Since it's always hot and sunny in Bali, we gotta know how to dress so we don't feel all hot and sticky inside our clothes.
But wait, don't think you can just wear anything you want in Bali! There are some unwritten rules about dressing on the island that you'll want to keep in mind.
This article is all about what to wear in Bali and how to dress appropriately without accidentally disrespecting the local culture.
What to pack
Whether it's rainy or dry season, Bali is always blazing hot, with temperatures averaging around 90°F / 32°C at midday.
Here are the most common items that you'll see people wearing, and they're also essential things that you should pack for your trip.
Sun hat
I've noticed that some tourists wear hats in Bali while others don't, even on sunny days. But trust me, a sun hat is essential to protect your head from Bali's scorching sunshine.
This is especially true when you're exploring places like Nusa Penida, where a hat can help keep you feeling comfortable and sweat-free.
Sunglass
Don't forget to pack your sunglasses for your Bali trip! Even on a cloudy day, the bright sun can still be harsh on your eyes.
It's important to protect them everywhere you go, and that includes places like Ubud, where it might not feel as hot.
T-shirt
Wearing an open top in Bali isn't the best idea. If you take a look at how the locals dress, you'll notice that they tend to wear clothes with more coverage to avoid direct sun exposure.
To stay comfortable and protect your skin from the intense sunshine, it's a good idea to follow their lead and wear something similar. Your skin will thank you for it!
A t-shirt will keep you cool and comfortable, while still giving you enough protection from the heat. So pack a few of your favorite tees and you're good to go!
Short
I'm not sure how sweaty you'd get wearing jeans in Bali. Shorts are definitely the way to go if you want to explore the island, especially if you plan on checking out the rice fields.
Trust me, you'll be much more comfortable!
Flip flop
When it comes to footwear in Bali, flip flops are the go-to choice for both locals and tourists. They are cheap, comfortable, and practical for the hot and humid weather.
Whether you're hitting the beach, exploring temples, or shopping in the city, flip flops will keep your feet happy and cool.
Sunscreen
Don't forget to toss some sunscreen in your bag. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of exploring Bali, but you don't want to end up with a nasty sunburn.
While soaking up some sun is nice, too much can be a recipe for disaster. Sunblock reflects the sun's rays, while sunscreen filters UV but lets some through.
Depending on what you need, sunscreen is the more common choice.
Slicker
If you're planning to visit Bali between October and April, you might want to consider bringing a slicker. It's the rainy season in Bali and it can rain quite heavily.
By the way, the most common mode of transportation in Bali is the scooter, which can be a bit tricky when it's raining. If you're planning to hop on one to get around the island, a raincoat is definitely a must-have.
Bali dressing etiquette
There aren't any written rules on how tourists should dress in Bali, however, locals do have some expectations on how people should dress when in public or entering a temple.
In public
In Bali, wearing open clothings is viewed the same as not wearing any clothes at all. Both male and female tourists are expected to dress modestly in Bali in order to respect the locals, especially children and temples.
Male tourists are expected to at least wear tank tops and shorts, while female tourists are expected to at least wear T-shirts and shorts that are just slightly above the knee.
At temples
If you plan to visit a temple in Bali, it's important to know about the dress code Visitors are expected to cover their body from under the neck down to the knee.
Sarongs are required in most temples, but some may allow visitors to enter without one as long as their clothing is appropriate.
Some temples have sarongs available for visitors to use, but others don't. If you need to get one, you can easily find them for sale on the streets.
At the beach
Bali has long been a popular tourist destination, with its beautiful beaches being a major draw for visitors. The locals tend to avoid bringing their children to the beach, recognizing that tourists often frequent the area.
As for the dress code, there are no specific rules when it comes to beachwear in Bali, so you are free to wear your favorite swimsuit without any issues.
FAQs
Yes, you can wear shorts in Bali as long as it’s not too much open above the knee.
Yes, you can wear a bikini in Bali but only at the beaches.
It's not appropriate to wear crop tops or any kind of clothing that exposes your belly in Bali.
