Published: Mar 26, 2024

Bali Belly is a common travel problem.

It can ruin a holiday fast.

You may get sudden diarrhea.

You may have stomach cramps.

You may feel sick.

You may vomit.

You may feel weak and tired.

Many people use the name Bali Belly for traveller’s diarrhea in Bali.

It is often linked with contaminated food or water.

It can also happen from new germs, poor hand hygiene, food handling problems, or stomach infections.

Most mild cases improve in a few days.

But severe diarrhea can cause dehydration.

Some people need medical care.

This guide explains Bali Belly, causes, symptoms, treatment, prevention tips, red flags, travel care, and when to see a doctor.

For more help, visit our Digestive Health & Gut Hub, Infections & Immune Health Hub, First Aid & Home Remedies Hub, Medical Tests & Screenings Hub, and Health Hub.

Medical note: This article is for education only. It does not diagnose or treat traveller’s diarrhea, food poisoning, dehydration, parasite infection, bacterial infection, viral gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease, appendicitis, pregnancy complications, or any medical condition. Get urgent medical help for blood in stool, black stool, severe dehydration, fainting, severe belly pain, high fever, repeated vomiting, confusion, chest pain, trouble breathing, or diarrhea in a baby, older adult, pregnant person, or person with a weak immune system.

Quick Answer: What Is Bali Belly?

Bali Belly is a common name for traveller’s diarrhea.

It usually means diarrhea that starts during or after a trip to Bali.

It is often caused by germs in food or water.

These germs may include bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

Symptoms may include:

• Loose or watery stool
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Bloating
• Urgent need to use the bathroom
• Fever in some cases
• Weakness
• Dehydration

Most mild cases get better with fluids, rest, and simple food.

But red flags need medical care.

How Long Does Bali Belly Last?

Many mild cases last 1 to 3 days.

Some cases last longer.

Symptoms may last up to a week or more if the infection is stronger.

Parasites can last longer if not treated.

See a doctor if diarrhea does not improve, keeps returning, or lasts more than a few days.

Get care sooner if you have a fever, bleeding, severe pain, or dehydration.

What Causes Bali Belly?

Bali Belly usually starts after germs enter the gut.

This can happen through:

• Unsafe drinking water
• Ice made from unsafe water
• Raw foods washed in unsafe water
• Undercooked meat
• Undercooked seafood
• Food left warm for too long
• Unclean hands
• Unclean utensils
• Contaminated surfaces
• Poor food storage

Travel changes can also upset the gut.

New food, heat, alcohol, stress, jet lag, and less sleep may make symptoms feel worse.

Common Germs Behind Traveller’s Diarrhea

Different germs can cause Bali Belly.

Common causes may include:

• Bacteria, such as E. coli, Campylobacter, Salmonella, or Shigella
• Viruses, such as norovirus
• Parasites, such as Giardia or Cryptosporidium

You usually cannot tell the germ by symptoms alone.

A doctor may order stool testing if symptoms are severe, bloody, long-lasting, or keep coming back.

Bali Belly Symptoms

Symptoms can start suddenly.

You may feel fine in the morning and sick by the afternoon.

Common symptoms include:

• Watery diarrhea
• Frequent bathroom trips
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Bloating
• Gas
• Fever
• Chills
• Body aches
• Headache
• Weakness

Diarrhea can cause dehydration.

Dehydration is the main risk to watch for.

Red Flags: When to Get Medical Help

Get medical help if you have:

• Blood in stool
• Black stool
• High fever
• Severe belly pain
• Severe rectal pain
• Repeated vomiting
• Cannot keep fluids down
• Very little urine
• Dark urine
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Dry mouth and extreme thirst
• Diarrhea lasting more than a few days
• Symptoms after returning home that do not improve
• Diarrhea in pregnancy
• Diarrhea in a baby or older adult
• Diarrhea with a weak immune system

Do not wait if symptoms are getting worse.

Emergency Warning Signs

Get urgent help now for:

• Severe dehydration
• Confusion
• Fainting
• Blue lips
• Severe weakness
• Severe belly swelling
• Severe constant belly pain
• Coughing or vomiting blood
• Large amount of blood in stool
• Chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Very high fever with feeling very unwell

These signs can be serious.

Signs of Dehydration

Diarrhea and vomiting can drain fluid fast.

Signs of dehydration include:

• Thirst
• Dry mouth
• Dry lips
• Dark urine
• Peeing less than usual
• Dizziness
• Fast heartbeat
• Weakness
• Headache
• Sleepiness
• Confusion

Children and older adults can dehydrate faster.

They need extra care.

What to Do First

If you think you have Bali Belly, start with fluids.

Do this:

1. Rest.
2. Drink small sips often.
3. Use oral rehydration solution if needed.
4. Eat small, bland foods when ready.
5. Avoid alcohol.
6. Avoid greasy meals.
7. Watch for red flags.
8. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking medicine.

The goal is to prevent dehydration and let your gut recover.

Best Fluids for Bali Belly

Safe fluids matter.

Use sealed bottled water, boiled water, or properly treated water.

Good options may include:

• Oral rehydration solution
• Sealed bottled water
• Boiled and cooled water
• Broth
• Diluted juice
• Weak tea
• Electrolyte drinks
• Ice chips made from safe water

Oral rehydration solution is useful if diarrhea is frequent.

It helps replace water and salts.

What to Eat With Bali Belly

Eat when you feel ready.

Start small.

Try bland foods like:

• Rice
• Toast
• Banana
• Crackers
• Plain noodles
• Soup
• Boiled potatoes
• Oatmeal
• Applesauce
• Plain chicken if tolerated

Return to normal meals slowly.

Do not force food if you are vomiting.

What to Avoid While Sick

During active diarrhea, avoid:

• Alcohol
• Greasy food
• Very spicy food
• Large meals
• Unwashed raw foods
• Street food from unsafe-looking stalls
• Unsealed drinks
• Ice from unknown water
• Too much coffee
• Very sugary drinks
• Milk if it worsens diarrhea

Your gut may be sensitive for a few days.

Can You Take Anti-Diarrhea Medicine?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist first.

Some adults can use anti-diarrhea medicine for mild symptoms.

It may help during travel.

But do not use it if you have:

• Blood in stool
• Black stool
• High fever
• Severe belly pain
• Suspected serious infection
• Severe dehydration
• Diarrhea after antibiotics

Do not give adult diarrhea medicine to children unless a healthcare professional says it is safe.

Do You Need Antibiotics for Bali Belly?

Not always.

Many cases improve without antibiotics.

Antibiotics may be needed for severe traveller’s diarrhea, fever, blood in the stool, or symptoms that stop normal activity.

A doctor should decide.

Do not use leftover antibiotics.

Do not take antibiotics “just in case” without advice.

Wrong antibiotic use can cause side effects and resistance.

Could Bali Belly Be a Parasite?

Yes, sometimes.

Parasites are more likely if diarrhea lasts longer or keeps coming back.

Possible signs include:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 1 to 2 weeks
• Greasy or very foul-smelling stool
• Gas and bloating
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Symptoms after returning home

Ask a doctor about stool testing if symptoms persist.

Bali Belly vs Food Poisoning

Bali Belly is often a type of traveller’s diarrhea.

Food poisoning is also possible.

They can look very similar.

Food poisoning may start quickly after a meal.

It may cause vomiting, cramps, and diarrhea.

Bali Belly may also start after contaminated food or water.

The care is often similar at first: fluids, rest, and red-flag monitoring.

Bali Belly vs Heat Illness

Bali can be hot and humid.

Heat illness can cause weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache.

Diarrhea can also dehydrate you.

Get urgent help for:

• Confusion
• Fainting
• Very high body temperature
• Severe weakness
• Not sweating despite heat
• Severe dehydration

Rest in a cool place and drink safe fluids.

Bali Belly in Children

Children can dehydrate quickly.

Call a doctor if a child has:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
• Repeated vomiting
• No tears when crying
• Very little urine
• Dry mouth
• Sleepiness
• Blood in stool
• High fever
• Severe belly pain
• Symptoms in a baby

Use oral rehydration solution as directed.

Do not give adult medicines without medical advice.

Bali Belly During Pregnancy

Pregnancy needs extra care.

Call a healthcare professional if you are pregnant and have diarrhea while travelling.

Get help faster if you have:

• Dehydration
• Fever
• Repeated vomiting
• Severe belly pain
• Blood in stool
• Dizziness
• Reduced fetal movement
• Contractions
• Vaginal bleeding

Do not take travel diarrhea medicine without pregnancy-safe advice.

Bali Belly in Older Adults

Older adults can dehydrate faster.

They may also take medicines that affect fluid balance.

Call a doctor early if an older adult has:

• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Little urine
• Poor fluid intake
• Fever
• Repeated vomiting
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Diabetes

Do not wait until dehydration becomes severe.

How to Prevent Bali Belly

You cannot remove all risk.

But you can lower the risk.

1. Drink Safe Water

• Use sealed bottled water.
• Use boiled water when needed.
• Use properly treated water.
• Avoid tap water if safety is uncertain.
• Use safe water for brushing teeth.

2. Be Careful With Ice

Ice can be made from unsafe water.

Use ice only if you trust the source.

When unsure, skip ice.

3. Eat Food That Is Cooked and Hot

Hot cooked food is usually safer than food sitting warm.

Choose food that is cooked well and served hot.

Avoid food that looks like it has been sitting for a long time.

4. Be Careful With Raw Foods

Raw foods can be washed in unsafe water.

Be careful with:

• Raw salad
• Unpeeled fruit
• Raw herbs
• Raw seafood
• Undercooked eggs
• Unpasteurized dairy

Fruit you peel yourself is often safer.

5. Wash Hands Often

Wash hands with soap and water.

Wash before eating.

Wash your hands after using the bathroom.

Use hand sanitizer when soap is not available.

Soap and water are best after bathroom use.

6. Choose Food Places Carefully

Look for places with good hygiene.

Choose busy places with fresh turnover.

Avoid food that looks old, uncovered, or lukewarm.

7. Pack a Travel Health Kit

Before travel, pack:

• Oral rehydration packets
• Hand sanitizer
• Thermometer
• Safe snacks
• Any regular medicines
• Travel insurance details
• Doctor-approved diarrhea medicine if needed
• Doctor-approved antibiotic only if prescribed for your risk

Ask a travel clinic before your trip if you have health risks.

Should You Take Probiotics Before Bali?

Some people ask about probiotics.

Probiotics may help some gut issues.

But they do not guarantee protection.

They are not safe for everyone.

Ask a doctor first if you:

• Have a weak immune system
• Are pregnant
• Are you giving them to a baby
• Have a serious illness
• Have a central line
• Have a serious gut disease

Food and water safety still matter most.

Should You Take Bismuth to Prevent Bali Belly?

Some travellers use bismuth subsalicylate to lower diarrhea risk.

It is not safe for everyone.

Do not use it without medical advice if you:

• Are pregnant
• Are allergic to aspirin
• Take blood thinners
• Have kidney disease
• Have stomach ulcers
• Are you giving it to a child or teenager
• Take many medicines

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using it.

When You Can Travel Again

Do not travel if you are very sick.

Delay travel if you have:

• Severe diarrhea
• Repeated vomiting
• Fever
• Dehydration
• Dizziness
• Blood in stool
• Weakness that makes travel unsafe

If you must travel, focus on fluids and bathroom access.

Do not take medicine just to hide dangerous symptoms.

When to See a Doctor After Returning Home

See a doctor after travel if:

• Diarrhea lasts more than a few days
• Symptoms keep coming back
• You lose weight
• You have blood in your stool
• You have a fever
• You have severe fatigue
• You have ongoing belly pain
• You think you may have a parasite
• You took antibiotics, and your diarrhea worsened

Tell the doctor where you travelled.

Tell them what you ate, what medicines you used, and when symptoms started.

Possible Tests

Your doctor may not need tests for mild cases.

But tests may be needed if symptoms are severe or long-lasting.

Possible tests include:

• Stool test
• Stool culture
• Parasite test
• Blood tests
• Electrolyte test
• Kidney function test if dehydrated
• Inflammation tests if needed

The right test depends on your symptoms.

What Not to Do

• Do not ignore dehydration.
• Do not drink unsafe tap water.
• Do not use unsafe ice.
• Do not eat food that looks old or lukewarm.
• Do not take antibiotics without medical advice.
• Do not take anti-diarrhea medicine with blood or fever unless a doctor says so.
• Do not drink alcohol during active diarrhea.
• Do not force heavy meals.
• Do not give adult medicines to children.
• Do not delay care if symptoms are severe.

Simple 7-Day Bali Belly Care Plan

This plan does not replace medical care.

Use it for mild symptoms only.

Day 1: Start Fluids

Drink safe fluids in small sips. Use oral rehydration solution if diarrhea is frequent.

Day 2: Eat Bland Food

Try rice, banana, toast, crackers, soup, or potatoes if you feel hungry.

Day 3: Check Improvement

If symptoms are not improving, call a doctor or travel clinic.

Day 4: Watch for Red Flags

Look for blood, fever, severe pain, dizziness, or little urine.

Day 5: Add Food Slowly

Add normal foods slowly if diarrhea is improving.

Day 6: Review Possible Causes

Think about water, ice, raw foods, undercooked foods, or sick contacts.

Day 7: Get Checked if Still Sick

Diarrhea that continues needs medical review, especially after travel.

Daily Travel Gut Checklist

• Did I drink safe water today?
• Did I avoid unsafe ice?
• Did I wash my hands before eating?
• Did I eat food cooked hot?
• Did I avoid risky raw foods?
• Did I drink enough fluids?
• Did I have diarrhea today?
• Did I vomit?
• Did I have a fever?
• Did I have blood in my stool?
• Do I need medical help?

Questions to Ask a Doctor or Travel Clinic

• Is this likely Bali Belly or another infection?
• Do I need stool testing?
• Do I need oral rehydration solution?
• Can I take anti-diarrhea medicine?
• Do I need antibiotics?
• Could this be a parasite?
• What should I eat?
• What fluids are safest?
• When should I go to urgent care?
• What should I pack before my next trip?
• Are vaccines or travel medicines needed for my route?
• Is bismuth safe for me?

FAQ

What is Bali Belly?

Bali Belly is a common name for traveller’s diarrhea during or after a trip to Bali. It is often caused by germs from contaminated food or water.

How long does Bali Belly last?

Mild Bali Belly often improves in 1 to 3 days. Some cases last longer. Diarrhea that is severe, bloody, or lasts more than a few days should be checked by a doctor.

What are Bali Belly symptoms?

Symptoms can include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, bloating, fever, urgency, weakness, and dehydration.

How do you treat Bali Belly?

The main treatment is safe fluids and oral rehydration solution if needed. Rest and bland foods may help. Medicines or antibiotics should be used only when safe and appropriate.

Do I need antibiotics for Bali Belly?

Not always. Many cases improve without antibiotics. Antibiotics may be needed for severe diarrhea, fever, blood in stool, or symptoms that stop normal activity. Ask a doctor.

Can Bali Belly be prevented?

You can lower the risk by drinking safe water, avoiding unsafe ice, eating food cooked hot, being careful with raw foods, washing hands often, and packing oral rehydration solution.

Is Bali Belly contagious?

It can be contagious depending on the germ. Good handwashing, bathroom hygiene, and not preparing food for others while sick can help reduce the spread.

Can Bali Belly happen after returning home?

Yes. Symptoms can start during travel or after returning home. See a doctor if diarrhea lasts, returns, or comes with fever, blood, weight loss, or severe pain.

What should I eat with Bali Belly?

Start with small, bland foods such as rice, toast, banana, crackers, soup, potatoes, oatmeal, or plain noodles. Return to normal food slowly as you improve.

When should I go to the hospital for Bali Belly?

Go urgently for severe dehydration, fainting, confusion, blood in stool, black stool, severe belly pain, high fever, repeated vomiting, trouble breathing, or symptoms in a high-risk person.

Related Reading

• Digestive Health & Gut Hub
• Infections & Immune Health Hub
• First Aid & Home Remedies Hub
• Medical Tests & Screenings Hub
• How Long Does Diarrhea Last with COVID? Symptoms and Care
• Stomach Gurgling and Gas: Causes and Relief
• Stomach Pain After Eating: Causes and When to Worry
• Stomach Pain, Gurgling, Gas, and Diarrhea
• Constipation Exercises: 10 Simple Moves That May Help
• Health Hub

Key Takeaway

Bali Belly is a common name for traveller’s diarrhea in Bali.

It is often linked to contaminated food or water.

Symptoms may include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever, weakness, and dehydration.

Most mild cases improve with safe fluids, oral rehydration, rest, and bland foods.

Prevention means safe water, careful ice choices, cooked hot food, handwashing, and avoiding risky raw foods.

Get medical help for blood in stool, black stool, severe pain, high fever, repeated vomiting, dehydration, fainting, or symptoms in children, older adults, pregnant people, or people with weak immune systems.

References and Sources

• CDC Yellow Book — Travelers’ Diarrhea
• CDC Travelers’ Health — Travelers’ Diarrhea
• CDC Yellow Book — Food and Water Precautions for Travelers
• Mayo Clinic — Traveler’s Diarrhea Symptoms and Causes
• NHS — Diarrhoea and Vomiting

Additional Trusted Sources

• CDC Travelers’ Health — Indonesia Traveler View
• Mayo Clinic — Traveler’s Diarrhea Diagnosis and Treatment
• NHS Inform — Diarrhoea in Adults
• MedlinePlus — Diarrhea
• Better Health Channel — Traveller’s Diarrhoea