Tips for Renting Scooter in Bali

Renting Scooter in Bali—an absolute must if you’re looking to explore the island on your own terms. Let me tell you, renting scooter in Bali is one of the best decisions I made on my trip. There’s just something so freeing about zipping down the roads, wind in your face, and not being tied to a tour schedule. But, as with everything, it has its pros and cons. If you’re thinking about it (or already convinced but just want some tips), I’ve got a few stories and lessons to share from my own scooter adventures in Bali.

The Freedom of Two Wheels

First things first, renting scooter in Bali gives you a kind of freedom that’s hard to match. Whether you want to hit the beach in the morning, check out a waterfall in the afternoon, or just grab a smoothie at that random café you spotted on Instagram, a scooter lets you do it all at your own pace. And honestly, with the traffic in Bali, especially around places like Ubud or Seminyak, a scooter can be a lifesaver. Cars get stuck in these long lines of traffic, but with a scooter, you can weave in and out and avoid the gridlock.

I remember one particular day when I had this whole plan to visit three different spots—Bali is famous for its temples and rice terraces, right? But as I was riding toward my first destination, I passed this tiny road that looked super interesting. I thought, “Why not?” and turned down it. What I found was this hidden café overlooking the most gorgeous rice paddies I’d ever seen. If I rent a car with driver or on a tour bus, I would’ve just passed by, but with a scooter, I could go wherever I wanted. That’s the kind of freedom you don’t get with other forms of transport.

Getting Started: The Rental Process

Renting scooter in Bali is incredibly easy. You can literally find scooter rental places on almost every corner, and many hotels and guesthouses also offer rentals. Now, I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical at first because it seemed too easy. Like, should I be worried that I’m just handing over cash to some random guy for a scooter? But honestly, it’s super common, and as long as you’re renting from a reputable place, you should be fine.

Prices vary depending on where you are and the type of scooter you’re renting, but in general, you’re looking at anywhere from 50,000 to 80,000 IDR per day, which is roughly $3 to $5 USD. If you’re planning to rent for a longer period, you can usually negotiate a discount. I ended up renting mine for a week and got a decent deal.

One thing to note, though: Make sure the rental place gives you a helmet. This seems obvious, but not everyone enforces it, and you will get fined by the police if you’re caught riding without one. Plus, it’s just a smart thing to do. Bali’s roads can be a bit chaotic (more on that later), and you want to be safe. I saw plenty of tourists cruising around with their hair blowing in the wind, but honestly, that’s not the move. The roads here are unpredictable, and a helmet is non-negotiable.

Traffic in Bali: A Controlled Chaos

Let’s talk about the traffic because, whoo boy, Bali’s roads can be intense. I mean, you’re dealing with a mix of scooters, cars, trucks, pedestrians, dogs—pretty much everything. It’s this weird blend of chaos, but somehow, everyone makes it work. If you’re a confident rider, you’ll probably adapt quickly, but if you’ve never ridden a scooter before, you might want to take it slow at first.

There’s this unspoken flow to the traffic that I didn’t get at first. It’s not like back home where everything is neatly organized with lanes and signals that people actually follow. In Bali, the traffic just kind of moves. Sometimes you’ll find yourself inches away from another scooter or squeezing through two cars with barely any room to spare. The first couple of times I rode through Ubud, my heart was racing, but after a while, I got the hang of it. Just keep your wits about you, go with the flow, and trust that people aren’t trying to hit you. (Though, honestly, don’t assume too much—always be alert!)

Another thing that threw me off was the roundabouts. Oh man, those things were a mystery to me at first. The key is to keep moving. If you hesitate, you’ll confuse everyone around you. I made the mistake of stopping dead in the middle of one, and it was not a good look. You kind of have to trust the system and keep an eye on the drivers around you. After a few goes, it becomes second nature.

Police Checks and Fines

Here’s something you might not expect: police roadblocks. The police in Bali often set up checkpoints to make sure tourists are riding legally, and they do hand out fines, especially if they can tell you’re new to the whole scooter thing. I got stopped once, and thank goodness I had my international driving permit with me (pro tip: bring one!). You’ll need this along with your regular license if you want to avoid a fine. I’ve heard stories of people getting by without one, but trust me, it’s not worth the risk. If you don’t have an international permit, you’ll most likely get hit with a fine, which can range from around 50,000 to 300,000 IDR.

Now, if you do get fined, the best thing to do is stay calm, be polite, and pay the fine. I’ve heard some people try to argue or negotiate, but that usually doesn’t go well. It’s all part of the experience, really. In my case, the officer just asked to see my documents, gave me a thumbs-up when I showed my permit, and sent me on my way. No harm, no foul.

Petrol and Pointers for Long Rides

When it comes to refueling, you’ll notice there aren’t traditional gas stations on every corner like back home. Instead, many small roadside shops sell petrol in glass bottles. You’ll see them displayed outside in racks, and while it might seem a bit strange at first, it’s totally normal here. You’ll pay about 10,000 to 15,000 IDR per bottle, which is super cheap. I actually preferred topping off this way since it was quicker than going to a gas station, and you can find these little petrol stands almost everywhere.

If you’re planning on riding for long stretches, like to places up in the north like Munduk or the beaches around Amed, make sure your tank is full before heading out. Once you get out of the main areas, petrol stations and roadside bottles become less frequent, and the last thing you want is to be stuck on a rural road without gas. I made that mistake once when heading toward Lovina Beach and had to push my scooter for what felt like forever before I found a little shop selling petrol. Not exactly how I wanted to spend my afternoon!

Check also: What are the most amazing places to visit in Bali?

The Reality of Riding in Bali: Is It for You?

I know I’m painting this rosy picture of scooter life in Bali, but the reality is, it’s not for everyone. If you’ve never ridden a scooter or motorcycle before, Bali might not be the best place to learn. The roads can be chaotic, and there’s a definite learning curve. If you’re nervous about it, consider Renting Scooter in Bali for just a day or two to test the waters before committing for a longer period. Or, take a scooter driving lesson. Yes, they offer those! I didn’t do this myself, but I met a couple who took a lesson in Canggu, and they said it was a lifesaver.

Also, consider the weather. Bali can get really hot, and riding around in the sun for hours can be exhausting. On the flip side, Bali’s rainy season can make the roads slick and dangerous, so if you’re visiting during that time, be extra cautious. I once got caught in a downpour while riding through Uluwatu, and navigating the wet, slippery roads was no joke. I had to pull over and wait it out because the rain was so heavy I could barely see. So yeah, if you’re riding during the rainy season, it’s best to keep a poncho handy and check the weather forecast before heading out.

My Takeaway: Would I Do It Again?

In a heartbeat. Riding a scooter in Bali added so much to my trip. Sure, there were some sketchy moments, like the time I almost wiped out on a gravel road or the time I got lost trying to find my way back from a temple. But honestly, that’s all part of the adventure. Bali is one of those places where the journey is just as fun as the destination, and having the freedom to explore on a scooter makes the experience that much richer.

If you’re up for a bit of adventure and you’re willing to navigate the crazy traffic, I say go for it. Just be smart about it—wear your helmet, carry your international driving permit, and watch out for those surprise rainstorms. Bali has so much to offer, and exploring it by scooter? Well, that’s just the icing on the cake.

Exploring Bali’s Hidden Gems by Scooter

One of the best parts about hiring a scooter in Bali is that it opens up a whole world of hidden gems you’d probably miss if you were relying on taxis or tour groups. Some of my favorite spots were tucked away in places that weren’t exactly easy to find, but that’s part of what made them so special. With a scooter, you can take those random turns, explore that unmarked road, or stop when something catches your eye, all without being at the mercy of a driver.

Take, for example, this random beach I found near Canggu. I was initially heading toward a more well-known spot, but I saw this tiny, almost hidden path off to the side. It didn’t look like much—just a dirt track between two buildings—but I figured, why not? I ended up riding down this little road for about 10 minutes, and when I finally emerged, I was at this secluded beach with maybe three other people on it. It was nothing like the crowded, tourist-heavy beaches you’ll find in Kuta or Seminyak. Instead, it was quiet, peaceful, and felt like I had stumbled upon a private paradise.

This isn’t something you’ll get to experience if you’re taking the standard tourist route. Renting a scooter lets you make your trip to Bali your own—you can get off the beaten path and discover places that most tourists never see. Whether it’s a hidden waterfall, a quaint village, or a café with a killer view, having the ability to explore at your own pace is a game-changer.

Safety First: Navigating Bali’s Roads

Now, let’s get real for a second: while riding a scooter in Bali is amazing, it’s not without its risks. I can’t count the number of times I saw tourists zipping around in flip-flops, no helmet, and clearly no idea what they were doing. I’m all for living your best life, but safety has to come first, especially on Bali’s unpredictable roads.

For starters, if you’re not used to riding scooters, give yourself some time to practice before diving into busy areas. The back roads are much more forgiving, and you’ll have a chance to get a feel for how the scooter handles before you’re thrust into the madness of Bali’s traffic. When I first rented my scooter, I spent about 20 minutes just riding around the quiet streets near my hotel in Ubud. I’m so glad I did, because once I hit the main roads, things got a lot more intense.

One thing I noticed—and this might sound weird—is that drivers in Bali have a kind of sixth sense. Like, there’s this unspoken understanding between drivers that doesn’t necessarily follow the same rules as back home. They’re used to scooters weaving in and out of traffic, so while it looks chaotic, there’s actually a method to the madness. That said, don’t assume everyone’s paying attention to you. Always be alert and prepared for the unexpected. There’s nothing worse than being in the middle of traffic and having a stray dog dart across the road or another rider swerve in front of you without warning.

Braking is another thing you’ll want to get used to quickly. I made the mistake of relying too much on the front brake early on, which almost caused me to wipe out when I had to stop suddenly. The back brake is your friend, especially on Bali’s hilly and sometimes uneven roads. I learned to always ride with my hand lightly covering the back brake, just in case.

And if you’re riding in more rural areas, be prepared for potholes, gravel, and even patches of sand on the road. I was cruising toward Tegalalang Rice Terrace one morning when I hit a patch of loose gravel that sent my scooter fishtailing for a few seconds. My heart skipped a beat, but luckily I managed to stay upright. After that, I was a lot more cautious about road conditions, especially when riding through areas I wasn’t familiar with.

The Gear You Didn’t Know You Needed

You might not think you need much for riding a scooter in Bali, but trust me, a few simple items can make your experience a whole lot easier (and safer). First off, a face mask or bandana is a game-changer. Bali’s roads can get super dusty, especially when you’re riding through more rural areas or near construction zones. I didn’t think much of it until I spent a full day riding around and realized my face was covered in dust by the end of it. After that, I started wearing a bandana over my nose and mouth, and it made a world of difference.

Next up: sunscreen. I know it seems obvious, but when you’re riding a scooter, the sun hits you differently. You’re exposed for hours on end, and it’s easy to forget just how much sun you’re getting. I made the mistake of not reapplying sunscreen after a morning ride to Uluwatu, and by the time I got back to my guesthouse, I was fried. I’m talking full-on red, crispy, should-have-known-better sunburn. Don’t be like me—reapply that sunscreen throughout the day, especially on your arms and the back of your neck, which are constantly exposed while you’re riding.

Also, consider bringing a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt. It might sound counterintuitive in Bali’s tropical heat, but trust me, it comes in handy. Not only does it protect you from the sun, but once the sun goes down, things can get surprisingly chilly, especially if you’re riding through the mountains or near the coast. I wasn’t prepared for how cool it got one evening riding back from Tanah Lot, and I ended up shivering the entire way home. After that, I always kept a light jacket in my backpack.

Navigating with Google Maps (And When It Fails You)

Ah, Google Maps—such a lifesaver, right? Well, mostly. I relied on Google Maps for pretty much all my scooter adventures, and for the most part, it was great. I could pop in my destination, stick my phone in a handlebar mount, and just follow the directions. Easy peasy. But here’s the thing: sometimes Google Maps doesn’t know what it’s talking about, especially in Bali.

There were a couple of times when I was directed down these tiny, barely-there paths that didn’t seem like actual roads. And in some cases, they weren’t. One time, I ended up on what I can only describe as a dirt footpath in the middle of a rice field, which Google was insisting was the road. Spoiler: it was not. After about 10 minutes of carefully maneuvering my scooter over rocks and potholes, I realized I’d have to backtrack and find a real road. Lesson learned: if it looks sketchy, trust your instincts and reroute.

That said, Google Maps is still super helpful, especially for longer trips. Just keep an eye on your surroundings and be willing to course-correct if it sends you on a wild goose chase. And speaking of navigation, make sure you have a good phone mount for your scooter. You don’t want to be holding your phone while trying to ride—it’s dangerous and illegal in Bali. Most rental shops will offer phone mounts for a small extra fee, and they’re worth every penny.

The Joy of Spontaneity

One of my absolute favorite things about riding a scooter in Bali is the sense of spontaneity it allows. There’s something so exciting about not having every minute of your day planned out, knowing you can hop on your scooter and go wherever the wind (or road) takes you. Some of my best memories came from those unplanned detours, like stumbling upon a local market in the middle of nowhere or finding a deserted beach that felt like it was meant just for me.

I remember one day in particular when I had planned to visit the Tegenungan Waterfall, but along the way, I spotted a sign for a local art market. I was curious, so I took a quick detour. What I found was this bustling little marketplace full of local artisans selling handmade crafts, paintings, and jewelry. I ended up spending a couple of hours there, chatting with the vendors, buying a few souvenirs, and enjoying the local vibe. It wasn’t part of my original plan, but that’s the beauty of having your own wheels—you can change your plans on a whim and make room for those unexpected moments.

Is Renting Scooter in Bali Worth It?

Without a doubt, renting scooter in Bali was one of the highlights of my trip. It gave me the freedom to explore at my own pace, discover hidden gems, and experience the island in a way that would’ve been impossible from the backseat of a car. Yes, it comes with its challenges—the traffic can be intimidating, and there’s always a bit of a learning curve—but the rewards far outweigh the risks.

If you’re up for a bit of adventure and willing to embrace the unpredictability of Bali’s roads, Renting Scooter in Bali is 100% worth it. Just remember to ride safe, be smart about your route choices, and always carry your documents. Oh, and don’t forget the sunscreen! Whether you’re cruising along the coast or winding your way through the mountains, there’s nothing quite like exploring Bali on two wheels.