Let’s be real for a sec — getting around Bali can be… chaotic. Between the scooters flying past like tiny rockets, the unpredictable traffic jams that appear out of nowhere, and the twisty little backroads that all seem to lead to a temple or a rice field, driving here isn’t for the faint-hearted. That’s why a lot of people (myself included) end up hiring a private driver. It just makes life easier. But before you kick back in the back seat and let someone else take the wheel, there are a few safety tips when traveling around Bali with a private driver that are worth knowing.
I’ve been living part-time in Bali for a few years now, hopping between Canggu, Ubud, and the Bukit Peninsula, and I’ve seen all sorts of driving situations — from smooth rides with polite, careful drivers to heart-stopping moments when someone tries to overtake on a blind corner. Let’s just say… I’ve learned a few things the hard way. So, if you’re planning to explore Bali with a driver, here’s everything I wish someone told me before my first trip.
Before you hit the road, check out my post on Bali Private Driver services that are reliable, safe, and totally worth it.
Choosing the Right Private Driver Makes All the Difference
Finding a good driver in Bali is kinda like finding the right travel buddy — you want someone reliable, calm, and who actually knows the local roads (because Google Maps, bless it, sometimes takes you on a “shortcut” that turns out to be a goat path).
When you start looking for a private driver, don’t just go with the first person who offers. Ask your hotel or villa host for recommendations — most of them have a few trusted drivers they work with regularly. You can also check Google reviews or ask in Facebook groups like Bali Expats or Bali Travel Community. The people there are usually super honest about who’s worth hiring.
I once hired a driver through a random Instagram page because his car looked clean and “luxury” — huge mistake. He showed up late, didn’t speak much English (which isn’t a dealbreaker, but communication matters when you’re trying to say, “Please slow down!” while he’s zooming through Seminyak traffic). After that, I started being pickier.
Here’s the thing — a good private driver in Bali isn’t just someone with a car. They’re your translator, your navigator, and sometimes even your unofficial tour guide. Many of them can share stories about the villages you pass through or stop at those tiny roadside warungs where the food is 100x better (and cheaper) than the tourist restaurants.
But above all, you want someone who drives safely. Ask them straight up, “Do you drive fast?” or “Can you please drive slowly?” Most will nod and respect your request — they’re used to tourists asking. If they brush it off or joke about being “Michael Schumacher of Bali,” maybe keep looking.
Want to make your trip more personal? Read my post on How to Plan a Custom Bali Tour with a Private Driver for ideas on building your dream itinerary.
Check the Car Before You Hop In
Okay, I know this sounds obvious, but most people skip it. You’d be surprised how many travelers just hop into whatever car pulls up and assume it’s fine. But trust me — do a quick scan.
Before you start your trip, look for simple stuff: Are the tires in good shape? Do the seatbelts actually work (you’d be shocked how many don’t)? Is the AC functioning? Does the car look well-maintained, or does it scream “hasn’t seen a mechanic since 2015”?
A few years ago, my friend and I were heading from Ubud to Amed. Our driver seemed nice, but halfway there, the car started smoking like it was auditioning for a barbecue commercial. Turns out, he hadn’t checked his radiator. We ended up stranded in the middle of nowhere with monkeys staring at us from the trees. Fun story now, but not so fun at the time.
So yeah, a quick once-over of the vehicle before you leave can save you a lot of stress. And don’t be shy about saying something like, “Hey, can we maybe use a different car?” if something feels off. Your comfort and safety come first.
Don’t Skip on Seatbelts (Even if Your Driver Does)
This one’s huge. I can’t count how many times I’ve seen tourists sitting in the back seat without a seatbelt because “it’s Bali” or “it’s just a short ride.” Nope. Doesn’t matter if you’re going two kilometers or two hours — wear it.
Bali roads can be unpredictable. Dogs suddenly dart across, scooters swerve in front of cars, and sometimes, potholes come out of nowhere. I’ve seen a driver slam on the brakes so hard that my phone flew into the front seat. According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Transportation, over 70% of traffic accidents in Bali involve motorbikes or cars colliding due to sudden maneuvers or poor road conditions. So even if your driver shrugs off the idea of seatbelts, you shouldn’t.
If you’re sitting in the back and the belt is tucked away or jammed, ask them to fix it. Most good drivers will stop and help right away. And if they say, “No need, it’s safe,” just smile and buckle up anyway.
Be Clear About Your Schedule and Boundaries
One thing I learned quickly in Bali — drivers are often super accommodating. They’ll say “yes” to almost anything you ask, even if it’s not realistic. So if you plan to go from Uluwatu to Mount Batur and back in one day (which, by the way, is like 6+ hours of driving), make sure you’re both on the same page.
I once had a driver who looked exhausted by 7 PM because I’d unknowingly asked him to work a 12-hour day. I felt terrible. Now I always confirm the schedule beforehand: what time we start, when they expect to finish, and whether they’re okay with overtime.
Also, talk about stops. Some drivers have arrangements with certain shops or restaurants where they get a commission for bringing tourists. There’s nothing wrong with that, but if you’re not into shopping, politely say something like, “I’d prefer not to stop for souvenirs today.” Most will totally understand.
And don’t be afraid to speak up during the ride. If your driver starts speeding or overtaking too much, just say, “Can we slow down a bit?” in a friendly tone. It’s your trip, your safety — you’re allowed to ask.
Be Cautious with Night Drives
Alright, let’s talk about nighttime travel. Bali’s gorgeous sunsets might tempt you to squeeze in a few more activities before heading back, but driving after dark can be tricky. Streetlights aren’t always great, especially once you leave the main tourist zones. Roads can be narrow, and there’s often poor visibility because of mist or lack of lane markings.
I remember driving back from a late dinner in Ubud one night, and the road toward Canggu was pitch-black. The driver had to slow down to a crawl because there were cows (yes, actual cows) crossing randomly. It felt like something out of a dream — or a slow-motion movie.
If you can, try to plan your trips so you’re not driving long distances after sunset. If you do need to travel at night, choose a driver who’s experienced and familiar with the area. Ask them straight up if they’re comfortable driving after dark — some prefer not to, and that’s honestly a good sign. It means they know the risks.
Watch Out for the Weather
If you’re visiting during Bali’s rainy season (roughly November to March), the roads can get wild. Heavy downpours can cause mini floods, especially around Denpasar and Canggu. Puddles form fast, and potholes hide underneath them.
I once rode with a driver from Seminyak to Bedugul during a rainstorm, and I swear, we hit more water than road. He was calm the whole time, though — drove slow, used hazard lights when visibility dropped, and even pulled over for a few minutes when the rain got too heavy. That’s what you want in a driver. Someone patient, not someone who tries to “beat the rain.”
If the weather looks bad, delay your trip or take breaks. You won’t miss much by waiting an hour, but you could avoid a serious problem. Also, carry a towel or extra clothes if you plan to hop in and out of the car during rain — the humidity plus wet seats can be brutal.
Communication Is Everything
A lot of private drivers in Bali speak English pretty well, but sometimes things can get lost in translation. You might say “go straight,” but they hear “turn right.” Or you mention “coffee stop,” and next thing you know, you’re in a full-blown coffee plantation tour.
So it helps to use simple language and confirm plans before each leg of the trip. I usually do a quick “Okay, next stop: Tanah Lot, then back to Ubud, yeah?” just to make sure we’re synced.
If you’re using Google Maps, share your route with the driver or show them the pin. Many are happy to follow your plan, but don’t be surprised if they suggest an alternate route — locals often know shortcuts that apps don’t.
And if you vibe with your driver, that’s a huge plus. Some of my best travel days in Bali were spent chatting with drivers about local ceremonies, Balinese Hindu traditions, or just comparing favorite foods. That’s the magic of hiring a local — you learn stuff you’d never read in a travel book.
Agree on Prices Before You Start the Trip
Let’s talk money for a sec because misunderstandings about payment can ruin a good day. Always, and I mean always, confirm the price before you leave.
Some drivers charge per hour, others per day (usually between IDR 700,000–2.300,000 depending on distance and car type). If you plan to go far, like from Canggu to Lovina, make sure you both agree on whether fuel and parking are included.
One time, I forgot to ask and ended up paying an extra IDR 150,000 for parking and “waiting time.” Totally my fault. So now I clarify everything upfront — how many hours, total cost, and whether there’s an extra charge if we run late.
You can also use apps like Grab or GoCar for shorter trips — they show fixed prices, so there’s no haggling. But for full-day travel or sightseeing, a private driver still wins. You get more flexibility, plus they’ll wait while you explore instead of leaving you stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Keep Your Belongings Secure
It’s easy to get comfortable when you’re with a private driver — you leave your phone on the seat, your bag in the back, your camera on the floor. But always remember: Bali is super safe overall, yet petty theft does happen.
I usually keep my smaller valuables (phone, wallet, passport) in a sling bag that stays with me when I step out. I’ve heard stories of tourists leaving stuff in the car and later realizing the driver switched mid-day (happens with agencies that rotate drivers). So, take your essentials with you.
Also, make sure your driver locks the car when parked. Most do, but I’ve seen a few leave it open because “it’s just a short stop.” Better safe than sorry.
And if you’re using your phone for directions or music, bring a power bank — some cars don’t have working USB ports, and Bali traffic can drain your battery fast.
Learn a Few Basic Bahasa Indonesia Phrases
You don’t need to be fluent, but knowing a few local phrases can go a long way — especially for politeness and clarity. Words like “pelan-pelan” (slowly), “kanan” (right), “kiri” (left), or “terima kasih” (thank you) can make interactions smoother.
Drivers really appreciate it when you try to speak their language, even if it’s just a few words. It shows respect and often earns you a genuine smile. Plus, it can help you communicate better in tricky situations — like if you’re trying to explain a change of plan mid-route.
And who knows, you might end up learning more from your driver. I’ve picked up random Balinese words just from chatting in cars — it’s fun, and it makes the ride go by faster.
Don’t Forget About Insurance
This one’s not exciting but super important. Check whether your travel insurance covers car travel with private drivers in Bali. Some policies exclude “non-commercial” vehicles, which can be a problem if something happens.
According to Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK), visitors should always verify coverage for private transportation when traveling domestically, as not all providers classify them the same way. If you’re unsure, just shoot your insurance provider an email.
If you’re renting through a professional driving service or agency, ask if they have vehicle and passenger insurance. Most reputable companies do. It’s just one of those things that gives you peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying the ride (and maybe taking too many photos out the window, like I do).
Respect Local Customs and Driving Etiquette
Bali’s traffic might look like chaos, but there’s actually a rhythm to it. Honking, for example, isn’t rude — it’s more like saying, “Hey, I’m here!” Scooters weave between cars constantly, but drivers expect it.
When you’re with a local driver, you’ll notice they’re incredibly patient. They don’t yell or honk aggressively; they just go with the flow. Try to match that energy — no need to panic or comment on every near miss (I’ve learned this after a few too many “OH MY GOD” moments).
Also, remember that drivers often stop for ceremonies or offerings in the road. It’s part of Balinese culture. Don’t rush them or get frustrated — it’s a sign of respect.
And if your driver invites you to join in or explains what’s happening, listen. Those little moments are where the real Bali shows up.
Take Breaks and Stay Hydrated
Long car rides in Bali can be surprisingly tiring. The humidity, constant turns, and traffic jams can drain your energy fast. Bring a bottle of water (or two), especially if you’re heading up north or inland where rest stops are fewer.
I like to ask my driver to stop at local coffee spots or small warungs along the way. Not only do you get to stretch your legs, but you also support small businesses. Plus, Balinese coffee? Unreal.
And if you’re someone who gets motion sickness — those curvy mountain roads to places like Munduk or Kintamani can hit hard. Pack motion sickness pills or ginger candy. Your driver won’t mind stopping if you need a quick breather; they’ve seen it all.
Trust Your Gut
Lastly, and maybe most importantly — trust your instincts. If something feels off, like the driver’s being shady, driving recklessly, or insisting on weird detours, it’s okay to cut the trip short.
You can politely say you’re not feeling well and ask to end early. Pay them fairly for the time, but prioritize your comfort and safety. Bali has thousands of good, honest drivers — you don’t have to stick with one that doesn’t make you feel safe.
I’ve switched drivers mid-trip once before, and honestly, it was the best decision. The next guy was chill, drove smoothly, and even shared snacks with me. Sometimes, it’s just about finding the right match.
There you go — everything I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) about staying safe while traveling around Bali with a private driver. It might sound like a lot, but most of these things become second nature after your first few rides. And once you find a driver you trust, exploring Bali becomes so much easier — and honestly, a lot more fun.
