Looking for the best eSIM for Bali or for all of Indonesia? Tired of fumbling around with physical cards and searching for stores with the right provider? Then you’ve come to the right place!
We’ve put together a detailed guide to the best eSIMs for Indonesia and Bali. With one of the five providers we tested, you’ll always be connected on your trip. From Airalo to Saily – all the providers mentioned here are established and cover over 200 countries each.
Whether you’re lying on the beach in Bali, marveling at the monitor lizards in Komodo or exploring the Monkey Forest in Ubud – with these providers, you have optimal network coverage.
Top 5 eSIM Providers
- Saily – Good network coverage and data plans
- Airalo – Best overall package
- Holafly – Best eSIM for unlimited data plans
- Airhub – For calls + data
- Jetpac – Flexible and affordable packages
Which are the best eSIMs for Bali & Indonesia?
Saily: Best eSIM for Bali & Indonesia
- Data volume: 10GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Hotspot: Yes
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: use of the 5G/4G/LTE network
- Prices: 31.99 USD
5% Discount with Code: TRAVELASTRONAUT
Saily is the “newcomer” among all providers and also a real vertical starter. With a professional team in the background, in 2024 Nord Security (developer NordVPN) launched one of the best eSIM providers.
Here is a list of the data plans offered, plans that include calls and SM are unfortunately not available:
- 1 GB: Valid for 7 days at a price of 4.79 USD
- 3 GB: Valid for 30 days at a price of 8.99 USD
- 5 GB: Valid for 30 days at a price of 13.99 USD
- 10 GB: Valid for 30 days at a price of 21.99 USD
- 20 GB: Valid for 30 days at a price of 35.99 USD
- Unlimited for 10 days for $35.99
- Unlimited for 15 days for 49.99 USD
- Unlimited for 20 days for 59.99 USD
- Unlimited for 25 days for 65.99 USD
- Unlimited for 30 days for 71.99 USD
Mobile network: No details
Network coverage: No data
Key features of Saily eSIMs Indonesia
✅ Five different data plans – flexible options for different usage needs
✅ Easy eSIM activation – no physical SIM card change required
✅ Instant use – Can be activated immediately after purchase
✅ No KYC identity verification – No additional verification processes required
✅ Android and iOS compatibility – Works on most eSIM-enabled devices
✅ 24/7 live chat support – around the clock help with questions or problems
✅ No roaming – connect directly to local networks
How does the Saily eSIM for Bali/Indonesia work?
✅ Pros
✔️ Five different data plans available for Indonesia
✔️ Easy eSIM activation – Quick setup without physical SIM card
✔️ No KYC identity verification required – Instant use without additional verification
✔️ Compatible with Android and iOS devices – Works on a variety of smartphones
✔️ 24/7 live chat support – Around the clock customer service for quick help
❌ Cons
❗ No support for calls or SMS – Only mobile data, no telephony or text messages possible
Conclusion: Saily
Saily offers flexible data plans, although the offer could be expanded a little – in particular an unlimited tariff would be desirable. It is less positive to note that the mobile network used in Indonesia is not indicated on the website.
eSIM.sm - Product Info & Review
eSIM.sm offers some eSIM data plans for Bali & Indonesia.
Here’s an example:
- Data volume: 10 GB
Validity: 30 days - Hotspot: Yes
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5 G/4 G/LTE network
- Price: 12.30 euros
eSIM.sm impresses with a user-friendly app and a clear website. The eSIMs from the provider from San Marino are easy to install.
The reliable Telkomsel network is used in Bali and throughout Indonesia.
A total of eight local data plans are available. The offer is supplemented by unlimited tariffs of 1 to 30 days as well as eight regional tariffs that are valid in seven countries in Southeast Asia.
If you are looking for one of the best eSIM solutions for Bali and Indonesia, we can recommend eSIM.sm with a clear conscience.
Here is a list of available data plans:
Indonesia – Local Plans
- 1 GB – 7 days → €3.10 / $3.70 / £2.90
- 3 GB – 10 days → €4.70 / $5.60 / £4.30
- 3 GB – 15 days → €4.80 / $5.70 / £4.40
- 5 GB – 15 days → €6.60 / $7.80 / £6.00
- 10 GB – 30 days → €12.30 / $14.50 / £11.20
- 20 GB – 30 days → €23.40 / $27.60 / £21.30
- 50 GB – 60 days → €54.10 / $63.80 / £49.10
- 100 GB – 60 days → €100.90 / $118.90 / £91.50
Indonesia – Unlimited Plans (Fair Use Policy)
Unlimited – 7 days → €23.90 / $28.20 / £21.70
South East Asia – Regional Plans
- 1 GB – 7 days → €3.20 / $3.80 / £2.90
- 3 GB – 10 days → €5.90 / $7.00 / £5.40
- 3 GB – 15 days → €6.30 / $7.50 / £5.80
- 5 GB – 15 days → €9.20 / $10.90 / £8.40
- 10 GB – 30 days → €17.30 / $20.40 / £15.70
- 20 GB – 30 days → €31.40 / $37.00 / £28.50
- 50 GB – 60 days → €77.80 / $91.70 / £70.50
- 100 GB – 60 days → €145.50 / $171.50 / £131.90
Network: Telkomsel
Network coverage: Very good
How eSIM.sm works:
- Select a plan with the amount of data and number of days for validity
- Install the eSIM (via QR code, manually or in the app)
- Your mobile data becomes active as soon as you connect to a local provider
✅ Pros
- Regional rates available for South-East Asia (7 countries covered)
- Unlimited rates can can range from 1 to 30 days
- Good selection of local data plans (different running times and volumes)
- Very good network coverage in cities and also in many rural areas (Telkomsel network)
❌ Cons
- Use of only one mobile network (Telkomsel)
- Fair usage policy with unlimited tariffs, speed can be reduced
- No plans with telephony or SMS available
Conclusion: eSIM.sm - Best Bali eSIM for Your Travel
The still new provider already impresses with its good selection of local and regional plans. There is also unlimited mobile data of 1 – 30 days available. Unfortunately, the speed can be throttled by the fair usage policy of local mobile network operators.
Airalo - eSIM Bali & Indonesia
Airalo offers seven eSIM data tariffs for Indonesia. Here is an example:
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls and text messages: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5G/4G/LTE network
- Price: 24.00 euros
Get a 15% discount when you sign up via my link!
The American company Airalo, headquartered in Singapore has been around since 2019 and has been offering eSIMs ever since. Airalo was the first provider with an eSIM store. The Airalo team is correspondingly experienced. You can expect a very good and stable product here. If you need help, customer service is available around the clock (24/7).
Main features:
✅ Multiple local data plans for Indonesia
✅ Easy activation via the Airalo app
✅ Regional and global eSIM options available
✅ 24/7 customer support via live chat
For travelers to Bali & Indonesia, Airalo offers many local eSIM plans that provide seamless connectivity. These plans vary in data allowance and validity period, and users can choose an option that suits their travel needs. Airalo’s regional and global plans also help travelers to stay online not only in Bali & Indonesia.
This provider has a range of plans, so there should be one to suit everyone’s needs.
These are the data plans currently on offer for Bali & Indonesia (data only):
- 1 GB – 7 days → €4.00 / $4.50 / £3.50
- 2 GB – 15 days → €6.50 / $7.00 / £5.50
- 3 GB – 30 days → €8.19 (instead of €10.00, save 18%) / $9.00 (instead of $11.00, save 18%) / £6.96 (instead of £8.50, save 18%)
- 5 GB – 30 days → €12.73 (instead of €15.00, save 15%) / $14.00 (instead of $16.50, save 15%) / £11.04 (instead of £13.00, save 15%)
- 10 GB – 30 days → €19.56 (instead of €22.00, save 11%) / $22.00 (instead of $24.75, save 11%) / £16.89 (instead of £19.00, save 11%)
- 20 GB – 30 days → €31.07 (instead of €35.50, save 12%) / $35.00 (instead of $40.00, save 12%) / £27.13 (instead of £31.00, save 12%)
- Unlimited – 10 days → €31.00 / $35.00 / £27.00
Since 2025, plans that include data, calls and SMS have also been offered, but these are only available for global tariffs.
Global Packages (data/calls/SMS)
- 1 GB: Valid for 7 days, coverage: 137 countries, 10 minutes at a price of EUR 14.50
- 2 GB: Valid for 15 days, coverage: 137 countries, 20 minutes at a price of EUR 26.00
- 3 GB: Valid for 30 days, coverage: 137 countries, 30 minutes at a price of EUR 35.00
- 5 GB: Valid for 60 days, coverage: 137 countries, 50 minutes for the price of 48.50 EUR
- 10 GB: Valid for 180 days, coverage: 137 countries, 100 minutes for the price of 76.50 EUR
- 20 GB: Valid for 365 days, coverage: 137 countries, 200 minutes for the price of 86.00 EUR
Mobile network: Airalo uses the networks of 3SinyalKuatHemat(Hutchinson) and Indosat in Bali & Indonesia
Network coverage: Good
However, it is important to note that depending on the country of origin and destination, a K.Y.C. (Know Your Customer) verification may be required for the purpose of the trip. Also, Airalo does not have a pay-as-you-go option, which means that users must purchase data packages in advance. In general, the eSIM options offered by Airalo are a great way to stay connected in Indonesia and are perfect for digital nomads, business people and tourists.
✅ Advantages
✔️ Six local data tariffs for Indonesia
✔️ Easy eSIM activation
✔️ Regional and global data tariffs
✔️ Supports calls and SMS (in the Discovery+ Global plan)
✔️ 24/7 live chat
❌ Disadvantages
❗ KYC verification may be required depending on the country of origin and destination
❗ No pay-as-you-go tariffs
Conclusion: Why is Airalo one of the best eSIM for Bali and Indonesia?
Airalo offers an extensive selection of data tariffs from 1 GB to unlimited. What’s more, customer service is available 24/7 and you can count on good network coverage. Only the prices are a little high compared to other eSIM providers.
Holafly
Holafly only offers unlimited data, which is limited to a certain number of days. Here is an example:
- Data volume: Unlimited data
- Validity: 7 days
- Calls and text messages: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5G/4G/3G/LTE network
- Hotspot function: Sharing of up to 500 MB of data per day possible
- Price: EUR 26.90 (€3.84/day)
5% Discount with Code: TRAVELASTRONAUT
Due to the unlimited data volume, Holafly is particularly suitable for travelers who stream a lot, as well as digital nomads. The cost here depends on the validity period, you can choose a period from 1 to 90 days. The longer the validity of the tariff, the lower the price per day.
Here are some examples for different number of days:
- 1 day unlimited data = 5,90 EUR
- 7 days unlimited data = 26,90 EUR (3,84€/day)
- 15 days unlimited data = 46,90 EUR (3,84€/day)
- 30 days unlimited data = 68,90 EUR (2,30€/day)
Mobile networks: Holafly uses the mobile networks of XL (Excelcom) / Indosat / Telkomsel in Indonesia
Network coverage: Very good.
Here you can find the network coverage of Telkomsel and Indosat.
Main features of Holafly eSIMs for Indonesia/Bali
✅ Unlimited mobile data – No data limits, ideal for streaming, work and social media
✅ Easy activation – activate eSIM via QR code, no physical SIM change required
✅ Validity period flexible – Selectable between 1 and 90 days
✅ No roaming – Directly connected to local networks, no additional costs
✅ 24/7 customer support – Live chat support available anytime
✅ No contractual obligation – single payment without long-term commitments
✅ Advantages:
✔️ Unlimited mobile data for worry-free surfing and streaming
✔️ Easy eSIM activation – no physical SIM card change required
✔️ Flexible terms from 1 to 90 days selectable
✔️ No roaming because the eSIM is directly connected to local networks
✔️ 24/7 customer support via live chat
❌ Disadvantages:
❗ No local data plan with limited data volume available – only unlimited plans
❗ No hotspot tethering possible – data cannot be shared with other devices
❗ Comparatively higher price, especially for shorter terms
What else you should know about Holafly:
- The eSIM is for data only, you can’t make regular calls about it. Calls can only be made via corresponding apps that are connected to the internet.
- Make sure your phone is compatible with an eSIM, older models often won’t work with embedded SIMs. iPhones for example are usually compatible from the iPhone 11 and higher.
Not only smartphones can be used, of course you can also use tablets or other smart devices. - It’s best to install the eSIM before you leave so that it can be activated immediately after your arrival in Indonesia.
Conclusion: Best eSIM for Bali for Unlimited Data
Holafly offers a user-friendly and hassle-free eSIM solution for Indonesia – especially for travelers who need unlimited internet. Various mobile networks are used, including the network of Telkomsel, the best provider in Indonesia. So a stable connection and high speed is guaranteed.
Roamic
Validity: 30 days
Calls and SMS: Not included
Network: Use of the 5 G/4 G/3 G/LTE network
Hotspot function: Available
Price: EUR 5.99
The provider impresses with a total of 12 data tariffs, ranging from smaller packages to unlimited options. Roamic uses Telkomsel’s well-developed network and therefore offers a reliable connection in Bali and the rest of Indonesia. The easy activation directly via the app makes use particularly uncomplicated.
The following mobile data plans are available on the Roamic site:
- 1 GB – 7 days → €1.99
- 3 GB – 14 days → €2.99
- 5 GB – 21 days → €3.99
- 10 GB – 30 days → €5.99
- 20 GB – 30 days → €10.99
- Unlimited dates – 1 – 30 days → From €2.99 to €39.99
Network: Telkomsel
Network coverage: Very good
How does Roamic work?
- Check your phone’s compatibility
- Choose the plan you want for your mobile internet
- Install the eSIM via QR code
- Activation occurs automatically upon arrival in the destination country
✅ Pros
- Good selection of plans, including several unlimited data plans
- Use of the stable and well-developed Telkomsel network
- Clearly designed app and website
❌ Cons
- Only uses a local mobile network (Telkomsel)
- No plan available with text messages or calls
- Fair usage policy for unlimited tariffs (possible speed throttling)
- No additional features such as VPN or ad blockers available
Conclusion: Roamic
Roamic offers a good selection of data plans at affordable prices.
However, with the unlimited plans, the local network may throttle the speed.
The eSIMs are easy to install and the Telkomsel network used offers very good coverage both in Bali and the rest of Indonesia.
simsolo
Simsolo offers 10 data plans for Bali and Indonesia.
Here’s an example:
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5 G/4 G/3 G/LTE network
- Hotspot function: Available
- Price: 22,00 Euros
SimSolo offers a stable mobile internet connection in Bali, Java or the more remote islands. The provider impresses with its easy activation directly via the app and a flexible selection of plans. Simsolo offers fixed data packages as well as unlimited tariffs for different lengths of stay, which are ideal for tourists, backpackers and digital nomads.
Fixed data packets:
- 3 GB – to 30 days → €7.00
- 5 GB – to 30 days → €11.00
- 10 GB – to 30 days → 22,00 €
- 20 GB – to 30 days → 42,00 €
Unlimited (fair use):
- 1 day → €3.69 (discount price, instead of €6.00)
- 5 days → €16.00
- 7 days → 24,00 €
- 14 days → 37,00 €
- 21 days → 49,00 €
- 30 days → 54,00 €
Network: No information
Network coverage: No information
Here’s how simsolo works:
- Select a data package
- Make sure you have a stable internet connection
- Scan the QR code sent to you for installation
✅ Pros
- Good selection of tariffs, including unlimited data plans
- Easy and quick activation via the app or via QR code
❌ Cons
- Relatively high prices compared to other providers
- No information about which local network is used
- Fair use policy with unlimited tariffs (possible speed throttling)
Conclusion: simsolo
simsolo offers a good selection of plans. Whether fixed or unlimited options, most travelers will probably find a suitable tariff.
Unfortunately, no information is provided as to which network is used in Indonesia, which would be helpful in checking network coverage.
simlocal
This Anbier offers local and global packages.
Here’s an example:
Data volume: 10 GB
Validity: 30 days
Calls and SMS: Not included
Network: Use of the 5 G/4 G/3 G/LTE network
Hotspot function: Available
Price: 20.00 euros
esimlocal offers travelers in Indonesia an easy way to go online immediately upon arrival. Activation is quick and easy via QR code, so no physical SIM card is required.
A total of 5 tariffs are given for Bali and Indonesia, which use Hutchinson’s mobile network.
The following mobile internet plans are available:
- 1 GB – 7 days → €4.25
- 3 GB – 30 days → €8.75
- 5 GB – 30 days → €13.00
- 10 GB – 30 days → 20,00 €
- 20 GB – 30 days → 31,75 €
Network: Hutchison CP Telecommunications
Network coverage: Good
How simlocal works:
- Make sure your phone is eSIM enabled
- Select the data volume for your travel country
- Make sure you have a stable internet connection
- Install your virtual card using a QR code
✅ Pros
- Uses trusted local area network (Hutchinson CP)
- Flexible rates available from 1GB to 20GB
- Global rates also on sale
- Occasionally special offers and discounts
❌ Cons
- No unlimited data schedule available
- Calls and SMS can only be selected for other countries, not Indonesia
Conclusion: simlocal
A good provider with a solid offer. The discount campaigns and special offers that are regularly available on the website are particularly positive.
Unfortunately, Indonesia does not have an unlimited rate, although many other countries offer them. The same applies to packages that contain calls and SMS.
Airhub - eSIM Indonesia & Bali
- 7 GB data
Valid in Indonesia - No calls or SMS
- Valid for 15 days
- Uses the 5G/4G/LTE network
- Price: 10.50 USD
Jetpac offers a total of seven different eSIM rates for Indonesia.
Airhub offers a total of over 250 eSIMs for different countries, the handling and installation is very easy, and the prices are affordable.
Here are the data packages for Airhub Indonesia as well as the data tariffs listed on the website, main features and advantages and disadvantages:
Data plans:
- 1 GB: Valid for 7 days at the price of 1.19 USD
- 4 GB: Valid for 30 days at the price of 3.89 USD
- 7 GB: Valid for 15 days at the price of 12.25 USD
- 12 GB: Valid for 30 days at the price of 11.89 USD
- 22 GB: Valid for 30 days at the price of 21.40 USD
- Unlimited: Valid for 1 day at the price of 5.00 USD
- Unlimited: Valid for 3 days at the price of 7.28 USD
- Unlimited: Valid for 5 days at the price of 8.25 USD
- Unlimited: Valid for 7 days at the price of 16.80 USD
- Unlimited: Valid for 10 days at the price of 19.60 USD
- Unlimited: Valid for 15 days at the price of 24.00 USD
Rates that include SMS and calls are currently not available for Indonesia.
Mobile network: Airhub uses the network of the renowned provider Telkomsel
Network coverage: Very good
Main features of Airhub
✅ Mobile data sharing – Use the mobile hotspot and tethering to share your internet connection with multiple devices.
✅ Dual SIM feature – Use both a physical SIM and an eSIM on a compatible device to easily manage personal and business numbers.
✅ No paperwork – No lengthy registration process or document verification required, just buy your eSIM for Indonesia online.
✅ eSIM with local phone number – Make calls and communicate like a local with an eSIM that contains a local phone number.
✅ Flexible network switching – seamlessly switch between different mobile networks without changing the SIM card. So you are always connected to the best network available in Indonesia.
✅ Benefits
✔️ Hotspot and tethering function – share mobile data easily
✔️ Dual SIM support – Use a physical SIM and eSIM at the same time
✔️ No paperwork – No identity verification or registration effort
✔️ eSIM with local phone number available – communication via a local number possible
✔️ Automatic network exchange – always the best available connection in Indonesia
❌ Disadvantages
❗ No pay-as-you-go options – Only fixed data packages available
❗ No physical SIM card as backup – If your device does not support eSIMs, there is no alternative
❗ Data packages are not unlimited – users must select the appropriate data volume in advance
❗ No option with calls and SMS – There are no packages in which call minutes are also available
Conclusion: Airhub eSIM Indonesia
Airhub is particularly suitable for users who also share their hotspot and whose smartphones are equipped with Dualsim. In addition, there is a very good network coverage through the use of the Telkomsel network.
What is also extremely positive are the comparatively low prices for the various options.
Jetpac
Example data tariff:
- 10 GB data
- Valid in Indonesia
- No calls or SMS
- Valid for 30 days
- Uses the 5G/4G/3G/LTE
- Price: 11.50 euros
Jetpac offers a total of nine different eSIM plans for Indonesia.
Jetpac offers nine low-cost data plans for Indonesia. For backpackers and long-term travellers travelling through Southeast Asia, there is also the Southeast Asia package which covers six countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.
Here is a summary of the available data plans:
- 1 GB: Valid for 4 days at the price of 1.00 USD
- 3 GB: Valid for 7 days at a price of 8.00 USD
- 5 GB: Valid for 30 days at the price of 10.00 USD
- 10 GB: Valid for 30 days at a price of 15.00 USD
- 15 GB: Valid for 30 days at a price of 19.98 USD
- 20 GB: Valid for 30 days at a price of 35.00 USD
- 30 GB: Valid for 30 days at the price of 29.99 USD
- 40 GB: Valid for 30 days at a price of 39.99 USD
- Unlimited: valid for 7 days at a price of 24.99 USD
- Unlimited: Valid for 10 days at a price of 31.99 USD
Mobile network: Jetpac uses the network of Telkomsel
Network coverage: very good
Main features of Jetpac
✅ Flexible data plans – choose from 1 GB to 50 GB, tailored to your needs
✅ Easy eSIM activation – no physical SIM card required, quick setup
✅ Regional coverage – In addition to Indonesia, there is also a Southeast Asia package for 6 countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines)
✅ Low prices – discounts on many rates for a cost-effective mobile data solution
✅ Variable validity period – terms from 4 to 30 days available
✅ Android and iOS compatibility – Works on a variety of eSIM-enabled devices
✅ No roaming – connect directly to local networks for a stable internet connection
Additional information:
- You can install your eSIM without activating it directly, we will not activate it until it connects to an Indonesian network.
- The data package must be activated within one year.
- No hidden costs, as already paid in advance.
- Your network will be connected to 4G/LTE/5G networks in the available countries.
✅ Benefits
✔️ Five different data plans for Indonesia plus a Southeast Asia package for 6 countries
✔️ Easy eSIM activation – no physical SIM card change required
✔️ Cheap prices with regular discount promotions
✔️ Flexible terms – options available from 4 to 30 days
✔️ Compatible with Android and iOS – Works on most eSIM-enabled devices
✔️ No roaming charges – Direct connection to local networks
❌ Disadvantages
❗ No calls or SMS possible – only mobile data available
❗ Limited network selection – May vary by location
❗ Not all rates apply to multiple countries – The Southeast Asia package is available separately from the Indonesia rates
❗ No unlimited data plans – users must choose the right data volume in advance
Conclusion: Why is Jetpac one of the best providers in comparison?
Jetpac’s large selection of data plans is very positive, but unfortunately it lacks an unlimited data plan. The cooperation with the renowned network operator Telkomsel is also a great plus.
Why an eSIM for Bali & Indonesia?
An eSIM is the most convenient way to have mobile internet instantly in Indonesia (Bali, Java, Lombok, Sumatra, Sulawesi, Komodo Islands, etc).
No annoying fiddling with physical cards or running into stores where you’re struggling in a different language to get an acceptable plan.
Everything works very easily, buy data volume online, activate it easily immediately or shortly before the trip and you have mobile data available immediately after landing and don’t have to worry about how to get to the Internet.
The most important advantages at a glance
- Instantly online: Install your virtual card before your trip and you will be online immediately upon arrival. .
- No annoying card changes: your physical SIM remains in the device and your number/WhatsApp remains active.
- Flexible & scalable: data packages for 7–30+ days, small to unlimited plans; Top up possible.
- Multi-stop trips: Many providers have regional Asia eSIMs – practical if, in addition to Indonesia, you also have e.g. B. Visits Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand.
- Hotspot possible: Often allowed (for sharing with laptop/tablet); Briefly check provider conditions.
- Security & Comfort: No public WiFi required or going to a store; some providers offer extras such as ad blockers/VPN (see Saily).
- No KYC on site: You save yourself store visits and pass registration for prepaid SIMs.
Comparison: eSIM vs. Roaming vs. Local SIM
| Criterion | eSIM | Roaming | Local Prepaid SIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | affordable & predictable | very expensive | cheap, but time-consuming |
| Activation | instantly usable | instant, but costly | purchase & registration in shop |
| Convenience | very high | high | medium |
| Multi-country trip | regional possible | expensive | new SIM needed per country |
| Calls/SMS | mostly data-only | yes, but expensive | yes, often included |
| Hotspot | usually allowed | yes | yes |
| Registration | no | – | yes, ID possibly required |
When does a local SIM card make sense?
A local SIM card is useful for longer stays of at least 30 days and if you need a local number to make calls or send text messages.
What to consider before purchasing an eSIM for Bali and Indonesia:
Before choosing an eSIM for Bali and Indonesia, there are a few important points to consider in order to find the right data plan and provider.
Most providers offer very good network coverage in large cities such as Jakarta, but coverage can often vary in rural areas and more remote islands.
Network coverage: Not all providers offer the same quality throughout Indonesia. While Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Lombok usually have good coverage, reception on smaller islands may vary. Make sure your eSIM is compatible with Telkomsel or IM3, as these are the best and most reliable networks in the country.
Data volume: Are you a heavy user or do you use the internet sporadically on your phone? Consider how intensively you want to use mobile internet. For social media, navigation, and messaging, 3–5 GB is often sufficient, while 10–20 GB is recommended for streaming or working on the go.
Duration and flexibility: Many eSIM providers offer plans with validity periods of 1–30 days. If you are staying in Bali or Indonesia for longer, it is worth considering a renewable or regional plan that also covers neighboring countries such as Singapore, Thailand, or Malaysia.
Hotspot function: If you want to connect your laptop or other devices, check whether tethering/hotspot is allowed. Some providers (e.g., Holafly) limit this function or only allow it to a limited extent.
Price and performance: A cheap tariff is tempting, but the price-performance ratio is more important. Make sure that the provider uses a good network and does not throttle speeds.
Additional features: Some providers, such as Saily, offer an integrated VPN, ad blocker, or special web protection, which leads to lower data usage and greater security when surfing. Others offer call options and SMS, for example.Consider what is more important to you: security, unlimited data, or telephony.
Compatibility: Not all smartphones support eSIMs (older models in particular are often not compatible with the technology). Before purchasing, check your phone’s settings or the provider’s website to see if your model is eSIM-compatible. Usually, each provider has a special page dedicated to compatibility.
Installation methods for your travel eSIM for Bali (and Indonesia)
Installing a travel eSIM for Bali is very easy and usually takes only a few minutes. There are different methods for activating your eSIM, depending on the provider and device.
Here are the four most common methods:
Via QR code (standard method): This method is the most commonly used and, in our experience, also one of the easiest. After purchasing your data volume, you will receive an email from the provider containing a QR code. Now scan the code with your camera or a separate QR scanner and follow the instructions on the screen. Your eSIM for Bali and Indonesia is now installed and will be activated automatically upon your arrival. Please make sure to activate roaming and mobile data.
Installation via app: Many providers such as Saily, Jetpac, Airhub, or Airalo offer their own app that you can use to install your eSIM directly. First, download the app and purchase your plan. Then simply click on “Install eSIM” or “Activate.” Your card will now be installed automatically. It is important that you have a stable internet connection.
Manual installation: Some providers also offer the option of adding the eSIM manually via the device settings. You will receive the SM-DP+ address and activation code by email. You then enter this data manually under
Settings → Mobile network → Add eSIM → Enter details manually. This method can be used if, for example, the QR code does not work.
Automatic activation: Some premium providers offer automatic activation. In this case, the eSIM is transferred directly to your device after purchase. As soon as you land in Bali and activate roaming, your smartphone will automatically connect to the local network. Again, you should make sure that your mobile data is turned on and roaming is activated after landing.
How do I check if my phone is eSIM-capable?
Checking if your smartphone is compatible with eSIM technology is easy.
Here’s a quick guide for Android and iPhone devices:
eSIM compatibility for iPhones:
Not all iPhone models support eSIM technology, and it’s usually available from the iPhone X onwards.
How to check compatibility:
Go to the “Settings” of your iPhone.
Tap on “General“.
Select “Info” (or about”).
Search for the entry “Digital SIM” or “Available SIM“.
If you see a 15-digit IMEI number there, your iPhone supports eSIMs.
Compatibility for Android
How to check if your phone is sim-capable on an Android phone:
Go to “Settings“
Select “Connections” (or for some models, “Connections and mobile hotspot“).
Click on “SIM card management“.
If it says “Add eSIM” or “Add cellular plan” (depending on the model), you can easily use an eSIM.
Please note that the names for menu items may vary depending on the manufacturer.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about eSIM for Indonesia
When does your data plan start?
Once you’ve installed your eSIM, it will usually be activated automatically for most providers when you first connect to the local network.
Can I make calls and send SMS with the eSIM?
Unfortunately, no provider for Indonesia currently offers a rate that includes calls and SMS.
Can I share my data with other devices?
Some providers allow a hotspot function, but the data transmission may be limited.
Which devices are compatible with an eSIM?
Generally, newer smartphones and smart devices are eSIM-capable.
For iPhones: Most models are compatible with iPhone 11 and later, but it is advisable to check the compatibility of your device in advance.
When will I receive my eSIM?
After purchase, you will receive your eSIM immediately by email or directly in the app.
You will receive a QR code that guides you through the installation.
How do I set up the eSIM on my device?
Scan the received QR code and then go to:
📱 Settings > Mobile data > Add data plan
Which is the best mobile network in Indonesia?
Telkomsel is the leading mobile operator in Indonesia. Especially in terms of network coverage, Telkomsel is clearly ahead of the other providers.
Summary:
An eSIM is an uncomplicated, quick solution for travelers to have mobile data available immediately upon arrival. You are flexible, have an overview of your data usage at all times and are not tied to any regular costs.
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