Linen & Luggage
Asia & Pacific · Best Apr–Oct

Bali packing list for families

Bali mixes temples, jungle, and beach, so you need more than swimsuits and sandals. Here is what I pack for families, plus how the dry and wet seasons shape the trip.

Lush Tegallalang rice terraces and palms near Ubud, Bali

Photo by Niklas Weiss on Unsplash

Kristina's notes on Bali

  1. Traffic is the thing that surprises people. I split stays between Ubud and the coast so kids are not spending hours in the car each day.
  2. Temples ask for a sarong and covered shoulders. Many lend one, but having your own for each family member makes stops quicker.
  3. Monkeys at Uluwatu and the Ubud Monkey Forest grab sunglasses, hats, and snacks. Leave loose items in the car and keep little hands empty.
Best timeApr–Oct
PlugsType C and F, bring an adapter
MoneyIndonesian rupiah
PassportYes
Your packing edit

Bali

This time of year

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    Carry-on8

    Carry-on suitcase per personOur pick
    Packing cubes, one color per personOur pickEveryone knows exactly which cube is theirs.
    Kids' headphones, volume-limited
    Tablet with downloaded shows
    Snack box with dividers
    Reusable water bottles
    Change of clothes for each kid
    Car seat travel bag

    Clothing5

    Daytime outfits8 per person
    Pajamas2 per person
    One nicer outfit for dinners and photos
    Underwear and socks9 per person
    Lightweight sarongOur pickRequired at temples and doubles as a beach cover-up.

    Shoes3

    Broken-in walking sneakersOur pickNever bring brand-new shoes on a walking trip.
    Sandals
    Reef shoesUseful at rocky beaches and waterfalls.

    Beach & pool8

    Swimsuits2 per person
    UPF rash guardsOur pick
    Mineral sunscreen
    Wide-brim sun hats
    Swim diapers
    Hyperlite life jacket for boat and ocean daysOur pickA properly fitted life jacket for boats and open water.
    Lightweight beach tote
    Goggles

    Adventure2

    Bug spray
    Eyewear retainer strapsKeeps sunglasses away from curious monkeys.

    Little ones4

    Diapers and wipesenough for 3 days, buy the rest there
    Portable sound machineOur pickMakes every hotel room feel like home.
    Travel blackout shades
    Favorite lovey, plus a backup

    Health & toiletries4

    Travel first-aid kit
    Kids' fever reducer and allergy medicine
    Hanging toiletry bag
    Electrolyte powder packetsHelpful on hot days and if tummies get upset.

    Documents & tech3

    Portable phone chargerOur pick
    Passports for everyone, valid 6+ months past your trip
    Travel plug adapterOur pickType C and F, bring an adapter
    The outfit edit

    Jungle to beach

    Natural, palm green, sand, papaya

    For the grown-ups

    • Breathable long sleeves for hikes
    • Linen for beach dinners
    • Sturdy sport sandals

    For the kids

    • Quick-dry shorts and tees
    • Lightweight pants for the rainforest
    • Closed-toe shoes for trails

    For photos

    • Earthy tones that work in jungle and sand
    • Bright papaya for a pop
    Month by month

    Bali weather and what's happening

    Typical daytime highs and what each month feels like with kids.

    MonthTypical highWhat it's likeDon't miss
    January88°F 31°CWet season: humid, with heavy afternoon showers and lush green terraces
    February88°F 31°CWet season: humid, with heavy afternoon showers and lush green terraces
    March88°F 31°CWet season: humid, with heavy afternoon showers and lush green terracesNyepi, the Day of Silence, usually in March; the island and airport shut down for a day
    April88°F 31°CDry season: sunny, less humid; July and August are busiestShoulder season: green rice terraces and fewer crowds
    May87°F 31°CDry season: sunny, less humid; July and August are busiestShoulder season: green rice terraces and fewer crowds
    June86°F 30°CDry season: sunny, less humid; July and August are busiestBali Arts Festival in Denpasar, usually Jun–Jul
    July85°F 29°CDry season: sunny, less humid; July and August are busiestBali Arts Festival in Denpasar, usually Jun–Jul Kite season fills the skies around Sanur
    August85°F 29°CDry season: sunny, less humid; July and August are busiestKite season fills the skies around Sanur
    September86°F 30°CDry season: sunny, less humid; July and August are busiest
    October87°F 31°CDry season: sunny, less humid; July and August are busiest
    November88°F 31°CWet season: humid, with heavy afternoon showers and lush green terraces
    December88°F 31°CWet season: humid, with heavy afternoon showers and lush green terraces
    Questions families ask

    Bali with kids, answered

    When is the best time to visit Bali with kids?

    The best time is Apr–Oct. Dry season: sunny, less humid; July and August are busiest

    What's the weather like in Bali?

    Typical daytime highs range from about 85°F (29°C) in July to about 88°F (31°C) in January. See the month-by-month table on this page.

    Do I need a passport for Bali?

    Yes. Bring a passport for everyone, including babies, and make sure each one is valid for at least six months past your trip. Check visa and entry rules before you go.

    What kind of plug adapter do I need for Bali?

    Type C and F, bring an adapter.

    What's your top tip for Bali with kids?

    Traffic is the thing that surprises people. I split stays between Ubud and the coast so kids are not spending hours in the car each day.

    The packing edit, in your inbox

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    Want the whole trip handled?

    I'm Kristina, and planning family trips is what I do.

    As a luxury travel advisor with KM Luxe Travel, I plan the hotels, the flow of the days, and the little details, often with perks like breakfast and upgrades when available.

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