Bali Belly: Signs, Solutions, and Staying Healthy on Your Holiday
23 July 2025
So, you’ve landed in beautiful Bali, ready to dive into beaches, waterfalls, vibrant culture, and delicious food. But suddenly (uh oh), your stomach starts doing somersaults. If you've ever heard travelers whisper about “Bali belly,” this is exactly what they’re talking about.
It's not a fun souvenir to bring home, but the good news is, it's manageable and preventable. This article will walk you through everything you need to know: what Bali belly is, its signs and symptoms, causes, how to treat it, and how to avoid it so you can enjoy your holiday worry-free.
What is Bali Belly?
“Bali belly” is a casual term used by travelers to describe traveler’s diarrhea or stomach upset that occurs while visiting Bali. It’s not exclusive to Bali, many people can experience similar symptoms when traveling to many parts of Southeast Asia, Africa, or Latin America. But in Bali, it’s so common that it earned its own nickname.
It usually occurs when your stomach gets exposed to unfamiliar bacteria, viruses, or parasites, leading to digestive issues. Your immune system isn’t used to local microorganisms, and your gut goes into overdrive trying to get rid of them.
Signs and Symptoms of Bali Belly
Bali belly typically hits within the first few days of arrival, but it can also happen later in your trip. Symptoms can vary in severity but often include:
Frequent diarrhea (watery or loose stools)
Stomach cramps or abdominal pain
Nausea and vomiting
Fever or chills (in some cases)
Fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite
Dehydration
Most cases are mild to moderate, lasting 1 to 3 days, but in some cases, it can linger for a week or longer. If you're feeling wiped out or showing signs of severe dehydration (like dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness), it's best to see a doctor immediately.
What Causes Bali Belly?
There are a few culprits behind Bali belly, such as:
A. Contaminated Food or Water
The most common cause. Street food that isn’t cooked properly, raw or undercooked meat, unwashed vegetables, and tap water can carry bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella.
B. Ice Made from Tap Water
Many restaurants now use purified ice, but some smaller places may still serve ice made from tap water.
C. Dirty Hands or Utensils
Eating with unclean hands or using poorly washed cutlery can also introduce germs to your body.
D. Changes in Diet
Suddenly switching to spicy, oily, or unfamiliar food can irritate your stomach, even if the food is technically clean.
E. Unwashed Fruits
Some fruits might be washed with tap water, or not washed at all, before being served.
F. Shellfish or Seafood
If not fresh or cooked well, seafood can be a breeding ground for stomach bugs.
Treatment for Bali Belly
If you start feeling the symptoms, don’t panic. Here’s what you can do:
1. Stay Hydrated
You’ll lose fluids quickly, so drink plenty of clean, bottled water. Oral rehydration salts (ORS) or electrolyte drinks like Pocari Sweat or Mizone are very helpful.
2. Rest
Let your body do the healing. Cancel your plans for a day or two and stay somewhere cool and comfortable.
3. Eat Plain Foods
Stick to the BRAT diet: Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. These are gentle on your stomach. Also try to avoid spicy, greasy, or dairy-heavy meals.
4. Medication
Several medications you can try:
You can take activated charcoal capsules to help absorb toxins.
Loperamide (Imodium) can stop diarrhea if you absolutely have to travel or be active, but it’s better to let the body flush out the bugs.
If you’re still sick after 48 hours or notice blood in your stool, see a doctor. You may need antibiotics.
5. Probiotics
Taking probiotics can help restore the healthy bacteria in your gut and speed up recovery. You can buy it in pharmacies or opt for foods with high probiotics.
How to Prevent Bali Belly
They say prevention is better than cure. When it comes to Bali belly, that couldn’t be more accurate. A stomach bug can easily derail your vacation plans, but the good news is that it’s very preventable.
With just a few smart habits and the right choices, you can enjoy Bali’s food, scenery, and adventures without any unpleasant surprises.
1. Be Careful With Water
One of the biggest culprits behind Bali belly is contaminated water. Your body may not be used to the bacteria present in tap water, which can lead to digestive upset. That’s why it’s so important to only drink bottled or filtered water.
This includes not just what you drink, but also the water you use to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth. Always double-check the seal on bottled water before opening it, and when you’re ordering drinks at a café or restaurant, ask if the ice is made from filtered water.
If they’re unsure, it’s best to skip the ice altogether. Even a small cube made from tap water could trigger symptoms.
2. Choose Restaurants Wisely
Not all restaurants and food vendors hold the same hygiene standards. To avoid Bali belly, it’s crucial to eat at places that prioritize cleanliness and food safety.
Look for restaurants with good online reviews, especially from fellow travelers, and choose places where the food is freshly cooked to order rather than prepared in advance and left out.
One highly recommended option is Surya Bintang Adventures Restaurant. This exclusive à la carte dining spot offers a wide selection of meals, including vegetarian dishes, Asian specialties, and local Balinese cuisine.
Everything is prepared by professional chefs who follow strict hygiene protocols, using high-quality ingredients in a clean, well-maintained kitchen. Dining here gives you the perfect balance of local flavor and international hygiene standards, making it a safe and satisfying choice for all types of travelers.
3. Wash Your Hands Frequently
This simple habit is one of the most effective ways to keep Bali belly at bay. Throughout the day, we touch money, phones, doorknobs, and other surfaces that can harbor bacteria.
If you don’t clean your hands before eating, those germs can easily make their way into your digestive system. Make it a habit to wash your hands with soap and clean water before every meal. When you’re out and about and don’t have access to a sink, carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your bag for convenience.
4. Be Cautious with Street Food
Bali’s street food scene is full of tempting treats. While trying local delicacies is part of the travel experience, it’s important to be selective. Always choose stalls that cook food fresh and serve it hot. A busy stall with a line of locals is usually a good sign. Avoid any food that looks like it’s been sitting out uncovered for too long, especially under the sun.
Also, take note of the vendor’s cleanliness. If they’re handling both money and food with bare hands, that could be a red flag. Play it safe by sticking to well-known spots or vendors recommended by locals or travel blogs. That way, you still get to enjoy the flavors of Bali without the bellyache.
5. Peel Your Own Fruit
Tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and pineapples are some of Bali’s best offerings, but be cautious when consuming them. Fruits that are pre-sliced or served raw might be washed in tap water or handled in unsanitary ways.
It’s best to choose fruits you can peel yourself, such as bananas, oranges, or even mangosteens. This way, you avoid any external bacteria on the surface.
If you really want to enjoy sliced fruit, make sure it's from a reputable restaurant with good hygiene standards—like Surya Bintang Adventures Restaurant, where all food preparation is done with cleanliness in mind.
6. Keep Your Gut Healthy
A strong digestive system is your best natural defense against unfamiliar bacteria. Consider taking probiotics before and during your trip to build up healthy gut bacteria. Probiotics come in capsules or in food form (like yogurt, kefir, or fermented vegetables such as kimchi and tapai).
Start your probiotic routine a few days before your flight and continue while you’re in Bali. Not only can this improve digestion, but it may also reduce your risk of getting sick. Combine this with staying well-hydrated and eating plenty of fiber, and your gut will be better equipped to handle the changes in diet and environment.
7. Join Outdoor Activities with Clean Facilities
Bali is packed with adventurous outdoor experiences, from ATV rides and jungle trekking to white-water rafting. While these activities are incredibly fun, they also come with increased exposure to public facilities like bathrooms and communal dining areas.
Choose tour providers that offer clean, well-maintained environments and prioritize guest hygiene. That’s why Surya Bintang Adventures is such a standout. Not only do they offer adventure packages like ATV riding, kayaking, and rafting, but their commitment to cleanliness is second to none.
All equipment is regularly sanitized, bathrooms and showers are kept spotless, and meals are prepared in hygienic conditions. After a day of mud, water, and adrenaline, you can refresh and refuel with peace of mind, knowing that your health and comfort are their top priority.
Choose Surya Bintang Adventures!
When it comes to making the most of your Bali holiday, Surya Bintang Adventures has everything you need. With an exclusive à la carte restaurant and adventure experiences backed by clean, well-maintained facilities, it’s the perfect choice for travelers who want excitement without compromising on safety.
For peace of mind and unforgettable memories, always choose a certified and trusted provider like Surya Bintang Adventures. Because your health, safety, and satisfaction should always come first, go book your packages with Surya Bintang Adventures now!
FAQ
What are the dos and don’ts to avoid Bali Belly?
Several few simple habits you can do:
Do’s: Eat at hygienic and reputable places (like Surya Bintang Restaurants), drink only bottled or filtered water, wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizer before eating, let your tummy adjust slowly by starting with mild foods for the first few days.
Dont’s: Touch food with dirty hands, drink tap water or add ice from unknown sources, eating food that’s been sitting out too long, especially street food that isn’t hot and fresh.
Is Bali belly contagious?
Not typically, but poor hygiene (like sharing drinks or food with someone infected) can spread certain bacteria.
How long does Bali belly last?
Most cases resolve in 1–3 days. If symptoms persist beyond 5 days or worsen, seek medical attention.
Can I take antibiotics before I travel to prevent Bali belly?
Preventive antibiotics aren’t recommended unless prescribed for a specific reason. Focus on hygiene and food safety instead. As a tip, you can choose Surya Bintang Restaurant that has been guaranteed for their hygiene.
