A vacation to Bali always feels special. Whether it’s your first time visiting or your umpteenth, there’s always a sense of excitement every time you set foot on the Island of the Gods. But to ensure a truly comfortable, hassle-free, and drama-free vacation, there’s one crucial, often overlooked aspect: the apps on your phone.
These days, almost everything can be managed from your smartphone. From finding transportation, ordering food, booking tourist tickets, to checking the weather or exchanging money. If you have the app ready before you leave, you won’t have to frantically search for it once you arrive in Bali. Just open your phone, click, and you’re done.
So, in this article, we’ll discuss a list of must-have apps for your Bali vacation to make your trip more convenient, time-saving, and, of course, more comfortable. So, before boarding or landing at Ngurah Rai International Airport, make sure you have these apps on your phone.
Transportation
When it comes to transportation in Bali, these two apps are almost certainly the go-to: Grab and Gojek. For those who don’t want the hassle of haggling or the hassle of finding a ride on the side of the road, simply open the app, order a ride, and the driver will come to your location.
Grab
Grab is arguably one of the most popular online transportation apps in Bali. You can order a car (GrabCar) or a motorbike (GrabBike), depending on your needs. Besides transportation, Grab also offers food ordering (GrabFood) and delivery services. So, one app can be used for many needs during your vacation.
Gojek
Gojek is also no less popular, in fact, it’s an Indonesian app. Its services are similar to Grab: GoRide (motorcycles), GoCar (cars), and GoFood for ordering food.
Important Tips for Using Grab & Gojek in Bali
- Make sure your location point is correct (especially if the villa is in an alley)
- Chat with the driver if the location is a bit difficult to find.
- Prepare small cash if you choose the cash payment method.
- In certain tourist areas (such as those controlled by local transportation), online motorcycle taxis sometimes have restrictions. Drivers will usually provide information about the nearest pick-up point.
With these two apps on your phone, you can explore Bali more leisurely without having to rent a car if you don’t need it. They’re convenient, transparent about pricing, and definitely make your vacation more comfortable.
Accommodation
When it comes to finding a place to stay in Bali, it’s now incredibly easy. No more emails back and forth or worrying about getting a dud because the photos don’t match the actual situation. Simply open the app, select your dates, filter by budget, and book. Here are the three most frequently used apps for travelers to Bali:
Airbnb
Airbnb is perfect for those looking for a more homey and unique accommodation experience. In Bali, there are plenty of options: from private pool villas in Canggu and traditional joglos in Ubud to modern apartments in Seminyak.
Booking.com
If you’re flexible and want a wide selection of hotels, Booking.com is a great option. From budget hotels to five-star resorts, they’ve got you covered.
Traveloka
Traveloka is a huge favorite in Indonesia. Besides booking hotels and villas, you can also book flights, attraction tickets, and even car rentals.
Tips to Avoid Making the Wrong Booking
- Read the latest reviews, don’t just look at the ratings.
- Check the location on Google Maps (sometimes it says “Seminyak”, but it turns out it’s already in Kerobokan).
- See detailed photos of the room and surrounding area.
- If in doubt, chat with the host or hotel first.
With these apps, finding accommodations is much simpler. Just choose the one that suits your vacation style: a private villa, a comfortable hotel, or a unique and Instagrammable staycation—Bali has it all.
Online Shopping
On vacation in Bali and suddenly need something? Maybe you’ve run out of sunscreen, forgotten your charger, extra clothes, or even baby supplies? Don’t worry! Now you don’t have to leave your villa to shop. Just open the app, click, pay, and wait for the courier to arrive. Two of the most popular online shopping apps in Indonesia are:
Tokopedia
Tokopedia is one of the largest marketplaces in Indonesia. It offers a comprehensive selection of products, from everyday necessities to electronics.
Shopee
Shopee is also very popular. They often offer promotions, free shipping vouchers, and flash sales.
Shopping Tips While on Vacation in Bali
- Make sure the villa address is clear and complete (villa name + location reference).
- Turn on notifications to know when the courier arrives.
- Check the shipping estimate, especially if you’re only staying a few days.
- You can chat with the seller first to confirm stock and delivery time.
With Tokopedia and Shopee on your phone, shopping becomes much more convenient. So if you’re missing something or suddenly need something while in Bali, there’s no need to panic. Just order, sit back, and wait for your package to arrive.
Signpost
Google Maps
If you’re in Bali, one app you absolutely must have on your phone is Google Maps. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver, especially if it’s your first time in Bali or you’re staying in a villa tucked away in a small alley.
Google Maps isn’t just for getting directions from point A to point B. You can also check:
- Estimated travel time (so you won’t be late for dinner or sunset)
- Traffic conditions
- Reviews of restaurants, beach clubs, and tourist attractions
- Original location photos from visitors
In Bali itself, many villas and cafes are located in somewhat hidden locations. Sometimes the addresses are simple, but without Maps, you can get lost and wander around. So before you set off, make sure you’ve saved or pinned the location.
Tips for Using Google Maps in Bali
- Download an offline map of Bali before leaving (useful if the signal is weak).
- Select motor mode if you’re riding a scooter to get a more suitable route.
- Check the latest reviews before coming to a restaurant or tourist spot.
- Share your location with friends if you make an appointment so you don’t get to the wrong spot.
With Google Maps, you can explore Bali at your own pace without fear of getting lost. Whether you’re looking for a hidden beach, a delicious local restaurant, or simply returning to your villa after sunset, everything is easier and safer.
Translate
Google Translate
This app is simple yet incredibly helpful. Simply type the word or sentence you want translated, and the results will appear instantly. You can even use your voice or camera now.
Some features that are really useful when on holiday in Bali:
- Scan text using a camera (for example, a menu or information board).
- Two-way conversation mode, so you can chat more smoothly.
- Download Indonesian for offline use.
- You can hear how it’s pronounced too.
When is Google Translate used?
- When buying something at a local store.
- Ask local residents for directions.
- Price negotiations in traditional markets.
- Read the instructions or warning signs.
While you might not use it every day, having Google Translate on your phone is a real peace of mind. So, if you’re suddenly stuck on a language barrier, you can just open the app and continue chatting without any awkwardness.
