Money in Bali: how much to take, where to exchange, advice

The main currency of Bali is the Indonesian rupiah (IDR), the official currency across the archipelago. In tourist areas, you might not deal with cash much, as many purchases can be made by card or in dollars. However, if you plan to venture beyond your hotel and explore the Island of the Gods independently, understanding Bali’s money system is essential.

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Currency Exchange in Bali

As of early 2025, $10 will get you roughly 166,000 Indonesian rupiah, though rates vary depending on where you exchange. The Indonesian currency is unique, with a wide range of denominations: banknotes start at 1,000 rupiah and go up to 100,000 rupiah. Locals often refer to it as "perak," meaning "silver."

• 1,000, 2,000, and 5,000 rupiah notes are ideal for street food.
• For transportation, keep 10,000 and 20,000 rupiah handy.
• For shopping or dining out, use 50,000 and 100,000 rupiah notes.

Coins in denominations of 100, 200, and 500 rupiah are also in circulation, mainly for small purchases.

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Safe Money Exchange in Bali

Tourists typically bring dollars or euros. Be aware that not all dollars are accepted for exchange in Bali, particularly "older" notes from 1996, 1999, 2001, 2003, and some from 2006, due to past counterfeiting issues. Rates may also be lower for certain 2001 and 2003 series. There’s no universal dollar rate on the island - older notes often fetch less, and rates vary by denomination. Exchanging $50 and $100 bills issued after 2000 is most cost-effective, while $1–$20 notes have lower rates.

Bali offers many exchange options, including some that accept older notes at reduced rates. However, not all are trustworthy. The safest places to exchange money are banks, licensed exchange offices, and hotels.

Exchanging Money at the Airport

It’s tempting to exchange money upon arrival, but airport rates are generally unfavorable. Use these for small amounts to cover immediate needs, like getting to the city.

Exchanging Money at Banks

Banks like BCA, Mandiri, and BNI provide transparent exchange rates. Their branches are in major tourist areas but operate only in the morning, typically until 2:00–3:00 PM, with earlier closures on Fridays and no service on weekends. Hours may shift during holidays.

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Exchanging Money at Hotels

Hotels often offer less favorable rates but provide convenience and safety, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Street Exchange Points

Not all street exchange offices are reliable. Unlicensed ones may advertise attractive rates but include hidden fees or, worse, hand out counterfeit notes. To avoid fakes, stick to trusted offices and check 50,000 and 100,000 rupiah notes for authenticity by looking for the watermark of a national hero or feeling textured areas.

Tips for Exchanging Money in Bali

• Count your cash on the spot before leaving the counter.
• Don’t hand over money until the exchanger confirms the amount you’ll receive.
• Request a receipt as proof in case of counterfeit notes, and keep it until you leave Bali.

Always carry small bills, as vendors may lack change for larger ones. Keep larger denominations separate from smaller ones to avoid flashing your full cash supply.

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Where Cash Is Needed in Bali

Cash is often required in Bali, especially outside tourist zones. While credit cards are accepted in popular areas, small shops and markets typically prefer cash, and many lack card terminals. Paying in rupiah is cheaper than using dollars and may even earn you a small discount at markets.

Cash is essential for transportation, temple or park entrance fees (usually small amounts), renting scooters, fuel, tips, street taxis (app-based taxis allow card payments), and booking excursions from local vendors.

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Paying by Card in Bali

Most resorts, hotels, spas, restaurants, and large stores accept cards like American Express, Visa, and Mastercard, though a 2–3% fee may apply. Check with your bank about international transaction fees, which may be fixed or percentage-based. If staying at a resort with pre-booked excursions, you may not need cash, as staff can handle exchanges. However, guesthouses often require cash, so confirm payment options when booking.

Tip: Notify your bank about your Bali trip to avoid transaction blocks due to the region’s high fraud risk. Set up smartphone notifications for card activity.

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ATMs in Bali

Use ATMs in hotel lobbies, malls, or banks for safety. Be prepared for double conversion fees from both your bank and the ATM’s bank. Partnered banks in Indonesia can reduce costs. Withdraw larger sums less often to minimize fees.

• Decline the ATM’s option to “lock in” the exchange rate - it’s less favorable. Let your bank handle conversions.
• Shield the keypad when entering your PIN and inspect the ATM for skimming devices.
• Set a daily cash withdrawal limit to manage spending.
• Bring multiple cards, as ATMs may retain cards, and banks won’t return them even with ID.

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How Much Money to Bring to Bali

Your budget depends on whether you’re aiming for a budget-friendly or luxury trip. Major expenses include accommodation. On average, travelers budget $1,000 for two for a week for a modest trip. Some areas of Bali are cheaper, so planning impacts costs.

• Budget hotels: $10/night (low season), $20/night (high season).
• 3-star hotels: $30–$60/night (low season), $70–$100/night (high season).
• 4-star hotels: $80–$120/night (low season), $80–$150/night (high season).
• 5-star hotels: $120+/night (low season), $300+/night (high season).
• Luxury resorts: $1,000+/night.

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Cost of Food in Bali

Food costs vary widely depending on where you eat:

• Street food/warungs: $1–$3.
• Local cafes: $5–$10 per dish.
• Mid-range restaurants: $10–$25 for lunch or dinner.
• High-end restaurants: $25+ for fine dining.

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Transportation Costs in Bali

• Bicycle rental: $2–$4/day, ideal for short distances.
• Scooter rental: $5–$7/day, great for solo travelers.
• Premium scooter rental: $10–$25/day with insurance.
• Scooter taxi: $3–$5 (street-hired), $1–$3 (app-based).
• Car with driver (half/full day): $20–$60, convenient for exploring.
• Car taxi: $5–$10/trip, ideal for long or late-night travel.

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Entertainment Costs in Bali

Activities and excursions start at $10. Temples and attractions often charge $1–$5 for entry or donations. Multiple visits in a day can add up to the cost of a budget hotel night. Spa treatments start at $10, with high-end spas costing $50+.

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Tipping in Bali

Tipping isn’t mandatory but appreciated. A 5–10% tip signals good service.

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Visa Fees

A visa on arrival costs around $35, payable in cash, allowing a 30-day stay with one extension, depending on nationality.

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Tips for Traveling to Bali

• Don’t carry large amounts of cash.
• Keep receipts for purchases over 50,000 IDR and request tax-free receipts to reclaim 10% VAT on departure.
• Check cash reserves before weekends or holidays like Balinese New Year, when ATMs may run dry.
• Avoid airport and unofficial exchange kiosks to steer clear of poor rates or scams.
• Bargain at markets, aiming for 50–60% off the initial price.
• Bring a financial buffer for unexpected costs.
• Book accommodation, activities, and transport in advance to manage your budget.

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