The quick verdict
An eSIM is the smoothest way to arrive connected in Bali without dealing with a local SIM shop.
Get an eSIM for Indonesia (incl. Bali) ↗
Airalo sells a local Indonesia (incl. Bali) eSIM — pick it on their store. Some links here are partner links: if you buy through them, Diaries of Travels may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only point to a service when it matches the advice on the page, and a commission never changes what we recommend. Disclosure →
What to expect
- Coverage
- Indonesia has good coverage in Bali, Jakarta and the main tourist hubs, and patchier signal on remote islands.
- Networks
- Runs on Telkomsel (widest reach), Indosat or XL.
- Data for a week
- 5–10 GB for a week if you're working remotely or posting from Bali; less for a pure holiday.
- Good to know
- For the Nusa islands, Gili islands and inland Flores, expect gaps — Telkomsel-based plans hold up best off the beaten track.
eSIM, local SIM or roaming?
For most trips to Indonesia (incl. Bali), an eSIM is the simplest choice: you buy and install it before you fly, then land already online. A local SIM can be cheaper for very long stays, but means queuing at the airport and sometimes registering ID. Your home carrier's roaming is the most expensive option and worth avoiding unless your plan already includes Indonesia (incl. Bali).
How to set up your Indonesia (incl. Bali) eSIM
- Check your phone. It needs to be eSIM-compatible and carrier-unlocked. Most phones from the last few years qualify.
- Buy the Indonesia (incl. Bali) eSIM before you fly, while you still have Wi-Fi at home.
- Install it over Wi-Fi. A one-tap install or a QR code adds it as a second line — your home SIM stays in place.
- Land and switch on. Turn on data roaming for the eSIM line only. It connects to a local network automatically.
- Keep your number. Leave your home SIM active for calls and texts, and use the eSIM for data.
One honest caveat
Coverage, plans and prices change, and networks vary by region within Indonesia (incl. Bali). Always download offline maps for anywhere remote, and check your phone supports eSIM before you buy.