Which water for which use
| Use | Tap | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Drinking | No | Sealed bottle, purified water, jug or refill station |
| Brushing teeth | Avoid if your stomach is sensitive | Use bottled water in the first week |
| Shower, bath | Yes | Keep your mouth closed, do not swallow the water |
| Ice | Varies | Cylinder ice with a hole, delivered by manufacturers, is common in established restaurants |
| Raw fruit and salads | Risk | Prefer peeled fruit and cooked dishes early in the trip |
Practical solutions
- Bottled water: check the cap is sealed; a 1.5-litre bottle is cheap in a minimarket.
- Refill stations: many cafés, hotels and villas refill a flask for a small fee or free, which cuts plastic.
- Filters and filter bottles: useful for long stays; choose a model that treats bacteria and viruses.
- Villas: ask whether the drinking-water jug is replaced every day.
If something goes wrong
"Bali belly" often comes through food or water. Rehydrate with oral rehydration salts and get checked if fever or diarrhoea lasts: see Bali belly, pharmacies and emergencies. Medical costs are yours to pay on the spot: a health and evacuation insurance such as SafetyWing covers care and evacuation, but not trip cancellation.
Our advice
Bring a flask and refill it. See also before you go to Bali and street food without the risk.
The Ubud Authority editorial team, 29 October 2026
