Rent a Scooter Bali: First-Timer Guide to Ride Safely

You land in Bali, step outside the airport, and immediately notice something: scooters everywhere. Couples, families, surfers, even people carrying boxes of fruit everyone seems to be riding one. Then the thought hits you:
“Should I rent a scooter in Bali… or is that a terrible idea?”

For first-time visitors, rent a scooter Bali is one of the most searched—and misunderstood—topics. Done right, it’s the most flexible and affordable way to explore the island. Done wrong, it can ruin your trip.

This guide from Gateaway explains exactly how scooter rental in Bali works, what first-timers must know, and whether it’s right for you.

Why Scooters Are So Popular in Bali

Scooters are not just transportation in Bali—they’re part of daily life. According to Indonesian transportation data, over 85% of vehicles on Bali’s roads are motorbikes, not cars.

Why?

• Narrow roads in many areas

• Heavy traffic in tourist hubs

• Affordable fuel and rentals

• Easy parking almost everywhere

For visitors, scooters mean freedom. You stop when you want, avoid traffic jams, and reach places cars simply can’t.

Is It Safe to Rent a Scooter in Bali? (Honest Answer)

Short answer: it depends on you.

According to Indonesian National Police reports, traffic accidents involving tourists in Bali are overwhelmingly linked to scooters, often due to:

• No helmet

• No license

• Inexperience

• Alcohol use

If you’ve never ridden a scooter before, Bali is not the place to learn from zero. But if you already ride confidently and follow the rules, scooters can be safe and efficient.

Legal Requirements to Rent a Scooter in Bali

Do You Need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

Yes. Legally, you must have:

• A valid home country driver’s license

• An International Driving Permit (IDP) with motorbike endorsement

This is confirmed by Indonesian traffic law and embassy travel advisories
(Source – https://kemlu.go.id).

Without an IDP:

• You can be fined by police

• Your travel insurance may be invalid in an accident

Many rental shops won’t ask—but legality matters after something goes wrong.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Scooter in Bali?

Here’s a realistic price range for first-timers:

💡 Prices vary by location. Canggu and Ubud are slightly more expensive than Sanur or Denpasar.

Fuel is cheap—around $0.70–0.90 per liter, making scooters extremely economical.

Where to Rent a Scooter in Bali

1. Local Rental Shops

Most common option. Found everywhere.

Pros: Cheap, fast
Cons: Variable scooter condition

2. Hotel or Villa Rental

Safer for first-timers.

Pros: Better maintenance, support
Cons: Slightly higher price

3. Online Rental Services

Delivered to your accommodation.

Pros: Convenience, reviews
Cons: Availability during high season

📌 Internal tip: Always take photos of the scooter before riding.

Common Mistakes First-Time Riders Make

Avoid these and you’ll already be ahead of most tourists:

❌ Riding without a helmet
❌ Using phone while riding
❌ Wearing flip-flops only
❌ Ignoring road conditions
❌ Parking illegally

In Bali, small mistakes escalate quickly.

Safety Tips for Riding a Scooter in Bali

✔️ Wear a helmet—every ride
✔️ Ride slowly (locals expect it)
✔️ Avoid riding at night if inexperienced
✔️ Watch for dogs, potholes, ceremonies
✔️ Don’t ride after drinking—ever

According to travel insurance providers, helmet use alone reduces serious injury risk by over 60%.

Scooter vs Taxi vs Driver: Which Is Better?

Expert take:
If it’s your first 2–3 days in Bali, use taxis. Switch to scooters only when comfortable.