Planning a trip to Indonesia and wondering how to stay connected? You’re not alone. Every traveler needs reliable internet for maps, ride-hailing apps, translations, and staying in touch. But choosing between all the SIM cards, eSIM options, and tourist plans can be confusing — especially with so many providers promising “best coverage.” The good news is that in 2025, getting connected in Indonesia is easier, faster, and more affordable than ever.
Whether you’re landing in Bali, Jakarta, or Yogyakarta, local networks like Telkomsel, XL Axiata, Indosat IM3, and Tri now offer ready-to-use tourist eSIMs and prepaid SIMs that you can buy online before your flight or at airport kiosks when you arrive. Most plans activate instantly and include generous data for social media, Google Maps, and even Wi-Fi hotspot sharing.
This complete guide to Indonesia SIM and eSIM for tourists 2025 will help you compare the best options for coverage, costs, setup, and top-up. You’ll learn which network works best in cities, rural areas, and beaches; how to buy and register your SIM easily with your passport; and how to avoid tourist traps at airport stalls. By the end, you’ll know exactly which SIM or eSIM to choose — and how to stay connected anywhere in Indonesia without stress.
The Big 4 at a Glance — What Travelers Need to Know
Indonesia has four major mobile providers that dominate the market: Telkomsel, XL Axiata, Indosat IM3, and Tri (now merged under Indosat). Each has its strengths, depending on where you’re traveling and what kind of trip you’re planning. Before buying a SIM or eSIM, it’s good to understand how each one performs in real conditions.
Telkomsel is Indonesia’s largest and most reliable provider. It covers over 98% of populated areas, including Bali, Java, Lombok, and many smaller islands. If your trip includes rural areas, mountains, or smaller beaches like Nusa Penida or East Java’s volcano routes, Telkomsel is the safest pick. It’s slightly more expensive, but you’ll appreciate its speed and signal consistency.
XL Axiata is the best balance between price and coverage. It works great in all major cities and tourist areas, including Bali, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya. XL also offers convenient tourist eSIMs, flexible combo data packs, and solid 4G/LTE speeds. For most short-term visitors who stay in populated zones, XL offers the best value for money.
Indosat IM3 (formerly Indosat Ooredoo) is the top budget-friendly option. Its signal is strong in urban areas and major highways, though weaker in remote regions. Indosat’s TravelON and IM3 prepaid plans are easy to set up and ideal if you only need internet for social media, chat apps, and ride-hailing.
Tri, now part of Indosat, is still known for low-cost data but offers smaller coverage outside city centers. If you’re mainly in urban Bali or Jakarta and don’t need wide-area connectivity, Tri is fine — but for island-hopping, it’s best to stick to Telkomsel or XL.
For 2025, Telkomsel remains the top performer for rural coverage, XL Axiata is the best overall value, and Indosat IM3 leads for affordable urban data plans.
eSIM vs Physical SIM in 2025
In 2025, travelers to Indonesia have more choices than ever before when it comes to staying connected. The big question now is whether to use a physical SIM card or a digital eSIM. Both work perfectly, but each option comes with different benefits depending on your phone, travel habits, and arrival plans.
An eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is a digital version of a traditional SIM card that’s already built into your phone. Instead of inserting a small plastic chip, you simply scan a QR code to activate your mobile plan. Most modern phones — including iPhones from the XS onward, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 4 or later — support eSIM. Travelers with compatible devices often find this option faster, cleaner, and more convenient.
Advantages of eSIMs for Tourists:
- Instant Activation: You can buy and activate your eSIM online before your flight, so your phone connects the moment you land.
- Dual SIM Use: Keep your home number active for banking or verification codes (like OTPs from Grab or KAI apps) while using your eSIM for data.
- No Lost or Damaged SIM Cards: Since eSIMs are digital, you won’t have to worry about losing or breaking them.
- Easy Top-Up and Reuse: You can manage everything from your phone, including switching plans or topping up online.
Physical SIM cards, on the other hand, are ideal for travelers with older phones or those who prefer having a tangible card they can insert and remove. They’re widely available at airports, mini-marts, and official provider stores, and they often come with tourist-exclusive bundles.
Advantages of Physical SIMs:
- Universal Compatibility: Works with any unlocked phone, even those without eSIM support.
- Instant Access at Airport: You can buy a SIM card directly after customs; vendors help with setup and registration on the spot.
- Local Assistance: Staff can check your activation, APN setup, and even install data packages for you.
If your phone supports eSIM, it’s usually the best option. You can order it before you travel from Telkomsel, XL Axiata, or Indosat IM3’s official websites, and be online as soon as you land. For travelers without eSIM phones, buying a physical SIM at the airport or an official city store is still easy and affordable.
In short, use an eSIM if you want quick digital convenience and flexibility. Stick to a physical SIM if you prefer face-to-face setup and the security of having something you can remove or change manually.
Where to Buy & What to Bring
Buying a SIM or eSIM in Indonesia is easy, but knowing where to get it — and what documents to bring — will save you time, money, and confusion. Whether you’re landing in Bali, Jakarta, or another major airport, there are three main ways to buy your Indonesia SIM or eSIM for tourists in 2025: at the airport, in the city, or online before you fly.
1. Airport Kiosks — Fast and Convenient
Almost every major airport in Indonesia has official booths from Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat IM3. After you pass immigration and collect your bags, you’ll find these kiosks in the arrivals area. The staff can help you choose a data package, register your SIM using your passport, and activate it before you even leave the terminal. This is the quickest way to get connected if you want instant internet access for Grab or Google Maps.
Pros: Immediate setup, English-speaking staff, official registration done on the spot.
Cons: Prices may be slightly higher than city outlets, and you’ll have fewer plan options.
2. City Stores and Mini-Marts — Better Value
If you don’t mind waiting until you reach your hotel, buying from official stores or convenience shops like Indomaret and Alfamart can save you money. These places sell prepaid SIMs and top-up vouchers, and you can ask staff to register your SIM with your passport. For eSIM users, city outlets often display QR codes that can be scanned for activation.
Pros: Lower prices, wider choice of plans, easy top-ups.
Cons: Staff may speak limited English, and setup can take a few minutes longer.
3. Online Before Flying — Instant eSIMs
For travelers using newer phones, buying an eSIM online before departure is the easiest and most modern option. You can purchase tourist eSIMs directly from official websites:
- Telkomsel Tourist eSIM: telkomsel.com
- XL Axiata eSIM Tourist Plan: xl.co.id
- Indosat IM3 eSIM: im3.id
These eSIMs can be activated by scanning a QR code sent to your email. Registration is done digitally using your passport photo, and activation usually takes less than five minutes.
What You’ll Need to Buy and Register a SIM in Indonesia:
- Passport: Required by law for tourist SIM registration.
- Unlocked Phone: Make sure your device is unlocked before traveling; locked phones won’t accept new SIMs.
- QR Scanner (for eSIM): Use your phone camera or settings menu to scan the eSIM activation code.
Pro Tip: Always buy from official sources to avoid unregistered SIMs. Scams at unofficial airport stalls are rare but still exist — especially when vendors promise “unlimited internet” that runs out in hours. If a deal seems too good to be true, it usually is.
By following these steps, you’ll have your SIM or eSIM activated quickly, legally, and with no hassle.
Best Plans — Typical 7–30 Day Picks
Once you know where to buy your SIM or eSIM, the next question is: which plan gives you the best value? In 2025, the big Indonesian providers — Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat IM3 — all offer short-term tourist plans that include plenty of data, local call minutes, and hotspot support. Here’s what you can expect based on current traveler-tested packages.
Telkomsel Tourist SIM and eSIM Plans (Best for Coverage)
Telkomsel remains the most popular choice for international travelers. It has the widest 4G/5G coverage across Bali, Java, Lombok, and many smaller islands. Speeds are fast even in rural areas, and their customer support is available in English.
- 7-Day Plan: Around IDR 100,000–120,000 for 10–12GB data.
- 14-Day Plan: Around IDR 150,000–180,000 for 25GB data, including free access to WhatsApp and social media.
- 30-Day Plan: Around IDR 250,000–300,000 for 45–50GB data.
These plans often include bonus streaming access (YouTube, Spotify) and allow hotspot sharing. For heavy users or digital nomads, Telkomsel’s Halo eSIM is the premium pick for its stability and roaming features.
XL Axiata Tourist Plans (Best Overall Value)
XL offers great speed, solid coverage, and competitive pricing. It’s ideal for visitors staying mainly in popular areas like Bali, Yogyakarta, or Surabaya.
- 7-Day “Xtra Combo Flex” Plan: IDR 80,000–100,000 for 15GB data.
- 30-Day Plan: IDR 150,000–200,000 for 40GB data, plus free local calls and bonus social app usage.
Their eSIM activation process is quick — you scan a QR code and start using data immediately. XL also offers family-friendly options, allowing multiple numbers to share one large data quota.
Indosat IM3 / Tri Tourist Plans (Best Budget Option)
If you’re staying mostly in city areas like Denpasar, Jakarta, or Seminyak, Indosat IM3 gives you the best deal for the price. Its TravelON and IM3 Prepaid packages are easy to set up and work well for short trips.
- 7-Day Plan: IDR 50,000–70,000 for 10GB data.
- 30-Day Plan: IDR 120,000–150,000 for 25–30GB data.
Their eSIM is quick to install, and IM3’s app is user-friendly in English, making top-ups simple.
Which Plan Should You Choose?
- Pick Telkomsel if you’ll travel to remote or rural areas.
- Choose XL Axiata if you want the best balance of speed, price, and coverage.
- Go for Indosat IM3 if you’re budget-conscious and staying in big cities or tourist centers.
Pro Tip: All plans can be topped up via e-wallets like GoPay, DANA, or ShopeePay — or at mini-marts such as Indomaret or Alfamart. Most tourist SIMs come pre-registered and ready for immediate use.
Coverage Reality Check — Bali, Java, Lombok
Choosing the right SIM or eSIM isn’t just about price — it’s about where it actually works. Indonesia’s islands are vast and varied, and coverage can change quickly once you leave the cities. Here’s how the major networks perform in real travel conditions across Bali, Java, and Lombok in 2025.
Telkomsel — Best for Full Island Coverage
Telkomsel remains the most dependable choice for anyone who wants a stable connection anywhere in Indonesia. In Bali, it offers full 4G and partial 5G coverage from Kuta to Ubud and even remote beaches like Amed, Balian, and Nusa Penida. It’s also the only network that stays strong during mountain drives, sea crossings, and rural temple visits.
Across Java, Telkomsel performs perfectly in Yogyakarta, Jakarta, and the northern coast (Semarang, Surabaya), with almost no dead zones. On Lombok, it’s the most reliable provider for travelers heading to Gili Islands, Senggigi, or Kuta Lombok, with stable data even near the beaches.
XL Axiata — Great in Cities and Tourist Areas
XL Axiata has excellent coverage in populated and tourist-heavy regions. In Bali, its connection is strong in Denpasar, Seminyak, Canggu, and Uluwatu. Signal strength drops slightly in remote northern or eastern areas, but it’s still decent for casual browsing.
In Java, XL’s performance is superb in Jakarta, Bandung, and Yogyakarta — ideal for business travelers or short stays. On Lombok, you’ll get a good connection in Mataram and the main coastal areas, though it may fade in rural hills.
Indosat IM3 / Tri — Reliable for City Travel Only
Indosat IM3 and Tri, which now share the same network, focus mainly on affordability and urban coverage. In Bali, they work well around Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak but can lose connection when driving toward more isolated beaches or central mountains.
In Java, IM3’s signal is strong across big cities and highways but inconsistent in smaller towns. On Lombok, expect good data near Mataram but weak service further south or east.
Quick Summary — Best SIM by Travel Type:
- For Remote and Rural Explorers: Telkomsel wins hands down.
- For City and Beach Hoppers: XL Axiata offers the best mix of coverage and price.
- For Budget City Travelers: Indosat IM3 is affordable and easy to top up.
Traveler Insight:
When you’re on smaller islands like Nusa Penida or Gili Air, even Telkomsel can slow down. Download offline maps before leaving the mainland and keep data-light apps like WhatsApp or Google Maps Go for smoother use.
If you plan to move between Bali, Java, and Lombok, Telkomsel is the most worry-free choice for consistent signal strength and fast 4G.
Step-by-Step — Activate & Set Up Your SIM or eSIM
Once you’ve picked your provider and plan, setting up your Indonesia SIM or eSIM for tourists 2025 is quick and simple. Whether you bought it online before your trip or at the airport after arrival, the process takes just a few minutes if you follow these steps carefully.
How to Activate a Physical SIM Card
- Insert the SIM Card: Turn off your phone, remove your existing SIM (if needed), and insert the new one. Turn your phone back on.
- Wait for Signal Detection: Within 30 seconds, your phone should automatically connect to the provider’s network (Telkomsel, XL, or Indosat IM3).
- Register with Your Passport: By Indonesian law, all SIM cards must be registered. The staff at airport kiosks or stores will scan your passport or manually enter your details. If you bought from a mini-mart, they can help with registration or direct you to the provider’s registration page.
- Check APN (Access Point Name): Your phone will usually configure this automatically. If not, you can find the correct APN settings on the provider’s website:
- Telkomsel: internet
- XL Axiata: internet
- Indosat IM3: indosatgprs
- Top-Up or Add Data (If Needed): Use e-wallets, the provider’s app, or vouchers from Indomaret/Alfamart to extend your data quota.
- Test the Connection: Open a website or Google Maps to make sure data works. If not, restart your phone once.
How to Activate an eSIM
- Find the QR Code: If you purchased your eSIM online, the provider will send a QR code to your email or display it in your account dashboard.
- Open Phone Settings: Go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.
- Scan the QR Code: Point your camera at the QR code, and your phone will recognize it automatically.
- Confirm and Label: Choose “Add” and name the plan (for example, “Telkomsel eSIM” or “XL Data”).
- Turn On Data Roaming: This ensures your plan stays active while switching between islands.
- Restart Your Phone: This step helps the network initialize and connect faster.
Common Issues and Fixes
- No Signal After Activation: Double-check registration and restart your phone.
- eSIM Activation Failed: Try re-scanning the QR code or contact support via WhatsApp or the provider’s official website.
- Slow Speed: Move closer to a window or main road; thick walls can block signal in hotels.
- IMEI or Registration Error: This usually happens if your phone was recently reset. Visit the nearest provider shop to verify registration manually.
Pro Tips for Smooth Setup
- Always connect to Wi-Fi during activation, especially for eSIMs, to ensure the download completes properly.
- Keep a screenshot of your eSIM QR code in your email or cloud storage in case you accidentally delete it.
- Enable data-only mode if you’re using dual SIMs to keep your home number available for calls and OTPs.
- For faster troubleshooting, download the provider’s app before arrival (Telkomsel, XL, or IM3) — all apps now support English.
Once your setup is complete, you’ll have full access to 4G/5G data across Indonesia — perfect for navigation, ride-hailing, and social media.
Where to Top-Up & Manage Your Plan
Once your SIM or eSIM is active, keeping it topped up is easy. In Indonesia, all major providers — Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat IM3 — allow you to recharge your data or call credit in several convenient ways. Whether you prefer using apps, online payment methods, or physical vouchers, you’ll never run out of data if you know where to look.
1. Provider Apps (Easiest Method)
Each network has its own free mobile app that lets you check your balance, buy new data packages, and monitor usage in English. These apps also support eSIM users, so you can manage everything digitally.
- Telkomsel: MyTelkomsel App (available on Android & iOS)
- XL Axiata: myXL App
- Indosat IM3: myIM3 App
Simply log in with your phone number or eSIM number. You can pay using cards, e-wallets like GoPay or DANA, or retail vouchers. Most apps also offer special deals or bonus data for in-app top-ups.
2. Mini-Marts and Convenience Stores
If you prefer paying with cash, you can top up at Indomaret, Alfamart, Circle K, and even Pepito Supermarkets in Bali. Tell the cashier your provider and phone number, choose an amount (for example, IDR 50,000 or 100,000), and they’ll process it instantly. You’ll get a confirmation SMS within seconds. This is perfect for travelers who don’t use local e-wallets.
3. Online Banking and E-Wallets
Digital payments are huge in Indonesia. Apps like GoPay, OVO, ShopeePay, and DANA all support mobile top-ups. Once you’ve added funds, simply select “Mobile Top-Up,” enter your number, and choose your provider. You can even schedule automatic recharges for longer stays.
4. Physical Vouchers
If you can’t access Wi-Fi or an app, physical scratch cards are available everywhere — from gas stations to roadside kiosks. Each voucher has a 16-digit code you enter through your phone’s dialer (e.g., 123VoucherCode#). It’s a reliable old-school method that still works perfectly in 2025.
5. Managing Your Plan & Data
After topping up, you can manage your balance or purchase new plans using the USSD shortcodes:
- Telkomsel: *363#
- XL Axiata: *123#
- Indosat IM3: *123#
You’ll see a simple text menu to buy new data packages or check remaining quota. For eSIM users, all of this can also be done directly from the app without codes.
Pro Tips for Managing Your SIM:
- Always keep at least IDR 10,000 credit in your balance to prevent the number from expiring.
- Avoid topping up through unofficial websites; stick to provider apps or well-known e-wallets.
- Use Wi-Fi for app updates and save mobile data for travel needs like maps or Grab.
- Set your plan to auto-renew if staying longer than 30 days.
With these simple options, you can recharge and manage your Indonesia SIM or eSIM anytime — even on the go — and enjoy uninterrupted connectivity throughout your trip.
eSIM Alternatives — Resellers & Global Options
If you prefer to set up your connection before even landing in Indonesia, several global eSIM resellers offer data plans that work instantly when you arrive. These options are especially useful for travelers visiting multiple countries in Southeast Asia or those who want to avoid local registration steps. However, they usually cost a bit more and may have limited data speeds compared to official Indonesian providers.
1. Airalo (Most Popular Global Option)
Airalo is one of the most trusted international eSIM marketplaces. Their “Indotel” eSIM offers coverage through local Indonesian networks (mainly Telkomsel or XL). You can install it before flying and have internet the moment your plane lands.
- 7-Day Plan: $5 USD for 1GB
- 30-Day Plan: $15 USD for 5GB
Pros: Instant setup, works across Bali, Java, and Lombok, and doesn’t require passport registration.
Cons: Data-only (no calls or SMS), higher cost per GB than local plans.
2. Holafly (Unlimited Data eSIMs)
Holafly’s eSIMs are known for offering unlimited data, which makes them ideal for short-term travelers or heavy social media users. Their Indonesia plan connects through local partners like Telkomsel and XL, ensuring stable coverage.
- 5-Day Plan: $19 USD
- 15-Day Plan: $47 USD
Pros: Unlimited data and very easy setup; QR code activation takes less than 2 minutes.
Cons: Higher price, no hotspot or call function on some devices.
3. Nomad and Simify (Regional Flexibility)
If you’re traveling across Southeast Asia — for example, visiting Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia in one trip — platforms like Nomad and Simify offer regional eSIMs that cover multiple countries. These are perfect for frequent travelers or those on extended trips.
Pros: One eSIM for multiple destinations, instant activation, and reliable coverage.
Cons: Slightly more expensive and slower customer support compared to buying locally.
4. Local eSIM Resellers (Travel Apps and Agencies)
Some online travel agencies and booking platforms now bundle local Indonesian eSIMs with flight or hotel bookings. For example, Traveloka and Klook often sell discounted eSIM codes from XL and Indosat. These are legitimate, but always check that your provider is officially listed on the operator’s website.
Should You Buy from a Reseller or a Local Provider?
- Buy Direct (Telkomsel, XL, Indosat IM3) if you want the best speed, value, and full service (calls, hotspot, top-ups).
- Buy from a Reseller (Airalo, Holafly, Nomad) if you prefer convenience, instant setup, and data-only plans for short trips.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting multiple islands or countries, a global eSIM like Airalo or Nomad can save time. But if you’re mainly staying in Bali or Java for more than a week, a local SIM or eSIM will give you faster speeds, better value, and access to all features.
FAQs — Common Questions About Indonesia SIM & eSIM for Tourists 2025
Which SIM card has the best coverage in Indonesia?
Telkomsel has the widest and most reliable coverage nationwide. It works well in cities, beaches, mountains, and remote islands like Nusa Penida and Lombok. For travelers visiting multiple islands, it’s the safest choice.
Can I buy and activate an eSIM before arriving in Indonesia?
Yes. You can buy official Telkomsel, XL Axiata, or Indosat IM3 eSIMs online before your flight. You’ll receive a QR code by email that you can scan to activate immediately upon landing. Registration is done using your passport details during checkout.
Do I need to show my passport to buy a SIM in Indonesia?
Yes. Indonesian law requires all SIM cards to be registered using a passport for tourists. At airports and official stores, staff will scan your passport and complete registration for you. For eSIMs, registration happens digitally during the purchase.
Can I use an eSIM and my home SIM at the same time?
Yes. Most phones now support dual SIM setups, meaning you can keep your home number active for calls or banking while using your Indonesian eSIM for data. Just set the eSIM as your default data line in settings.
Are there unlimited data plans for tourists?
Some providers, like Holafly, offer unlimited data eSIMs for short stays (5–15 days). Local Indonesian operators mostly provide large but limited data quotas — for example, 40–50GB on Telkomsel or XL, which is more than enough for most travelers.
Can I use hotspot or tethering with Indonesian SIMs?
Yes. All local providers allow hotspot sharing unless your plan states otherwise. Most Telkomsel and XL packages include this feature at no extra cost.
How do I top up or extend my plan?
You can top up through apps like MyTelkomsel, myXL, or myIM3, or by visiting stores like Indomaret or Alfamart. You can also use e-wallets such as GoPay, DANA, or ShopeePay to recharge instantly.
Which SIM is best for short trips (under one week)?
For short vacations, XL Axiata offers great 7-day packages with strong data and simple setup. If you need instant internet upon landing, a Telkomsel eSIM bought online beforehand is the fastest option.
What should I do if my SIM stops working?
Try restarting your phone first. If there’s still no connection, reinsert the SIM or re-scan the eSIM QR code. You can also visit an official provider store for free troubleshooting or contact support via WhatsApp — most teams respond in English.
Can I use my Indonesian eSIM in other Southeast Asian countries?
Not usually. Local eSIMs from Telkomsel, XL, or Indosat are meant for domestic use only. If you’re traveling through several countries, use a global eSIM like Airalo or Nomad, which offers regional plans covering Indonesia and nearby destinations.
Also Read: What to Know Before Visiting Indonesia: Visa, Health, Culture & Safety (2025 Edition)
Conclusion — Stay Connected Across Indonesia With Ease
Staying connected in Indonesia is no longer a challenge. In 2025, whether you’re exploring Bali’s beaches, Java’s cultural cities, or Lombok’s quiet coastlines, getting internet access is fast, easy, and affordable. With the wide range of Indonesia SIM and eSIM options for tourists, you can enjoy smooth connections for maps, ride-hailing, and sharing your travel stories in real time.
If you want maximum reliability, Telkomsel is the clear winner for coverage. For travelers balancing budget and performance, XL Axiata gives excellent value with flexible data packages. And for short city trips or budget stays, Indosat IM3 offers simple, low-cost plans that get the job done. eSIM users can enjoy the convenience of setting everything up before departure, while traditional SIM users can count on friendly airport kiosks for quick help upon arrival.
The most important thing is to choose based on your travel style. If you’re moving around the islands, pick a network with strong rural reach. If you’re staying in one place, go for the best-value data deal. And if you love tech convenience, scan your eSIM QR code and connect instantly — no need to swap cards.
With just a few minutes of setup, you’ll be ready to navigate, communicate, and explore Indonesia freely — from temple paths to surf towns — without ever losing connection. Stay smart, stay connected, and enjoy every adventure the islands have to offer.
