Pre-Trip Checklist: Canggu

Essential Preparations

Planning Timeline

A chronological guide to your pre-trip preparations.

Months Before

Passport & Visa Check

Verify passport validity (6+ months) and research visa requirements (VOA, e-VOA, e-Visa).

Book Flights

Secure international flights early, especially for high season, for better prices.

Health Consult

Check travel health advisories and consult your doctor about vaccinations.

Month Before

Book Accommodation

Finalize and book all your accommodation in Canggu.

Travel Insurance

Arrange comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and activities.

International Driving Permit

Obtain an IDP if you plan to drive a scooter or car.

Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Double-check all flights, hotels, and tours. Arrange airport transfers.

Download Apps

Download Gojek, Grab, Google Maps, and Google Translate.

Home Prep

Secure your home, arrange mail/pet care, and notify emergency contacts.

Required Advance Bookings

Bookings Checklist

Flights (international and domestic, if applicable).
Main accommodation in Canggu.
Popular tours, like the Mount Batur trek or white water rafting.
Fast boat tickets to other islands like the Nusa Islands, especially in high season.

Pre-Trip Research

Knowing more about your destination enriches your visit.

Research Areas

Read about Balinese culture and etiquette for respectful interactions.
Understand local transportation options in Canggu (scooters, Gojek/Grab).
Familiarize yourself with common scams and safety tips for tourists in Bali.
Learn a few basic Bahasa Indonesia phrases to enhance interactions.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Home Security

Secure your home: lock all doors and windows.
Inform a trusted neighbor of your absence.
Stop mail and newspaper deliveries.
Set up auto-payments for bills.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange for pet care if you have animals.
Organize plant watering arrangements.
Ensure your home is tidy before leaving.
Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics.

Emergency Contacts

Notify your emergency contacts of your itinerary.
Share contact information for your trip.
Leave copies of important documents with a trusted person.
Confirm arrangements with anyone caring for your home.

Important Reminders

Ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity beyond your intended departure date from Indonesia. This is a strict immigration rule.

Arrival Checklist

Your first steps upon arriving in Bali create the tone for your trip.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration:
Have your passport, return ticket, and e-VOA confirmation ready.
2
Customs:
Submit your digital customs declaration (ECD) and declare items.
3
Money:
Withdraw local currency from an ATM or exchange money at a reputable changer.

Orientation Strategies

SIM Card:
Purchase and register a local SIM card at a kiosk in the arrival hall.
Transport:
Meet your pre-arranged transfer or arrange transport to your accommodation.
Neighborhood Exploration:
Locate your accommodation on a map and familiarize yourself with nearby amenities.

Post-Arrival Essentials

Currency Exchange

Only exchange money at reputable money changers (like BMC or PT Central Kuta) or use ATMs.

Avoid unofficial street money changers.

Initial Purchases

Purchase bottled water and any immediate necessities from a minimart upon arrival.

Tap water is not safe to drink.

Airport Transport

Utilize pre-booked transfers, official airport taxis (fixed-price counter), or Gojek/Grab.

Walk a short distance outside the immediate airport pick-up zone for ride-hailing apps.

Currency Exchange Advisory

Always exercise caution when exchanging money. Use official money changers or bank ATMs to avoid scams and ensure fair rates.

Departure Preparation

A smooth departure rounds off a pleasant journey.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Buy souvenirs in advance to avoid a last-minute rush at the airport.
Check your airline's luggage allowance to avoid excess baggage fees.
If you purchased large items, inquire about shipping services from specific shops.
Consider items that pack well or can be carried easily.

VAT Refund Procedures

Indonesia has a VAT refund scheme for tourists on certain goods.
It requires proper documentation at the time of purchase and airport processing.
Inquire at major retailers about this scheme if you made significant purchases.
Keep all receipts for eligible items.

Pre-Departure Timing

Timing Considerations

Airport Arrival:2-3 hours before international flight.
Traffic Factor:Account for potential heavy traffic from Canggu.
Check-in:Confirm flight times and check in online if possible.
Final Expenses:Have enough local currency for airport needs.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your flight times and check in online if possible.
Pack efficiently, ensuring all your belongings are accounted for.
Ensure you have enough local currency for any final expenses at the airport.
Prepare for a smooth return to your home environment.

Airport Traffic Warning

Traffic from Canggu to Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) can be heavy, especially during peak hours.

Plan your departure well in advance to avoid any last-minute rush or missed flights.

Pre-Trip Checklist