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Staying connected in Bali used to be an arduous task, but times are a-changing! For my recent trip to Bali (where I shopped until I dropped in Sanur), I used a Sim Local eSIM, which meant I had mobile data the moment I landed. But is it actually the best eSIM for Bali? Here’s my honest experience using Sim Local in Bali, including how it works, the benefits, and whether it’s worth it for your trip.
What is the best eSIM for Bali?
The best eSIM for Bali is Sim Local, which offers affordable data plans that activate instantly upon arrival. It’s an easy way to get mobile data without buying a physical SIM card at the airport.
How does Sim Local’s Bali eSIM work?
If you’ve never used an eSIM before, the idea can sound a bit confusing. In reality, it’s surprisingly simple. I’m talking too easy 😅. An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into your phone, so you don’t need to insert a physical SIM. Instead, you install a mobile plan directly on your device.
Here’s how the process worked for me with Sim Local.
1. Purchase your eSIM online
First, choose the Indonesian eSIM from the Sim Local website (don’t forget to use the code HOLIDAY10 for 10% off). The eSIM unlimited data plans range from 1GB to 20GB and start from $4 USD. You can buy and install it before your trip, but if you’re not that prepared, don’t stress. You can do it all when you arrive.
Hot tip: If Bali is one stop on your Southeast Asia trip, this eSIM works in 35 Asian countries.
2. Receive a QR code
After purchasing, Sim Local sends you a QR code via email.
3. Install the eSIM on your phone
You simply scan the QR code in your phone’s mobile settings and follow the prompts to install the plan. You can also download the Sim Local app for easy installation.
4. Activate it when you land
Once you arrive in Bali, turn on the eSIM in your settings and connect to the network. I have an iPhone 16 and had it set up as my “Secondary” SIM. Just ensure you switch on data roaming, then wait a minute, and you’ll be all set! It’s literally done in under five minutes.
One of the biggest reasons people search for the best eSIM for Bali before their trip is for the convenience of instant activation. You can land connected instead of trying to organise a SIM card after a long flight.
What are the benefits of using a Sim Local eSIM in Bali?
After using it throughout my trip, there were a few standout reasons I’d recommend it.
1. You’re connected the moment you land
This was probably the biggest benefit. As soon as I arrived at Denpasar Airport, my phone connected automatically. That meant I could instantly WhatsApp the driver I organised through Booking.com. If you’ve ever arrived somewhere unfamiliar without internet, you’ll know how useful this is. It also means you can skip the airport SIM kiosks and start your trip immediately.
2. No physical SIM card needed
Swapping SIM cards while travelling is just an annoying hassle you don’t need while in paradise. With a traditional SIM, you need to:
- Remove your existing SIM
- Keep track of the tiny card
- Insert the new one
- Switch everything back after your trip
A Sim Local eSIM removes that entire process. Your normal SIM stays in your phone, and the travel data plan runs alongside it. For frequent travellers, this is one of the main reasons eSIMs are becoming so popular.
3. Reliable coverage across Bali
I can confirm Sim Local kept me connected in major tourist areas like Kuta (the airport), Legian, Sanur, and the Gili islands. The eSIM connects to a large Indonesian network (Indosat) that provides strong 4G coverage and speed across the island. Reliable coverage is a key factor when choosing the best eSIM for Bali, especially if you’re like me and rely on maps, ride-sharing apps, or WhatsApp during your trip.
4. Avoid airport SIM scams and inflated prices
Airport SIM booths in Bali are convenient, but they’re not always the cheapest option. Tourist SIM cards are often marked up and require registration or passport verification before activation. With an eSIM, you don’t need to sign your life away! It’s a small thing, but skipping that hassle after a long flight makes a big difference.
Speaking of inflated prices, another eSIM benefit is doing without roaming fees because no one needs those exorbitant extras in this economy!
5. Easy setup and eSIM activation
One thing I appreciated was how straightforward the setup process was. From purchase to activation, the whole process took less than five minutes. Even if you’re not particularly tech savvy (read: a baby boomer, hi mum and dad 😂), installing this Bali eSIM is just a matter of scanning a QR code and following the prompts.
6. Hotspot it!
I also trialled using the Bali eSIM as a hotspot, and I can confirm it worked just like my normal SIM at home. While most accommodation in Bali offers free WiFi, it isn’t always reliable, so it’s great to have a hotspot as a backup.
Another benefit I didn’t use but is worth mentioning is Sim Local’s customer support. You can message the team on WhatsApp 24/7 with any travel eSIM questions.
Bali eSIM vs. physical SIM card
| Feature | eSIM | Physical SIM |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Install before travel | Buy at airport or store |
| Convenience | Very easy | Requires SIM swap |
| Activation | Instant | Usually requires registration |
| Best for | Short trips | Long stays |
Who is this Bali eSIM best for?
A Sim Local eSIM is the best SIM card for Bali tourists who:
- Want internet access the moment they land.
- Prefer not to deal with airport SIM kiosks.
- Don’t want to remove their physical SIM card.
- Are visiting Bali for a month or less.
How do you choose the best eSIM for Bali?
Not all travel eSIMs are the same. If you’re comparing options, here are a few things worth checking.
1. Network coverage
The strongest coverage in Bali generally comes from the three largest Indonesian networks: Telkomsel, Indosat and XL Axiata. They offer a reliable signal across much of the island. Sim Local uses Indosat.
2. Data allowance
Most travellers use between 5GB and 15GB for a typical Bali holiday, depending on how often they stream video or upload photos. With Sim Local, you can choose from 1GB to 20GB.
3. Trip length
Make sure the plan lasts for the entire duration of your trip. Many Bali eSIM plans are valid for 7, 15, or 30 days. Only the 1GB Sim Local Bali eSIM is valid for 7 days; the rest are 30 days.
4. Phone compatibility
Not all phones support eSIM technology, so it’s worth checking your device before purchasing. Here’s the list of handsets compatible with Sim Local eSIMs.
Is Sim Local the best eSIM for Bali?
After using it during my trip, I’d say Sim Local is definitely one of the best eSIM options for Bali. The main reasons are:
- A large range of affordable plans.
- Simple installation.
- Instant connectivity when you land.
- Reliable coverage for everyday travel needs like Google Maps and WhatsApp.
If convenience matters to you, organising your Sim Local Bali eSIM before you arrive can make the start of your trip far smoother.
Bali travel tips
Having mobile data is only one small part of making your Bali trip easier.
1. Download Grab or Gojek
These ride-sharing apps are the easiest way to get around Bali. They’re widely used in popular areas such as Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, and Sanur. But be wary that traffic is only worsening in Bali (especially in Canggu), so be patient, or jump on the back of a scooter to get where you’re going faster.
Hot tip: Having mobile data while using these apps makes me feel safer as a solo female traveller, as I can easily share the route with my family back home.
2. Book accommodation in advance
It’s becoming more apparent that booking Bali accommodation in advance is essential. I have a Sanur accommodation guide, but my go-to hotel is Ari Putri Hotel. They remember me, so I’m basically a local 😂. If you’re eyeing Legian, I had the most luxurious stay at Bali Mandira.
3. Carry cash
Most cafes, restaurants and boutiques accept cards nowadays and even prefer them. But local shops, small warungs, and drivers often prefer cash. I recommend bringing cash in your currency and exchanging it at an official shop upon arrival to avoid ATM fees. By official shop, I mean not some random back alley dealing because I’ve been there, got ripped off 😂.
4. Don’t drink the water
You can’t drink the tap water in Bali, but you can enjoy the government-regulated ice. What I do is spend a couple of dollars buying a big bottle (we’re talking 15L) at the local supermarket and refill the two insulated water bottles I bring from home.
Planning a trip to Bali?
If you’re still planning your itinerary, visit my Bali archive or check out these Bali travel posts:
Accommodation: Browse Bali hotels.
Airport transfer: Organise airport transfer.
Travel insurance: Compare travel insurance options (my go-to is Travel Insurance Direct).
Mobile data: Check Bali eSIM plans.
FAQs about the best Bali eSIM for tourists
Yes, you can get an eSIM for Bali from multiple companies, including Sim Local.
Technically no. You can buy a local SIM card at the airport or in convenience stores. However, many travellers prefer an eSIM because it allows them to connect immediately after landing, without the hassle of finding a local store or transferring physical SIMs.
The best eSIM for Bali depends on your priorities. Some travellers prioritise price, while others want the easiest setup or strongest coverage. I had a great experience using Sim Local’s Bali eSIM.
Yes. In fact, most travellers install their eSIM before leaving home. You simply activate it once you land in Bali.
Overall, the internet in Bali for tourists is generally reliable in popular areas like Seminyak, Canggu and Ubud. More remote areas may occasionally have weaker signals depending on the network.
For most travellers:
– Light use: 1 to 3GB per week
– Moderate use: 3 to 5GB per week
– Heavy use: 5 to 10GB+ per week
If you rely heavily on Google Maps, social media, or hotspotting your laptop, or if you’re staying for an extended period, choosing an Indonesia eSIM card with a larger data plan is usually safer.
I find the prices quite comparable. A SIM card in Bali usually costs around $20 AUD, and so does a 5GB eSIM from Sim Local.
The best SIM card for Bali tourists is any that uses the three main networks: Telekomsel, Indosat, or XL Axiata.
Yes, you can stay connected via WhatsApp with a Bali eSIM from Sim Local.
No, buying a SIM at the airport in Bali typically costs more money than an eSIM or getting a physical card from a local shop.
I hope my comprehensive Bali eSIM guide helps you as you plan your visit to my favourite place.
Staying connected makes travelling around Bali much easier, especially if you’re a fellow solo traveller. Whether you’re organising transport, navigating unknown streets, or sharing your trip online, having reliable mobile data in Bali quickly becomes essential.
Using Sim Local meant I had internet the moment I arrived, without dealing with airport kiosks or SIM card swaps. If you’re planning a trip and looking for the best eSIM for Bali, it’s definitely a convenient option worth considering.
PREPARE FOR YOUR TRIP
– Compare and book flights easily on Booking.com.
– Book accommodation with Booking.com or Hostelworld. Yes, I am that person who checks both places before booking accommodation to get the best price.
– Organise travel insurance.
– Book adventures via GetYourGuide, my preferred provider. In some instances, I’ve found activities here that were sold out elsewhere.
– Stay connected with an eSIM from Sim Local. Use code HOLIDAY10 for 10% off.
– Sign up for a Wise travel card for low fees and high exchange rates.
– Check out my travel resources page for more info.
Any and all support is appreciated 🫶🏻.
Thank you to Sim Local for partnering with me on this post.
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