TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. What Is Bali Belly?
2. Common Symptoms of Bali Belly
3. Bali Belly Treatment: What to Do If You Get Sick
4. How to Avoid Bali Belly: Prevention Tips

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Travelling to Bali promises sun-soaked beaches, rich culture, and exotic cuisine but it also comes with one common downside many tourists experience: Bali Belly. 

Also known as traveler’s diarrhea, Bali Belly is caused by consuming contaminated food or water and can turn your dream trip into a few uncomfortable days.

The good news? Bali Belly is usually mild and treatable. Even better, it’s largely preventable with the right precautions.

What Is Bali Belly?

Bali Belly refers to a gastrointestinal illness that affects many tourists in Bali and other tropical destinations. It is often caused by:

• Bacteria (like E. coli or Salmonella)
• Viruses (such as norovirus)
• Parasites

The main cause is consuming contaminated food or drinking water, but poor hygiene can also play a role.

Common Symptoms of Bali Belly

Symptoms usually appear within 1–3 days of exposure and may include:

• Watery diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Bloating or gas
• Fatigue and weakness

Most cases are mild and resolve within a few days, but symptoms can be unpleasant and may disrupt your travel plans.

Bali Belly Treatment: What to Do If You Get Sick

If you suspect you have Bali Belly, here’s how to treat it effectively:

1. Stay Hydrated

Diarrhea leads to rapid fluid loss, increasing the risk of dehydration. Drink plenty of bottled or purified water.

• Add oral rehydration salts (ORS) to replace lost electrolytes.
• Coconut water is also a natural rehydration option.

2. Eat Bland Foods

Stick to the BRAT diet:

• Bananas
• Rice
• Applesauce
• Toast

Avoid spicy, greasy, dairy-rich, or raw foods until your stomach feels better.

3. Rest and Take It Easy

Give your body time to heal. Rest, sleep, and avoid strenuous activities while recovering.

4. Use Over-the-Counter Medication (If Needed)

Loperamide (Imodium) may help reduce diarrhea, but it’s best reserved for situations when you must travel or have limited access to a bathroom. 

Activated charcoal can also be useful in mild cases, as it helps absorb toxins in the digestive tract. 

For more severe bacterial infections, antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin might be required, but these should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision.

5. Visit a Clinic If Symptoms Persist

Seek medical attention if:

• Diarrhea lasts more than 3 days
• You notice blood in your stool
• You have a high fever
• You’re unable to keep fluids down

Bali has many clinics with English-speaking doctors who are used to treating traveler’s illnesses.

How to Avoid Bali Belly: Prevention Tips

Preventing Bali Belly is easier than treating it. Here’s how to protect yourself:

1. Drink Only Bottled or Purified Water

When visiting Bali, it’s important to avoid drinking tap water entirely. Even small amounts, such as when brushing your teeth, can put you at risk of Bali belly. 

Always opt for sealed bottled water or use a trusted purifier or filter. Be cautious with ice as well, only consume it if you are certain it’s made from purified water, as contaminated ice can be just as risky as tap water.

2. Be Cautious with Street Food

Street food can be delicious, but it’s not always prepared hygienically. Choose stalls that are:

• Busy and popular (high turnover means fresher food)
• Cooking food fresh and hot in front of you
• Clean in appearance

3. Avoid Raw or Undercooked Foods

Say no to:

• Salads washed in tap water
• Undercooked meat or seafood
• Unpeeled fruits and vegetables

Eat fruits you can peel yourself, like bananas or oranges.

4. Practice Good Hand Hygiene

Wash your hands thoroughly before eating and after using the bathroom.

Since you may not always have access to clean running water, carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you at all times. 

Using it regularly, especially before meals, can significantly reduce your risk of infection during your trip.

5. Strengthen Your Gut Before Travel

Consider taking probiotic supplements a few days before and during your trip to help support your digestive system.

Final Thoughts

Bali Belly can be an unpleasant part of traveling in Southeast Asia, but with the right knowledge, it’s easy to treat and avoid. 

Focus on safe food and water habits, pack essential medications, and maintain good hygiene to stay healthy.

If you do get sick, don’t panic. Rest, hydrate, and seek medical advice if needed. 

Contact our English-speaking doctor directly from your smartphone using the Halodoc app at any time. Doctors are available 24 hours to answer your questions.

You can also purchase 100% original and trusted health products from the Halodoc Health Store. No need to leave home, delivery in just 1 hour!

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Halodoc app on Play Store or App Store today!

References:

Mayo Clinic. Accessed in 2025. Traveler’s diarrhea.

NZ Herald. Accessed in 2025. Bali belly: What it is and how to avoid it.

WebMD. Accessed in 2025. Traveler’s Diarrhea: Quick Remedies.