Tips For Renting A Scooter In Bali (Expat Advice)

Having lived in Bali as an expat, it’s one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads right now.

We enjoyed our time in Bali and feel it’s one of those hotspots you are going to want to check out. It is beautiful, the people are friendly, and there is always something to do for those who want to be having fun.

This is why we are going to touch on a key point most people are going to want to focus on. This is going to include renting a scooter in Bali.

Scooter rentals in Bali are easy to manage as long as you go in with a plan. Plus, they are affordable, which is going to make your trip easier.

Here are the tips for renting a scooter in Bali the right way.

Tips For Renting A Scooter In Bali

Compare Rental Companies

A common mistake that’s made is people don’t compare scooter rental companies in Bali.

There are a few options and each one is going to have a unique set of rates. You will want to shop around and then sign up for a scooter rental in Bali.

Otherwise, you are going to end up overpaying when you don’t have to!

Always compare rental companies, check out their rates, and also see what their policies are like. This is key information that will make your life easier later.

Have Your Documents Ready

Each rental company is going to have a unique set of requirements.

You will want to be prepared.

This includes bringing your key documents with you. This includes the international driver’s license, passport, and any other ID that is going to help identify who you are.

It is ideal for the rental companies because they can trust you in a situation such as this. You will also be asked for pertinent information such as where you are staying and your phone number/email address.

It’s also important to note that you are likely going to be asked to fill out a form with your details. Take the time to do this accurately and then submit the form.

Get Your International Driver’s License

It’s essential to know the rules and regulations of riding a scooter in Bali.

You can’t just hop on a scooter and begin riding without a license. There are regulations in place for all scooter riders and they are going to apply to you as well.

This means you will want to have an international driver’s license on hand before getting on the scooter. Otherwise, you are not going to be allowed to ride or you will be breaking the law as soon as you hop on.

We have seen the police check this and it is essential to avoid dealing with a confrontation in a situation such as this.

Choose The Right Scooter In Bali

Don’t just go with the first option that is made available to you.

Scooter rental companies in Bali tend to have quite a few options. You are going to want to know what each one has to offer and then sign up for the one that is ideal for your situation.

For example, if you are going to be taking shorter trips in the area, you are going to want to go with something as simple as the Scoopy or the Vario 110 CC. This is enough to get you from point A to point B even though both are not as quick as you would want them to be.

However, those who want something with a bit more of a kick will want to go with the Vario 125 CC or the NMax.

You are going to be paying a higher premium for these scooter rentals but they are also going to pack more of a punch.

Inspect The Scooter

We highly recommend inspecting the scooter beforehand.

This is going to ensure it is working as required and it is undamaged. Otherwise, it’s possible when you bring it back to the rental company, they are going to put the damages on your tab even when they were not your fault!

We have seen this happen and it is quite a hefty bill to deal with.

How do you get past this?

You are going to want to take photos on-site and make sure you are saving them. This is going to ensure it is in the same condition as you are returning it.

Put On A Helmet

It’s essential to wear a helmet and this is similar to the need for an international driver’s license.

You are going to want to make sure to put on a helmet as a way to not only stay safe but ensure you are not getting pulled over by the police.

Anyone who is getting on a scooter has to put on a helmet.

It is also a safety tip because the drivers in Bali are going to be breaking all sorts of rules. This is why you want to be prepared.

Know The Cost

It’s best to be aware of the general cost of renting a scooter in Bali.

How much is it going to cost?

This will depend on the rental company, but we ended up paying around $2.50 per day for the scooter. The higher models tend to be a bit more expensive than this.

We have seen the better ones go up to $9 per day.

It’s also important to note that there are different rates for those who are going to be renting the scooter for a month or more. You can end up having to pay around $2 per day for a month-long rental scooter. This is a great deal and it is an ideal option for those who are going to be living in Bali.

Keep The Scooter Refueled

Taking care of the scooter is in your best interest.

You are going to be taking longer trips depending on the type of scooter you are riding. This means it’s best to have the scooter topped up when it comes to its fuel level.

It is not going to cost a lot and you will end up feeling secure with what you are riding.

Drive On The Left Side

It’s always smart to brush up on the rules of the road in Bali.

This includes driving on the left side.

You are going to find it easier to stay safe and you are going to get to where you want to be on the scooter. Plus, we do recommend preparing the route you are going to take beforehand to avoid getting lost.

It is hectic on the roads, but those who are prepared are going to be fine.

Final Thoughts

These are the main tips on renting a scooter in Bali.

Feel free to check out our guides on living in the Bahamas, having fun on San Andres Island, and taking a trip to Bermuda.