Avoiding Bali Belly: Tips for Staying Healthy in Bali

You come to Bali for fun and rest. But after one drink or one meal, your stomach starts to hurt. That is called Bali Belly.

It can make you feel very sick. You may have to run to the bathroom many times, and your body will feel weak and tired.

Even if you are careful, you can still get it. Tap water, ice, or salad can bring bad germs into your body.

Bali Belly is very common. Around 30 to 70 percent of tourists get sick while visiting places with different food and water.

The good news is you can stay safe. This blog will show you easy ways to avoid Bali Belly and enjoy your trip. And if you’re still planning your travel, check out our best Indonesia tour packages to explore safely and stress-free.

What Exactly is Bali Belly?

Bali Belly is the nickname for a type of traveler’s diarrhea that many tourists get while visiting Bali. It happens when you eat or drink something that your body isn’t used to, often contaminated food or water.

Your digestive system isn’t familiar with the bacteria, viruses, or parasites in Bali’s environment, so even a small exposure can upset your stomach.

What Causes Bali Belly?

The illness is commonly caused by:

• Bacterial infection – This is the most common cause. Bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella can enter your system through contaminated food or drinks.
  
• Viruses – Sometimes, viruses like norovirus can spread quickly, especially in crowded tourist areas.
  
• Parasites – Though less common, parasites from unclean water or food can also lead to stomach problems.

Once these microbes enter your digestive system, your body fights back, leading to the symptoms of Bali Belly.

Why Are Tourists More Likely to Get It?

Bali locals have been exposed to these bacteria for most of their lives. Over time, they’ve developed a natural immunity.

But as a tourist, your gut isn’t used to this new environment. That means even things that seem harmless—like brushing your teeth with tap water, having ice in a drink, or eating uncooked salad—can make you sick.

So yes, even if you’re usually healthy or careful, it’s still possible to get Bali Belly just because your body isn’t ready for the different microbes in Bali.

Common Symptoms of Bali Belly

Bali Belly usually comes on quickly, often within a few hours of eating contaminated food or drinking unsafe water. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

• Nausea and vomiting: That queasy feeling in your stomach may be one of the first signs. Vomiting can follow, especially in more severe cases.
  
• Loose motions and stomach cramps: This is the most obvious symptom. You might feel the urgent need to go to the bathroom more often than usual, along with painful stomach cramps.
  
• Fever, fatigue, and bloating: Your body works hard to fight off the infection, which can leave you feeling weak, hot, and bloated.

How Long Does Bali Belly Last?

For most people, Bali Belly lasts between 1 to 3 days. If you get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and eat bland foods, your body will usually bounce back on its own.

However, if your symptoms persist beyond 72 hours, or if you notice anything worrying, like bloody stool, severe dehydration, or a high fever, you should seek medical attention right away. Bali has modern clinics, especially in tourist areas like Seminyak and Ubud, and most doctors speak English.

Why Do Travelers Often Get Bali Belly?

Even if you are very careful, your body is not used to Bali’s food, water, and germs. This is why travelers often get Bali Belly. The water is different. The food is made with spices and ingredients your stomach may not know. Even the heat and air feel different.

Your digestive system is used for the food and water from your home. When it encounters new things, it can get upset or weak. Sometimes, the food or drinks look clean. A fresh fruit juice or salad may look healthy, but it might still contain bacteria or contaminated water.

That is why even careful travelers sometimes get sick. Although you may not see the germs, they are still there.

Water Contamination

In Bali, tap water, including water from hotels, restaurants, and even villas, is not safe to drink.

Be extra careful with:

• Brushing your teeth with tap water
  
• Drinking water straight from the tap
  
• Ice cubes in cold drinks
  
• Washing fruits and vegetables with unclean water.

Even a small amount of contaminated water can cause travelers diarrhea, which is another name for Bali Belly.

It may seem like nothing at first, but your stomach reacts quickly. This is one of the most common ways tourists get sick.

Food Hygiene Issues

Bali has amazing food, but hygiene is not the same everywhere. Not all kitchens or food stalls follow safe cooking rules.

You can get sick from:

• Undercooked meat, like chicken or seafood
  
• Unwashed fruits and vegetables, especially if served raw
  
• Old or badly stored food, which may grow bacteria
  
• Dirty kitchens or hands, which spread germs to your meal

Sometimes, you may eat from a small cafe or street stall because the food smells great. But if it is not clean, it can lead to food poisoning.

This is how many people end up consuming contaminated food without knowing it.

Is Bali Belly Dangerous or Just Annoying?

Bali Belly is usually not very dangerous; it is more annoying than serious. But it can still make you feel very sick and weak.

You might miss a tour, a beach day, or even need to rest in bed for a few days. That’s why it’s important to take it seriously.

When Is It Serious?

Sometimes, Bali Belly can become more serious and may need a visit to the doctor. Here are some danger signs to look out for:

• If you see blood in your stool
  
• If you are vomiting too much
  
• If you feel very weak or dizzy
  
• If your fever is above 38°C (100.4°F)
  
• If you can’t keep any water or food down

These signs mean your body may be too weak or very dehydrated. You should seek medical attention right away.

There are many good clinics and hospitals in Bali, especially in places like Seminyak, Ubud, or Canggu. Many doctors speak English and can help you fast.

Is Bali Belly Contagious?

Yes, Bali Belly can be contagious, especially if people do not wash their hands well.

If one person gets sick and does not keep clean, they can pass the illness on to others through food, drinks, or shared items.

To stay safe:

• Always wash your hands with soap and water
  
• Do not share food or drinks with someone who is sick
  
• Use hand sanitizer before eating

This way, you protect yourself and your travel friends from getting the same stomach illness.

How to Prevent Bali Belly Before Your Trip

You can avoid Bali Belly by starting early, even before your flight to Bali. Taking care of your body and planning ahead will help you stay strong and safe during your trip.

Here are two important things to do before you leave home:

Start with Probiotics

One of the best ways to prepare your stomach is by taking probiotics before your trip. These are good bacteria that live in your gut and help with digestion.

When you travel, your body encounters new bacteria from food and water. If your gut is strong, you can better fight these and reduce the risk of getting sick.

Start taking probiotics at least 7 to 14 days before your trip. You can also continue using them while you travel.

Here are a few easy ways to add probiotics to your routine:

• Eat yogurt every day (with live cultures)
  
• Drink fermented milk drinks like Yakult
  
• Take probiotic capsules or tablets from a pharmacy

Choose one that has different types of good bacteria, like Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium. These are known to help with gut health and can protect you from stomach bugs.

Even if you eat something slightly off, probiotics may help you avoid Bali Belly or ease the symptoms if you do get sick.

Travel Insurance with Medical Coverage

No one wants to think about getting sick on a holiday, but it’s smart to be ready, just in case.

Buy travel insurance that covers medical problems while abroad, including food poisoning, traveler’s diarrhoea, and emergency hospital visits.

Here’s what to look for in your insurance:

• It should cover clinic visits, medicines, and hospital stays
  
• It must include stomach illness or bacterial infection
  
• Check the conditions and exclusions to make sure Bali Belly is not left out

Some people skip insurance to save money, but if you need to seek medical attention in Bali, the cost can be high. With the right insurance, your treatment will be easier, faster, and worry-free.

If possible, carry a copy of your insurance documents or save them on your phone. This way, if something happens, you can get help quickly.

Taking probiotics and getting the right insurance are two small steps that can make a big difference. They will help you stay protected and enjoy your Bali trip with peace of mind.

Practical Tips to Avoid Bali Belly in Bali

Once you arrive in Bali, you’ll see beautiful places and amazing food everywhere. But to avoid Bali Belly, you need to be smart about what you eat and drink.

Beyond food and water hygiene, there are broader safety concerns in Bali you may want to consider to stay fully prepared.

Here are the most important things to do during your trip:

1. Drink Only Bottled or Filtered Water

Never drink tap water in Bali. Even in nice hotels, the tap water is not safe for your stomach.

Always use:

• Sealed bottled water for drinking
  
• Bottled or filtered water when brushing your teeth
  
• Clean water when rinsing your mouth or cleaning baby bottles

Also, avoid:

• Ice cubes, unless you’re 100% sure they’re made from purified water
  
• Cups or glasses that may have been washed with tap water

Even a small amount of contaminated water can upset your stomach and cause traveler’s diarrhea.

If you feel tired or weak, drink Pocari Sweat, a local drink that helps replace salts and fluids in your body. It is great for staying hydrated in hot weather or when you feel sick.

2. Choose Food Spots Wisely

Bali has many restaurants, cafés, and street food stalls, but not all of them follow the same hygiene rules.

To stay safe:

• Eat at places with good Google or TripAdvisor reviews
  
• Choose spots that are busy with locals or tourists (busy places mean food is fresh)
  
• Avoid food that has been sitting out uncovered
  
• Look for open kitchens or clean cooking areas where you can see how the food is made

If you want to try street food, that’s okay—but only eat hot food that is cooked right in front of you and served immediately.

Avoid cold or pre-cooked items that have been sitting out for hours. These are more likely to carry bacteria.

3. Wash Hands and Use Sanitizer

Washing your hands is one of the best ways to prevent Bali Belly. Germs can easily spread from your hands to your mouth.

You should wash your hands:

• Before eating
  
• After using the bathroom
  
• After handling money
  
• After touching public surfaces (door handles, ATMs, and markets)

If there is no water or soap nearby, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Keep a small bottle in your bag and use it often, especially when you’re on the go.

Good personal hygiene makes a big difference when traveling.

4. Peel It or Leave It

Fruits and vegetables are healthy, but in Bali, you must be careful with how they’re prepared.

Follow this simple rule:

• If you can peel it, it’s usually safe to eat (bananas, oranges, mangoes)
  
• If you cannot peel it, avoid eating it unless you are sure it was washed with clean, filtered water

Raw fruits and vegetables that are washed in tap water can carry bacteria. This includes salads or cut fruits served at small food stalls or budget cafés.

Avoid:

• Raw salads unless you are at a high-end restaurant with safe kitchen practices
  
• Fruit platters that have been left uncovered or sitting out in the sun

This simple tip—peel it or leave it—can help you avoid consuming contaminated food.

By following these tips every day, you’ll reduce the risk of Bali Belly, stay healthy, and enjoy all the amazing flavors Bali has to offer without getting sick.

What to Do If You Get Bali Belly?

Even if you’re careful, Bali Belly can still happen. Don’t panic. With the right steps, you can feel better in just a few days.

Here’s what you should do if you start feeling sick:

First 24 Hours

The first day is the most important. Your body needs rest and care.

• Find a cool, quiet place to rest. Stay inside and avoid going out in the sun.
  
• Drink plenty of fluids. The best choices are oral rehydration salts (ORS), Pocari Sweat, or coconut water. These help replace the water and salts your body loses.
  
• Do not eat solid food right away. Let your stomach rest for a few hours.
  
• After some time, you can eat bland foods like:
  
  • Bananas
    
  • Plain rice
    
  • Dry toast
    
  • Boiled potatoes

These foods are easy on your stomach and can help ease the symptoms.

Try to avoid spicy foods, dairy, coffee, and alcohol while you recover.

Medicines That Help

If your symptoms are not too strong, some over-the-counter medicines can help:

• Activated charcoal tablets – These help absorb bad toxins in your stomach.
  
• Imodium (Loperamide) – This slows diarrhea, but don’t take it too early. Use it only if you really need to travel or go out.
  
• Paracetamol – This helps reduce fever or body aches if you’re feeling weak or hot.

You can find these at local pharmacies in Bali. Most pharmacists speak English and can guide you if you’re not sure what to take.

Avoid using antibiotics unless a doctor prescribes them. Sometimes, they are not needed and can make things worse.

When to Visit a Doctor

Most cases of Bali Belly go away on their own in 1 to 3 days. But if you’re still feeling sick after that, you may need medical attention.

Go to a clinic if:

• You are not getting better after 48 to 72 hours
  
• You feel very weak or dizzy
  
• You are unable to eat or drink
  
• You notice blood in your stool
  
• You have a high fever that won’t go down

There are many good clinics in tourist areas like Seminyak, Ubud, and Canggu. They are clean, reliable, and most doctors there speak English.

A quick visit to the clinic can help you recover faster and ensure that nothing more serious is happening.

Once you start feeling better, go slow. Don’t jump back into spicy meals or heavy food right away. Give your digestive system time to heal.

Can You Still Enjoy Your Trip If You Get Bali Belly?

Yes, you can still enjoy your trip even if you get Bali Belly. It might slow you down for a day or two, but it does not mean your holiday is over.

The most important thing is to listen to your body. Rest when you need to. Eat safe foods. Drink clean water. Once you feel better, you can get back to exploring.

Taking it easy for a short time will help your body recover faster. Bali is not going anywhere. Your health comes first.

Easy Foods That Are Safe to Eat

After Bali Belly, your stomach is still healing. So, you need to eat foods that are gentle and easy to digest.

You can follow the BRAT diet, which stands for:

• Bananas – They are soft and full of energy.
  
• Rice – Plain rice is filling and easy on your stomach.
  
• Applesauce – Helps settle your stomach and gives vitamins.
  
• Toast – Dry toast gives energy without upsetting your gut.

These bland foods are safe and help your body feel strong again. Start with small meals and see how your stomach reacts.

Avoid these foods until you’re fully recovered:

• Spicy foods
  
• Street food
  
• Dairy products like milk or cheese
  
• Alcohol, which can upset your stomach even more

Give your digestive system time to recover, and don’t rush into eating everything again right away.

Rest vs. Activities

When you are not feeling well, it’s okay to skip your plans for a day or two. Your trip will still be great.

Do light and relaxing activities like:

• Taking short walks near your hotel or on the beach
  
• Sitting by the pool or garden and enjoying the view
  
• Reading a book, listening to music, or writing in your travel journal
  
• Drinking plenty of clean water, Pocari Sweat, or coconut water

Let your body rest. If you try to do too much, it may slow down your recovery.

Once you feel better, you can slowly return to your travel plans. Start with simple outings or short day trips. Avoid long travel or heavy meals until you feel 100% again.

Getting Bali Belly may feel frustrating at first, but with care and rest, you’ll bounce back soon. Then you can continue enjoying the beauty of Bali, healthy and happy.

Final Travel Tips to Stay Healthy in Bali

Before your trip, it’s smart to prepare a few small things that can help if you ever feel sick or uncomfortable in Bali. These last tips can make your holiday safer and easier.

Carry a Travel First-Aid Kit

It’s always a good idea to carry a small first-aid kit in your bag. You don’t need many things—just the basics to help you if you feel unwell or get a small cut.

Here are some helpful items to pack:

• Hand sanitizer – Use it before eating, especially when soap is not available.
  
• Charcoal tablets – Help treat mild Bali Belly symptoms by removing toxins from your stomach.
  
• ORS (oral rehydration salts) – Mix with clean water to help you stay hydrated if you get diarrhea or feel weak.
  
• Painkillers – Like Paracetamol, for fever or body aches.
  
• Anti-diarrhoeal tablets – Take only if needed and after checking with a doctor or pharmacist.
  
• Band-aids and antiseptic cream – For small cuts, blisters, or insect bites.

This kit takes very little space but can be very helpful if you feel sick while traveling.

Learn Basic Local Phrases

If you feel sick and need help, knowing a few Indonesian words can make a big difference. Locals are friendly and helpful—and they’ll appreciate your effort to speak their language.

Here are three useful phrases to remember:

• Saya sakit perut — I have a stomachache
  
• Di mana apotek? — Where is the pharmacy?
  
• Saya butuh dokter — I need a doctor

Write them down or save them on your phone. These simple words can save time and stress if you need help at a pharmacy, clinic, or hotel.

With a bit of preparation and care, you can stay healthy, safe, and ready to enjoy everything that Bali has to offer—from beaches to temples to delicious food. If you’re planning a romantic trip and still deciding between top island destinations, don’t miss our full breakdown on the Maldives or Bali – which is best for a honeymoon to make the right choice for you and your partner.

FAQs

1. What is Bali belly, and why do travelers get it?

Bali belly is a type of traveler’s diarrhea caused by eating contaminated food or drinking unsafe water. It happens because your body isn’t used to local bacteria.

2. How can I avoid Bali belly when eating street food?

Choose stalls that are clean and busy and serve hot food fresh off the grill. Avoid uncovered dishes or cold items sitting out too long.

3. Is Bali tap water safe to drink or brush your teeth with?

No, always use bottled or filtered water—even for brushing your teeth. Tap water can contain bacteria that cause Bali belly.

4. Can ice in drinks give you a Bali belly?

Yes. Unless the ice is made from purified water, it may carry contaminated water. Ask before ordering or choosing drinks without ice.

5. What are the first signs or symptoms of Bali belly?

Common signs include diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, fatigue, and bloating. These symptoms usually start within a few hours of exposure.

6. How long does Bali belly last?

Most cases go away in 24 to 72 hours with rest and fluids. But if symptoms persist or worsen, visit a doctor.

7. What foods should I avoid to reduce the risk of Bali belly?

Avoid raw salads, undercooked meat, unpeeled fruits, street food left uncovered, and anything made with tap water.

8. Can you get Bali belly from brushing your teeth?

Yes. If you use tap water to brush your teeth, you may consume bacteria. Always use bottled water instead.

9. How can probiotics help prevent Bali belly?

Probiotics strengthen your gut and help fight bad bacteria. For best results, start taking them 1–2 weeks before your trip.

10. What is the best drink to stay hydrated if I get a Bali belly?

Pocari Sweat, coconut water, or oral rehydration salts (ORS) help replace lost fluids and salts better than plain water.

11. What should I eat if I get a Bali belly?

Stick to the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These bland foods are gentle on your stomach and easy to digest.

12. Is Bali belly contagious?

Yes, it can spread if people don’t wash their hands properly. Always use soap and water or hand sanitizer before eating.

13. Should I take medicine right away if I get Bali belly?

Start with ORS and rest. Activated charcoal or Imodium may help, but only take medicine if needed or advised by a pharmacist.

14. When should I see a doctor for Bali belly?

If you have blood in your stool, can’t eat or drink, have a high fever, or still feel sick after 3 days, see a doctor.

15. Can I still enjoy my Bali trip if I get a Bali belly?

Yes. Rest for a day or two, eat safe food, stay hydrated, and ease back into activities. Most people recover quickly and continue enjoying their trip.