Tips for Visiting the Gili Islands on a Budget

Once a favorite among adventurous backpackers, Lombok’s Gili Islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air—have become a prime destination for budget travelers over the years. While midrange boutique hotels now line the beaches of all three islands, budget-conscious tourists remain the backbone of the local tourism scene, particularly during the off-peak months. With a bit of savvy planning, you can easily travel affordably in the Gili Islands.

A budget-friendly trip to the Gili Islands revolves around enjoying the stunning beaches and vibrant reefs, with scuba diving being the main potential expense. There are no golf courses, theme parks, or motorized transportation here. The islands boast one of the most vibrant backpacker communities in Southeast Asia, making them an ideal destination for solo travelers. Friendly locals are accustomed to negotiating prices, though be aware that some businesses may try to upsell you. Here are our budget travel tips for the Gili Islands to help you make the most of every rupiah.

Which Gili Island is the most budget-friendly?

Each of the three Gili Islands has its unique personality and atmosphere. Gili Trawangan, known as the party island, offers the widest selection of affordable dining options and budget accommodations, along with upscale restaurants and luxury resorts. In contrast, smaller Gili Meno serves as the tranquil escape, more suited for couples, but has fewer budget dining and homestay options, leading to higher overall costs. While basic homestays exist, boutique midrange accommodations are increasingly common. Gili Air strikes a balance between the two, offering a less touristy, more authentic experience than Gili Trawangan, with a distinct bohemian vibe and relaxed bar scene.

A budget bungalow can be as affordable as a dorm bed

The price difference between a budget homestay or bungalow resort and a hostel is minimal. Each option has its advantages: hostels in the Gili Islands typically offer modern features like a pool, bar, and social areas both indoors and outdoors. In contrast, family-run homestays provide the comfort of your own ensuite room while offering a more genuine Gili Island experience.

Venture inland for budget-friendly meals

You'll find a diverse range of beachfront dining options to suit any taste, but just a short walk inland reveals local eateries with prices that are much more wallet-friendly. Numerous small warungs (family-run cafes) serve up simple dishes like fried rice, noodles, and satay for less than the cost of a small beer. For a great balance between affordability and familiar western cuisine, head to the lively night food market in Gili Trawangan.

Book your fast boat service from Bali in advance

A trip to the Gili Islands typically begins with a fast boat ride from Bali, where you'll find numerous operators. Fares can range widely, from around IDR 300,000 to IDR 600,000 one way. During peak months like July and August, boats fill up quickly, and prices tend to be on the higher side. Most companies allow for advance online bookings (check out Eka Jaya, Wahana, and Gili Gili Fast Boat), and the fare usually includes hotel pickup from many tourist areas in South Bali. Be aware that there might be an extra charge for surfboards, so always inform the boat company ahead of time to avoid surprises.

Get significant discounts for longer stays

Many travelers arrive in the Gili Islands for a short visit from Bali but end up extending their stay to a month or more. Pricing for long stays can be quite flexible, and it’s common to negotiate a budget homestay at about a third of the daily rate during the low season for stays of a month or longer. However, securing a substantial discount during peak season (July and August) or around New Year can be quite challenging, even for skilled negotiators.

Dive from any of the islands

The Gili Islands rank among the most affordable diving locations in Southeast Asia. A three-day PADI Open Water Course costs IDR 6,400,000, while a two-day PADI Advanced Open Water Course is priced at IDR 5,400,000.

Which island is the best and most affordable for scuba diving? The truth is, it doesn’t really matter. Most dive schools accredited by SSI and PADI are located on all three islands, and each company rotates through the same dive sites. All dive resorts offer their own accommodations and have packages that combine diving and lodging, often with great low-season discounts available.

Get around using pedal power

To travel from one place to another on the Gili Islands, your choices are straightforward: on foot, by bike, or in a horse-drawn cart known as a cidomo. The cidomo is the priciest option, with a round-island trip costing at least IDR 300,000, while bicycle rentals are widely available for about IDR 50,000 per day. Make sure to inspect the bike before renting, as you'll be liable for any damages. Fortunately, all three islands are free of cars and motorbikes.

Spend a day exploring a different island

There are two primary ways to hop between the islands. The slower outrigger boat operates a round trip to all three islands twice daily, at scheduled times in the morning and late afternoon, making day trips feasible. The fare is around IDR 30,000 and the journey takes a maximum of 40 minutes (Gili Trawangan – Gili Meno – Gili Air). For a quicker option, the public speedboat runs every hour but is about three times the price.

Gather beach trash for a complimentary beer

Score a free cold beer while helping to keep the beaches of Gili Trawangan clean and beautiful. The Gili Eco Trust organizes beach cleanups every Friday from 5pm to 6pm, and everyone is invited. You’ll not only keep the shores litter-free but also connect with fellow travelers. Plus, the reward of a free beer just in time for sunset makes it all the more enticing.

Book activities through your accommodation

Let’s be honest – the Gili Islands aren’t exactly rich in cultural or historical attractions (human settlement only started in the 1970s). Other than yoga, crazy golf, and horse riding, most activities are either on or under the water. Budget-friendly options include SUP, kayaking, kite surfing, and snorkeling. While prices can vary by season, your best bet for deals is through your hostel or mid-range resort, as many offer discounted group rates.

Daily expenses

• Shared dorm bed in a hostel: IDR 200,000

• Budget hotel room for two guests: IDR 350,000

• Bicycle rental: IDR 50,000 per day

• Fried rice from a food cart: IDR 20,000

• Beer at a bar: IDR 30,000

• Cocktail at a sunset venue: IDR 60,000

• Beach dinner for two: IDR 200,000 to 400,000

• Coffee: IDR 25,000

• 60-minute massage: IDR 150,000

• Snorkeling trip: IDR 170,000 (private charter boat: IDR 500,000)

Estimated daily cost: IDR 500,000 to IDR 800,000.