01Common scams to know about
- Inflated taxi meters or "broken" meters — use app-based rides or agree a price upfront with unmetered drivers.
- Currency confusion — some vendors count out change slowly hoping you won't notice a shortfall; count your own change.
- Scooter rental damage claims — photograph the bike from all angles before you ride off, including existing scratches.
- Overly friendly "helpful" strangers at temples or attractions who guide you somewhere then demand a fee.
None of this is unique to Bali — it's the standard playbook of any high-tourism destination, and being mildly alert defuses most of it.
02Health precautions
Tap water isn't safe to drink — stick to bottled or filtered water, including for brushing your teeth if you want to be cautious. "Bali belly" (traveller's stomach upset) is common enough to plan for: pack basic rehydration salts and an anti-diarrheal, and be a little wary of ice and raw produce from unclear sources in your first few days as your system adjusts.
Mosquito-borne illness (dengue in particular) is present — repellent and covering up at dawn/dusk is sensible, especially outside the most built-up areas.
03Road safety
Traffic accidents, mostly scooter-related, are the leading cause of injury to visitors by a wide margin — far more than crime. Wear a proper helmet (not just any helmet — a properly fitted one), avoid riding at night if you're inexperienced, and don't ride after drinking.
04Travel insurance & emergencies
Get travel insurance that explicitly covers scooter/motorbike use if you plan to ride, and check the medical coverage limit — private hospital care in Bali is good but not cheap, and serious injuries sometimes require medical evacuation. Save the number of your embassy or consulate along with local emergency numbers before you need them.