What to bring

Lets not get carried away bringing massive suitcases full of clothes and gear we won't need. On this page we'll try to help you plan ahead and only bring necessary stuff, especially in regards to training.
NEW: Laundry info at the bottom of the page!

For camp in general

The climate in Bali is a pleasant tropical island climate.

June falls in Bali’s dry season — expect warm, sunny days with temperatures averaging 27–31°C during the day, cooler evenings (around 22–24°C), lower humidity than the wet season, and only occasional short showers. It’s perfect for outdoor training, but you’ll still sweat a lot during the training sessions.

What to wear for training?

The instructors will be wearing full uniform on all trainings but we do not require you to wear full uniform except for group photos. The camp is not style specific so you are welcome to train in anything that is comfortable for you. We do however like when people train in martial arts specific attire.

If you'd want/need more uniforms, please order with your instructor in good time. Late requests may not be accommodated.

Training Gear (Essential for Camp)

Training clothes: 4–6 quick-dry t-shirts or rash guards, 3–4 pairs of shorts or training pants (breathable, lightweight fabrics like polyester or bamboo). Plan to change after each sweaty session, especially if you sweat a lot!

Footwear for training: Comfortable training shoes or barefoot-friendly shoes if your style allows. Many sessions may be on sand or grass - bring what feels best for footwork. We know that some like to train barefoot and that is suitable on the small artificial beach. When training in the garden area we strongly recommend to bring enclosed shoes for training (and/or for tours and hiking). Nails are of course kept short and clean!
We do NOT want to see anyone training in sandals or flip-flops!

Training gear: Hey, we understand that some of you are new-ish to FMA and/or martial arts in general and we don't expect you to get a ton of gear "just in case". For the ones who have been training for a while, this gear list is short and sweet.

In regards to training gear we ask of you to bring (all gear suggestions are recommended but not necessary!):
- MMA gloves

- Hard Contact Training knife (NOK-trainer)

- Training dagger

- Any protective gear you feel that you'd want to wear. (Goggles, forearm guards, ankle braces etc)

- Any other needed gear will be provided at camp

Towel or microfiber towel: Quick-dry for wiping sweat during sessions, especially if you sweat a lot.

Small backpack or day bag: For carrying water, towel, and gear between sessions and excursions.

Clothing & Daily Wear

Pack light — Bali laundry is cheap and convenient (more on this below). Focus on breathable, quick-drying fabrics (cotton, linen, moisture-wicking synthetics). Roll clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles.

  • 5–7 lightweight t-shirts or tank tops

  • 3–4 pairs of shorts or lightweight pants/skirts

  • 2–3 casual outfits for evenings (light dresses, linen shirts, or relaxed pants — temple visits or dinners may require shoulders and knees covered)

  • Swimwear (2–3 sets — quick-dry is ideal for pools/beaches)

  • 1 light long-sleeve shirt or hoodie (for cooler evenings, air-conditioned rooms, or sun protection)

  • Underwear & socks: Enough for 5–7 days (you’ll laundry frequently)

  • Sarong or light scarf (useful for temples, beaches, or as a cover-up)

Tip: Light-colored clothes help with heat reflection. Avoid heavy jeans or dark fabrics that absorb heat and show sweat.

Footwear

  • Comfortable sandals or flip-flops (essential for daily use - Bali is very casual)

  • One pair of closed-toe shoes or trainers (for training, walking, or occasional rain)

  • Optional: Water/reef shoes if you plan waterfall or beach activities

Health, Hygiene & Sun Protection

  • High-SPF sunscreen (reef-safe preferred) and after-sun lotion - the sun is intense even in dry season. For those who aren't as used to the sun as the Aussies are, sun screen is NOT applied right before you jump into a pool or into the ocean. Give it 30min to absorb into your skin. Re-apply after water activities. I'm a DiveMaster so I'm extra extra adamant about this.

  • Insect repellent (mosquitoes are present, especially during evenings. Good options are available locally, cheap.)

  • Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated - Bali water is not safe to drink from taps. We also want to avoid to add to the massive waste issue Bali has).

  • Basic first-aid kit: Band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers, any personal medications, rehydration salts/electrolytes (sweaty training + heat). Good Apoteks available locally but they most likely don't have the brand or thing that you are looking for.

  • Hat or cap + sunglasses.

  • Toiletries: Travel-size shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothpaste, etc. (you can buy more locally if needed)

  • Hand sanitiser and wet wipes (useful during/after training and mandatory before you eat anything!)

  • Ladies, a decent selection of sanitary products is not always available

Electronics & Miscellaneous

  • Phone + charger + power bank

  • Universal adapter (Indonesia uses Type C/F plugs, 220–240V, standard European plug)

  • Snacks or protein bars for energy during long training days

  • Cash (IDR Rupiah) + card - many places accept cards, but small vendors prefer cash (Cash is KING)

  • Passport, visa info, travel insurance documents, and a copy of your flight details

Final Packing Tips

  • Use packing cubes to stay organized and compress clothes.

  • Wear your bulkiest shoes on the plane.

  • Pack a small laundry bag or mesh bag for dirty training clothes.

  • Bring a lightweight daypack for outings.

What about laundry?

Training hard in the heat means you’ll generate a lot of sweaty clothes quickly.

Good news: Laundry in Bali is inexpensive, fast, and reliable - most travellers pack light and wash frequently instead of bringing a huge suitcase.

Simpler things can easily be washed in the shower, we just ask of you to use Dettol or similar to disinfect your training gear if you choose this alternative.

How it works:

  • Look for local “laundry kiloan” shops (common in tourist areas, near villas, or your accommodation). You drop off a bag of clothes by weight. Our nearest is just across the road from the resort entrance!

  • They wash, dry (machine or sun-dry), fold, and return everything - often the same day or next day.

  • Make sure you bring your own laundry bag/s. Coming with a generic plastic bag that falls apart is bound to have something missing or (hilariously) added!

  • Many hotels/villas offer pickup and delivery, it's just considerable more pricy.

  • Express options (same-day or 3–7 hours) are available for a higher fee.

Typical costs (2024-2025 prices)

  • Standard wash + dry + fold: IDR 8,000 – 20,000 per kilogram (roughly AU$0.80 – AU$2 per kg). Premium or hotel services may be IDR 20,000–50,000/kg.

  • A typical load of training clothes + daily wear for one person is 2–4 kg, so very affordable (often under AU$10 per wash). Our local laundry place was much cheaper than that from my memory.

  • Minimum order is sometimes 3 kg, but many places are flexible. Our local has no minimum as far as I know.

Tips to keep clothes clean and fresh

  • Separate training clothes immediately after sessions and rinse sweaty gear in cold water if possible to prevent stains setting in.

  • Use a mesh laundry bag to keep dirty items contained.

  • Ask for “no starch” or gentle wash if you have delicate training gear.

  • Sun-drying is common and effective in the dry season, but machine drying is usually included.

  • Budget AU$5–15 per week for laundry depending on how often you wash - it’s far cheaper and easier than packing extra clothes.

  • If you sweat a lot, make it a habit to drop off your used training gear for wash when leaving the resort and pick up the next day.

This setup keeps your bag light while ensuring you stay comfortable, protected from the sun, and ready for training plus Bali adventures.