizer & wet wipes (always handy).

Beach & Outdoor Gear:

Microfiber towels (quick-dry & compact).
Snorkeling gear for kids (optional, but fun!).
Small beach toys (sandcastle kits for younger kids are a hit).

For Babies & Toddlers:

Diapers & wipes (they're available in Bali, but a bit pricier).
A baby carrier (more practical than a stroller).
Muslin blankets (great for shade or naps).
A portable fan for the stroller or car seat.
Baby-friendly snacks & formula (if needed).

Tech & Miscellaneous:

Universal adapter (Bali uses European-style plugs).
Power bank (for those long days out).
Waterproof phone case (perfect for beaches & waterfalls).
Local SIM card or e-sim (helpful for staying connected).

STAYING HEALTHY ON THE ISLAND

Water & Ice: Always stick to bottled or filtered water. Avoid ice unless you're in a reputable restaurant.
Bali Belly: Be careful with street food, especially if your kids have sensitive stomachs. Carry activated charcoal or probiotics just in case.
Health Clinics: Bali has international clinics like BIMC and SOS Medika, plus pharmacies (Apotek) for basic meds.

PACKING MUST-HAVES BEYOND THE BASICS

Light Muslin Cloths: Great for shade, cleaning up spills, or covering up.
Snorkel Set for Older Kids: The waters around Bali are perfect for exploring.
Reusable Straws & Cutlery: Eco-friendly and useful for meals on the go.
Pre-downloaded Cartoons & Games: Wi-Fi can be spotty, so it's always handy to have offline entertainment.

ARRIVING IN BALI

To provide a sequential procedure for international travelers to efficiently navigate the arrivals process at Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) with minimal delays.

I. Pre-Arrival Protocol (Online) Complete these steps before your flight to expedite your arrival.

Visa Verification: Confirm if your nationality is eligible for Visa Exemption Arrangement (VEA) or requires a Visa on Arrival (VOA).
e-VOA Application (Recommended): If you require a VOA, apply for the electronic e-VOA online. This must be done 14 days to 48 hours before your flight. This allows you to bypass the VOA payment queue upon arrival.
⁠Link: https://allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id/
Bali Tourist Tax: Pay the mandatory IDR 150,000 tourist tax online via the official "Love Bali" system. This can also be paid on arrival, but pre-payment is faster.
Electronic Customs Declaration (Mandatory): Fill out the Indonesian Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD) online.
This form must be completed within the two days prior to your arrival.
The airport Wi-Fi ("NgurahRai," no password) can be used to complete this on-site, but pre-completion is strongly advised because this is not a secure network.
Upon submission, you will receive a QR code. Screenshot or save this code. This single form covers both customs and immigration.

II. Arrival Sequence (On-Site) Follow this sequence immediately upon deplaning.

From disembarking the plan to passing through Immigration: Your primary objective is to get to the immigration hall as fast as possible. The queues can be 1-2+ hours.
Pro-Tip: If possible encourage your children to use the aircraft restroom before landing. Bypass the toilets in the transit hallway; wait until the baggage claim hall if necessary.

Immigration Hall:

Please note that the use of cameras is strictly prohibited in this area.
VOA Payment: If you did not get an e-VOA, queue at the VOA desk first to pay.
Immigration Officer: Proceed to the main immigration queues.
Priority Queues: Look for designated fast-track lanes for families with young children (under 5) and the elderly (over 60). Signage indicates their location (far left or far right).
Duty-Free: After clearing immigration but before baggage claim, there is a new, official duty-free store. This is the best place to purchase spirits.
Warning: The allowance is strictly one (1) litre of alcohol per adult. Excess will be confiscated at customs.
Baggage Claim: Proceed to the carousels.
Expect Delays: Baggage handling is notoriously slow (30-60 minutes is normal). This is the best time for a toilet break.
Oversized Luggage: Surfboards, bikes, etc. are typically deposited at the entry end of the carousels, not on the main belt.

Customs Inspection:

Proceed to the customs exit with your luggage.
Present your Electronic Customs QR code to the officer.
You may be directed to an X-ray machine and/or for a manual inspection. Be polite and cooperative. Have receipts for any new electronics or high-value goods (>$500 USD).

III. Post-Customs Procedure (Landside) You are now officially in Bali. Complete these final steps.

Withdraw Cash from a reputable ATM in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR): Use the official bank ATMs located immediately outside the customs exit. They are safe and reliable. Reputable money changers are also available here, offering secure (if slightly less competitive) rates.
Get SIM Card if you haven’t enabled Roaming on your phone: Purchase a local SIM card (e.g., Telkomsel) from the official kiosks (open approx. 7 am – 2 am).

Exit to Arrivals Hall:

Warning: You will be met by a crowd of drivers, taxi touts, and porters. Porters can be very aggressive; a firm "no, thank you" (or ignoring them) is recommended.
Avoid ‘Touts’: Do not accept unsolicited taxi offers. The official airport taxi machines and counters can be unreliable.
Find Your Transfer: The lowest-stress method is a pre-booked airport transfer. Your driver will be waiting for you in the designated area with a sign bearing your name. It is recommended that you also ask them for a photo of themselves of some identifying clothing to avoid confusion.
Grab and GoJek (more affordable rides) are available at the Airport as well, you'll find them behind the designated area. Make sure you downloaded the Grab or GoJek App before you arrive in Bali.
Food/Drink with the little ones: Small convenience stores and a coffee kiosk are available on the arrivals level. For more substantial meals or a quieter place to wait, take the elevator (near the left-side convenience store) up to the 3rd floor (Departures).

Summary:

Fill in Customs Dec anytime before your leave for Bali via this link: https://allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id/
⁠Land in Bali
⁠Pay $50 each for VOA & there might be an addition $15 Tourist Tax per person.
⁠Go through the Family Express line for Immigration (Imigrasi) on the right hand side
⁠Collect Luggage
⁠Go through Customs with your e-Customs Dec QR code for the family / group.
⁠Walk out through the maze out to where all of the drivers are waiting.
⁠Enjoy the ride…

Also check Indonesian Immigration IG for updates:

@ditjen_imigrasi

Ultimate Bali Packing List for Families (What to Bring & Leave)