Internet in Indonesia: roaming, eSIM, local SIM and VPN explained
Bali is popular with digital nomads and holidaymakers: coworking spaces generally have solid wifi, but mobile data is your backup once you're out and about or wifi drops.
Roaming with your own plan
Indonesia isn't covered by EU roaming rules. Traveling with a Dutch or Belgian plan means roaming charges can add up fast, check with your provider before you leave.
eSIM for Indonesia
You can install an eSIM before you leave, so you're online the moment you land, no SIM shop to find. If you island-hop by ferry, that beats tracking down a new local SIM every time.
Local SIM card
Local prepaid SIMs from Telkomsel, XL Axiata or Indosat are available at shops and the airport, usually with passport registration. Activating an eSIM beforehand saves time after landing.
Mobile coverage in Indonesia
Telkomsel generally offers the widest coverage outside tourist hubs. In Bali, coverage around Kuta, Seminyak and Ubud is good, but island-hopping to Gili or Lombok means coverage varies by island, check ahead of booking the ferry.
Do you need a VPN?
Indonesia has no internet censorship, so a VPN isn't necessary to access services. Coworking wifi and free café wifi are popular with digital nomads but rarely individually secured, a VPN is useful there for work and banking.
Practical tips
- Coworking wifi can be unreliable, keep an eSIM as a backup
- Coverage varies between islands (like Gili or Lombok), check ahead if you're island-hopping
- The cheapest bundle often has the weakest coverage outside Kuta and Seminyak
- Check that your device supports eSIM before you leave
Our recommendation
For most travelers, an eSIM is the simplest solution for Bali and Indonesia: no roaming surprises and a reliable backup when coworking wifi drops. Check our eSIM comparison for Indonesia for current options, or read more about VPNs for Bali and Indonesia.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an eSIM in Bali?+
Not strictly necessary if you mostly rely on coworking wifi, but handy as a backup and while out and about.
Does roaming work with a Dutch or Belgian plan?+
Indonesia isn't covered by EU roaming rules, so roaming charges can add up fast. Check with your provider before you leave.
Is coverage on Gili or Lombok as good as Bali?+
Not always. Coverage varies by island, check before booking the ferry.
Do I need a VPN in Indonesia?+
Not necessary for accessing services, but useful on shared coworking and café wifi for work and banking.
Can I keep my own number with an eSIM?+
Usually yes, on devices with dual-SIM support: your own SIM or eSIM stays active alongside the new Indonesian eSIM.
Ready for your trip to Bali or Indonesia?
Check out our eSIM tips and recommended plans for Indonesia.
See eSIM for Indonesia