How to Handle Drinking Water in Bali: A Simple Guide for Travelers

Planning your first trip to Bali? One of the most common questions travelers ask is: “Is the tap water safe to drink?” The short answer is no — but don’t stress! Staying healthy and hydrated in Bali is simple with just a bit of planning.

Most locals and expats in Bali avoid drinking tap water and instead rely on large, refillable water gallon bottles (often called galons). These are perfect for drinking, cooking, and even making tea or coffee. You’ll see them in pretty much every home, villa, and hotel. They’re easy to order, quick to swap out, and cost just around $2 to $2.20 AUD per bottle — super affordable for the convenience and peace of mind.

For everything else — showers, laundry, brushing teeth, and doing dishes — tap water is perfectly fine to use. That’s the everyday norm for locals and long-term visitors alike. Just avoid swallowing any while brushing your teeth, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.

Families with young kids can feel a lot more at ease knowing that safe drinking options are available everywhere. Many villas and restaurants also provide filtered water or free refills to cut down on plastic waste, which is a great bonus!

So, when packing, skip the bulk of bottled water. Instead, bring a reusable water bottle and plan to refill it with filtered or galon water throughout the day. It’s simple, eco-friendly, and keeps your family feeling great while exploring paradise.

Tip: If you're arriving late at night, check if your accommodation can have a galon bottle ready — it’s a small touch that makes a big difference after a long flight!