How to Prevent Bali Belly

A Traveler’s Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Bali or anywhere in Indonesia, staying healthy is key to enjoying your holiday. One common issue travellers face is Bali Belly – caused by unfamiliar bacteria in food or water.

Here’s how to avoid Bali Belly and stay healthy during your trip:

1. Drink Safe Water

  • Always drink bottled or filtered water.
  • Avoid tap water even in hotels.
  • Use bottled water for brushing your teeth.
  • Be cautious with ice cubes unless you’re sure they’re made from filtered water.

Tip: Usually, hotels use filtered water in all kitchen and bar operations. Many hotels in Bali provides complimentary bottled water daily.

2. Eat Clean, Cooked Food

  • Choose dishes that are freshly cooked and served hot.
  • Avoid raw vegetables, undercooked meats, and street food that looks like it’s been sitting out.
  • Look for busy restaurants or food stalls with high turnover – that usually means fresher food.
  • Avoid spicy food at all type.

tip: Cooked food is fine if it’s hot and wait until it cooling down a bit.

3. Practice Good Hygiene

  • Wash your hands before eating and after using the restroom.
  • Carry hand sanitizer – especially when exploring outdoors or at markets.
  • Avoid touching your mouth, face, or eyes with unwashed hands.

4. Be Careful with Drinks

  • Only consume pasteurized dairy products.
  • Ask your server if drinks are made with filtered water and clean ice.

5. General Travel Hygiene Tips

  • Keep wet wipes or sanitizer on hand for quick clean-ups.
  • Don’t handle food after touching money, animals, or public surfaces without washing your hands.
  • Choose accommodations and restaurants that prioritize cleanliness and food safety. Read their review first before visit.

What to Do If You Get Bali Belly

If you start to feel symptoms like stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting:

  1. Stay hydrated – drink water and oral rehydration salts (ORS).
  2. Eat bland foods – rice, bananas, toast.
  3. Rest – give your body time to recover.
  4. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, dairy, and spicy food.

If symptoms persist more than 12 hours, or if you have a fever or blood in your stool, see a doctor immediately.

Stay Healthy, Travel Happy

Bali Belly is unpleasant – but completely avoidable with the right precautions. At our hotel, we take extra care with food and water hygiene so you can enjoy your stay with peace of mind. Need help or feel unwell during your stay? We always here to assist.