Bali—just hearing the name reminds you of beautiful rice paddies, breathtaking beaches, and those incredible sunsets, don’t you? But the thing is, you don’t have to break the bank to experience all of this. I’ve been there several times, and I’ve learned how to experience Bali without draining my wallet.
The island has lots of affordable accommodations, and I’ll be including some of the least expensive ones along with my personal experiences as well.
🏖️ 1. Kuta – The Ideal Destination for Backpackers
On my first day I ended up crashing at Kuta, which is really happening and fun, ideal for anyone who wants to party at Bali at night and get some surf action at moderate prices.
Affordable Accommodations in Kuta
- Bedbunkers Hostel, which you’ll find located along Jalan Dewi Sri, has dorm beds at around $10 per night. It is remarkably clean, safe, and located pretty much at the city center.
- Beach Hut Hostel is only 300 meters to the beach, along with the shopping at Kuta Mall, so this is ideal for water sports fans. It costs only around $7 USD per night, too, and there is a pool!
Why Kuta?
Kuta is the absolute place to be for backpackers! You can hire yourself a scooter at only $2 per day and gas up at low, low prices. There are tons of cheap eats, surf stores, and nightclubs galore. And the beach? It’s mere metres away!
🌴 2. Canggu – Relaxed vibes at affordable prices
Canggu is literally the epitome of Bali’s relaxed surf culture. You can get a coconut, sit back, and observe the surfers ride some waves, and it will hardly cost you anything.
Affordable Accommodations in Canggu
- Choose a local guesthouse: Many local guesthouses offer rooms starting from 65,000 IDR ($4-5 USD) per night.
- Cozy Bobo Hostel is located in Seminyak, pretty much next to Canggu, and you can find yourself a dorm bed for around $6 USD per night.
Why Canggu?
Canggu is pretty much the ultimate destination for digital nomads and surfers alike. Seriously, around every corner, there are loads of ridiculously affordable restaurants, yoga studios, and surf schools. And the beach? It’s almost next door, so you can really pop down to enjoy the sunset after a day on the move.
🌾 3. Ubud – Culture and Chill Vibes Without Breaking the Bank
Ubud is Bali’s relaxed hangout, the ultimate escape from all the tourist frenzy. You’ve got art studios, yoga ashrams, and some pretty fantastic rice field views to look at.
Affordable Accommodations in Ubud
- WW Backpackers: There is this really well-known hostel specifically designed for backpackers that has dorms at around $7 per night.
- Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel is an awesome accommodation option to be found in Ubud, featuring AC, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast included, with dorms and private rooms.
Why Ubud?
Ubud is really relaxed with its beautiful green landscapes and laid-back atmosphere. You can visit the world-famous Tegalalang Rice Terrace, pop into the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, or take part in a traditional Balinese culinary class—all at an affordable price.
🐬 4. Lovina – Relaxing and Spotting Dolphins
If you want to escape the crowds, you should head to Lovina up north of Bali. It has these awesome black-sand beaches and very relaxed waters, which are ideal for anyone seeking some quiet time.
Affordable Accommodation in Lovina
- Funky Place: A lively hostel offering affordable rates, with nightly beer pong tournaments and live music shows. Hot in Bali
- Apollo Hostel is located only 300 yards away from that swim-with-dolphins beach at Lovina, so it’s a relaxed, affordable accommodation.
Why Lovina?
Lovina’s got this relaxed atmosphere that’s totally unlike the wilder places in Bali. You can take dolphin watching tours, visit the Banjar Hot Springs, or stop by the nearby Banjar Temple—all for much less than you’d pay in the tourist areas.
🌄 5. Sidemen – A Popular Hangout Place for the Adventurous
Sidemen is this relaxed area of East Bali that completely has that authentic feel. It’s great for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in the local culture and see some incredible nature.
Affordable Accommodations in Sidemen
Cepik Villa Sidemen: A luxurious resort whose rooms are available for as little as $45 per night.
Why Sidemen?
Sidemen is such a relaxed departure from Bali’s normally crowded tourist areas. You can zip through on hip scooter tours, explore local markets, find waterfalls, and participate in craft classes—all while finding some affordable accommodations.
🏄 6. Uluwatu – Surf, Sunsets, and Savings
Uluwatu is really popular due to its incredible cliffs, great surf breaks, and beautiful sunsets.
Affordable Accommodations in Uluwatu
- Karma Hostel: It is located in an excellent place and has a relaxed atmosphere. They offer basic rooms that will not dent your wallet.
- Home-Bience Hostel: It has a relaxed atmosphere and the dorms are affordable, which is great.
Why Uluwatu?
Uluwatu has some fantastic beaches, a relaxing nightlife, and relaxed atmosphere—all at an affordable price. It’s ideal for surfers, too, and anyone who adores watching the sunset!
🏝️ 7. Amed – Visit These Budget-Friendly Dive Locations
Amed, located on Bali’s northeast coast, is a dream for snorkelers and divers. It’s much more peaceful than the southern beaches and ideal for anyone looking to explore the colorful coral reefs and relax a little.
Affordable Accommodations in Amed
- Amed Beach Resort: They have some affordable beachfront bungalows with incredible ocean views. Dorm beds start at around $7–$9 USD.
- Bali Yogi: I stayed here for four nights and really enjoyed the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Dorms are under ten dollars, and it’s really close to the beach and all the tiny warungs around.
Why Amed?
Amed is great if you want to escape all the commotion and enjoy that traditional Balinese village feel. I snorkeled straight off the shore and saw some shipwrecks full of fish—no tour necessary at all. It’s really relaxing, gorgeous, and really inexpensive!
🌋 Nusa Penida – Island Vibes Without Draining Your Pocket
Nusa Penida isn’t technically part of the main island, but honestly, it’s incredible (and really cheap) so you have to go. A 30-minute ferry from Sanur and you’re at some incredible cliffs, hidden beaches, and that iconic view at Kelingking Beach.
Affordable Accommodation Options in Nusa Penida
- Nuansa Penida Hostel: I snagged a bed here for $6 a night. It’s basic but clean, and they even helped me rent a scooter.
- Daphila Cottage: It is possible to get a private room with an incredible view of the island hills for under $15.
Why Nusa Penida?
If you like nature, beautiful views, and some adventure, this island is the place to be. And, incidentally, food and accommodations are much more affordable than you’d expect at such a beautiful location. Tip: take a scooter for around $5 per day and see it all yourself!
🛶 Sanur – Relaxed and Affordable
Sanur tends to get overlooked by backpackers, which is precisely why I like it. It’s much more relaxed than Seminyak or Kuta, has this totally mellow beach, and island-hopping is a cinch to do there.
Budget Accommodation in Sanur
Little Tree House Hostel: Cute, clean, and close to the beach—with beds starting around $8.
Blanjong Homestay: I spent two nights here before I went to Nusa Penida. It was really comfortable and an absolute bargain at just $10 for a private room.
Why Sanur?
Sanur has this relaxed, local atmosphere with lots of cheap restaurants to go to and beachside cafes. It’s the best place to relax and get a snack if you’re visiting the wilder areas of Bali that surround it.
💡 6 Budget Tips for Backpacking in Bali
1. Eat at Warungs
Skip the tourists’ restaurants and go where locals dine. I subsisted on nasi goreng and mie ayam at warungs for around $1.50 per meal—and enjoyed each bite of it.
2. Rent a Scooter
Traveling in Bali can be a little pricey if you’re only taking taxis, but you know what? You can rent a scooter for $2-$4 a day, and it completely allows you to explore those secret places whenever you please!
3. Have you refilled your water container yet?
Most hostels and guesthouses have free refill stations. It saves you money and reduces plastic waste—win-win.
4. Travel in the shoulder season
Between April and June and again from September to early November, you’ll encounter smaller crowds and lower prices on accommodations and activities.
5. Get some local SIM cards
You can get one for the price of a few dollars at the airport or any convenience store around you. It’ll get you data, local call prices, Grab/Gojek prices, and so forth.
6. Trade (Nicely!)
Haggling at local markets or stores is completely alright. Just do it with a smile—it’s all part of the atmosphere, and you can end up getting more than you expected!
🧳 Final Thoughts –You can absolutely visit Bali without going broke!
Backpacking around Bali was one of the best—and ridiculously inexpensive—vacations I’ve ever had. I rolled up with only one bag, a fairly relaxed itinerary, and roughly $25 per day to use up. And guess what? It worked perfectly!
What made Bali absolutely unforgettable wasn’t the incredible scenery (although they’re jaw-dropping) or the really affordable massages (like, I got one for $6 that honestly changed my life). It was the atmosphere—the combination of relaxed beach days, immersing myself in the culture, and the really warm locals who made me feel at home wherever I went.
Whether you are surfing the waves at Uluwatu, relaxing in the midst of Ubud, snorkeling through the coral reefs of Amed, or clubbing under the night sky at a hostel in Canggu, Bali can be anything you desire it to be. And honestly, it shouldn’t break the bank too! If you’re fantasizing about palm trees at sunset, don’t wait till you’re wealthy.
Just book that ticket, pack lightly, and remember this: Bali’s got something for everyone—regardless of how much money you have.