Bali is one of Indonesia's most beautiful destinations, and it’s a favourite of many Australian travellers! If you do plan to travel to Bali or if you’re already there (lucky you), here are a few InsureandGo Australia tips to help you stay safe and avoid any unpleasant situations.
1. Bali belly
Bali Belly, otherwise known as traveller’s diarrhoea, is a common illness that you can easily pick up in Bali (and Asia in general). If you’re keen to dodge Bali Belly, it’s generally recommended to avoid drinking tap water (use bottled water for drinking and cleaning your teeth) and stay away from street/vendor food (especially if it has not been cooked in front of you).
Raw foods, pre-peeled fruits and veggies and cooked foods that have been left out for extended periods can carry a higher risk.
If you do end up with Bali Belly and need to see a doctor, contact InsureandGo Australia as soon as possible for assistance, subject to your policy terms and conditions.
2. Scooter accidents
Scooters are a dime a dozen in Bali, and riding one can be lots of fun. However, local laws and requirements apply, including:
- You hold a valid Australian driver’s licence and any necessary licence/ permit appropriate for Bali; it is also highly recommended to apply for an International Driving Permit (you can apply for this permit in Australia) to avoid running into any unfortunate situations
- You wear a helmet at all times
- You never drive while intoxicated or under the influence
- You obey all road rules, including speed limits, and operate the scooter correctly
If you do not stick to these regulations, you may affect your eligibility if you need to make a claim.
If you do experience an accident in Bali, you’ll need to contact InsureandGo Australia as soon as practicable and gather as much evidence about the accident as possible (photos, videos, witness statements). If you are injured, however, make sure seeking medical help is your top priority.
3. Snorkelling & scuba diving
InsureandGo Australia’s travel insurance policies include cover for more than 150 sports and activities, subject to policy terms, conditions and exclusions. This includes snorkelling and certain types of scuba diving, such as diving to a maximum depth of 30 metres when you are qualified or diving with a qualified instructor.
This means many common everyday sports and activities are automatically included without needing to add any extra cover. If you plan to dive or snorkel in Bali, whether your chosen activity is covered depends on the terms of your particular policy.
If you plan to take part in activities not covered as standard, the Adventure Plus upgrade allows you to extend your cover to include additional higher‑risk activities, such as deeper scuba diving, kiteboarding and tandem aerial activities.
All activity cover is subject to specific conditions and limits. Check your policy and the PDS to ensure your chosen activity is covered before you travel.
4. Theft
Theft can be common anywhere in the world, including in Bali. Ensure your belongings are with you at all times and never leave your valuables or baggage unattended. Use the safe in your hotel room if it is provided, and/or lock your bags and suitcases when you go out.
When travelling around Bali, keep your belongings with you in a zippable bag and make sure the bag stays close to your body while travelling and walking about.
If your possessions are stolen or become lost in Bali, contact us as soon as practical and report the incident to the local police within 24 hours, where possible.
5. Respecting religion & customs
Indonesia has a diverse range of religions, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs and laws while holidaying in Bali. Blasphemy laws are taken seriously, and behaviour that is disrespectful to religious beliefs may carry penalties.
Travellers are encouraged to be courteous and mindful of local cultural expectations, including behaviour in public places.
Bali has distinct cultural and social expectations around public behaviour, shaped by local customs and religious traditions. Modest conduct in public spaces is generally expected, particularly in villages, near temples and during religious ceremonies. While attitudes in tourist areas can be more relaxed, overt public displays of affection, such as kissing or prolonged physical contact, are less common than in Australia and may attract attention or be viewed as inappropriate in some settings. Local authorities have also placed increased emphasis on respectful behaviour by visitors, in line with broader guidelines aimed at preserving Bali’s cultural values.
6. Taking medications into Bali
Indonesia has extremely strict customs laws regarding medication and other drugs, including restrictions on what can be brought into the country.
Carry doctor’s certificates, original packaging and prescriptions with you and mark your medication as being for ‘personal use’ on any customs forms. Keep in mind that you can obtain many over-the-counter medications (e.g. headache pills) in Bali as well.
7. Declaring Pre-existing Conditions to InsureandGo Australia
InsureandGo Australia considers pre‑existing medical conditions for possible cover, subject to assessment and the policy terms and conditions.
A pre‑existing medical condition generally includes any condition for which you have received prescribed medication or treatment, medical advice, tests or investigations in the 2 years prior to the issue of your policy.
Declaring any pre‑existing medical conditions when applying for travel insurance is important, as it may affect whether related events are covered. If you’re unsure whether a condition needs to be declared, contact InsureandGo Australia so it can be assessed before you travel.
Planning a holiday in Bali or another tropical trip? InsureandGo Australia has a range of travel insurance options to help protect you against the unexpected. Compare our travel insurance options and the different levels of cover here.