Mama Mane HQ is on Wardandi Country in South West, Western Australia. We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands we live and work on and pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging.
What to Pack for Bali as a Curvy & Plus Size Woman
What to Pack for Bali as a Curvy & Plus Size Woman
Travelling to Bali as a curvy and plus size woman can sometimes come with a lot of overthinking before the trip even begins. What do I pack? Will I be comfortable? Am I taking enough? What if I don’t feel confident in what I brought? After travelling to Bali multiple times, I’ve realised something important: the less complicated my wardrobe is, the more relaxed and present I am. Instead of overpacking, I now focus on lightweight, breathable pieces that mix and match effortlessly, keep me cool in the humidity and let me enjoy the experience rather than worrying about my outfit.
At Mama Mane, we’re an Australian curve and plus size boho label, so naturally my suitcase is full of comfortable pieces designed to move with me, whether I’m exploring temples, relaxing by the pool or heading out for dinner.
Build Your Wardrobe Around Easy Pieces
When I pack for Bali, I choose outfits that work for multiple occasions. A flowy dress can take me from breakfast to shopping, then straight to dinner with a quick change of sandals and accessories. A lightweight skirt works just as well over bathers at the beach as it does with a simple top for lunch. Packing versatile pieces means I can take less while creating more outfits.
My Bali Packing List
This is what I generally pack for a week in Bali:
- 4–6 lightweight dresses
- 2 flowy skirts or palazzo pants
- 2–3 relaxed tops
- 1 oversized shirt or lightweight blouse
- 2–3 pairs of bathers
- Bike shorts
- Underwear
- A sarong or lightweight throw-over
- Comfortable sandals
- One dressier pair of sandals for evenings
- Minimal jewellery
- A comfortable airport outfit
The Little Things That Make a Big Difference
Comfort is everything when you’re travelling, and sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. My non-negotiables include anti-chafing cream, bike shorts for floaty dresses, a satin slip if I want my dresses to drape beautifully, a lightweight oversized shirt to throw over bathers, sunscreen, comfortable sandals I can walk in all day and tampons, which can be surprisingly difficult to find in Bali. These small additions help me feel comfortable, prepared and ready for whatever the day brings.
Dress for the Bali Climate
Bali is hot, humid and you’ll probably sweat more than you expect. That’s why I always choose breathable fabrics and relaxed silhouettes that don’t cling to my body. As someone with Hashimoto’s, I also experience bloating when I travel, so I naturally reach for empire waist dresses and relaxed fits that give me room to move comfortably throughout the day. Your holiday wardrobe should work with your body, not against it.
Respecting the Culture
While Bali has beautiful beach clubs and resorts, it’s also deeply cultural. If you’re visiting temples or traditional villages, it’s respectful to cover your shoulders and wear clothing that covers your knees. A lightweight blouse, oversized shirt or sarong takes up almost no room in your suitcase but makes it easy to cover up whenever you need to while still staying cool.
My Favourite Bali Travel Tip
One of my favourite travel hacks is wearing a flowy skirt over my bathers. It makes moving between the beach, pool, cafés and beach clubs so much easier without needing to completely change outfits. Simple little tricks like this make your holiday feel effortless.
Pack for Comfort, Not Perfection
One of the biggest lessons Bali has taught me is that holidays are meant to be enjoyed. You don’t need dozens of outfits or an overcomplicated wardrobe. You simply need clothing that helps you feel cool, comfortable and confident. When your clothes fit well and feel good, you’re free to enjoy the sunsets, incredible food, beautiful scenery and unforgettable memories instead of worrying about what you’re wearing.
If you’re looking for effortless holiday dressing, explore our collection of Australian curve and plus size boho fashion designed for women who want to travel comfortably and confidently.
Shop Mama Mane Vacay looks - Curvy & Plus Size
https://mama-mane.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a plus size woman pack for Bali?
Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that can be mixed and matched easily. Dresses, flowy skirts, relaxed tops and comfortable sandals are ideal for Bali’s warm climate.
What fabrics are best for Bali?
Breathable natural fibres like rayon and linen blends help keep you cool in Bali’s humidity.
How do I stop thigh chafing in Bali?
Bike shorts, anti-chafing cream and lightweight dresses are all great options for staying comfortable while walking around in the heat.
What should I wear to temples in Bali?
Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, or carry a lightweight blouse or sarong to cover up when visiting cultural and religious sites.
