Water, food, sun & mosquitoes
The small everyday habits that prevent most first-trip problems.
Water & food
Don't drink tap water
Use sealed bottled water or a trusted refill station. Brushing your teeth with tap water is a personal-risk choice — bottled is safer.
Be mindful at very informal stalls
Ice and raw items at very informal warungs vary in quality — no need to be alarmist, just use judgement.
Eat where turnover is high
Choose places that look busy and cook food freshly to order, and wash your hands or carry sanitiser.
Sun & heat
Drink far more water than at home
Heat and humidity dehydrate you faster than you'd expect — watch for dehydration signs and use electrolytes if needed.
Take midday shade
The sun is strongest around midday — plan indoor or shaded time then rather than pushing through it.
Use reef-safe SPF and reapply
Reapply sunscreen after swimming — sunburn is the most common first-day mistake for visitors.
Mosquitoes
Dengue exists in Bali
Use repellent during the day and evening — dengue mosquitoes bite in daytime too, not only at night.
Cover up at dawn and dusk
Use screens, air conditioning or nets, and remove any standing water near your room.
Seek medical care for warning symptoms
See a doctor for high fever, severe headache or persistent vomiting, or if symptoms worsen — don't self-diagnose.
Stomach upset basics
Focus on hydration and rest, and use oral rehydration salts from a pharmacy. See a doctor if you notice blood, a high fever, or symptoms lasting more than a couple of days.
Last verified 17 Aug 2026.