How to Stay Safe from Theft in Bali

Bali is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful and welcoming destinations on the planet. Its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and friendly people make it a paradise for millions of travelers. However, like any popular tourist hotspot, it’s not entirely immune to crime.

Recent news about tourists, including a high-profile case involving a South Korean actress, losing large sums due to credit card theft in Ubud, serves as a crucial reminder: awareness is your best defense.

The crimes tourists usually encounter aren’t violent but rather opportunistic, falling under the umbrella of petty theft and financial travel scams. Knowing how to stay safe from theft and other common risks will ensure your Bali trip remains memorable for all the right reasons.

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1. Master the Art of Carrying Bags and Securing Your Valuables

credit: YouTube - Wahana Honda

A momentary lapse in attention is all an opportunistic thief needs. 

The most common form of theft tourists face, especially in busy streets like Kuta or Canggu, is snatch theft, where a thief on a scooter quickly grabs an exposed bag or phone.

• Secure Your Bag: Never walk with your bag facing the road. If you’re using a shoulder bag or backpack, wear it cross-body and keep it hugged toward the center of your body.

• Front-Pocket Wallets: This is a golden rule everywhere, not just in Bali. Store your wallet in your front pocket, not the back pocket, to foil pickpocketing attempts in crowded areas.

• Limit Cash: Don't carry all your money and credit cards at once. Use your hotel safe or villa lockbox to store the bulk of your valuables.

If you rent a scooter, be hyper-vigilant:

• Never hang your bag on the handlebars.

• Always keep your bag secured on your lap or, preferably, inside a locked under-seat compartment.

• Avoid using your phone while driving, as it makes you an easy target for snatch theft.

2. Navigating the Financial Maze

Financial travel scams are perhaps the most damaging kind of theft as they can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Safety precautions around money are non-negotiable.

Tourists often fall victim to complex sleight-of-hand tricks or are given counterfeit money.

• Stick to Authorized Dealers: Only use money changers located inside official banks or established businesses. They are easy to spot and always provide a receipt.

• If the Rate is Too Good, Avoid It: Extremely favorable exchange rates often indicate a scam, resulting in you walking away with less money than you thought you counted.

Protecting your card details is critical to how to stay safe from theft of your money.

• Inspect the ATM: Before inserting your card, check the card slot and keypad for any unusual or loose parts—these could be skimming devices.

• In-Bank ATMs are Best: Always opt to use ATMs located inside a bank or a reputable supermarket/mall, as they are monitored and less likely to be tampered with.

• Card Transactions: When paying with a card, always keep your eye on it. This prevents the staff from illegally duplicating your card details (skimming) or recording your number.

To have better preparation and make sure you’re not falling for scammers, you can read our guide here: How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Bali.

3. Know When and How to Ride

Motorbike theft and accidents are serious risks. While renting a scooter is the ultimate way to experience Bali’s freedom, you must be honest about your skill level and prioritize safety precautions.

• Think Twice About Solo Riding: Bali’s traffic is chaotic, unpredictable, and moves on the left. If you are inexperienced, hiring a local driver for major commutes is often safer and much more relaxing.

• The Law: Always wear a helmet, and ensure you possess a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your domestic license. Driving under the influence is incredibly dangerous and illegal.

• Nighttime Caution: Be extra careful when driving at night, especially in nightlife on busy streets like Seminyak and Canggu, where some drivers may be intoxicated.

We have compiled several articles for your scooter safety in Bali here:

The Complete Bali Helmet Guide

How to Get a Bali Driving License? Complete Guide 2025

Can I Drive a Scooter in Bali Using an Australian License?

Can I Drive a Scooter in Bali Using an Indian License?

Here's Bali Drink Driving Laws You Should Be Aware Of

What Tourists Should Know When Pulled Over by Police in Bali

4. Nighttime Awareness

When the sun goes down, vigilance should go up. How to stay safe from theft often comes down to simple common sense, which can be easily forgotten when you’re relaxing on holiday.

• Stay in the Light: When walking after dark, stick to well-lit roads that have foot traffic.

• Trust Your Gut: If an area or situation feels unsafe, immediately head to a crowded area or established venue like a café or shop.

5. Rent Your Motorbike Safely and Smartly with Cinchy

The freedom of zipping through rice paddies on a scooter is unmatched. If you choose to rent, choosing a safe, reliable provider like Cinchy is your best form of theft and accident prevention.

Cinchy takes your safety seriously, which makes securing your ride and your valuables simpler:

Every rental comes with a quality Helmet and a Phone Holder, crucial for hands-free navigation, protecting your device from being exposed to a potential thief.

Cinchy offers an optional Full Coverage insurance package that includes no deductible for damage and, critically, covers theft (excluding renter negligence). 

This provides crucial peace of mind when securing your scooter overnight.

The renting process is quick, just present your Valid ID (Passport or KTP), Valid Driving License (International or SIM C), Round Trip Flight Tickets, and Hotel Bookings for the trip duration.

Remember, while the risk of petty theft and pickpocketing exists, by following these simple safety precautions and making smart choices about your transportation, you can easily minimize the danger. 

Bali is waiting for you, and with a little preparation, you’ll have a fantastic, safe trip.

Ready to explore Bali with a safe and reliable ride? You can browse Cinchy’s motorbikes and check our easy rental requirements here.

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