Complete Budget Breakdown: How Much Does a Family Trip to Bali Really Cost?

Planning a family vacation to Bali is exciting, but the first question most parents ask is: "Will our budget cover it?" The good news is that Bali is genuinely affordable compared to Western destinations. The reality is also more nuanced than most travel blogs suggest. Your actual costs depend entirely on your lifestyle choices—you can have an incredible family holiday for $1,500 total (excluding flights) or spend $10,000+ if you prefer luxury resorts and fine dining. This guide breaks down realistic costs across all categories so you can plan confidently for your family's needs and budget level.

Understanding the Three Budget Levels

Throughout this guide, we reference three spending categories:

Budget Travel: Think family guesthouses, local warungs for meals, public transportation, and selective activities. This works well for families comfortable with basic comfort and seeking authenticity.

Mid-Range Travel: Comfortable mid-level hotels with pools, mix of local and casual dining venues, occasional splurges, private drivers for some trips. The sweet spot for most families seeking comfort without extravagance.

Luxury Travel: 4–5 star resorts, fine dining experiences, private drivers daily, premium activities. Best for families prioritizing maximum convenience and upscale experiences.

Flights: Often Your Single Largest Expense

Flight costs vary dramatically based on your departure location. Budget these separately because they dwarf on-ground expenses.

From Australia (Most Common Origin for Bali Families)

Australia has abundant flight options due to geographic proximity, typically making it the cheapest gateway.

• Budget flights from Perth: AUD $155–300 return per person (3–4 hour flight)
• Budget flights from Melbourne/Sydney: AUD $300–400 return per person (4–5 hour flight)
• Mid-range with more flight times: AUD $400–600 return per person
• Premium/direct flights: AUD $600–900 return per person

For a family of four from Sydney during low season (February–March, September–October), expect approximately AUD $1,200–1,600 total for flights. During peak season (July–August, December), prices double to AUD $2,400–3,200.

From United Kingdom

UK families face significantly longer flights due to distance.

• Average return flights: £350–550 per person (approximately USD $440–690 / AUD $680–1,060)
• Budget deals: £285–350 return per person
• Peak season (December, school holidays): £500–800 per person
• Flight time: 20–22+ hours with connections

For a UK family of four in shoulder season, budget £1,400–2,200 (approximately USD $1,750–2,750 / AUD $2,700–4,250).

From United States

US visitors experience variable pricing based on departure city. West Coast flights are cheaper than East Coast due to routing through Asia.

• West Coast (Los Angeles, San Francisco): $500–750 return per person
• Midwest/East Coast: $700–1,000 return per person
• Budget carriers with connections: $500–600 return per person
• Premium/direct options: $800–1,200 return per person
• Flight time: 17–24 hours depending on connections

For a US family of four from California in low season, expect $2,000–3,000 total. From the East Coast, plan $2,800–4,000.

Pro Tips for Flight Savings:

• Book 8–12 weeks in advance for better rates
• Shoulder season (April–June, September–October) offers 20–30% savings versus peak season
• Fly mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) for cheaper fares
• Consider flying from secondary airports (e.g., Gold Coast instead of Sydney)
• Set flight alerts 4–6 months before planned travel

Visas and Entry Fees: Required Expenses

These are non-negotiable costs for most families.

Visa on Arrival (VoA) or E-Visa

• Standard 30-day tourist e-visa: IDR 500,000 (approximately USD $30 / AUD $48 / GBP £25 per person)
• Available for most nationalities online before arrival or at airport
• Can be extended once for another 30 days for additional fee

Tourist Entry Levy (Mandatory)

• IDR 150,000 per person (approximately USD $10 / AUD $15 / GBP £8)
• Applies to all international visitors, including children and babies
• Introduced February 14, 2024; separate from visa fees
• Can be pre-paid online or paid upon arrival

Total Visa/Entry Costs for Family of Four (30-day stay):

• Visa: IDR 2,000,000 (USD $120 / AUD $192 / GBP £100)
• Entry levy: IDR 600,000 (USD $40 / AUD $60 / GBP £32)
• Combined Total: IDR 2,600,000 (approximately USD $160 / AUD $250 / GBP £132)

For a 60-day trip requiring visa extension, add an additional IDR 2,000,000 (USD $120) to extend.

Accommodation: Often Your Largest On-Ground Expense

Where you stay significantly impacts your overall budget. Bali offers extraordinary range—from USD $10 backpacker guesthouses to USD $1,500+ luxury resorts.

Budget Accommodation (Guesthouses, Budget Hotels)

• Per night: IDR 300,000–500,000 (USD $18–30 / AUD $28–48 / GBP £15–25)
• Typical: Simple rooms with air conditioning, basic bathroom, no frills
• Usually includes basic breakfast
• Family rooms available but tight quarters
• Example stay: Clean family guesthouse in Ubud or Sanur

Mid-Range Hotels (3-Star Properties, Family Resorts)

• Per night: IDR 750,000–1,500,000 (USD $45–90 / AUD $70–140 / GBP £38–75)
• Typical: Pool, decent bathroom, air conditioning, breakfast included, family-sized rooms
• Many offer kids' clubs (crucial for parents seeking alone time)
• Often include activities like cooking classes or yoga sessions
• Beautiful grounds but not ultra-luxury
• Example stay: Padma Resort Legian, Febri's Hotel & Spa

Luxury Hotels (4–5 Star Resorts)

• Per night: IDR 1,500,000–6,000,000+ (USD $90–360+ / AUD $140–560+ / GBP £75–300+)
• Typical: Stunning architecture, multiple pools, excellent kids' clubs, restaurants, spa
• Premium amenities and services
• Direct beach or rice terrace access
• Example stays: Hard Rock Hotel Bali, Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua, Four Seasons

Ultra-Luxury Resorts

• Per night: IDR 10,000,000+ (USD $600+ / AUD $930+ / GBP £500+)
• Examples: Mandapa by The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, The Mulia

Typical 7-Night Accommodation Costs by Budget Level:

Money-Saving Accommodation Tips:

• Book directly with hotels for loyalty discounts
• Family packages often offer 10–20% savings
• Stay in Ubud or Sanur instead of Seminyak/Kuta (20–30% cheaper)
• Rent apartments with kitchens to prepare some meals
• Off-season (wet season, school periods) offers 30–50% discounts

Food and Dining: Highly Variable

Bali's food costs range from incredibly cheap (USD $1–2 meals) to expensive (USD $300+ fine dining). Your family's eating patterns will significantly impact your budget.

Local Warungs (Traditional Indonesian Restaurants)

• Per meal: IDR 30,000–70,000 (USD $2–4 / AUD $3–6 / GBP £1.50–3.50)
• Authentic local dishes: nasi goreng, satay, grilled fish, vegetables
• Where locals eat; very cheap and delicious
• Minimal English; cash only; basic seating
• Perfect for adventurous eaters and budget-conscious families

Casual Cafés and Mid-Range Restaurants

• Per meal: IDR 150,000–300,000 (USD $9–18 / AUD $14–28 / GBP £7.50–15)
• Mix of Indonesian and international cuisine
• Family-friendly atmosphere, English menus
• Clean, comfortable, good for picky eaters
• Expected cost for family of four: USD $36–72 per meal

Trendy Tourist Cafés (Instagram-Worthy Spots)

• Per meal: IDR 80,000–150,000 (USD $5–9 / AUD $8–14 / GBP £4–7.50 for single item)
• Acai bowls, flat whites, smoothies, Western breakfasts
• Popular in Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak
• Beautiful settings but tourist-inflated prices
• Family breakfast: USD $20–35 for two adults and two kids

Fine Dining and Resort Restaurants

• Per meal: IDR 350,000–1,500,000+ (USD $20–90+ / AUD $30–140+ / GBP £17–75+)
• International cuisine, premium service, elegant setting
• Usually within resort premises
• Family fine dining: USD $150–300 for family of four

Groceries for Self-Catering

If staying in apartments with kitchens:

• Basic groceries (fruit, vegetables, rice, eggs, chicken): IDR 100,000–150,000 daily (USD $6–9 / AUD $9–14 / GBP £5–7.50)
• International products (imported cheese, cereals, etc.): Significantly higher
• Local markets (Bali Ubud Market) cheaper than supermarkets

Typical Daily Food Budget by Family Type:

For 7-Day Stays:

• Budget: USD $140–210
• Mid-range: USD $350–560
• Luxury: USD $1,050–1,750+

Food Budget Tips:

• Eat breakfast at local warungs (nasi goreng USD $2–3)
• Lunch often includes free food at certain beach clubs
• Dinner splurges strategically; most meals from warungs
• Grocery shop at local markets (Bali Ubud Market, Sanur Sunday Market)
• Avoid obvious tourist traps (seafront restaurants in Kuta)
• Happy hours at casual restaurants often offer 50% off drinks

Transportation: Getting Around Bali

Transportation costs depend heavily on your independence level and comfort preferences.

Scooter Rental (Motorized Bikes)

• Per day: IDR 50,000–150,000 (USD $3–9 / AUD $5–14 / GBP £2.50–7.50)
• Cheapest option but requires comfort with scooter riding
• Helmet and insurance usually included
• Suitable for confident riders; risky with small children
• Popular with young couples, less practical for families with kids under 10

App-Based Scooter Taxis (Gojek, Grab)

• Per trip: IDR 30,000–60,000 (USD $2–4 / AUD $3–6 / GBP £1.50–3 on average)
• Driver provides helmet and operates the scooter
• Casual short rides; like Southeast Asian Uber
• Budget travelers' favorite; convenient and cheap
• Child safety seats not always available

Taxi Apps and Standard Taxis

• Per km: IDR 5,000–10,000 (USD $0.30–0.60 / AUD $0.50–0.90 / GBP £0.25–0.50)
• Metered apps (Grab) ensure fair pricing
• Standard taxis often lack meters; negotiate first
• Safer and more comfortable than scooters for families with small children
• Expected cost: USD $8–15 for typical in-town trip

Private Driver Hire (Full Day)

• Full day (8–10 hours): IDR 600,000–1,200,000 (USD $35–70 / AUD $55–110 / GBP £30–60)
• Includes car, fuel, parking, and experienced driver
• Hotel concierge or apps can arrange
• Extremely common and popular with families
• Allows freedom to visit multiple attractions without logistics stress
• Very reasonable value for families with multiple daily activities

Private Driver for Airport Transfers

• One-way from airport: IDR 350,000–600,000 (USD $20–35 / AUD $30–55 / GBP £17–30)
• Alternative to taxis; slightly more expensive but more comfortable
• Drivers typically meet at arrivals with name sign
• Negotiate price before confirming or use hotel concierge

Typical 7-Day Transportation Costs by Strategy:

Transportation Tips:

• Negotiate daily rates with hotels for private drivers (often 10% cheaper)
• Use Grab app for transparent taxi pricing
• Morning airport transfers often cost less than evening
• Stay in walkable areas (Seminyak, Ubud, Sanur) to minimize transport needs
• Rent scooter only if genuinely confident riding in Bali traffic

Activities and Attractions: The Fun Budget

Bali offers experiences at every price point, from free to premium.

Major Temple Visits and Cultural Sites

Water Parks (Excellent for Kids)

Typical Water Park Costs (Family of 4):

• Premium park (Waterbom): USD $120–150 for family
• Mid-range parks: USD $80–100 for family
• Budget parks: USD $15–20 for family

Adventure Activities

Budget Activity Planning for 7 Days:

Activity Tips:

• Many temples free or under USD $5; skip overpriced entry scams
• Combine activities to reduce travel costs (e.g., temple + waterfall hike in same day)
• Book tours through hotels for package deals
• Early morning visits to Ubud Monkey Forest avoid crowds and heat
• Beach time is completely free

Other Miscellaneous Expenses

Souvenirs and Shopping

• Per person budget: USD $10–50 (highly variable)
• Markets offer authentic goods at low prices
• Tourist shops in Seminyak charge 3–5x retail value
• Kids often want small trinkets; budget USD $20–50 for family

Massages and Spa

• Traditional Balinese massage: IDR 100,000–200,000 per hour (USD $6–12)
• Luxury spa treatments: IDR 500,000–2,000,000+ (USD $30–120+)
• Family spa packages often offer discounts

Travel Insurance

• Family travel insurance (7–14 days): USD $100–250
• Essential for families; covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations
• Budget separately; crucial expense

Tips and Gratuities

• Restaurant tips: 10% optional (not always expected)
• Hotel staff: Small amounts appreciated but not mandatory
• Tour guides: USD $5–10 per day typical
• Budget: USD $30–60 for week-long trip

SIM Cards and Communications

• Local SIM cards: IDR 50,000–100,000 (USD $3–6)
• Data packages: IDR 50,000–200,000 for 7–30 days
• Hotels often provide free WiFi
• Budget: USD $5–15 for week

Contingency Fund

• Unexpected expenses, emergency medical, last-minute activities
• Budget: 10–15% of total on-ground costs

Complete Budget Breakdowns by Family Size and Duration

Family of Four, 7-Night/8-Day Trip (Excluding Flights)

Family of Four, 14-Night/15-Day Trip (Excluding Flights)

Complete Trip Costs Including Flights

• Family of Four from Australia, 7 Days (Low Season)
  • Flights (Sydney): AUD $1,600 (USD $1,070)
  • On-ground (mid-range): USD $1,540
  • Total: USD $2,610
• Family of Four from Australia, 7 Days (Peak Season)
  • Flights (Sydney): AUD $2,800 (USD $1,870)
  • On-ground (mid-range): USD $1,540
  • Total: USD $3,410
• Family of Four from UK, 14 Days (Low Season)
  • Flights (London): £1,800 (USD $2,250)
  • On-ground (mid-range): USD $2,900
  • Total: USD $5,150
• Family of Four from USA, 10 Days (Peak Season)
  • Flights (Los Angeles): USD $2,800
  • On-ground (mid-range, 10 days): USD $2,214
  • Total: USD $5,014

Money-Saving Strategies

1. Travel During Shoulder Season (April–June, September–October)
   Flights cost 30–40% less, accommodation 20–30% cheaper, and crowds manageable. You lose little weather quality.
2. Stay Outside Tourist Hubs
   Ubud, Sanur, and Pemuteran are 20–30% cheaper than Seminyak/Kuta for same quality.
3. Embrace Local Eating
   Eating at warungs instead of tourist restaurants reduces food costs by 70–80% while providing authentic experiences.
4. Skip Premium Tourist Traps
   Avoid seafront restaurants in Kuta, overpriced temple tours, and expensive beach clubs. Equivalent experiences exist for a fraction elsewhere.
5. Use Private Drivers Strategically
   Hire full-day drivers for multi-activity days; use taxis for short trips. Saves money and stress.
6. Book Multi-Night Stays
   Longer accommodation stays often include 10–20% discounts.
7. Skip Peak Holidays
   Christmas (Dec 20–Jan 6), Easter, and local school holidays (July–August in Australia, August in UK/Europe) increase costs 50–100%. Travel one month before/after.
8. Look for Package Deals
   Hotels often offer family packages bundling accommodation, meals, and activities.
9. Prepare for Activities
   Children typically get 50% discounts (sometimes free under age 5) at attractions—inquire before paying.
10. Use Hotel Loyalty Programs
    Chain hotels often offer discounts for members; booking directly sometimes includes perks like free breakfast or room upgrades.

Hidden Costs to Anticipate

Medical Emergencies
Healthcare in Bali is excellent but not free. Accidents, infections, or illnesses could cost USD $500–5,000+ without insurance.

Unexpected Activity Costs
Kids often want extras (elephant sanctuary, additional water park visits, souvenirs). Build contingency.

Forgotten Items
You'll likely need to buy forgotten items (sunscreen, medications, phone chargers) at inflated prices.

Tipping and Extras
While gratuities aren't mandatory, small amounts to service staff add up.

Sample Realistic Trip Costs

• Budget-Conscious Australian Family of 4, 10 Days (May, Low Season)
  • Flights from Melbourne: AUD $1,200 (USD $800)
  • On-ground (budget): USD $900 (9 nights)
  • Total: USD $1,700 (USD $170 per person for entire trip)
• Comfortable UK Family of 4, 14 Days (May, Low Season)
  • Flights from London: £1,200 (USD $1,500)
  • On-ground (mid-range): USD $2,900
  • Total: USD $4,400 (USD $315 per person for entire trip)
• Luxury US Family of 4, 7 Days (December, Peak Season)
  • Flights from Los Angeles: USD $3,000
  • On-ground (luxury): USD $3,480
  • Total: USD $6,480 (USD $1,165 per person for entire trip)

Final Perspective

Bali represents extraordinary value for families. A week with flights can cost similar to a domestic beach holiday in many Western countries. The flexibility of Bali's pricing means families with tight budgets and luxury-seekers alike find appropriate options. Plan according to your priorities (weather certainty costs more; shoulder season costs less; luxury accommodation costs 5–10x budget options), book flights early, embrace local experiences, and budget conservatively for activities. With smart planning, Bali delivers magical family memories without financial stress.