Scooter Rental for Tourists in Bali

If you’re visiting Bali and not renting a scooter, you’re missing out. Seriously. Scooter rental for tourists in Bali is the way to get around. Traffic? No problem. Parking? Easy. Cost? Way cheaper than taxis or private drivers. But before you go rushing off to rent one, let’s talk about what you really need to know—because, trust me, it’s not as simple as just picking a bike and riding off into the sunset.

Why Renting a Scooter in Bali is the Best Decision You’ll Make

First off, getting around Bali without a scooter is like trying to swim with one arm tied behind your back. Sure, you can do it, but it’s way harder than it needs to be. Cabs are overpriced, GoJek and Grab drivers aren’t always available in more remote areas, and hiring a private driver every day adds up fast.

With a scooter, you have complete freedom. Wanna chase the sunrise at Sanur Beach? Done. Feel like stopping at that random roadside warung for a plate of Nasi Goreng? No problem. Plus, riding through Bali’s winding roads, past rice terraces and little villages, feels way more real than sitting in the back of a car, stuck in traffic with every other tourist.

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty—where to rent, how much it costs, what to watch out for, and the biggest mistakes to avoid.

Where to Rent a Scooter in Bali

There are two main ways to rent a scooter in Bali:

Through your accommodation – Most hotels, guesthouses, and even some Airbnb hosts offer scooter rentals. This is convenient, but prices might be slightly higher, and the condition of the bikes varies.
From a dedicated scooter rental shop – This is the best option if you want more choices, better prices, and well-maintained bikes. Look for businesses with good Google reviews and a variety of automatic scooter rental options.

Some of the best scooter rental in Bali options include:

Bali Bike Rental – One of the more reputable companies, with solid customer service and insurance options.
BaliBigBike – Offers a good selection of scooters, including some with surf racks.
Rides & Waves – Great if you’re in Canggu or Seminyak, known for well-maintained bikes.

If you’re landing at Ngurah Rai International Airport and want a ride right away, you can find scooter rental Bali near airport services that will deliver a bike to you as soon as you arrive. Just be prepared for airport prices to be slightly higher.

How Much Does a Scooter Rental Cost in Bali?

Price depends on a few factors—bike model, rental duration, and location—but here’s a rough idea of Bali scooter rental price ranges:

Daily rental: IDR 60,000 – 100,000 ($4 – $7)
Weekly rental: IDR 300,000 – 500,000 ($20 – $35)
Monthly rental: IDR 700,000 – 1,500,000 ($50 – $100)

If you need a cheap scooter rental Bali deal, bargaining helps—especially for longer rentals. Just don’t be that tourist who haggles over 10,000 IDR (less than a dollar).

Should You Get Scooter Insurance?

Yes. A hundred times yes.

Many rental places offer Bali scooter rental with insurance, but read the fine print. Some only cover theft, not accidents. If you’re not confident on a bike, consider getting additional travel insurance that includes scooter accidents. Hospitals in Bali can get expensive fast, and the last thing you want is a massive bill because you tried to save a few bucks on insurance.

Automatic or Manual Scooter?

If you’re a beginner, go for an automatic scooter rental Bali option. Manual bikes are cool, but shifting gears while navigating Bali’s traffic? No thanks. Automatics are easier, more common, and perfect for just cruising around.

Tips for Riding a Scooter in Bali Like a Pro

Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) – If you don’t have one, the police will fine you. You can get away with paying a bribe, but it’s easier to just have the proper permit.
Wear a helmet – This isn’t just for safety. Police also fine tourists who ride without one.
Avoid riding at night if you’re new – Bali’s roads can be unpredictable, and some areas have zero streetlights.
Watch out for potholes – They come out of nowhere. Hit one wrong, and you’ll be making an unexpected visit to a clinic.
Be cautious in the rain – Roads get slippery fast, and many don’t have proper drainage. If it starts pouring, pull over and wait it out.
Always check your brakes before riding off – Some rentals don’t maintain their scooters well, and faulty brakes are not something you want to find out about at high speed.

Renting Long-Term? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’re staying in Bali for more than a few weeks, getting a monthly scooter rental Bali deal is the way to go. Long-term rentals save you money and sometimes come with added perks like free maintenance.

A few things to consider:

Some rental shops require a deposit for monthly rentals—usually between IDR 500,000 – 1,500,000.
Check if your rental includes free servicing. Bali’s humid climate and dusty roads mean you might need to get the oil changed more often than you’d think.
If you’re staying outside major tourist areas like Canggu, Seminyak, or Ubud, make sure the rental shop is okay with you taking the scooter further away. Some have restrictions.

The Truth About Riding in Bali Traffic

Let’s be real—riding in Bali can be chaotic. The roads aren’t exactly “organized,” and the mix of cars, scooters, trucks, and the occasional wandering chicken makes for an interesting experience.

A few quick survival tips:

Go with the flow – If traffic is moving slow, don’t try to weave through like you’re in a race.
Use your horn – Not in an aggressive way, but as a “hey, I’m here” signal. It’s normal in Bali.
Expect the unexpected – People will cut you off. Dogs will run into the street. A whole family might be riding on a single scooter. Stay alert.

Is Scooter Rental Worth It?

Absolutely. As long as you ride safely and follow the rules, renting a scooter is the best way to explore Bali. You’ll save money, skip traffic, and experience the island in a way you just can’t from the back of a car.

Common Mistakes Tourists Make When Renting a Scooter in Bali

Even though renting a scooter in Bali is pretty straightforward, a lot of tourists still make mistakes that can cost them time, money, or worse—get them into accidents. Let’s go over some of the most common mistakes so you can avoid them.

1. Not Checking the Condition of the Scooter Before Renting
I’ve seen it happen too many times. A tourist rents a scooter without even glancing at it, takes off, and then realizes the brakes are loose, the tires are bald, or the headlight doesn’t work. Not only is this dangerous, but some rental shops love to blame existing damage on the renter to squeeze extra money out of them.

What to do instead:

Inspect the bike before leaving the shop. Check the brakes, tires, lights, and horn.
Take photos or a video of the scooter, especially any scratches or dents. If the owner tries to blame you for damage later, you’ll have proof.
Ask for a test ride. Even a quick ride up and down the street will help you spot any issues.

2. Not Understanding the Police Bribe Situation
Alright, let’s talk about the cops. Bali police are notorious for stopping tourists on scooters, often for minor infractions—or sometimes for no reason at all. Their goal? To get some cash off you.

If you don’t have an International Driving Permit (IDP), you will get stopped and fined. Even if you do, they might still try to get money from you.

How to handle it:

Always carry a valid driver’s license + IDP (you can get an IDP in your home country before traveling).
If you do get stopped, be polite but firm. If they ask for money, start low—IDR 50,000 ($3) usually does the trick. If they push for more, don’t panic. It’s all part of the game.
Some tourists keep a “bribe wallet” with just a small amount of cash to avoid giving away too much.

3. Riding in Flip-Flops and No Helmet
Look, I get it. You’re in Bali, it’s hot, and flip-flops feel right. But let me tell you—if you fall off a scooter while wearing them, your feet will be destroyed. Bali’s roads are not forgiving, and I’ve seen people end up with nasty scrapes, broken toes, and burns from the exhaust pipe.

And helmets? Just wear one. Not only is it the law, but head injuries are no joke. I’ve heard too many horror stories of tourists getting into minor accidents and ending up with serious injuries just because they didn’t think they needed a helmet.

Better choice:

Wear closed shoes or at least sturdy sandals with straps.
Always wear a proper helmet, not just the flimsy ones some rental shops give you. If the one they offer looks sketchy, ask for a better one.

4. Riding Without Knowing the Traffic Rules (Or Lack Thereof)
Bali doesn’t exactly follow standard traffic rules. In fact, half the time, it feels like the only rule is “don’t crash.” If you’re expecting organized traffic like back home, you’re in for a rude awakening.

Here’s what to expect:

People will cut you off. All the time. Just go with it.
Intersections are chaos. If there’s no traffic light, it’s a free-for-all. Move slowly and watch for an opening.
Stop signs? Rarely followed. Instead, people slow down, look both ways, and go.
Scooters drive on the shoulder. It’s common for bikes to use the side of the road when traffic is heavy.

If you’re new to riding, take it slow at first. Ride around quieter streets before tackling busier areas like Kuta or Seminyak.

What to Do If You Get Into an Accident

No one likes to think about it, but accidents happen. If you crash your scooter in Bali—whether it’s a minor fall or something more serious—here’s what to do:

Stay calm. Don’t panic, even if people start gathering around (which they will).
Check for injuries. If you or someone else is hurt, call for help. The emergency number in Bali is 112.
Move the scooter off the road if possible. This helps avoid further accidents.
If another person is involved, expect them to ask for money. Even if it wasn’t your fault, locals often see tourist money as an easy solution. Be polite, but don’t immediately hand over cash—assess the situation first.
Call your rental company. If you got insurance, now’s the time to use it.

Tip: If it’s just a small fall and you scraped up the bike, most rental shops will let you pay for minor repairs without a huge hassle. But if the damage is major, they might charge high repair fees—this is why insurance is worth it.

The Best Areas to Explore by Scooter

Alright, now that we’ve covered all the serious stuff, let’s talk about the fun part—where to ride! Bali is full of incredible places that are best explored by scooter.

1. Ubud & the Rice Terraces
The roads around Ubud are pure magic—lush greenery, winding paths, and some of the most beautiful rice fields you’ll ever see. Head up to Tegalalang Rice Terrace early in the morning to avoid the crowds, then cruise around Ubud’s backroads for a peaceful ride.

2. Canggu & Seminyak
If you’re staying in Canggu, a scooter is essential. Traffic can be brutal, and a bike is the best way to get to the beach, cafes, and sunset spots like Echo Beach or Batu Bolong. Just be prepared for some chaotic intersections!

3. Uluwatu & the Bukit Peninsula
Uluwatu’s coastal roads are perfect for scooter rides. Check out Padang Padang Beach, Bingin Beach, and of course, Uluwatu Temple for an insane sunset view. Just be careful—some of the roads here are steep, so make sure your brakes are solid.

4. Nusa Dua & Sanur
If you want a more relaxed ride, head to Sanur. The roads here are wider and calmer, making it a great area for beginners. Plus, there’s a beautiful beachfront path perfect for cruising.

5. Sidemen & East Bali
If you want to get really off the beaten path, ride out to Sidemen. It’s like Ubud but quieter, with jaw-dropping mountain views and barely any traffic.

Renting a scooter is one of the best ways to see the island. It’s cheap, convenient, and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Just make sure to rent from a reputable place, check the bike before you ride, and follow the basic traffic rules (or lack thereof).

Oh, and one last thing—watch out for the dogs. They love chilling in the middle of the road like they own the place.