Bali has long been a favourite destination for travellers from around the world, with many choosing to extend their stay beyond a short vacation. One of the most common ways for tourists to get around the island is by renting motorbikes, often for long periods.
However, a recurring issue that has been widely observed is that many foreign tourists and expatriates riding motorbikes in Bali tend to neglect wearing helmets.
A TikTok user, @_beatrips, recently took to social media to emphasize what she believes is the most important safety tip for anyone visiting Bali—always wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle.
@_beatrips #balitips #baliscooter #balilife ♬ original sound – Bea | Living in Bali 🌞
In his video, she highlights the frequent occurrence of accidents on the island, many of which involve riders who are not wearing helmets. She goes on to share that she personally knows several people who have been hospitalized due to motorbike accidents, reinforcing the necessity of protective gear.
The video resonated with many online users, garnering positive responses from netizens. One comment read, “Good reminder! 👍👍👍👍,” while another emphasized the importance of safety over appearance, stating, “A helmet is safe rather than being cool and in an accident.”
Alarming Incidents Involving Helmetless Riders
The issue of foreign tourists neglecting to wear helmets has been an ongoing concern in Bali. In January 2025, a video surfaced showing a male foreign national kissing a woman while riding a three-wheeled motorcycle in Denpasar, Bali. The video quickly went viral, not only because of their reckless behaviour but also because neither of them was wearing a helmet.
The couple was seen riding in an online motorcycle taxi, with the woman seated in the middle and turning her face towards the man behind her as they engaged in their public display of affection.
Unfortunately, some cases have had much graver consequences. In 2023, a fatal accident occurred in Denpasar, resulting in the death of a Dutch tourist.
The accident took place on Ngurah Rai Bypass Road at the Griya Anyar-Pemogan Road intersection in South Denpasar. The Dutch tourist suffered severe head injuries after colliding with a truck, and tragically, he was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
Reckless Riding and Warnings to Rental Businesses
It is a common sight to see foreign tourists navigating Bali’s roads on rented motorbikes. However, a major concern is that many of them not only fail to wear helmets but also exhibit reckless behaviour while riding. This has led to increasing frustration among local authorities.
Motorbike rental businesses have been urged to be more vigilant and to verify the driver’s licenses of foreign tourists before renting out motorcycles.
One of the main concerns is that not all foreigners visiting Bali possess a valid driver’s license, let alone an international driving permit required to legally operate a motorcycle in Indonesia. By enforcing stricter regulations and conducting thorough checks, authorities hope to reduce accidents and promote safer driving practices among tourists.
Wearing a helmet may seem like a small precaution, but it can make a significant difference in preventing severe injuries or fatalities in the event of an accident.
As Bali continues to attract large numbers of international visitors, it is essential that tourists prioritize safety over convenience or style. Following local traffic laws, wearing helmets, and riding responsibly can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience on the island for everyone.
For those planning to visit Bali and rent a motorbike, remember: that safety should always come first. Wearing a helmet is not just a recommendation, it is a crucial step in protecting yourself on the road.
