Bali SIM Cards: Where to Buy and How to Stay Connected in 2025

Staying connected while traveling to Bali is essential. If you're looking into how to get a Bali SIM card, this guide will provide you with detailed information on the available SIM card options, helping you stay connected throughout your journey on this beautiful island.

Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Bali?

When traveling to Bali, staying connected is essential. Here are some convenient options for purchasing a SIM card.

Buy an International SIM Card Before Your Trip

You can easily purchase an international SIM card online. The SIM card will be delivered to your home before you start your trip to Bali.

Buy a Tourist SIM Card at Ngurah Rai Airport

At Ngurah Rai Airport, you will find many SIM card counters. Right after you leave the baggage claim area and pass through customs, counters from major telecom providers will appear. They usually offer special SIM card packages for tourists. Purchasing and setting up a prepaid SIM card is very quick, often taking less than 10 minutes.

Buy in the City: Mobile Shops, Malls, and Convenience Stores

In Bali, you can easily find SIM cards at mobile phone shops, shopping malls, and convenience stores. These places often offer a variety of attractive prepaid SIM packages for tourists. The purchasing process is very quick—you simply choose a plan, present your ID, and the staff will assist you with the setup right away.

Best SIM Card Providers in Bali

When arriving in Bali, choosing the right SIM card provider is crucial for staying connected. Here are some of the top mobile operators you might consider:

Telkomsel

Telkomsel is the largest mobile service provider in Indonesia, but it offers only one type of SIM card for tourists. This SIM card provides 25 GB of data and 25 minutes of calls for Rp150,000 (approximately $9.50 USD or ~$14.50 AUD). It is valid for 30 days and can be purchased online or at Telkomsel stores. To order the SIM card online, you need to enter your full name and passport number, then select the date and location for pickup.

XL Axiata

If you're looking for more internet package options, XL Axiata offers a wide range of affordable choices. Here are some data plans you can consider:

• 12 GB and 5 minutes of calls: Rp38,000 (approximately $2.40 USD or ~$3.70 AUD)

• 22 GB and 5 minutes of calls: Rp55,000 (approximately $3.50 USD or ~$5.35 AUD)

• 40 GB and 5 minutes of calls: Rp75,000 (approximately $4.75 USD or ~$7.25 AUD)

• 60 GB and 5 minutes of calls: Rp90,000 (approximately $5.70 USD or ~$8.70 AUD)

• 80 GB and 5 minutes of calls: Rp120,000 (approximately $7.60 USD or ~$11.60 AUD)

Please note that the online SIM purchase process can be quite complicated, and the website is only available in Indonesian. Therefore, it's recommended to buy a SIM card at the airport or from local shops in Bali for greater convenience.

Indosat Ooredoo

This provider does not offer 5G internet service, but you will have access to a 4G network on the island. Although the coverage area is not extensive, their prices are very competitive and they offer several good-value top-up packages. If you need a backup SIM card and mainly rely on free Wi-Fi in Bali, this could be a practical option.

Smartfren

If you want to use an eSIM, Smartfren is currently the only available option. Although their coverage area is still limited, the pricing is very affordable. Notably, you get unlimited free access to WhatsApp, which is ideal if it's your preferred messaging app.

How Much Does a Prepaid SIM Card in Bali Cost?

When preparing for your trip to Bali, understanding the cost of a SIM card is essential.

Price Range for Tourist SIM Cards

Travel SIM cards in Bali come at various price points, ranging from around $3 to $13, depending on the provider, data allowance, and validity period.

Validity, Data Allowance, and Top-Up Options

SIM cards typically have a validity of 30 days, with data allowances ranging from 10GB to 50GB or more. If you run out of data before the expiration date, you can easily top up at convenience stores or purchase additional data online.

Should You Use a SIM Card or an eSIM in Bali?

When choosing between a SIM card and an eSIM in Bali, you need to consider several factors to find the option that best suits your needs.

Physical SIM Cards in Bali – Pros and Cons

Physical SIM cards are still a popular choice for many people. Their main advantage is ease of purchase, with a wide range of providers and plans to choose from. However, removing your existing SIM can be inconvenient, and there's a risk of losing it. Additionally, using physical SIM cards is not the most environmentally friendly option.

Using a Travel eSIM – When It's More Convenient

eSIM is a modern solution that offers many conveniences. You can use two SIMs simultaneously without the risk of losing a physical card, and activation is simple—just scan a QR code. It’s a convenient and flexible option, especially for those who travel frequently.

Why The BitJoy eSIM Is a Flexible Option

If you need maximum flexibility, The BitJoy eSIM is an ideal choice. With a wide range of data plans, global coverage, and the convenience of online top-ups, The BitJoy makes it easy to stay connected wherever you are. Additionally, their 24/7 customer support is a major plus, ensuring you always have assistance when you need it.

What Documents Do You Need to Register a SIM in Bali?

When purchasing a SIM card in Bali, having the necessary documents prepared is essential to ensure a smooth process.

Passport Requirements

To purchase a prepaid SIM card in Bali, you only need to bring your passport. When buying the SIM card, the provider will make a copy of the main passport page for activation purposes. This process is very secure, and your internet package and call time are usually activated within 2–3 minutes after the transaction is completed.

Local Regulations and Registration Process

As a tourist in Indonesia, you cannot obtain a local SIM card with unlimited validity. Although local SIM cards offer much cheaper data packages compared to tourist SIMs, they only work on phones that are registered in Indonesia. This means your device must either be purchased locally or go through the IMEI registration process via customs. This process often requires you to pay a tax, which can be quite high.

Other Ways to Stay Connected in Bali

While in Bali, there are several effective ways to stay connected to the internet.

Public Wi-Fi Availability

Most hotels, restaurants, and cafés in Bali offer free Wi-Fi. While you shouldn't expect high-speed internet for streaming or downloading large files, it's generally sufficient for basic needs. Some mini markets, such as Indomaret and Alfamart, also provide free Wi-Fi, typically for customers who want to sit and relax for a while.

Co-working Spaces and Cafés with Internet Access

Remote workers seeking a strong internet connection during their stay in Bali will be glad to know that a growing number of coworking spaces are available across the island. These spaces are equipped with top-tier internet infrastructure, catering specifically to online professionals.

If working from crowded cafés doesn’t appeal to you, coworking spaces often offer a variety of flexible pricing plans. You can choose from daily passes, fixed-hour packages, or monthly memberships, which typically include coffee, access to facilities, and printing or photocopying services.

FAQs About Bali SIM Cards

When preparing for your trip to Bali, there are several frequently asked questions about SIM cards that you should be aware of.

Which SIM Is Best in Bali?

Telkomsel is the leading mobile network in Bali, with extensive coverage in popular areas. Their internet packages are reasonably priced and the service is reliable, making it easy for you to stay connected. You can purchase a Telkomsel SIM card right at Bali airport, along with special packages designed for tourists.

One downside is that tourist SIM cards are only valid for 90 days and cannot be extended. However, this is usually not an issue for travelers, as they can simply discard the SIM card once it's no longer needed.

Can I Use My Australian Phone in Bali?

You can use your phone in Bali in two ways. If you want to use your current provider's SIM card, simply request to activate roaming service for use in Indonesia. If you choose a local SIM card or the best travel SIM option, make sure your phone is unlocked so you can easily insert a new SIM.

Is It Worth Getting a SIM Card in Bali?

We recommend purchasing a local SIM card while in Bali. It is the most cost-effective way to make calls, send messages, and use the internet on the island. Although you can also use free public Wi-Fi hotspots, they are not always convenient or reliable.

Final Thoughts on Buying SIM Cards in Bali

Ultimately, the decision on how to purchase a SIM card in Bali depends on your personal needs and preferences. Whether you choose the convenience of a physical SIM that’s easy to find or the flexibility of an eSIM, remember to prioritize a reliable connection to enhance your travel experience. Carefully consider factors such as cost, data allowance, and convenience to make the choice that best suits you.

With the information provided, we hope you now have a clearer overview and feel more confident about how to get a Bali SIM card and choose the best connectivity option for your trip. For a truly seamless and uninterrupted travel experience, don’t forget to explore the flexible eSIM plans from The Bitjoy. Wishing you a fun and unforgettable journey!

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