Planning a trip to Bali? 🌴
Flights and accommodation are booked — now comes the big question:
💭 How much money should I take to Bali?
Bring too little, and you’ll feel limited. Bring too much, and you’ll worry about safety.
This guide will help you find the perfect balance, so you can enjoy Bali comfortably and stress-free.
On my first trip to Bali, I brought way too much cash, afraid ATMs wouldn’t work.
Turns out, I barely used half of it.
On my second trip, I came prepared — some cash, a card, and a plan.
That made all the difference.
After traveling through Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, Kuta, and Sanur, I learned exactly how much money travelers realistically need — and how to manage it smartly in Bali.
✅ 1️⃣ How Much Money Should You Take to Bali? (General Rule)
For most travelers, this approach works best:
✅ Bring USD/AUD 300–500 in cash
✅ Use debit/credit cards for hotels, restaurants, and larger expenses
✅ Exchange cash gradually in Bali, not all at once
This gives you flexibility, better exchange rates, and more security.
✅ 2️⃣ Daily Spending in Bali (2025 Estimate)
Here’s a realistic breakdown of daily expenses (excluding hotel & flights):
| Travel Style | Daily Budget (IDR) | USD Approx |
|---|---|---|
| 🏝️ Budget | 500,000 – 800,000 | $30 – $55 |
| 🌴 Mid-Range | 1,000,000 – 1,800,000 | $65 – $120 |
| 💼 Luxury | 2,000,000 – 3,000,000+ | $130 – $200+ |
💡 Most travelers fall into the mid-range category.
✅ 3️⃣ Recommended Cash for Your Trip Length
| Trip Length | Recommended Spending Money |
|---|---|
| 5 days | 6 – 9 million IDR ($400–$600) |
| 7 days | 10 – 15 million IDR ($650–$950) |
| 10 days | 13 – 20 million IDR ($850–$1,300) |
| 14 days | 18 – 28 million IDR ($1,200–$1,900) |
💬 Tip: You don’t need to carry all of this in cash — exchange as needed.
✅ 4️⃣ Cash vs Card: What Works Best in Bali
✅ Cash (IDR) — markets, taxis, small cafes, parking, tips
✅ Cards — hotels, beach clubs, restaurants, shopping malls
✅ ATMs — widely available, best used inside banks
💡 Use a mix of cash + card for maximum convenience.
✅ 5️⃣ Where to Exchange Money Safely in Bali
Always use licensed money changers — not random street kiosks.
✅ Best Money Changer Bali (BMC)
- Licensed by Bank Indonesia
- Transparent rates, no hidden fees
- 6 branches: Airport, Seminyak, Canggu, Legian, Sanur & Tuban
- Open daily 07.00–23.00
💬 Smart tip: Exchange a small amount at the airport, then more in town for better rates.
So, how much money should you take to Bali?
➡️ USD/AUD 300–500 in cash, plus a debit or credit card, is ideal for most travelers.
Exchange money gradually, spend in IDR, and plan your daily budget.
With the right preparation, you’ll enjoy Bali without financial stress — and spend more time enjoying sunsets than counting cash