Welcome to the Island of the Gods! “Selamat Datang!” Your first day is filled with excitement, but your body is also tired from travel. Following this simple checklist for your first 24 hours in Bali will help you acclimatize safely and set the stage for a healthy, amazing holiday.
The First Hour: From Airport to Accommodation
Your smart health choices start the moment you land. The first hour of your trip—from clearing immigration to arriving at your hotel—is a critical window to set yourself up for success and begin your acclimatization.
Hydrate Immediately
As soon as you clear customs, your first stop should be a convenience store inside the airport. Buy a large bottle of sealed bottled water and start drinking it in the taxi to your accommodation. After a long flight, your body is already dehydrated, and immediate hydration is your top priority.
Sanitize Your Hands
After handling luggage, cash, and countless airport surfaces, the first thing to do in your car or taxi is use a good alcohol-based hand sanitizer. This simple act is incredibly important for preventing the transfer of germs, a topic we cover in detail in our complete guide to hand hygiene in Bali.
Your First Meal in Bali: Keep It Simple and Cooked
After settling in, your thoughts will likely turn to your first Balinese meal. Knowing what to eat on your first day in Bali can make all the difference in how your system adapts to the new environment.
The Golden Rule: Don’t Start with a Feast
Your digestive system is tired and potentially stressed from jet lag, making it more vulnerable to unfamiliar foods and bacteria. Avoid starting with a heavy, spicy, or overly adventurous meal on your first night. Giving your system a chance to adjust is a key part of food safety upon arrival in Bali.
“Safe” First-Night Meal Ideas
Opt for simple, thoroughly cooked light meals that are easy on the stomach. Excellent and widely available choices include Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Mie Goreng (fried noodles), or a clear Sop Ayam (chicken soup). It’s best to have this first meal at your hotel or a reputable, well-reviewed restaurant nearby.
For your drinks, stick to sealed bottled water or hot tea. It’s wise to learn the difference between safe and unsafe ice, a topic we cover in our guide to safe ice in Bali.
In Your Hotel/Villa: Setting Up for a Healthy Stay
Once you’re in the comfort of your room, a few simple checks can ensure your personal space is a ‘safe zone’ for your health, which is one of the most important tips for arriving in Bali tips.
Check Your Water Supply
Once in your room, make sure you have a good supply of safe water. This could be a large, sealed water gallon (“Galon”) on a dispenser, or several sealed bottles of mineral water provided by the hotel. This ensures you have safe water for the night and the next morning.
Establish Good Habits from Night One
Make it an immediate habit to only use bottled water for brushing your teeth. This simple step prevents the accidental ingestion of tap water, which is a common cause of tummy troubles. Keep a bottle right next to the sink as a visual reminder. To understand exactly why this is so important, read our definitive guide on drinking tap water safely.
Managing Jet Lag for a Better Start
How you manage jet lag on the first night can impact your health for the next few days. It’s wise to avoid alcohol initially, as it can worsen dehydration and disrupt your sleep patterns, making it harder for your body to acclimatize. The link between alcohol and Bali Belly is significant, so saving the cocktails for another night is a smart move.
By taking it easy and making smart, simple choices on your first day, you give your body the best possible chance to adapt to Bali’s new and wonderful environment. This is one of the most important steps to prevent sickness in Bali.
This checklist is your starting point. For a complete overview of staying healthy, read our Ultimate Guide to Bali Belly.
Welcome to Bali. We’re Here if You Need Us.
Save our 24/7 clinic number and address in your phone for total peace of mind during your entire stay.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Your Arrival in Bali
I’m arriving late at night. What can I safely eat?
Your hotel’s room service is often the safest and most convenient option. Opt for simple, cooked dishes like a club sandwich, fried rice, or a clear soup. Avoid anything raw or complex.
Is it better to just eat at my hotel on the first night?
For many travelers, yes. It’s a reliable and low-stress option when you are tired and unfamiliar with your surroundings. You can start exploring more adventurous food options on day two.
What’s the best way to fight jet lag on the first day?
Try to sync to Bali time as much as possible. If you arrive during the day, get some sunlight and stay active. If you arrive at night, try to sleep. Avoid long naps during the day.
I’m going straight to a party from the airport. What should I be careful about?
Prioritize hydration with water before and during the event. Be extra mindful of the ice in your drinks (stick to tube ice) and avoid risky street food snacks, especially late at night.
What if the welcome drink at my hotel has ice?
The ice at any reputable hotel in Bali is made from purified water and is perfectly safe to consume. Enjoy your welcome drink!
What is the single most important thing to do as soon as I get to my room?
Two things: First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to remove any germs from your journey. Second, drink a full glass of bottled water to start rehydrating immediately.
Is it safe to get a massage on the first day?
Yes, getting a Balinese massage is a wonderful way to de-stress and relax after a long flight.
Should I change money at the airport?
Airport money changers offer convenience but often have lower rates. It’s fine to change a small amount for your taxi and immediate needs, but you’ll usually get a better rate at reputable money changers in tourist areas later.
Can I drink a Bintang beer on my first night?
A single, cold Bintang is a classic Bali welcome. Just remember that alcohol is dehydrating, so be sure to drink plenty of water alongside it to help your body acclimatize.
My flight arrives in the morning. Should I eat the airplane food?
Airplane food is prepared under strict hygiene standards and is generally safe to eat. Eating a meal on the plane can help you adjust to the new time zone.
