If you're heading to Bali and don't want to spend time learning the intricacies of connecting to a local SIM card, you might try an eSIM from one of the international providers. It's a virtual SIM card that activates in a couple of minutes without any plastic cards.
— The main advantage is that the internet works immediately upon arrival: you can purchase the plan before the trip. Once you've landed, you are online. This is convenient for those who prefer using local taxis instead of arranging transfers in advance. No need to search for SIM card vendors at the airport, saving you time, especially since the rates there are often not the most favorable.
— Another benefit is reliable coverage. Good eSIMs operate through various local networks, providing stable internet even in areas where a single operator might have trouble zones.
— The absence of a physical card, plastic packaging, and envelopes matters to many when choosing an eSIM. All you need is a QR code that you'll receive after payment.
— eSIM is especially convenient for those moving between Bali, Thailand, and Vietnam. Most services allow storing multiple profiles. You can keep a physical SIM for calls and SMS (for example, for banks), and connect to the internet through a local or international eSIM operator.
— eSIM is ideal for short trips.
For a couple of weeks or a month, it might be more advantageous to buy an eSIM with a fixed data package than to deal with a physical card from local operators, its renewals, and top-ups.
Now for the downsides, which, of course, exist as well. The main one is the cost of the packages. Local physical SIM cards are often cheaper. The internet package price with a local Telkomsel SIM card starts at $3.
— A phone compatible with eSIM is required. Older models often don't support this feature.
— Sometimes the internet speed may be slower. Some international eSIMs work through roaming and might use not the best local networks.
In summary:
— If convenience and connection speed are important to you and you're not against paying a bit more, then an eSIM from an international provider is an excellent solution. There are several trusted operators. For example, you can pre-arrange an online tourist SIM card (eSIM) with the Airalo service. Prices there are higher than those of local providers, but it allows you to be connected immediately. Using the promo code EGOR3907, you will receive $3 credited to your account after registration.
Another fairly popular and convenient service is Yesim. The app makes it convenient not only to connect an eSIM but also to learn the cost of services in different countries and track expenses. Unlimited traffic for one day in Indonesia costs €7, a week of unlimited costs €27. There is an option to pay for traffic by megabytes. You can choose worldwide coverage if you frequently travel between countries.
There is a package both specifically for Indonesia and a unified international eSIM.
Another well-known provider is Drimsim. This Russian-speaking service also has a convenient app. Drimsim can provide you not only with eSIM but also a traditional plastic SIM card with the same features. The connection cost is $10. The volume of used traffic is measured in kilobytes, and you pay as you go.
There is a compromise option: you can connect an eSIM on-site. Currently, in Indonesia, this service is provided by:
Telkomsel Tourist SIMPATI eSIM
Where to buy: only upon arrival — at GraPARI, Telkomsel corners in Ngurah Rai Airport, and city offices. Activation requires a passport and IMEI, supports calls/SMS (numbers +62).
Tariffs (30 days):
25 GB — 400 000 IDR (~$26)
35 GB — 500 000 IDR (~$32)
60 GB — 600 000 IDR (~$39 )
100 GB — 850 000 IDR (~$55 )
200 GB — 1 250 000 IDR (~$81 )
IM3 (Indosat/Ooredoo)
Packages for 30 days:
18 GB — 250 000 IDR (~$16)
42 GB — 400 000 IDR (~$26)
64 GB — 450 000 IDR (~$29)
80 GB — 550 000 IDR (~$36)
170 GB — 750 000 IDR (~$49)
Tri (Three)
29 GB — 250 000 IDR (~$16)
45 GB — 350 000 IDR (~$23)
65 GB — 450 000 IDR (~$29)
Smartfren
25 GB — 200 000 IDR (~$13)
30 GB — 230 000 IDR (~$15)
45 GB — 275 000 IDR (~$18)
60 GB — 500 000 IDR (~$32.5)
Foreigners without KITAS cannot buy a Telkomcell eSIM online, as passport and IMEI verification by a staff member is required.
Indosat has more lenient rules. You can order an eSIM online through the IM3 website or myIM3 app and activate it by scanning the QR code as soon as you arrive in Indonesia.
Smartfren also allows you to purchase an eSIM online — through their official website or mySF app, and it is available even before the trip. The same applies to Tri.
User reviews:
— In small island zones (Nusa Lembongan), Telkomsel eSIM might experience interruptive service — physical SIMs seem more stable.
— Users note that eSIM providers like Airalo operate "without IMEI registration" and simply switch on upon arrival in Bali.
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