How to visit the Gili Islands on a budget

23.04.2024 - 07:43 / lonelyplanet.com

Gaining popularity with intrepid backpackers just a few decades ago, Lombok’s Gili Islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air – have been a budget travel hotspot ever since. While midrange boutique hotels now dot beachfronts on all three islands, the budget-conscious traveler is still the mainstay of island tourism, especially through the low season months. All it takes is a little know-how to travel cheaply in the Gili Islands.

A Gili Islands budget trip is all about the beaches and reefs with the only major expense likely to be a scuba diving package. You’ll find no golf courses, theme parks or any motorized transportation. These islands have one of the most sociable backpacker scenes in Southeast Asia so it's the perfect budget destination for solo travelers. The friendly locals are well used to westerners procrastinating over prices. Of course, there are numerous ways businesses will try to convince you to spend more than you really need to. Here are our budget travel tips for the Gili Islands to make every last rupiah stretch further.

Each of the three Gili Islands has developed its own distinctive character and vibe. Party island Gili Trawangan has by far the largest concentration of cheap eats and budget accommodation (as well as the finest dining and luxury resorts too). By contrast, diminutive Gili Meno is the low-key castaway island, more suited to couples. There is far less competition here for budget dining and homestays which is reflected in higher overall costs. While there are some no-frills homestays, boutique midrange places to stay are becoming the norm. A happy medium between these two is Gili Air, a less cosmopolitan and arguably more authentic version of Gili Trawangan. There is a distinct bohemian-style vibe here with a chilled-out bar scene.

There is little difference between nightly rates for a cheap homestay or bungalow resort versus a hostel. Both have their plus points: hostels in the Gili Islands generally have modern amenities like a pool, bar and indoor and outdoor social spaces. In family-run homestays, you’ll have the privacy of your own ensuite room and be exposed to a more authentic Gili Island experience.

There is a wide variety of beachfront dining options for every conceivable palate, but walk a few meters inland to discover local restaurants at a fraction of the price. There are numerous small warungs(family-owned cafes) serving simple fried rice and noodles, satay and more for less than the price of a small beer. For a happy compromise between price and more familiar western options, the bustling night food market in Gili Trawangan is the go-to place.

Planning a trip to Gili Islands will invariably mean arriving via Bali on one of the many fast boat services.