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From finding directions and checking restaurant reviews to ordering taxis and using translation apps, having access to mobile data will make life easier in Bali.
During our travels across the island, we’ve used both e-SIMs and traditional SIM cards on several networks. In this guide, we’ll share a quick rundown of all your mobile data options and some top tips for getting connected.
In a rush? Data-only e-SIMs are the most convenient option and can be activated before you arrive. We recommend Airalo or Maya Mobile (price comparison below). For physical SIM cards, you can pre-order for airport pick-up or have one delivered to your hotel.
Which Network is Best?
The two networks we’ve used in Bali are Telkomsel (Indonesia’s largest mobile network) and XL Axiata. Both have worked well for us, with coverage even in the most remote areas.
Should I Get a Regular SIM or e-SIM?
If your phone supports e-SIMs, this is the best option for staying connected in Bali. An e-SIM is a virtual SIM that you install onto your device. The installation process is simple with instructions provided after purchase.
Most e-SIMs can be set up before you arrive in Bali for immediate internet access when you land. You'll need a stable internet connection during the set-up so we usually do this just before leaving home.
An e-SIM also allows you to keep your existing physical SIM card in your device, so you can continue to receive calls or texts on your normal phone number. You can continue to use your same WhatsApp number.
The downside of e-SIMs is that they're slightly more expensive than regular SIMs, but we think it's worth it for the convenience.
Before purchasing, ensure your phone is compatible with e-SIMs and is unlocked. Anything later than the iPhone 11 or the Samsung Galaxy S20 should support an e-SIM. Other Android devices may vary.
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We’ve used SafetyWing for over 2 years while exploring Bali and beyond and honestly couldn’t imagine traveling without it. It’s simple, reliable, and perfect for digital nomads like us.
We love that it:
Auto-renews monthly (one less thing to think about)
Works globally
Can be purchased while already abroad
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How To Get an e-SIM
If you're happy with a data-only e-SIM (this is what we use), you can easily purchase one from an e-SIM provider such as Maya Mobile or Airalo. But if you require a data and calls package with a local phone number, you'll need to purchase your e-SIM direct from the local carrier Telkomsel. More on both options below.
Option 1: Data-Only e-SIM
For most people visiting Bali, a data-only plan is perfectly suitable. All drivers and tour operators in Bali use WhatsApp to communicate so the lack of calls has never been an issue. Don't worry, you can still call the emergency services on a data-only plan (the number in Bali is 112).
The benefits of a data-only e-SIM are:
You can easily purchase and install it via their dedicated app and have everything working BEFORE you arrive in Bali (if you require calls, you'll have to wait until you arrive).
ㅤYou won’t need to provide your passport details.
ㅤThe 90-day maximum doesn't apply so you can top-up as often as you like - great for long-term stays. We explain more about the 90-day rule at the end of this article.
Which e-SIM Provider is Best?
With a seemingly endless number of e-SIM providers, it can be overwhelming to choose one. Here are the two providers we've had a great experience with and what we liked about each:
Airalo – The most popular e-SIM provider which uses the Indotel network in Bali. They have an excellent app that makes it easy to monitor your data usage and top up your e-SIM. Although more expensive than Maya, each purchase earns you Airmoney credits which makes it a good choice for long-term travellers like us. They offer set deals starting at 1GB (7 days) for $5.50 USD. View all Airalo e-SIM plans.
Maya Mobile – Cheaper than Airalo on a like-for-like basis. Maya Mobile uses the Telkomsel network which has the best coverage in Bali. They have highly customisable packages where you can choose the length and data allowance, while auto-recharge ensures you won’t run out at a bad time. They don't have an app, so you'll need to log-in via a browser to manage your plan. View all Maya Mobile e-SIM plans.
Here’s a price comparison of a few like-for-like packages (not the full list):
Airalo (USD) | Maya Mobile (USD) | |
|---|---|---|
1 GB | $5.50 (7 days) |
|
2 GB | $8 (15 days) |
|
3 GB | $11 (30 days) | $10 (30 days) |
5 GB | $16.50 (30 days) | $13 (30 days) |
10 GB | $24.75 (30 days) | $18 (30 days) |
20 GB | $40 (30 days) | $29 (30 days) |
40 GB |
| $51 (30 days) |
Unlimited |
| $59 (30 days) |
If you’re visiting several countries, Maya Mobile also offers an Asia+ e-SIM plan, which covers most of Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau – more information here.
Option 2: Data and Calls e-SIM
If you require a data and calls plan, you'll need to purchase your e-SIM directly from Telkomsel, the main network in Indonesia. Unlike a data-only plan, these will come with your own Indonesian phone number.
The major downside to this is that you can only purchase these in person at a Telkomsel store once you arrive in Bali. You'll need to show your passport to register your phone as this is a legal requirement to have a local number.
Unfortunately, there's no longer an official Telkomsel store at Bali airport which makes things tougher. You can find a list of Telkomsel stores in Bali here.
How To Get a SIM Card
If your phone doesn't support e-SIMs, here are your main options for purchasing a physical SIM card:
Option 1. Delivered To Your Hotel
You can preorder a SIM card to be set up and delivered to your hotel so it's waiting for you upon arrival. All you need to do is pop it in your phone and you’ll be online right away.
Options include a 13GB XL SIM (data only) for 190,000 IDR ⓘ or a 25GB Telkomsel SIM (with 25 mins calls) for 235,000 IDR ⓘ. Both come with free delivery to your hotel. This isn’t much more than buying a similar SIM in a shop and is far more convenient.
After purchasing the SIM online, you’ll need to send the company a photo of your passport and your IMEI number via email. This allows them to set the SIM card up for you before delivering it to your hotel.
Book Now: Order a SIM Card for Hotel Delivery
Option 2. Collect at the Airport
For immediate internet access when landing, several vendors at the airport offer prepaid tourist SIM cards.
While you can usually expect to pay more at the airport than hotel delivery or streetside vendors, here are some tips for getting the best deal:
DO NOT buy a SIM card from the baggage collection area. It’s much cheaper to wait until the arrivals hall after you’ve passed through customs.
ㅤPre-order your SIM card for collection at the airport to access a better deal. When buying online, XL offers an 8GB SIM card for 200,000 IDR ⓘ which is not advertised at the kiosk. After buying online, you can send them your details so everything is set up for a quick collection.
Most airport vendors accept both cash and card payments. If you’re arriving late at night, keep in mind that these are not 24-hour stores. While most stay open until the final flight has landed, if it's delayed you might find the store has closed.
Book Now: Order a SIM Card for Airport Pickup
Option 3. Telkomsel Store
For the best deal, go to a Telkomsel store where you can get a pre-paid tourist SIM with 25GB of data and 25 minutes of calls for just 150,000 IDR ⓘ.
As we mentioned earlier, there's no longer an official Telkomsel store at Bali airport (the one branded Telkomsel isn’t an official shop). But you can find a list of their 21 outlets in Bali here. Those called 'GraPARI' allow you to purchase on the spot, whereas others will require pre-ordering using the form linked below.
Remember to take your passport (or a photo of it) even if you're getting a data-only SIM.
Book Now: Pre-order a SIM card from Telkomsel
Option 4. Streetside Vendors
Armed with some good negotiation skills, you can often get a good deal from streetside SIM card vendors.
You'll have no trouble finding one in the touristy areas such as Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud. These are usually kiosks outside convenience stores or as part of market stalls/tour agencies.
Advertised prices can vary depending on the area, but tend to start at around 200,000 IDR ⓘ for a 12GB Telkomsel SIM card (data only). You might get a good discount by haggling.
These vendors are usually cash-only. Remember to take your passport (or a photo of it) even if you're getting a data-only SIM.
Staying Longer Than 90 Days?
By law, mobile devices using a local phone number must have their IMEI number registered to work in Indonesia. All tourists receive a free registration for 90 days which is done when you first purchase a SIM card with a phone number.
After 90 days, your SIM will stop working unless a long-term registration is acquired. For this, you’ll have to pay 30-40% tax based on the value of your phone over $500.
Top Tip: This only applies if you have a local phone number. It does not apply to data-only e-SIMs. If you’re staying for more than 3 months, e-SIMs are your best option.
How To Top Up a SIM Card
To top-up a physical SIM card in Bali, head to a Mini Mart, K Mart, or a Telkomsel branded shop (if your SIM card is Telkomsel).
Remember, you can only use a physical SIM for up to 3 months before your phone must be registered in Indonesia with tax paid.