When traveling to Bali, staying connected is essential for navigation, booking transport, and staying in touch with family and friends. A local SIM card is the best way to ensure reliable and affordable internet access during your trip. This guide compares Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat to help you determine which SIM card is best for your needs.
Best SIM Card Providers in Bali
Telkomsel – Best for Coverage and Speed
Telkomsel is the largest and most reliable mobile provider in Indonesia. It offers the strongest 4G and 5G coverage across Bali, including remote areas such as Ubud, Nusa Penida, and Lovina.
- Best For: Travelers who plan to explore all parts of Bali, including rural and less-touristy areas.
- Coverage: Excellent, with strong signals in both urban and remote locations.
- Speed: Fast 4G and 5G speeds, suitable for streaming, video calls, and social media.
- SIM Card Price:
- 18GB – IDR 250,000
- 25GB – IDR 350,000
- 50GB – IDR 450,000
- 70GB – IDR 550,000
Telkomsel is the best choice for travelers who need reliable internet access throughout the island, especially if they plan to visit remote locations.
XL Axiata – Best for Tourists Staying in Central Areas
XL Axiata provides strong 4G coverage in Bali’s main tourist hubs such as Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, and Canggu. It offers affordable data plans with good speeds, making it ideal for short-term visitors.
- Best For: Travelers staying in popular tourist areas who need reliable data at a reasonable price.
- Coverage: Excellent in city areas but weaker in remote locations.
- Speed: Reliable 4G speeds for browsing, navigation, and social media.
- SIM Card Price:
- 12GB – IDR 250,000
- 22GB – IDR 350,000
- 38GB – IDR 450,000
- 75GB – IDR 550,000
- 150GB – IDR 650,000
XL Axiata is a great choice for tourists staying in central locations who want a balance of affordability and performance.
Indosat Ooredoo – Best for Budget Travelers
Indosat Ooredoo is a budget-friendly SIM card suitable for travelers who only need basic internet access. It provides decent coverage in urban areas but may not be reliable in rural locations.
- Best For: Budget travelers who need light data usage for messaging and social media.
- Coverage: Good in city areas, but weaker in rural and remote locations.
- Speed: Slower compared to Telkomsel and XL Axiata.
- SIM Card Price:
- 18GB – IDR 250,000
- 32GB – IDR 350,000
- 50GB – IDR 450,000
Indosat is best for travelers who want the cheapest option and will stay in urban areas like Kuta and Seminyak.
Where to Buy the Best SIM Card in Bali
- Ngurah Rai International Airport (Bali Airport) – The most convenient place to buy a SIM card upon arrival. Staff assist with activation, ensuring your SIM card is ready to use immediately.
- Online Pre-Order – Pre-order at SIM Card Airport Bali and pick up your SIM card at the airport.
- Local Mobile Shops & Convenience Stores – Available in Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, and Denpasar, but activation may take longer.
How to Get an eSIM:
- Purchase an eSIM from SIM Card Airport Bali or an eSIM provider.
- Scan the QR code to activate your plan.
- Start using data immediately upon arrival.
Final Recommendation: Which SIM Card is Best in Bali?
- Choose Telkomsel for the best coverage and fastest speeds, especially for traveling to remote areas.
- Choose XL Axiata for good value and strong coverage in tourist hotspots like Kuta and Seminyak.
- Choose Indosat if you need a budget-friendly SIM card for basic use.
- Choose an eSIM if you want instant activation without needing a physical SIM.
For the best experience, buy your SIM card at Bali Airport or pre-order online at SIM Card Airport Bali to ensure you are connected as soon as you land. Stay connected and enjoy your trip without interruptions.
