What Is Bali Belly and How Can You Avoid It?

If you’re planning a trip to Bali or anywhere in Southeast Asia, you’ve probably heard the term “Bali belly”. This common (and unpleasant) traveller’s complaint can put a real damper on your holiday. At Bourne End Pharmacy, we’re here to explain what Bali belly is, how to avoid it, and what to do if it strikes.

What Is Bali Belly?

“Bali belly” is a colloquial name for traveller’s diarrhoea, a gastrointestinal infection often caused by consuming contaminated food or water. While it’s not unique to Bali, the name has stuck due to the sheer number of travellers who report symptoms while visiting the Indonesian island.

Typical causes include:

• -> Bacteria (most commonly E. coli)

• -> Viruses (such as norovirus or rotavirus)

• -> Parasites (like giardia)

The infection irritates the stomach and intestines, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

Symptoms of Bali Belly

Symptoms typically appear within 6–24 hours after exposure and can last anywhere from 1–5 days. Common signs include:

• -> Frequent loose or watery stools

• -> Stomach cramps

• -> Bloating

• -> Nausea and/or vomiting

• -> Low-grade fever

• -> Fatigue

• -> Loss of appetite

While Bali belly is rarely serious, dehydration is a real risk—especially in hot climates—so it’s important to take it seriously.

How to Avoid Getting Bali Belly

Prevention is better than cure. Although there’s no guaranteed way to avoid Bali belly, there are several precautions you can take to reduce your risk:

1. Be Careful With Food

• -> Avoid raw or undercooked meat and seafood.

• -> Stick to hot, freshly cooked foods.

• -> Skip salad and unpeeled fruit, as they may have been washed in unsafe water.

• -> Be wary of street food, unless it’s cooked in front of you and piping hot.

2. Watch Your Water

• -> Only drink bottled or filtered water.

• -> Use bottled water to brush your teeth.

• -> Avoid ice in drinks unless you’re certain it was made with safe water.

3. Practise Good Hygiene

• -> Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.

• -> Carry alcohol-based hand sanitiser for when water isn’t available.

• -> Don’t touch your face unless your hands are clean.

What to Do if You Get Bali Belly

Despite best efforts, sometimes Bali belly strikes. Here’s how to manage it:

1. Rehydrate

Dehydration is the most serious risk, especially if you’re vomiting or have diarrhoea. Drink plenty of fluids—preferably oral rehydration salts (ORS) or electrolyte drinks. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, which can worsen dehydration.

2. Rest

Give your body time to recover. Avoid strenuous activity and get plenty of sleep.

3. Eat Light

Stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods such as:

• -> Plain rice

• -> Toast

• -> Bananas

• -> Applesauce

• -> Boiled potatoes

Avoid dairy, spicy foods, and anything greasy until you’re fully recovered.

4. Consider Medication

If symptoms persist beyond 48 hours, or if they’re severe, consider speaking to a pharmacist or healthcare provider. Antidiarrhoeal medication like loperamide can provide short-term relief, but should be used cautiously. Antibiotics may be needed in more serious cases.

At Bourne End Pharmacy, we can advise you on appropriate treatment before you travel—and supply you with essentials to pack in your travel kit.

Should I Cancel My Plans If I Get Bali Belly?

Most people recover quickly and don’t need to cancel their travel plans entirely. However, if you’re experiencing symptoms like high fever, bloody stools, or persistent vomiting, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Can I Prevent Bali Belly with Vaccines?

There’s no specific vaccine for Bali belly, but certain vaccines can reduce your risk of related illnesses, such as:

• -> Typhoid

• -> Hepatitis A

• -> Cholera (oral vaccine available)

Before you travel, visit our Travel Clinic at Bourne End Pharmacy for a personalised travel health consultation. We’ll ensure your vaccines are up to date and provide any recommended medications to take with you.

Bali belly is a common travel woe, but it doesn’t have to ruin your holiday. By taking basic hygiene precautions, staying hydrated, and preparing in advance, you can protect your gut and enjoy your trip worry-free.

If you’re preparing for a trip to Bali or elsewhere in Asia, visit Bourne End Pharmacy for:

• -> Travel vaccinations

• -> Travel health consultations

• -> Over-the-counter medications

• -> Expert advice tailored to your itinerary

This blog was written on behalf of Bourne End Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.