Embracing the Chaos: A Family's Guide to Traveling Bali with Young Kids

When we first came to Bali as a family, our youngest was just five, and we had another still toddling around under two. Looking back, it feels like we threw ourselves into the deep end of family travel—but those early days were some of the most memorable (and, let’s be honest, a little chaotic)! Navigating Bali with little ones was both an adventure and a challenge. From figuring out car seats (spoiler: they aren’t really a thing here) to keeping up with naptimes in a tropical climate, every day felt like we were learning something new. I still laugh thinking about the time we tried to “quickly” visit a temple but ended up chasing our five-year-old through the grounds while balancing a cranky toddler on one hip. But those moments are part of what makes family travel so special. I remember our first day trip to Ubud, where we nervously piled everyone into a car with a driver we’d just met. The kids fell asleep to the hum of the engine as we wound through lush greenery, and we finally felt like we were finding our groove. One thing we learned quickly was the value of slowing down. Unlike back home, where everything felt rushed, Bali seemed to encourage us to take our time. Long lunches where the kids could run around barefoot, afternoon naps under ceiling fans, and spontaneous stops at roadside warungs became our new normal. Now, years later, it feels surreal to think how far we’ve come. Those tiny travelers who once needed bottles and constant naps are now confident explorers, leading the way on treks and trying street food we would’ve hesitated to eat back then. If you’re thinking about visiting Bali with young kids, our biggest advice is this: embrace the unpredictability. There will be tantrums, long drives, and moments of exhaustion—but there will also be sunsets you’ll never forget, tiny hands clutching fresh coconuts, and the kind of family memories that make every hiccup worth it. Have you traveled to Bali with little ones? Share your stories or tips in the comments—we’d love to hear how your family made it work! 🌴❤️ #baliwithkids #familytravel