If you’ve ever planned a trip to Bali, you’ve probably heard about Bali Belly, a common stomach issue that affects many visitors on the island. But what exactly is Bali Belly, and how can you prevent it from ruining your Bali holiday or villa stay?

In this guide, we’ll explain what causes Bali Belly, how to treat it, and the best tips to avoid Bali Belly so you can fully enjoy your time in paradise.

What Is Bali Belly?

Bali Belly is a non formal term for traveler’s diarrhea;  a mild stomach illness often caused by bacteria such as E. coli found in contaminated food or water. It’s not dangerous, but it can cause discomfort for a few days.

Common Bali Belly symptoms include:

  • Stomach cramps and bloating

  • Diarrhea or loose stools

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Mild fever or fatigue

The symptoms usually appear within 24 hours after eating or drinking contaminated food and last 1-3 days for most people.

What Causes Bali Belly?

What Causes Bali Belly?

The main cause of Bali Belly is bacteria or viruses your body isn’t used to. You might get it from:

  • Drinking tap water or ice made from tap water

  • Eating street food that hasn’t been cooked properly

  • Consuming unwashed fruits or salads

  • Sudden changes in diet (spicy or oily foods)

  • Poor hand hygiene

Even careful travelers can experience Bali Belly — it’s often just your body adapting to a new environment.

How to Prevent Bali Belly in Bali

how to avoid bali belly

You can greatly reduce your chances of getting Bali Belly with a few simple habits:

  1. Only drink bottled or filtered water. Avoid tap water completely, even for brushing your teeth.

  2. Choose trusted restaurants and cafés. Go for well-reviewed or busy places where the food turnover is high.

  3. Be cautious with ice and salads. Stick to cooked foods when possible.

  4. Wash or peel fruits. Don’t eat pre-cut fruit sold on the street.

  5. Use hand sanitizer often. Especially before meals.

  6. Take probiotics. They help strengthen your digestive system before and during your trip.

Following these easy steps can keep your stomach safe and your trip stress-free.

What to Do If You Get Bali Belly

What to Do If You Get Bali Belly

If you do catch Bali Belly, don’t panic — it’s usually mild and passes quickly. Here’s what to do:

  • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of bottled water and rehydration solutions like Pocari Sweat.

  • Rest and recover. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and dairy for a few days.

  • Eat light. Stick to simple foods such as rice, bananas, toast, and soups.

  • Visit a clinic if symptoms last more than 3 days or if you feel dehydrated. Bali has excellent international medical centers in areas like Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud.

Living in Bali or Buying a Villa?

For anyone planning to buy a villa in Bali or stay long-term, it’s important to understand common tropical health issues like Bali Belly. Fortunately, it’s easy to prevent with good hygiene and mindful eating.

With the right precautions, you can enjoy Bali’s incredible dining scene, fresh local produce, and healthy island lifestyle — all from the comfort of your private villa in Bali.