So you’ve finally saved up enough money for that Bali trip. So now, it’s time to factor in that daily budget for roaming the island! From temple hopping and waterfall chasing to long afternoons at places like Café del Mar Bali, knowing how much cash to carry makes a real difference to how smooth your trip feels.
Firstly, you’ll still need cash in Bali. Despite what you might expect in 2026, this tropical island still runs primarily on rupiah for everyday transactions. Some markets won’t take your Visa card. Street vendors look at you blankly when you mention Apple Pay. Even that beachside warung serving the best nasi goreng you’ve ever tasted operates strictly cash-only.
How much cash to bring depends entirely on your travel style; a backpacker eating street food needs far less than someone booking private villas and spa days. This guide breaks down exactly what you’ll need based on how you actually want to experience Bali, plus the practical stuff about ATMs, exchange rates, and keeping your money safe while you’re exploring temples and beaches.
Quick Answer: Cash Requirements for Bali in 2026
Most travelers need between 1 and 1.5 million IDR daily per person. That’s roughly $65-100 USD at current exchange rates, which hover around 15,500-16,000 rupiah to the dollar.
Bring enough for your first three to five days. You’ll be tired after the flight, probably jet-lagged, and the last thing you want is hunting down the perfect ATM before you can even grab dinner. After those initial days, you can withdraw more as needed from reliable bank ATMs scattered throughout tourist areas. Cards work at nicer hotels, established restaurants, and beach clubs like Café del Mar Bali.
What Different Travelers Actually Spend in Bali
Budget backpackers can comfortably spend 300,000 to 600,000 IDR daily, which sounds like a lot until you realize it’s only $20-40. They’re staying in hostels, eating where locals eat (which happens to be delicious), and renting beat-up scooters to get around. A plate of nasi campur costs maybe IDR 25,000 (around 2 USD).
Temple entrance fees run IDR 20,000-50,000. Scooter rental is IDR 50,000 per day if you negotiate. It’s absolutely doable but requires discipline and accepting that you’re not hitting fancy beach clubs.
Mid-range tourists will use up 700,000 to 1.2 million IDR each day. This is probably where you’ll land if it’s your first visit. You’re mixing local warungs with trendy Canggu cafes, taking organized tours to rice terraces and waterfalls, using Grab instead of taxis, and getting regular massages because they’re so cheap compared to home.
You might also plan one or two indulgent afternoons at places like Cafe del Mar Bali, balancing splurge days with simpler meals elsewhere. Weekly budget for this style runs around $350-500, which honestly feels like a bargain for everything you’re getting.
Luxury travelers easily spend 1.5 to 3 million IDR, if not more. You’re booking high-end spas, eating at restaurants with sunset views and wine lists, and booking one of our VIP Master Suites. Helicopter tours, private excursions, personal yoga sessions, and duty-free shopping can all add up quickly. Even though cards handle most luxury purchases, you’ll still need substantial cash for tips, driver payments, spontaneous shopping, and those smaller vendors who create the most memorable moments.
Where Cash Works and Where It Doesn’t
Traditional markets almost operate entirely on rupiah. Sukawati Art Market, Ubud Market, Sanur Night Market, you’ll be bargaining for sarongs and wooden carvings with actual money in your hand. Tips need to be cash too, even when you pay restaurant bills by card, because that’s what actually reaches the staff who served you.
Cards work fine at established venues. Your hotel most likely takes Visa. That Instagram-famous beach club processes Mastercard without issue. Shopping malls, upscale restaurants in Seminyak, international chains, they’ve all got card readers. But many add surcharges, typically 2-3%, which they’ll mention right before processing payment.
The smartest approach involves carrying 500,000 to 1 million IDR in mixed denominations at all times. Small notes matter enormously here. Breaking a 100,000 note at a street cart creates awkward situations where vendors claim they don’t have change, whether that’s true or strategic. Having plenty of 20,000 and 50,000 notes makes every transaction smoother, and a handful of 2,000 notes is a parking lifesaver.
Getting and Managing Money in Bali
Use the airport ATM for initial cash if needed, then do proper exchanges later at authorized money changers in Seminyak or Ubud.
Legitimate money changers display “Authorized Money Changer” certification prominently. They have permanent storefronts, clear rate boards outside, and professional operations. Avoid anyone approaching you on the street with promises of great rates, since those scenarios often end with calculator tricks or miscounted bills. Central Kuta Money Exchange and BMC have solid reputations, though rates vary daily, so comparing a few places makes sense.
ATMs solve the “how much cash should I bring to Bali” question since you can withdraw throughout your trip. But choose carefully. Stick to machines attached to actual bank branches like BCA, Mandiri, BNI, and CIMB Niaga. These are safer from skimming devices and offer better withdrawal limits, usually 2-3 million per transaction.
Indonesian ATMs charge 50,000-100,000 IDR per withdrawal (that’s $3-6 just from the local bank). Your home bank probably adds foreign transaction fees and international ATM charges on top.
Staying Safe With Cash in Bali
Only carry what you need for the day; keep a maximum of 1-2 million IDR unless you’re making a specific large purchase. There’s zero reason to walk through Ubud Market with your entire week’s budget stuffed in your daypack. Use hotel safes for bulk cash storage, splitting money between your accommodation, day bag, and maybe a hidden money belt if you’re particularly cautious.
Bali is generally very safe, but petty theft targeting tourists definitely happens, especially in crowded spots like Kuta Beach or busy market areas. Snatch-and-grab incidents occur occasionally. Keep bags closed and worn crossbody in front of you. Don’t leave belongings unattended on beaches or in scooter baskets while you’re shopping.
Count money carefully at the exchange counters before leaving. Scams involve sleight of hand during counting, calculator swaps, or distracting you mid-transaction. If something feels off, walk away immediately. Better to find another changer than risk losing hundreds of dollars to a practiced con.
Break large bills at hotels or restaurants rather than small vendors who genuinely might not have change. Carrying many smaller denominations feels bulky, but makes daily life infinitely easier and safer since you’re not constantly flashing 100,000 notes.
Final Thoughts
Planning your cash needs properly transforms your Bali experience from stressful to seamless. Bring enough for those crucial first few days (roughly 3-7 million IDR depending on your travel style), then use reliable bank ATMs to replenish supplies. Store most of your money safely, carry only what you need daily, and keep those small denominations handy for the countless small transactions that define daily life here.
The rupiah in your pocket isn’t just currency. It’s your key to spontaneous adventures, unforgettable street food, friendly local interactions, and those perfect sunsets at Café del Mar Bali that make the trip feel complete.