Ah, Bali! The Island of the Gods. Whichever part you explore, from the Ubud rice terraces to the beaches of Seminyak, there’s a little piece of magic waiting for you. However, if you’re like me—a traveler on a budget—navigating around this beautiful island can be a bit daunting. I’ve traveled to Bali several times, and I’ve gathered some great tips on getting around without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into some transport tips that worked wonders for me!
1. Embrace Motorbike Rentals
One of my favorite ways to see the island is by renting a motorbike. The freedom is exhilarating! Picture yourself zipping past lush green rice paddies, stopping wherever the mood strikes—it’s utterly liberating!
During my first trip, I found a small rental shop in Ubud. For about 50,000 IDR (around $3.50 USD) per day, I had my trusty steed. Before you hand over your payment, make sure to check the bike thoroughly for any existing scratches or issues. Trust me, you don’t want to deal with a cranky rental shop owner later!
Pro Tip: Always wear a helmet and drive carefully. Traffic can be chaotic, especially in busy areas like Kuta. And don’t forget to carry an international driving permit just in case!
2. Bemo: The Local Experience
While I absolutely loved the autonomy of my motorbike, there was something charming about hopping onto a bemo—Bali’s local minibus. Picture this: you’re packed in with locals, music playing from a small speaker, and the driver shouting out the next stops. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the culture.
Bemos typically cost around 20,000 IDR (less than $1.50 USD) per trip, and they run on set routes. My first ride in a bemo was an adventure! I boarded in Ubud, intermingled with fellow travelers, and ended up making friends with a group of students. We shared stories and laughter, making the journey memorable.
Pro Tip: Be sure to check where the bemo goes—it’s best for short distances, and not all routes are well marked, so ask the driver if unsure!
3. Grab and Gojek for Convenience
When the weather was too hot or I needed to get somewhere quickly, I turned to ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek. These apps are convenient and affordable—perfect for budget travelers!
Once, while stuck in Ubud amidst a sudden downpour, I opened the Gojek app, and within minutes, a friendly driver arrived on a scooter to save the day. The fare? Just 15,000 IDR (less than $1.10 USD) to my destination! It was like magic, and I didn’t have to brave the rain.
Pro Tip: Always check both Grab and Gojek for prices, as one might offer better rates than the other at times.
4. Navigating with Public Transport
For those longer distances, I discovered that Bali’s public bus system, known as Trans Sarbagita, is affordable and relatively easy to use. It connects major places like Denpasar, Kuta, and Nusa Dua.
During one of my trips, I decided to venture from Kuta to Ubud using the bus, which only cost around 25,000 IDR (just under $2 USD). It took me a bit longer than expected due to traffic, but I enjoyed the scenic views and met some fascinating fellow travelers.
Pro Tip: Download a map of the bus routes or use Google Maps to track your route easily. The buses can be a bit irregular, so keep your schedule flexible!
5. Consider Group Tours and Shuttle Services
Sometimes it’s nice to let someone else do the driving. For things like day tours to popular places like the rice terraces in Tegallalang or Uluwatu Temple, consider joining group tours or shuttle services.
On my last trip, I joined a sunrise tour to Mount Batur with a group. The cost of transport, guides, and breakfast was bundled at about 500,000 IDR (around $35 USD)—a steal for the experience. Plus, it was a great way to meet other travelers!
Pro Tip: Look for online reviews (like on TripAdvisor) to ensure the tour company you choose is reputable and worth your money.
Final Thoughts
Bali is rich with experiences, and getting around doesn’t have to be an expensive venture. Whether you opt for the thrill of a motorbike, the adventure of a bemo, or the convenience of ride-hailing apps, there’s something for every budget traveler. No matter which mode of transport you choose, remember to be patient, stay flexible, and embrace the journey. After all, Bali isn’t just a destination—it’s an adventure waiting to unfold! Happy travels!
