So, I moved to Bali for “a year” that was the plan… and somehow it’s been 7 years now. In this time, I’ve seen soooo many tourists come, fall in love, but also… waste a LOT of money on silly things.
If you’re a couple planning a Bali trip or honeymoon, let me be your Bali friend who warns you before you spend $200 on something you could get for $20.
Mistake 1: Paying resort prices for airport transfers 🚖
Every couple lands, tired, romantic mood on… and then gets trapped into a $40 resort car. Truth is, a local driver or even Grab app costs like $10–12 from airport to Seminyak or Canggu.
Once, I met a couple from Delhi who hired two airport taxis back-to-back (they missed the guys waiting with signs!). They easily spent double what they needed—that’s like two extra massages missed.
💡 Tip: Book a local driver ahead (WhatsApp is king here) – you’ll save enough for two cocktails at La Brisa.
Mistake 2: Booking Westernised restaurants every night 🍕
Look, I get it. Pizza feels safe. But guys… you didn’t fly all the way to Bali to eat food you can get in Sydney or Delhi. Westernised spots are 3x the price.
💡 Tip: Try warungs (local family-run eateries). A plate of nasi goreng = $2–3. A smoothie bowl = $3. Save the fancy dollars for that candlelight beach dinner.
Mistake 3: Overpaying for villa tours through random websites 🏝️
Tourists Google “Bali package” → click first ad → pay 30% more. I cry every time.
💡 Tip: Contact villas directly (or through trusted platforms). Many give discounts if you ask. Last month my friend booked Ubud villa for $110/night direct vs $160 listed on booking sites.
Mistake 4: Scooter rentals without checking insurance 🛵
Every influencer makes scooter rides look dreamy. Reality? Scratches = $$$ if you don’t check before. Some even pay hundreds for tiny dents they didn’t do.
💡 Tip: Always click pics of the scooter before renting. Normal price is $5–7/day, don’t pay more. For couples not comfy riding, hire a driver for $40/day instead (cheaper than accidents, trust me).
Mistake 5: Falling for touristy water sports in Nusa Dua 🌊
Jet skis, banana boats… all overpriced packages. You’ll pay $100+ for 30 mins thrill. Locals laugh because couples think it’s “must-do Bali.”
💡 Tip: If you want real adventure, try snorkeling at Amed (under $20) or a day trip to Nusa Penida. Way cheaper, 100x prettier.
Bonus Mistake: Ignoring local SIM cards & data plans 📱
One thing couples forget is how much international roaming eats into the budget. I’ve seen people spend ₹10,000–₹15,000 extra just because they didn’t grab a local SIM.
💡 Tip: Get a Telkomsel or XL SIM at the airport or nearby stores – unlimited data packs cost only $8–12 for a week. That’s money you can save for another spa session or sunset dinner.
So where should couples spend that saved money? 💕
Here’s my honest opinion:
- A Balinese spa day (2–3 hours massage & flower bath) – $30–50 per person.
- A romantic beach club sunset with cocktails – $40 for two.
- A private driver for a day to explore hidden waterfalls – $40–50.
These are the things you’ll actually remember (and post on Instagram hehe).
My final little Bali-friend advice 🌺
Don’t come here thinking you need to “do it all.” Bali’s charm is in slow mornings, cheap nasi goreng, sunsets that make you cry a little. Save money on the tourist traps and use it to actually feel Bali.
👉 If you want, I can drop my list of good villa contacts + drivers (the same ones I share with my besties when they visit). Should I write that in the next one?