How to Avoid Bali Belly

TravelBaliTravel GuideIndonesia
Written By Eve Gower

A First-Hand Guide from Someone Who Got It Anyway

Recently, I got back from Bali in January 2025, and before I left, I kept hearing the same warnings over and over:
"Be careful of Bali Belly!"
 "Everyone gets it at some point!"
 "Don't drink the ice!"
 "Avoid tap water at all costs!"

Honestly, I’ve traveled a lot and never really stressed about it. As long as you're not reckless drinking from the drains or shoving your head under the taps, you can usually avoid getting sick.

But, the reality is, sometimes it just happens—no matter how careful you are.

So, as someone who did end up with a mild case of Bali Belly, here are my recommendations for avoiding it (or at least minimising how bad it gets).

1. Know What to Drink

One of the biggest concerns in Bali is the water. The tap water isn’t safe to drink, and it’s one of the easiest ways to end up with an upset stomach. But avoiding Bali Belly doesn’t mean you have to be paranoid, just smart:

  • Stick to bottled or filtered water: If you’re out and about, always drink bottled water. If you’re staying in a villa or apartment, get a water filter so you don’t have to keep buying bottles constantly.

  • Ice is usually safe in good restaurants: A lot of people will tell you to avoid ice altogether, but I trusted the ice at most western-style bars, cafés, and restaurants. Bali’s more established places generally use purified ice, so if you’re at a well-rated café sipping an iced latte or a cocktail, you’re probably fine. If in doubt, just say no.

2. Safe Eating Practices

What you eat and where you eat plays a massive role in whether you’ll end up with Bali Belly. While you don’t need to completely avoid street food or local warungs, it helps to be cautious:

  • Stick to busy places: If a restaurant, café, or warung has a high turnover of food, it means things are fresh.

  • Eat food that’s cooked fresh: Hot, cooked food is always safer than something that’s been sitting around.

  • Be wary of salads and raw vegetables: If they’ve been washed in tap water, they could make you sick. So once again, stick to your western, Aussie style brunch and dinner choices for your superfood bowls.

  • Street food can be amazing—but be picky: If you’re trying street food, watch how it’s prepared. If it’s cooked in front of you and served hot, it’s generally safer than pre-prepared food sitting out.

Your guide to the best cafes in Canggu, Bali!

3. Hygiene and Staying Clean

Hygiene is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from Bali Belly, and it should always be a priority when travelling.

  • Carry hand sanitiser everywhere: You won’t always have access to soap and clean water, so having sanitiser on hand is a must.
    Use it before eating, after handling money, and whenever you're out in public places.

  • Brushing your teeth: While some people use bottled water, if you use tap water, just try not to keep it in your mouth for too long. Spit it out quickly, and you should be fine.

  • Showering safely: Bali’s tap water isn’t the cleanest, and since you can’t avoid showering, it’s worth checking if your accommodation has filtered showerheads. Some villas and hotels offer them, so it’s worth asking before you book. If you go to the gym, some places like Body Factory Bali have filtered shower heads, meaning you’re not rinsing off in untreated water straight from the drain. 

Read more about the Body Factory and 5 Ways to Stay Active when in Canggu

4. Listen to Your Body & Prepare for the Worst

Even if you do everything right, you might still get Bali Belly—it’s kind of a rite of passage. But how bad it gets depends on a few things:

  • Your body’s ability to adjust: If you’ve been to Bali before or travel often, your stomach might handle things better than someone who’s never been.

  • Your health before you go: If you’re run-down or already feeling off before your trip, you’re more likely to get hit hard.

  • What you do when symptoms start: If you do get sick, staying hydrated is key. Coconut water, rehydration salts, and electrolyte drinks can help.

Recognising the Symptoms and Managing the Condition

Recognising the symptoms of Bali Belly is crucial for early intervention. Common signs include abdominal bloating and cramps, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, loose stools, an urgent need to use the bathroom, mild fever, and loss of appetite.

If you experience these symptoms, it's essential to stay hydrated and rest. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS), like Pocari Sweat, can help replenish lost electrolytes. These are available at local convenience such as Circle K. Unfortunately, I would try to avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they can worsen dehydration. 

What you need to know before heading to Bali in rainy season…

Rest and Recovery
The humid climate in Bali can exacerbate feelings of discomfort. To aid recovery:

  • Stay in a cool, shaded area.

  • Use fans or air conditioning.

  • Avoid strenuous activities (no dancing on tables)

Travel Insurance

Having comprehensive travel insurance is vital. It can cover medical expenses, including hospital stays and IV treatments, ensuring you receive prompt and adequate care without financial strain.

IV Drip Services in Bali
For severe dehydration or to expedite recovery, consider IV drip therapy.

Several reputable providers in Bali offer treatments tailored for Bali Belly:

  • The Dose Bali offers "The Essential IV," which includes one liter of fluid, electrolytes, and vitamin B for energy.

  • Hangover Lounge Bali, established in 2016, offers IV vitamin therapy for hangovers, health, and wellness treatments.

  • Drip Wellness Bali specialises in IV drip therapy, offering treatments like immunity drips and Bali Belly treatments.

  • Lucid IV Bali provides mobile IV drip therapy for hangovers, Bali Belly, dehydration, and more.

My final piece of advice, look after yourself and make smart choices.
You’re in Bali baby!

Spend the week in Bali with me!: Read More

References

movement. made good. made global.

movement. made good. made global.

Eve Gower
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