How to Survive a Month in Bali on a Student Budget
How to Survive a Month in Bali on a Student Budget
Dreaming of spending a month in Bali but worried about costs? Don’t worry! With a student budget of around IDR 2-3.5 million ($130-$230), you can still enjoy the beauty of Bali by adopting a minimalist lifestyle, cooking your own meals, and avoiding pricey tourist hotspots like Canggu and Seminyak. The key? Live like a local, not a tourist. Here's how you can do it!
1. Affordable Accommodation
Finding a budget-friendly place to stay is crucial.
- Avoid Tourist Areas: Opt for areas like Jimbaran, Denpasar, Panjer, or Renon, where rent is significantly cheaper than in Canggu or Seminyak.
- Go Minimalist : Choose basic accommodations, such as kos (boarding houses) without air conditioning or private bathrooms. Prices range from IDR 500,000 to IDR 1,000,000 per month.
- Use Apps: Platforms like Mamikos can help you find affordable studio apartments starting at IDR 1.5 million per month.
2. Save on Food and Drinks
Food doesn’t have to break the bank if you’re smart about it.
- Cook Your Own Meals: Shop at local markets like Pasar Badung or Pasar Kumbasari to save money on fresh produce.
- Eat Local: Try Nasi Jinggo (a traditional Balinese rice dish) for just IDR 3,000-5,000 per portion or visit affordable warungs (local eateries) and wartegs near universities like Universitas Udayana for student-friendly prices.
- Bring Your Own Water Bottle: Refill it at your accommodation or public refill stations to save on bottled water costs.
3. Budget-Friendly Transport Options
Getting around Bali doesn’t need to cost a fortune.
- Rent a Motorbike: Renting a motorbike monthly costs around IDR 700,000-1,000,000 and is the cheapest way to explore the island.
- Walk or Use Ride-Hailing Apps: For short distances, walking is free! For longer trips, use ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab sparingly.
4. Enjoy Low-Cost Entertainment
Bali offers plenty of natural beauty that doesn’t require spending big bucks.
- Visit Free or Cheap Spots: Explore public beaches like Sanur or hidden gems in the hills with low entrance fees. Skip expensive beach clubs and enjoy nature instead.
- Skip the Booze: Alcohol can be pricey in Bali, so limit drinks or skip them altogether.
- Relax for Free: Watch sunsets at the beach or hang out at public parks for a chill vibe without spending a dime.
5. Extra Tips for Staying on Track
- Work Part-Time: Consider freelancing or taking a part-time job at a café to earn extra cash.
- Budget Wisely: Follow the 50/30/20 rule 50% for essentials, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings or emergencies.
Estimated Monthly Expenses
Here’s a breakdown of what your budget could look like:
- Accommodation: IDR 700,000
- Food: IDR 1,200,000 (around IDR 40,000/day)
- Gas: IDR 200,000
- Entertainment & Miscellaneous: IDR 300,000
Total: ~IDR 2,400,000
With these tips, you can enjoy Bali’s stunning scenery and vibrant culture without burning through your wallet. Who says paradise has to be expensive?
