Renting a car vs a scooter in Bali
Published August 2026
Most visitors default to a scooter, and for good reason — but it isn't the only option, and it isn't always the right one. Here's how the three real choices stack up.
Scooter: cheapest and most flexible
From around IDR 60,000–90,000/day, a scooter is unbeatable for weaving through traffic and parking anywhere. It legally requires an Indonesian licence or an International Driving Permit covering motorcycles — see the full scooter rental guide before you book one. Not a good fit for rainy season, long highway stretches, or travelling with small children.
Self-drive car: rare, and more hassle than it's worth
Self-drive car rental exists but is far less common than in most countries — narrow village roads, aggressive local traffic norms and the same IDP requirement make it a harder sell. Rental agencies are also more selective about who they'll rent to. Unless you're very confident driving in unfamiliar conditions, it rarely beats a driver for the same money.
Private driver: the real alternative to a scooter
A full day with an English-speaking driver runs IDR 600,000–900,000 (~USD 40–58) — split between three or four people, it's close to scooter-level cost per person, with none of the road risk. The obvious choice for families, temple-heavy days, or a group covering long distances like Ubud to Uluwatu.
Whatever you choose
Confirm your travel insurance actually covers the vehicle type and that you're licensed correctly for it — this is the single most common reason claims get refused after a Bali accident.