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Bali is an amazing island in Indonesia, which has been an increasingly popular travel destination. It is warm, with magical temples and sandy beaches, monkeys, and exotic fruits – it’s hard to find a better destination for a vacation. Backpacking Bali could be your best adventure ever. But what should you take in your backpack, if you are traveling with just a carry-on to Bali?
These packing suggestions are made with a few assumptions.
When you travel to south-east Asia, you don’t have to bring your own tent for sleeping, as the accommodation costs are quite low. The cheapest time to visit Bali is April and October. So no sleeping bags or tents to pack.
Another assumption is that you will be moving from one destination to another, maybe even using a few different planes to get to Bali. The most convenient way to pack is to use a carry-on backpack so that you wouldn’t have to pay additional flying fees and would be quicker in airports. And, when you carry all your belongings with you for two weeks, you really have to be careful to take only the things that you actually need and will be using.
Check out the things you should know before traveling to Bali to get more inspiration on what you might encounter on your adventures. And here are many other reasons why you should choose Bali as your next destination.

Backpack for a 2-week adventure
A good backpack is one of the best investments in your travel inventory. My backpack is Osprey Sirrus 36 liters Women, and I’m quite happy with it. The main features that I enjoy:
- It is the right size for my needs. I can use it for a 2 week trip to Bali or a two-day hike in Norwegian mountains.
- It has different straps for a better fit, and the hip belt is the best. I can carry most of the bag’s weight on my hips and not feel it on my shoulders.
- The bag is water-resistant and has a waterproof cover, so my things in the bag have never been damaged by water.
- It has two ways of accessing the main compartment, so the stuff in it is easily accessible during trips – it opens similarly to a suitcase.
- It is the size of carry-on luggage in planes, so no additional baggage fees.

Mandatory items to pack for south-east Asia
- A passport that is valid for at least an additional 6 months.
- Passport copy – in case something happens to the real passport, this may help.
- Travel insurance, some cash, and notice to your bank that you are expected to be traveling to south-east Asia.
- Light everyday wear for warm weather: 3 T-shirts, shorts or skirts, and a light summer dress. You should take enough clothes to mix and match for a week and then find a laundry service to get them last another week. Don’t take too many clothes – if you miss something, you can buy them in Bali.
- Open shoes for walking on a beach and in a city.
- Running shoes for long walks and climbing up a mountain.
- Full-length trousers or a maxi dress for covering up while visiting temples.
- Light jacket for colder evenings.
- Swimwear.
- Mobile phone and charger.
- Toiletries.
- Light fast-drying towel.

Nice to have items for backpacking Bali
- Medicine in case of trouble with the local food.
- Sunglasses.
- Sunscreen.
- A smaller day bag for days when you leave the big backpack in accommodation.
- Flip-flops for showers and beach.
Top tours in Bali
Check out these popular tours in Bali:

Travel tips and tricks:
- Save big on flights with Skyscanner.com – This incredible tool lets you find the most affordable airfare to your dream destination. You’ll love their “Whole Month” feature, which displays the best prices for the entire month. If you’re flexible with travel dates, this is a game-changer for scoring the cheapest tickets.
- Stay in the heart of the action – I always find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com. Their map view lets me filter hotels by my budget and select ones that are right in the center of it all. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this easy way to book your ideal stay!
- Go beyond the resort – I’m all about making the most of my trips, and GetYourGuide.com has been a lifesaver for booking unforgettable tours and day trips. It’s the most hassle-free way to dive into the local culture and explore the hidden gems in every new place.
- Hit the road with DiscoverCars.com – There’s no better way to explore your destination than by car! Renting a vehicle has never been easier, and with their competitive prices, you’ll have the freedom to create your own adventures.
I highly recommend trying these tools for yourself – not only will you save money, but you’ll also create memories that last a lifetime. Happy travels!
Your turn
Have you ever traveled for 2 weeks with just a backpack? Which were the most important things that you packed?
Nah, I have never gone on a backpacking holiday…I like my room service during holidays 😀
That said, love the post and the photos even more so. We are visiting Bali in March. Yay!
Bali is my dream location! I hope to go one day and now I have a premade list to work off of 😉 great post!
I loved spending time in Bali!!! Your Post definitely inspired me to go back! beautiful Post
Hi Una,
Thank you for this amazing article. For me, Bali is heaven on earth on any type of budget, but it firstly a backpackers paradise.
It was a greate article.