Do's and don'ts when renting a scooter in Bali: a complete guide
As a first-time visitor, navigating the scooter rental scene in Bali can feel daunting. Do you need a special license? What about safety concerns? And let’s not forget about the cost.
Don’t fret! I’ve been in your shoes and had all these burning questions and more when I first arrived in Bali. That’s why I’ve put together this complete guide to renting a scooter in Bali. Consider it your roadmap to two-wheeled freedom on the island! By no means do I want to scare you about renting a scooter, I just want to make sure you understand that your life is valuable and it’s not worth risking your life.
YOU SHOULD RENT A SCOOTER IN BALI WHEN…
You’re used to driving one and feel confident dealing with heavy traffic. Renting a scooter is hands down the best way to explore the island and uncover its hidden gems. Not only will you save time by skipping the traffic jams, but you’ll also have the freedom to roam wherever your heart desires. However, scooter rental isn’t for everyone, and it’s crucial to know how to ride one safely.
YOU SHOULDN’T RENT A SCOOTER IN BALI WHEN…
If you’re an anxious driver or lack confidence on a scooter, it’s best to steer clear of renting a motorbike in Bali. Navigating the over-crowded streets of Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu can be overwhelming, especially for inexperienced riders. Safety should always be your top priority! Which brings me to the next subject..
IS DRIVING A SCOOTER IN BALI SAFE/EASY?
In short: it depends. If you’ve never driven a scooter before in your life, and you’re only in Bali for a short holiday, I wouldn’t recommend it, and it’s key that you understand what the scooter scene in Bali is like. However, if you are a responsible driver and you’re feeling confident, you can give it a try!
That being said, please read this before considering renting a scooter in Bali:
Honestly, there is not a better feeling in the world than driving your scooter between the lush, green rice fields, with a gentle breeze, the wind in your hair, enjoying the beautiful nature around you. Once you push through the traffic of more populated areas, the roads are beautiful and endless. Exploring waterfalls, hidden gems, culture and scenery on the back of a scooter is an awesome experience not to be missed!
But there is also a different side to driving around in Bali... Bali traffic - mostly in bigger towns - is known to be heavy, chaotic, unpredictable and totally different from driving anywhere else in the world!
First of all, keep in mind that people drive on the left hand side of the road (if you didn't know already) and that driving yourself in Bali can be a challenge. Balinese’s driving habits are mostly based on reflexes rather than established rules.Therefore traffic accidents often involve travellers who are not used to driving 'the Balinese style' . On top of this you might be facing long traffic jams, random pedestrians and animals on the road! Let's not forget that when it rains...it pours and many streets will be flooded! However, don't let this scare you away! We just wanted to make sure you know what's going on and that you are mentally prepared! ;)
Traffic jams are common in the densely populated southern and central parts of the island, the usual hangout for travelers and tourists. But when going to the less crowded, rural areas and small villages, the winding paddy field lanes and valleys make the island a pleasure to explore!
renting a scooter in bali
HOW MUCH DOES RENTING A SCOOTER IN BALI COST?
The cost of renting a scooter in Bali varies depending on factors such as the model, age of the scooter, and the rental location.
Short-term scooter hire costs in Bali
For daily rentals, here's what you can expect to pay:
Scoopy or Vario 110cc: 70,000 – 110,000 IDR ($6) per day
Vario 125cc: 100,000 – 150,000 IDR ($7) per day
NMax: 100,000 – 200,000 IDR ($8) per day
Long-term scooter rental costs in Bali
If you're planning an extended stay of more than three weeks or intend to live in Bali, it's worth exploring long-term rental options. You can often find better deals for extended periods.
Scoopy or Vario 110cc: 1,100,000 IDR ($70) per month
Vario 125cc: 1,500,000 IDR ($95) per month
NMax: 2,000,000 IDR ($125) per month
Petrol:
Most common place to refuel is with the vendors who sell petrol on the side of the streets in old vodka bottles. They are everywhere! But it’s sometimes cheaper to go to the bigger gas stations! The standard is 10 000 IDR ($0.6) for 1 liter.
If you’re interested in renting an electric scooter, make sure to book it here!
renting a scooter in bali
VERY IMPORTANT THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN RENTING A SCOOTER IN BALI
WEAR A GODDAMN HELMET!!!!! I don’t care if it doesn’t look cool! There have been MANY fatal accidents lately with tourists who are overly confident or even worse, drunk.
Stick to the left side of the road
Don’t drive with your handbag around you. There are a lot of cases of bag snatching
Make sure you have an international drivers license -yes, you can technically rent a scooter in Bali without a license but the police is everywhere and you will get fined.
Make sure you have health insurance - in case of an accident. Hospitals in Bali are extremely expensive for tourists.
Never give your passport to the scooter shop, only give them a copy
Check your scooter for possible damages beforehand so you don’t get blamed for it afterwards. Check the indicators, lights, and breaks as well.
WHERE CAN YOU RENT A SCOOTER IN BALI?
Most people just get a scooter from their hotel or homestay.
SCARED TO DRIVE A SCOOTER?
If you’re not comfortable with the idea of driving in Bali, don't worry! The next best thing is a motorbike taxi! There are 2 apps that we recommend downloading on your phone: Gojek and/or Grab. Both apps will allow you to 'order' scooter (and car) rides - hell, you can even order food!-, just like Uber. It's a super good and cheap option for those who are on a budget but don't like driving themselves! In most bigger towns (Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak etc) you will find it easy to catch one of them, only when you go more remote, chances are lower of finding them.
Safe travels! xx
