Connectivity & Apps

Chapter 9: Stay Connected: SIM Cards, Signal, and Essential Apps

Best SIM Cards and Internet

Getting a local SIM card is a great way to ensure you have reliable internet and a local number while in Bali. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to get one, with options from the two most popular providers: Telkomsel and XL Axiata.

Where to Buy

You have a few convenient options for purchasing a SIM card:

  • Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar Airport): This is the easiest and most common option. After you land, you’ll find official kiosks for Telkomsel and XL Axiata in the arrivals area. Staff will assist you with the purchase and registration process on the spot. While convenient, prices at the airport might be slightly higher than in town.
  • Official Provider Stores: Stores known as “GraPARI” for Telkomsel or “XL Center” for XL Axiata are located in major tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud. These stores offer the best deals and guaranteed service.
  • Convenience and Electronic Stores: Stores like Indomaret and Alfamart sell prepaid SIM cards. However, you will still need to complete the registration process, which is often done with the help of the store clerk or by visiting an official store afterward.

Prepaid or Postpaid?

For tourists, SIM cards are almost always prepaid. You purchase a card with a set amount of data and credit, and you can top it up as needed. Postpaid plans are generally for long-term residents.

Registration Process

The Indonesian government requires all SIM cards to be registered. To do this, you will need to provide:

  • Your passport.
  • Your phone’s IMEI number. You can find this by dialing *#06# on your phone. The store staff will handle the registration for you. This process is mandatory and ensures that your SIM card will be fully functional.

Cost and Data Packages

The cost varies depending on the provider and the data package you choose. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:

Telkomsel Known for its extensive coverage, including in more remote areas. It is generally considered the most reliable but can be slightly more expensive.

  • Price: A Telkomsel Tourist SIM card might cost around IDR 150,000 (about USD 9.70) and include a package with a large data allowance and some local call minutes.
  • Packages: Telkomsel offers various prepaid packages with data quotas ranging from 25GB up to larger amounts, valid for 30 days.

XL Axiata A popular choice for its competitive prices and good coverage in major tourist areas.

  • Price: XL Axiata offers very affordable prepaid plans. For example, a package with 60.5 GB can cost as low as IDR 38,000 (about USD 2.50), while a package with 125 GB could be around IDR 55,000 (about USD 3.50).
  • Packages: They have a wide range of “Xtra Combo Flex” and other plans with varying data sizes and validity periods, catering to different needs.

Buying More Data (Quota)

When you need to top up your data, you can do so in several ways:

  • MyTelkomsel or myXL Apps: Both providers have official apps that are the easiest way to manage your account, check your data balance, and buy more data using an international credit card. The apps have English interfaces, making them tourist-friendly.
  • Convenience Stores: You can buy a top-up voucher (known as “pulsa”) at mini markets like Indomaret or Alfamart. You then dial a specific code on your phone to redeem the credit and use it to buy a data package.
  • Official Outlets: You can always return to a GraPARI or XL Center to have staff assist you with purchasing and activating a new data package.

Remember to compare the options at the airport or in town to find the best plan for your travel needs and budget.

Useful Apps for Transport, Food, and Navigation

To make your trip to Bali as smooth as possible, here is an updated list of essential apps to download:

Transport & Navigation:

  • Gojek & Grab: These are the most essential apps for cheap and easy transportation. They function similarly to Uber, allowing you to book a car or motorbike taxi. They also have a range of other services including food delivery.
  • Waze: While Google Maps is a must-have for general navigation, Waze is a great alternative for motorbikes. It is popular with local drivers because of its real-time traffic updates and alerts for police checkpoints, accidents, and road closures, which can be very useful for navigating Bali’s unique traffic.
  • Google Maps: This is still a must-have for general navigation, but be aware that it might not always show the most direct routes for motorbikes on smaller local roads. It is best used for mapping out longer journeys and finding points of interest.

Food & Delivery:

  • Gojek & Grab: Both apps have extensive food delivery services, GoFood and GrabFood, which are widely used across the island.
  • ShopeeFood: This is another popular food delivery app in Indonesia, often known for offering significant discounts and promotions.
  • Bali Direct: If you plan on doing some cooking, this app is an excellent option for grocery delivery. It focuses on sustainably sourced and locally produced items.

Communication & Bookings:

  • WhatsApp: The main messaging app used by everyone, from drivers to accommodation hosts and tour operators. It’s a non-negotiable for communicating with locals.
  • Google Translate: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but this app is invaluable for translating menus, signs, or communicating with people in more rural areas.
  • Traveloka, Tiket.com, Agoda: These apps are excellent for booking flights, hotels, and activities within Indonesia. They often offer special deals and are widely trusted by locals and tourists alike.
  • Klook & GetYourGuide: These platforms are perfect for pre-booking tours, activities, and unique experiences like temple visits or water sports.

Money & Payments:

  • Wise (formerly TransferWise): An excellent option for international payments, allowing you to hold money in multiple currencies and make cheap international transfers.
  • XE Currency Converter: This app is useful for checking up-to-date exchange rates, helping you to budget and ensure you’re getting a fair rate when changing money.