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- Asep Haryono | When Tourists Turn into Beggars: The Strange Case of “Begpackers” in Indonesia - Powered by Blogger
A few days ago, I have watched an eye-opening video on YouTube showing several foreign visitors or “bule” begging on the streets of Bali and other Indonesian cities. Just find out an image at below
At first, I thought it must be a prank or social experiment. But after checking some reliable news sources, I found that this situation is real some foreigners do end up begging or performing on the streets because they run out of money while traveling in Indonesia.
This phenomenon, known as “begpacking,” might sound strange to most Indonesians. After all, we usually imagine foreign tourists as rich and privileged, not as people struggling to survive in our cities. But it’s been happening more often than many realize
The “Begpacker” Phenomenon in Indonesia
The term begpacker has become a buzzword on social media and in Southeast Asian tourism circles. These are usually young travelers, often from Western countries, who rely on donations or sell handmade crafts on the streets to “keep traveling.”
In Indonesia, begpackers are most often spotted in Bali (Canggu, Ubud, and Kuta) or Yogyakarta (Malioboro area). They often sit cross-legged with handmade cardboard signs, sometimes next to locals selling food or handicrafts.
Many Indonesians view this beha\vior as insensitive, especially when it happens in places where poverty still exists. It sends a strange message that people from richer countries come to poorer nations and ask locals for help.
Some tourists have even gone viral online for these actions, which usually leads to immigration investigations and deportations.
In 2019, for example, several foreigners in Bali were detained after photos showed them begging for donations to continue their world trip. Immigration officials later confirmed that such actions violate tourist visa rules and embarrass Indonesia’s tourism image
You can read - Things Foreign Tourists Always Ask About Indonesia
Why Some Foreigners End Up Begging in Indonesia
There isn’t one single reason but a mix of economic, social, and personal factors that push foreigners into this position.
Some foreigners come from countries with economic difficulties, high unemployment, or personal financial issues. They travel hoping to find cheaper living conditions or new experiences but end up running out of money sooner than expecteddd, In popular cities like Bali or Jakarta, living costs food, accommodation, transport can be higher than travelers imagine. When their savings dry up and they can’t afford a flight home, begging or selling small souvenirs may seem like the only option.
Job Restrictions for Foreigners. Indonesia has strict laws on foreign employment. Tourists are not allowed to work, sell, or perform publicly for money unless they hold a valid work visa. However, many travelers misunderstand these rules. They assume selling postcards, playing guitar, or accepting donations is harmless. Unfortunately, that’s already considered working illegally under Indonesian immigration law.
The “Begpacker” Mentality. The begpacker idea often comes from a different cultural mindset. Some travelers believe that asking for small donations while traveling is acceptable or even part of an adventurous lifestyle. They see it as “creative travel,” not begging
But in Indonesia where begging is strongly linked with poverty this behavior feels inappropriate and disrespectful to locals. Imagine a visitor from a rich country sitting on a busy street asking poor people for money. For many Indonesians, it simply feels wrong
Poor Planning or Bad Luck. Not all foreign beggars start with bad intentions. Some are genuinely unlucky their wallets get stolen, their credit cards stop working, or they lose their travel funds. Without friends or relatives in Indonesia, and with embassies often offering limited financial help, these travelers feel trapped and desperate, leading them to ask for help on the street
This phenomenon, known as “begpacking,” might sound strange to most Indonesians. After all, we usually imagine foreign tourists as rich and privileged, not as people struggling to survive in our cities. But it’s been happening more often than many realize
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Illustration of travelers
seeking support during their journey in Indonesia. |
The “Begpacker” Phenomenon in Indonesia
The term begpacker has become a buzzword on social media and in Southeast Asian tourism circles. These are usually young travelers, often from Western countries, who rely on donations or sell handmade crafts on the streets to “keep traveling.”
In Indonesia, begpackers are most often spotted in Bali (Canggu, Ubud, and Kuta) or Yogyakarta (Malioboro area). They often sit cross-legged with handmade cardboard signs, sometimes next to locals selling food or handicrafts.
Many Indonesians view this beha\vior as insensitive, especially when it happens in places where poverty still exists. It sends a strange message that people from richer countries come to poorer nations and ask locals for help.
Some tourists have even gone viral online for these actions, which usually leads to immigration investigations and deportations.
In 2019, for example, several foreigners in Bali were detained after photos showed them begging for donations to continue their world trip. Immigration officials later confirmed that such actions violate tourist visa rules and embarrass Indonesia’s tourism image
You can read - Things Foreign Tourists Always Ask About Indonesia
Why Some Foreigners End Up Begging in Indonesia
There isn’t one single reason but a mix of economic, social, and personal factors that push foreigners into this position.
Some foreigners come from countries with economic difficulties, high unemployment, or personal financial issues. They travel hoping to find cheaper living conditions or new experiences but end up running out of money sooner than expecteddd, In popular cities like Bali or Jakarta, living costs food, accommodation, transport can be higher than travelers imagine. When their savings dry up and they can’t afford a flight home, begging or selling small souvenirs may seem like the only option.
Job Restrictions for Foreigners. Indonesia has strict laws on foreign employment. Tourists are not allowed to work, sell, or perform publicly for money unless they hold a valid work visa. However, many travelers misunderstand these rules. They assume selling postcards, playing guitar, or accepting donations is harmless. Unfortunately, that’s already considered working illegally under Indonesian immigration law.
The “Begpacker” Mentality. The begpacker idea often comes from a different cultural mindset. Some travelers believe that asking for small donations while traveling is acceptable or even part of an adventurous lifestyle. They see it as “creative travel,” not begging
But in Indonesia where begging is strongly linked with poverty this behavior feels inappropriate and disrespectful to locals. Imagine a visitor from a rich country sitting on a busy street asking poor people for money. For many Indonesians, it simply feels wrong
Poor Planning or Bad Luck. Not all foreign beggars start with bad intentions. Some are genuinely unlucky their wallets get stolen, their credit cards stop working, or they lose their travel funds. Without friends or relatives in Indonesia, and with embassies often offering limited financial help, these travelers feel trapped and desperate, leading them to ask for help on the street
How Indonesian Authorities Respond
The Indonesian government has become increasingly aware of this issue, especially in tourist destinations like Bali and Yogyakarta, where “begpackers” are sometimes seen near temples, markets, or public spaces.
Local Reports and Investigations
Usually, it starts with locals reporting these cases to the Civil Service Police (Satpol PP) or Immigration officers. Officials then visit the location, talk to the foreigner, and check their passport, visa, and purpose of stay. Tourist visas are only for travel and leisure, not for earning money or performing. So, if a person is found collecting money even through music or small sales it’s a violation of visa terms.
Detention and Deportation
I\f the foreigner is caught begging or working illegally, authorities can take several steps:
1. Give a verbal or written warning (for minor cases).
2. Detain and investigate (especially if documents are incomplete).
3. Deport and blacklist the person from returning to Indonesia.
Immigration often works with the foreigner’s embassy to issue travel documents and arrange flights home. Until then, the person may be held in an immigration detention center.
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What Exactly Is a “Begpacker”? (Not to Be Confused with “Backpacker”)
Before we go any further, let’s make one thing clear a begpacker is not the same as a backpacker.
A backpacker is a traveler who explores new places on a budget but still pays their own way staying in cheap hostels, eating local food, and managing expenses wisely.
A begpacker, on the other hand, is a traveler who begs, busks, or sells small items in public areas to fund their next trip after running out of money.
While backpackers are often admired for being adventurous and independent, begpackers tend to spark controversy some see them as irresponsible or even disrespectful to local culture.
Real Cases Reported in Indonesia
This isn’t just a viral YouTube trend there are real, documented cases in Indonesia.
• April 2022: Two Russian tourists were detained in Nusa Penida after being caught begging. They said they had no money left for food or accommodation.
• October 2023: A Jordanian family was found begging in Kuta, Bali, after spending all their money on their trip.
• Other reports mentioned foreigners busking or selling postcards without legal permits.
The Bali Immigration Office has stated clearly that any foreigner caught begging or working illegally will be deported or sent back through their embassy.
Why Does This Happen?
It’s strange to imagine how someone can travel halfway across the world and end up begging in another country but there are several possible explanations:
1. Poor financial planning. Some travelers underestimate living costs in Asia and assume it will always be cheap.
2. Unexpected problems .Stolen wallets, frozen bank cards, or lost jobs can leave people stranded.
3. Cultural differences. In some Western countries, performing or “traveling on donations” is seen as creative, but in Indonesia it looks unusual or even disrespectful.
4. Social media influence . Some might do it for attention or content creation, showing off “how to survive abroad with no money.”
Whatever the reason, it shocks many locals who never expect to see foreigners begging in a country where many Indonesians themselves work so hard to get by.
Local Reactions and Immigration Response
Indonesians have mixed reactions to this issue. Some feel sympathy, but many see it as irresponsible. On social media, people even joke about “bule kere” literally “broke foreigners.” It sounds funny, but it’s also a serious reminder about respecting local customs.
Bali’s immigration authorities have taken action, patrolling popular tourist areas like Kuta, Ubud, and Canggu to ensure foreigners aren’t begging or working illegally.
Their message is clear: Indonesia welcomes visitors warmly, but travelers must follow local rules and be responsible for themselves.
Cultural Perspective: Why It Feels So Weird
In Indonesia, begging is often viewed as a last resort something done only when someone truly has no choice. That’s why it feels so strange to see foreigners, often from developed countries, doing it here.
To locals, these tourists come from wealthy nations, so seeing them sitting on the sidewalk asking for coins completely flips the usual image. It feels uncomfortable and raises questions: are they really desperate, or are they just taking advantage of local kindness?
Should We Feel Sorry or Skeptical?
That’s a fair question. Some begpackers might be genuinely in trouble stranded, broke, and far from home. Others might be exploiting sympathy or treating begging like a casual part of travel.
It’s okay to feel empathy, but we should also be careful. The best way to help is to direct them to their embassy or local authorities, instead of handing out money. That way, the right help can reach those who truly need it, without encouraging others to repeat the same mistake.
You can read - Travel on a Budget: Smart Tips to Explore the World Without Breaking the Bank
What It Means for Indonesia’s Tourism Image
Indonesia’s image as a friendly, welcoming country is one of its biggest strengths. But this situation can be confusing for both locals and international observers.
The rise of begpackers highlights a global issue: traveling responsibly. Being a guest in another country means respecting its laws, customs, and people.
By handling such cases fairly and firmly, Indonesia shows it is a professional tourism destination open to everyone, but serious about maintaining respect and order.
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| With a couple from the US in Pontianak |
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| With a group of tourists from France in Jogjakarta, |
Conclusion: Travel Is a Privilege, Not a Free Ride
That YouTube video really made me think. Maybe those foreigners didn’t plan to end up on the streets, but it’s still a powerful reminder that travel is a privilege, not a free ride.
The story of begpackers in Indonesia may sound shocking, funny, or even sad but it teaches all travelers an important lesson: always plan ahead, respect the culture, and travel with responsibility
Indonesia is a warm and welcoming country. Visitors are treated with kindness and hospitality, and many locals go out of their way to help travelers. But being a guest also means respecting the laws, culture, and dignity of the host country.
Remember..
Foreigners who come to Indonesia should always make sure they: .
• Have enough savings for their entire trip,
• Understand their visa limitations,
• Avoid any money-making activities without the right permits, and
• Respect local sensitivities about poverty and begging.
Begging or working illegally might seem harmless to some, but in Indonesia, it’s a legal violation and cultural offense. The message is simple:
If you can afford to travel, you should also afford
to take care of yourself while abroad
to take care of yourself while abroad
For Indonesians, this issue is not only about law enforcement it’s about mutual respect between visitors and hosts. Responsible tourism keeps Indonesia’s image positive and ensures every traveler enjoys this beautiful country in the right way.
After all, paradise destinations like Bali and all cities in Indonesia welcome visitors with open arms but being a good guest is what truly keeps the spirit of travel alive..
A Message From Asep Haryono
"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well. Please leave any comment down below. Let me hear from you. Greetings from Indonesia"
