Is Bali Belly Covered by Travel Insurance? What Every U.S. Traveler Needs to Know

What Is Bali Belly?

Before we get into the insurance details, it’s important to answer a common question: what is Bali belly?

Bali belly is a colloquial term used to describe traveler’s diarrhea or gastroenteritis commonly experienced by tourists visiting Bali and other parts of Southeast Asia. It’s often the result of ingesting contaminated food or water, unfamiliar bacteria, or adjusting to new dietary habits.

Symptoms of Bali belly can include:

Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea (sometimes severe)
Stomach cramps or pain
Bloating and gas
Mild fever
Loss of appetite
Dehydration

While most cases are mild and resolve within a few days, others may require medical treatment, especially if the illness leads to dehydration or prolonged discomfort.

Why Do So Many U.S. Travelers Get Bali Belly?

Bali is a stunning destination with lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and flavorful food. But for U.S. travelers used to strict food safety regulations, the transition can be tricky. Eating from street vendors, drinking tap water, or even brushing your teeth with unfiltered water can expose your system to bacteria it’s not equipped to handle.

Sudden changes in climate, food types, and hygiene conditions also contribute to the risk. Even seemingly clean or upscale restaurants may not adhere to food handling practices that would pass U.S. health codes.

Can You Get Bali Belly In Flight?

Yes, you can absolutely experience Bali belly in flight—and it’s more common than you might expect. While you may feel fine during your trip, symptoms can begin during your long-haul flight back to the U.S., especially since Bali belly can take 6 to 72 hours to manifest.

Being stuck on a plane for over 15 hours with nausea, cramping, or diarrhea is deeply uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. You may experience limited access to bathrooms, inadequate hydration, or complications if your condition worsens mid-air. Cabin crew can only offer limited help, and if your symptoms become severe, you may need emergency medical attention upon landing.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Bali Belly?

If you’re a U.S. traveler wondering whether travel insurance covers Bali belly, the good news is: yes, it usually does. However, the extent of coverage depends on the plan you purchase and the insurer’s terms and conditions.
Most comprehensive travel insurance policies cover unexpected medical emergencies, and that includes treatment for gastrointestinal illnesses like Bali belly.

Here’s what is typically included in a good travel insurance plan:

Emergency medical treatment if you need to see a doctor or be hospitalized for Bali belly
Medication costs, such as antibiotics, anti-nausea pills, or rehydration salts prescribed by a doctor
Trip interruption coverage, if your illness forces you to cut your trip short or delay your return
Emergency evacuation if you need to be transported to a better-equipped medical facility
Assistance for in-flight medical issues, especially if you’re taken for treatment immediately after landing

It’s important to read the fine print and understand whether your specific plan includes coverage for these scenarios. Some basic or budget plans may exclude minor illnesses or may require you to pay upfront and get reimbursed later.

Choosing the Right Travel Insurance Plan for Bali

If you’re traveling to Bali from the U.S., choose a travel insurance provider that offers robust international medical coverage, especially in regions like Southeast Asia. Look for providers with 24/7 emergency hotlines and coverage for both outpatient and inpatient care.

Some well-known insurers among U.S. travelers that typically offer coverage for issues like Bali belly include:

World Nomads
Allianz Global Assistance
Travel Guard by AIG
Trawick International
Seven Corners

Always purchase your travel insurance before your departure from the U.S., and ensure it starts on the first day of your trip. If you get sick before your policy begins or if you delay purchase until after arrival, you may not be covered.

What to Do If You Get Bali Belly

If you suspect you’ve come down with Bali belly during your trip, here are the recommended steps:

1. Start Hydrating Immediately

The most dangerous side effect of Bali belly is dehydration. Start drinking bottled water or oral rehydration salts right away. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can make dehydration worse.

2. Rest and Avoid Risky Foods

Stick to bland foods like toast, rice, bananas, and applesauce until your stomach settles. Avoid spicy or greasy meals and skip dairy until you recover.

3. Seek Medical Help If Symptoms Persist

If symptoms last more than 48 hours or if you experience high fever, bloody stools, or signs of severe dehydration, seek medical care. Your travel insurance should cover a local clinic or hospital visit, especially if arranged through the insurer’s emergency line.

4. Save Receipts and Medical Documents

Keep detailed records of doctor visits, prescriptions, and any medical expenses. You’ll need this information to file a successful travel insurance claim when you return to the U.S. or even while still abroad.

5. Contact Your Travel Insurer

Most U.S.-based travel insurers have a 24/7 support line. Call them for guidance, referrals, or to open a claim. Some providers can even pay your hospital bill directly, saving you from out-of-pocket expenses.

Check out : Emirates Premium Economy Class

Preventing Bali Belly: Tips for U.S. Travelers

While you can’t eliminate the risk entirely, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting sick with these precautions:

Drink only bottled or purified water (including for brushing your teeth)
Avoid ice unless you’re sure it’s made from filtered water
Eat food that’s been thoroughly cooked and served hot
Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer
Peel fruits and vegetables yourself
Be cautious with street food—stick to vendors that are busy and popular with locals

What If You Get Sick on the Plane?

Experiencing Bali belly in flight is a nightmare scenario. If this happens, the airline crew can assist with basic care—offering fluids, locating the nearest restroom, or alerting medical teams upon landing. In some cases, if your illness is serious enough to cause an emergency landing or hospitalization, your travel insurance can help cover the associated medical and travel costs.

Make sure to notify your insurer as soon as you’re able. Some plans require prompt reporting to validate a claim, especially for flight-related emergencies.

Final Thoughts: Travel Smart and Stay Covered

So, is Bali belly covered by travel insurance? For most U.S. travelers with a solid travel insurance plan, the answer is a reassuring yes. From basic doctor visits to emergency care during flights, the right coverage can protect your health, your finances, and your peace of mind.

While Bali belly is a common inconvenience, it doesn’t have to ruin your vacation. By preparing wisely, staying cautious with food and water, and choosing a comprehensive travel insurance plan, you can enjoy the beauty of Bali without unnecessary stress.