Bali with a Baby or Toddler – What You Really Need to Know

We don’t recommend bringing your own brand of diapers or wipes because Bali has plenty of options. Larger supermarkets like Pepito, Coco, and Hardy’s stock a variety of diaper brands and sizes, and we’ve always been able to find what we needed without issues. This makes traveling lighter and easier.

Swim diapers are very rarely available in Bali, so we always bring these from home to avoid last-minute hassle at the pool or beach.

Formula is generally available in larger supermarkets and pharmacies in popular areas like Sanur, Ubud, and Canggu, though the selection can be somewhat limited. If your baby needs a special type of formula, it’s best to bring it with you just in case. Similarly, toddler food—such as jarred purees or squeeze pouches (often called “baby food pouches”)—can be found in bigger supermarkets, but the variety is usually quite limited. If you’re staying in a place with a kitchen, you can also prepare fresh meals yourself using local ingredients and fresh fruit, which is plentiful and affordable. For picky eaters, bringing some familiar snacks or purees is often a good idea.

Many restaurants catering to families offer kids’ menus with simple toddler-friendly options like small portions of pasta, rice with vegetables, or grilled chicken.

UV-protective clothing and a wide-brimmed sunhat are highly recommended to protect your little one from the strong Bali sun. Also, bring your favorite small toys and comfort items to keep your baby entertained and comfortable while on the move.

Keeping your family safe and healthy while traveling is always a priority — and Bali is no exception. The good news is that Bali is quite used to receiving families, and many services are well adapted for travelers with kids. Here are a few key things to keep in mind before and during your trip.

It’s best to check with your healthcare provider or travel clinic well in advance of your trip to Bali. Depending on your situation and travel plans, vaccinations might be recommended. It’s also smart to bring a small medical kit, including a fever reducer like paracetamol or ibuprofen for kids, and some plasters and antiseptic cream. That way, you’ll be ready for small bumps or fevers.

Pharmacies (apotek in Indonesian) are easy to find in most tourist areas, and you’ll be able to get many common medications without much hassle. That said, if your child needs a specific medicine or brand, it’s best to bring enough from home.

The sun in Bali can be intense — even when it’s cloudy. Make sure to use plenty of sunscreen, wear hats and sunglasses, and avoid being out in the strongest midday sun. You can easily find sunscreen on the island, but it’s often more expensive than at home.

Stick to bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing teeth. Be cautious with ice cubes and raw vegetables, as these may have been washed in tap water. We usually avoid raw salads just to be on the safe side. Peelable fruits are a safer bet when you’re unsure.

In restaurants, you’ll often find a dedicated kids’ menu — but even if not, most places are happy to make a simple dish for your toddler, like plain rice, grilled chicken, or boiled veggies. We’ve had good experiences just asking for something mild and easy, even in smaller warungs. Bali’s food scene is generally very accommodating to little eaters.

If you’re planning to rent a scooter or car, know that traffic in Bali can be chaotic. Roads and sidewalks are not always well-maintained — sometimes there are unexpected holes or missing pavement. Always double-check where your kids walk or play, especially near roads or in unfamiliar areas.

The ocean around Bali can be strong, with changing tides and currents. Even at family-friendly beaches, it’s important to keep an eye on your kids at all times. We always bring a small inflatable pool (or buy one locally), so our little ones can safely splash around even when the ocean waves are too strong. Some pools don’t have fences, so always stay close and alert when children are swimming.

Bali is a tropical destination, so mosquitoes are a fact of life — especially around sunset and in jungle or rice field areas. Protect your kids (and yourself!) with mosquito repellent that contains DEET or another child-safe ingredient. Long sleeves and pants in the evening also help. Some families also bring mosquito patches or nets for extra peace of mind.

There’s so much to explore in Bali – even with a baby on your hip or a toddler in tow! From sandy beach days to animal encounters and family-friendly dining spots, the island is full of fun (and surprisingly doable!) activities for little ones.

We’ve written a whole blog with our Top 10 Things to Do in Bali with Kids – perfect if you’re planning family-friendly outings with young children. In that post, you’ll find everything from the best water park to a snorkel trip with manta rays and relaxed beach dinners with a playground.

👉 Check out our Top 10 Things to Do in Bali with Kids blog post

• Lightweight stroller or baby carrier – Bali’s streets and sidewalks can be uneven, so a baby carrier is often more practical, especially for temple visits or short walks.
• Swim diapers – Ideal for beach and pool time. These are quite hard to find in Bali if you run out.
• UV-protective swimwear and sun hat – The sun can be intense, so cover up with high-protection clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Plenty of sunscreen – Baby-friendly SPF is available in Bali, but it’s often pricier and sometimes not as gentle or familiar as what you’re used to.
• A few familiar snacks – Great for picky eaters. While toddler snacks are available in Bali, they might differ from your child’s favorites.
• Baby cutlery and a sippy cup – Super useful when eating out or snacking on the go.
• Compact changing mat – Not all restaurants or public places have proper changing facilities.
• Watershoes – Very handy for beaches with coral or slippery pools.

• Diapers and wipes – Widely available in supermarkets and pharmacies, but bring a small stash to start with.
• Basic first-aid kit – Include baby-safe fever reducer, insect repellent (with DEET or a baby-safe alternative), antiseptic cream, and a few plasters.
• Hand sanitizer & tissues – A must-have for on-the-go cleanups or less-than-ideal restrooms.
• Mosquito repellent – Essential during early mornings and evenings, especially in nature-heavy areas.

• Light cotton clothes – Bali’s climate is hot and humid, so airy, breathable clothes are best.
• Something warm for the plane or indoor air-conditioned spaces – Planes, malls, and even some restaurants can be surprisingly cold due to strong air conditioning.
• Light sleepwear – Most accommodations have air conditioning, so choose sleepwear that’s breathable and comfortable.

• Comfort item – A favorite blanket, stuffed toy, or sleep sack can go a long way in helping your child feel at ease in new environments.
• A few small toys or books – Ideal for long flights, restaurant dinners, or downtime at your accommodation.
• Baby monitor – Handy if you’re staying in a villa or separate-room accommodation and want to relax nearby while your child naps or sleeps.
• Our Bali Bingo Printable – a playful game for toddlers and young children to spot animals, landmarks and tropical treats around the island. Download 👉 here!

Before you take off, here are a few final tips from our own experience traveling Bali with little ones — the kind of stuff we wish someone had told us:

• Take it slow, especially in the beginning. The first few days are all about adjusting — to the heat, the time zone, and the new rhythm. Plan lightly at the start and give everyone a chance to settle in.
• Don’t overplan. Some of our kids’ favorite days were spent entirely at our villa — swimming, ordering food, and just playing. You don’t need an outing every day for the trip to be special.
• Always carry cash. Not all places accept cards, and ATMs aren’t always reliable, especially in remote areas.
• Wet wipes are lifesavers. Keep them in every bag — trust us.
• Smile and connect. Balinese people absolutely adore kids. A little friendliness opens doors and hearts, even in chaotic moments.

We hope this guide helps you feel more confident and excited about traveling to Bali with your baby or toddler. With a bit of planning (and the right mindset), Bali can be a magical destination for the whole family — full of new adventures, playful moments, and lots of beach time.

Looking for more inspiration? Don’t miss our related family travel blogs:

• 👉 Our 2-week Bali itinerary with kids
• 👉 Top 10 things to do in Bali with kids
• 👉 Flying with a baby – our top tips

We’re sharing even more family travel tips and real-life adventures over on Pinterest and Instagram — follow us there for daily inspiration and behind-the-scenes moments:

📸 Instagram – @littlepassportcrew

📌 Pinterest – Little Passport Crew