If you’re an Australian planning a trip to Bali, staying connected is essential for navigation, staying in touch with loved ones, and sharing your experiences. While Australians have several options for connectivity, choosing the right SIM card can make a big difference in cost, convenience, and connectivity. Here’s a guide to the best SIM card options for Australians traveling to Bali, including local Bali SIM cards and international SIM cards.
Should You Use a Local Bali SIM Card or an International SIM Card?
Both local Bali SIM cards and international SIM cards have their own advantages and considerations. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which option best suits your needs.
Option 1: Local Bali SIM Cards
Local SIM cards from Bali’s main providers—Telkomsel, XL Axiata, Indosat Ooredoo, and Tri—are often the best choice for tourists seeking affordable and reliable connectivity throughout their trip.
Why Choose a Local Bali SIM Card?
- Cost-Effective: Local SIM cards in Bali offer affordable data packages compared to international roaming fees.
- Reliable Coverage: Local providers like Telkomsel have strong network coverage across Bali, including remote areas.
- Flexible Data Packages: Local SIM cards come with various data packages tailored to tourists, giving you control over how much data you need.
Where to Get a Local SIM Card in Bali
Local SIM cards are widely available at Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar Airport), so you can get connected as soon as you land. SIM Card Airport Bali offers a variety of packages for tourists, and staff can assist with setup and activation.
Local SIM Card Options in Bali
- Telkomsel – Known for the best coverage across Bali, including rural and remote areas.
- Packages: 18GB for IDR 250,000, 25GB for IDR 350,000, 50GB for IDR 450,000
- Best For: Tourists exploring all parts of Bali, especially those needing reliable connectivity in remote areas.
- XL Axiata – Great value for data in popular tourist areas like Kuta, Ubud, and Seminyak.
- Packages: 12GB (eSIM) for IDR 250,000, 18GB for IDR 250,000, 25GB for IDR 350,000
- Best For: Travelers staying in central tourist zones who want affordable data packages.
- Indosat Ooredoo – Budget-friendly, ideal for short stays and moderate usage.
- Packages: 18GB for IDR 250,000, 32GB for IDR 350,000
- Best For: Tourists who need basic connectivity within main tourist areas.
- Tri (3) – High-data package for heavy users, but limited in remote areas.
- Package: 50GB for IDR 450,000
- Best For: Travelers staying in central areas who need a lot of data for streaming and social media.
Option 2: International SIM Cards for Bali
If you’re visiting multiple countries or prefer to keep the same SIM card throughout your trip, an international SIM card can be a convenient option. Here are some popular international SIM cards that work in Bali.
Why Choose an International SIM Card?
- Multi-Country Use: An international SIM card can be used across multiple countries, making it ideal for a multi-destination trip.
- Single Number for the Trip: You can keep the same number across destinations, which is convenient for business travelers or those who want to stay reachable.
- Pre-Activated and Ready to Use: Many international SIM cards are pre-activated, so you can start using them as soon as you land.
Best International SIM Card Options for Bali
- Airalo eSIM – Digital eSIM solution that’s affordable and easy to set up on compatible devices.
- Data Packages: 1GB for $4.50, 3GB for $11, 5GB for $16
- Pros: Affordable, no physical SIM required, multi-country compatibility
- Cons: Limited to eSIM-compatible phones, data-only with no call options
- OneSimCard – Physical SIM card with global coverage in over 200 countries.
- Data Rates: Starts at $10 for 500MB, with additional packages available.
- Pros: Wide global coverage, flexible top-up options
- Cons: Higher data costs than local SIMs, setup required before travel
- TravelSim – Prepaid SIM card offering voice, SMS, and data packages.
- Data Packages: Starts at $12 for 1GB, with larger packages available.
- Pros: Works in multiple countries, flexible prepaid options
- Cons: Limited data for heavy users, higher cost per GB compared to local options
- WorldSIM – Popular among frequent travelers for its global reach.
- Data Packages: $15 for 1GB in Bali, with additional data plans available.
- Pros: Free incoming calls in many countries, global coverage
- Cons: Expensive compared to local SIMs, better suited for business travelers
Comparing Local Bali SIM Cards and International SIM Cards
| Feature | Local Bali SIM Card | International SIM Card |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Affordable (starting around IDR 250,000) | Higher (starts at $10 for small data packages) |
| Coverage | Excellent within Bali | May vary, often less reliable in rural areas |
| Data Allowance | Generous (up to 50GB) | Typically limited to smaller packages |
| Ease of Purchase | Easy to buy at Bali Airport | Must be purchased before travel or via eSIM |
| Convenience | New number in Bali | Keep same number globally |
| Best For | Tourists focused on Bali | Multi-country travelers |
Final Recommendation
For Australians traveling solely to Bali, a local SIM card offers the best value, with affordable data packages, reliable coverage, and flexible plans. Telkomsel is ideal for those who need island-wide coverage, XL Axiata is a great choice for affordable data in central areas, Indosat is a budget-friendly option for short stays, and Tri offers large data packages for heavy users in urban areas.
If you’re planning a multi-country trip, an international SIM card like Airalo eSIM or OneSimCard may be more convenient, allowing you to stay connected across different destinations.
To ensure easy access and setup, you can purchase local SIM cards at SIM Card Airport Bali at Ngurah Rai International Airport. This way, you’ll be connected from the moment you arrive, allowing you to enjoy seamless connectivity throughout your Bali adventure.
