So here’s the thing… I didn’t just come to Bali, snap a few pics, and leave. Nope. I’ve stayed here… and it’s been over 7 years. And in that time, I’ve climbed too many stairs to hidden beaches, drank waaay too much Ubud coffee (jitters included), and chased more sunsets than my phone storage could handle.
I get asked this question every single day in my DMs: “Julia, can I still do Bali on a budget?” or “Is it getting as expensive as Europe?” The truth? Bali in 2026 is a different beast than it was even two years ago. But don’t panic! It’s still my favorite place on earth, and yes, your wallet can survive it. Whether you’re flying solo for some soul-searching or coming with your favorite human for some romance, here is the “no-fluff” breakdown of the costs.
Welcome to Paradise – Entry Fees
Before you can even get your first coconut, you gotta pay the “Island Tax.” In 2026, things are a bit more digital, but the fees are still there.
- The Visa on Arrival: It’s still IDR 500,000 (~$32 USD). Please, for the love of all things holy, apply for the e-VoA online before you land. Don’t be that person standing in the 2-hour sweat-line at Ngurah Rai.
- The Tourism Levy: Every person pays IDR 150,000 (~$10 USD). It’s meant to go toward cleaning up the beaches and preserving the culture we all love so much. Keep your QR code on your phone!
- The Flight Situation: Look, fuel isn’t getting cheaper. If you’re coming from Australia, you might score a deal for $450. From the US or UK? You’re looking at $1,100 to $1,600 unless you’re a wizard with credit card points.
Solo Traveling: Living Your Best Life
If you’re coming solo, you are my hero. I spent my first three years here solo, and it’s the best way to see the island. You can be a “total hermit” or a “social butterfly,” and the costs reflect that.
The Daily Damage (Per Day)
- The “Humble” Solo (Backpacker style): $35 – $45 USD. This is staying in a cool social hostel in Uluwatu, eating at Warungs (local mom-and-pop shops), and renting a scooter.
- The “Flashpacker” Solo: $85 – $110 USD. This is for my girls (and guys) who want a private room with AC, a nice cafe brunch with an oat milk latte, and maybe a yoga class at The Yoga Barn.
Julia’s Pro-Tip: Don’t be scared of the Warungs! A plate of Nasi Campur is like $2 and it tastes better than any $20 hotel club sandwich. My favorite is still the tiny spots in Penestanan and spicy sambal is the way to go.
Couples: Romance Without the Bankruptcy
Bali is basically built for couples. The good news? You get to split the cost of those “Instagram-famous” villas.
The Daily Damage (Per Couple)
- The Mid-Range Sweet Spot: $160 – $220 USD total. This gets you a gorgeous boutique hotel or a small private villa, a couple of Bintangs at sunset, and a driver for your day trips.
- The “Treat Yo’ Self” Luxury: $450+ USD. If you’re staying at a clifftop resort in Uluwatu or a bamboo mansion in Sidemen, the sky is the limit.
Wait, why is nobody here? If you want the luxury vibe without the price tag, head North to Munduk in 2026. It’s cooler (literally), cheaper, and way more romantic than the crowded streets of Canggu.
The Breakdown: What Things Cost in 2026
I did a little “market research” (translation: I went shopping) to give you these exact numbers:
| Item | Price (IDR) | Price (USD approx) |
| Local Bintang Beer | 35,000 | $2.25 |
| Fancy Cocktail (Beach Club) | 180,000 | $11.50 |
| Scooter Rental (Per Day) | 100,000 | $6.50 |
| 1-Hour Balinese Massage | 150,000 | $9.50 |
| Avo Toast + Coffee | 140,000 | $9.00 |
| Private Driver (8 Hours) | 700,000 | $45.00 |
Julia’s “Real Bali” Budget Hacks
- Gojek is your BFF: Download the Gojek or Grab app. Use the “GoRide” (motorbike taxi) to zip through traffic. It’s cents on the dollar and way faster than a car.
- Alcohol is the Budget Killer: Imported wine is taxed at like 200%. If you want to save money, stick to the local beer or “Arak” cocktails (but only from reputable bars, please!).
- Refill your water: Don’t keep buying plastic bottles. Most cafes have a “Refill My Bottle” station for a few cents. It saves the planet and your cash.
- The “Slow Travel” Discount: If you stay in one spot for a week, ask for a “long stay” price. Everything in Bali is negotiable if you’re nice about it!
Final Thoughts
Is Bali more expensive in 2026? Yeah, a little bit. Is it still worth every single cent? Absolutely. You don’t come here for a perfect, sterile holiday. You come for the sandy toes, the mosquito bites, the smell of clove cigarettes in the air, and that feeling when you find a beach that isn’t on a map yet. Pack your bags. Get the jitters. I’ll see you at the sunset spot.