Staying Healthy & Well on Your Bali Holiday: Pre-Trip Prep & On-Island Tips (2025)

That wonderful feeling of booking your Bali trip is special! We at Merusaka Nusa Dua want to help you feel great from arrival to departure, ready to enjoy every amazing experience without health worries.

While Bali is generally safe, a tropical environment means some adjustments. Think of this as a friendly chat – your ‘wellness toolkit’ for a confident and relaxed stay.

Before You Go: Prepare for a Healthy Adventure!

A little preparation makes a big difference!

1. Chat with Your Doctor or Travel Clinic

  • Why it’s Helpful: Personalized health advice for your trip. Schedule a visit 4-6 weeks before you leave for peace of mind!

  • What to Discuss: Your Bali plans, activities, and health history. Get tailored recommendations.

    • Vaccinations: Ensure routine ones (MMR, Tdap) are current. Discuss Hepatitis A and Typhoid with your doctor as precautions for Southeast Asia. A Tetanus booster might also be suggested. These aren’t usually mandatory for Indonesia entry (as of May 2025). Your doctor’s advice is key.
    • Official Entry Needs: Indonesia doesn’t typically require vaccine certificates unless from high-risk Yellow Fever countries. Check official Indonesian embassy/immigration websites closer to your travel date for updates.
    • Your Medications: Pack enough for your trip plus extra. Keep in original packaging. A copy of your prescription is wise, especially for controlled substances.

2. Get Comprehensive Travel Insurance!

  • Why it’s Non-Negotiable: Essential for worry-free travel. Unexpected illness or accidents can be costly. Insurance offers vital financial protection.
  • What to Look For: High coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and evacuation. Check for lost luggage, trip cancellation, and specific activities. Keep policy details and emergency contact info handy.

Packing Your Travel Health Kit: Your Personal Comfort Toolkit

A small kit helps handle minor issues quickly.

  • For Minor Scrapes & Cuts: Plasters, sterile gauze, medical tape, antiseptic wipes/liquid, small scissors (checked luggage).
  • For Common Discomforts: Pain relievers (paracetamol/ibuprofen), antihistamine tablets/cream, motion sickness remedy.
  • For Tummy Troubles: Anti-diarrheal medication (like Loperamide), Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS), anti-itch cream.
  • Sun & Skin Saviors: High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30+), SPF lip balm, after-sun lotion (aloe vera).
  • Bug Buster: Mosquito repellent with DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535.
  • Your Personal Must-Haves: Eye drops, contact lens solution, feminine hygiene products, etc.

Need more packing ideas? 

Staying Well On the Island: Enjoying Bali Healthily!

Simple daily habits for feeling great.

1. Hydration is Key! (And Go Reusable!)

  • Why it’s So Important: Bali’s heat means you sweat more. Staying hydrated boosts energy and prevents headaches.
  • Simple Actions: Drink bottled or purified water. Use it for brushing teeth too. Carry a reusable water bottle – many places, including Merusaka, offer refills. Bali is reducing single-use plastics. Coconut water (kelapa muda) is a tasty hydrator.

2. Be Sun Savvy Every Day

  • Why Care is Needed: Bali’s sun is strong year-round. Sunburn can happen fast!
  • Smart Sun Habits: Apply high-SPF sunscreen generously and often. Use a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Seek shade from 11 AM to 3 PM.

sports that you can do in Bali

3. Savor Food & Drink Confidently

  • Why a Little Mindfulness Helps: Enjoy Bali’s amazing food! “Bali Belly” is often just your system adjusting.
  • Easy Tips for Happy Tummies:
    • Drink bottled/purified water.
    • Be mindful of ice.
    • Choose freshly cooked, hot food.
    • Pick busy eateries. Be careful with street food – look for clean, fresh cooking.
    • Peel fruit yourself or choose thick-skinned types. Be cautious with pre-cut fruit/salads from less established places.
    • Wash hands often or use sanitizer.

4. Keep Mosquitoes at Bay

  • Why it Matters: Avoid bites to prevent Dengue Fever.
  • Simple Actions: Apply repellent consistently, especially at dawn and dusk. Reapply after swimming. Wear light-colored, loose long sleeves/trousers in the evenings. Ensure good window/door screens or use AC/fans.

5. Enjoy Drinks Responsibly

  • Friendly Advice: Enjoy local drinks in moderation. Choose reputable sources for local spirits like arak. Stick to known brands in established places. Drink water with alcohol.

6. Listen to Your Body & Find Your Blissful Rhythm

  • Pacing is Pleasant: Acclimatize gently, especially in your first few days. Don’t overdo activities in the midday heat.
  • Rest & Recharge: Get enough sleep. Embrace Bali’s relaxing vibe.
  • Respond to Your Body’s Signals: If tired or sore, rest! Slow down, enjoy quiet time, hydrate, and consider a Balinese massage at Merusaka The Spa.

What If You Do Feel Unwell? Accessing Care in Bali

Good medical help is available.

  • Minor Issues & Pharmacies (Apotek): For simple needs, pharmacies are easy to find. Pharmacists can offer basic advice.
  • Clinics & Hospitals: For more serious issues, excellent international-standard clinics and hospitals are in South Bali and Ubud. They often have English-speaking staff and work with travel insurance. Contact your insurance’s 24/7 emergency line early for significant treatment.
  • Assistance at Merusaka: Our team is here to support you. Contact our Front Desk or Concierge 24/7 for information or help contacting medical services. We can also arrange for a doctor on call. Your health is our priority.

Conclusion: Here’s to a Healthy, Happy & Vibrant Bali Holiday!

Staying healthy in Bali involves preparation and simple daily practices. Chat with your doctor, pack a health kit, protect yourself from sun and mosquitoes, be mindful of food and water, and have good travel insurance.

These tips help you relax, explore confidently, and fully enjoy Bali’s culture and beauty without disruption.

The Merusaka team wishes you a wonderfully healthy and unforgettable trip!