With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers an unmatched opportunity for island hopping, where your budget doesn't have to suffer. You can swim in crystal-clear waters, hike through lush jungles, and experience rich cultures—all without breaking the bank.
Your adventure begins in Bali, where you can find budget flights from major cities across Asia. From Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), you can catch a flight to Lombok for about 600,000 IDR (approximately $40). Once you arrive in Lombok, the best way to get around is by renting a scooter for about 75,000 IDR ($5) per day. However, if you're not comfortable on two wheels, local bemos (minivans) cost around 5,000 IDR ($0.33) for short distances.
If you're itching to explore the Gili Islands, take the public boat from Bangsal Harbor in Lombok. The cost is about 15,000 IDR ($1) for a slow boat and 100,000 IDR ($7) for a fast boat that will whisk you away in just 30 minutes. Once on Gili Trawangan, you can walk everywhere or rent a bicycle for a mere 50,000 IDR ($3.50) per day to explore the island.
Accommodations in Indonesia cater to all budgets, but for the backpacker, hostels are the way to go. In Bali, you can stay in Kuta at the Paradise Beach Hostel, where dorm beds start at 150,000 IDR ($10) a night. Alternatively, in Lombok, check out the Gili Trawangan 'The Exile' hostel for about 120,000 IDR ($8) per night. Both places offer a vibrant atmosphere and easy access to local attractions.
If you're heading to Nusa Penida, consider booking your stay at the Kicks Beach Bungalow in Toyapakeh. Prices hover around 300,000 IDR ($20) for a private room with stunning beach views. Remember, the earlier you book, especially during peak season (June to August), the better your chances of scoring a good deal. Use platforms like Hostelworld or Booking.com to compare prices and read reviews before making a reservation.
Indonesian cuisine is both delicious and affordable. In Bali, you must try Nasi Goreng, a fried rice dish loaded with veggies and proteins, typically costing around 30,000 IDR ($2). For a more local experience, head to Warung Made in Seminyak, where you can indulge in authentic flavors without spending much—most dishes are under 50,000 IDR ($3.50).
In Lombok, sample Ayam Taliwang, a grilled chicken dish marinated in spicy sauce, at Taliwang Irama Restaurant, where meals cost about 60,000 IDR ($4). On Gili Trawangan, don’t miss out on the beachside warungs offering grilled seafood at affordable prices, typically around 70,000 IDR ($5). Budget about 100,000 IDR ($7) per day for meals to enjoy a variety of local delicacies without overspending.
Indonesia offers a plethora of activities for every traveler. In Bali, head to Ubud for stunning rice terrace views. The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are a must-visit, and entry is free if you skip the photo spots. Don’t miss the Ubud Monkey Forest, where you can mingle with the local monkeys for about 80,000 IDR ($5). Consider joining a cooking class for about 350,000 IDR ($25) to learn how to prepare traditional dishes.
On Lombok, trek to the stunning waterfalls of Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep near Senaru, with a combined entry fee of around 10,000 IDR ($0.70). Explore the beaches like Kuta Lombok, where you can surf or simply relax. On Gili Trawangan, snorkeling trips cost around 150,000 IDR ($10) and will let you swim with sea turtles and colorful fish. You can also rent a stand-up paddleboard for about 100,000 IDR ($7) per hour.
To save money while traveling through Indonesia, here are some essential tips:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dorm bed in Kuta, Bali | 150,000 IDR | Roughly $10, great location |
| Scooter rental in Lombok | 75,000 IDR | About $5 per day |
| Nasi Goreng in local eatery | 30,000 IDR | Basic fried rice dish |
| Fast boat to Gili Islands | 100,000 IDR | Approximately $7, quick ride |
| Snorkeling trip in Gili Trawangan | 150,000 IDR | About $10, includes gear |
| Entry to Ubud Monkey Forest | 80,000 IDR | About $5, fun and interactive |
| Cooking class in Ubud | 350,000 IDR | Approximately $25, hands-on experience |
The best time for island hopping is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During these months, you can expect sunny weather and calm seas, making your water activities more enjoyable. Prices for accommodations and flights may also drop during the shoulder months of April and September, providing a balance of good weather and lower costs.
To budget effectively, consider splitting your expenses into daily categories: accommodation (150,000 IDR or $10), food (100,000 IDR or $7), activities (50,000 IDR or $3.50), and transport (75,000 IDR or $5). This brings your daily total to about 375,000 IDR ($25). Adjust this based on your preferences, ensuring you keep track of your spending to avoid overshooting your budget.
Traveler comments
Add a route note, correction, timing tip or question for this guide.