Electronic SIM cards (eSIMs) are revolutionising connectivity for travellers in Indonesia. Unlike physical SIM cards, eSIMs are directly embedded into compatible devices like iPhone and Samsung. This allows you to easily activate high-speed 4G/5G data plans remotely, without the hassle of swapping small plastic cards.
With an eSIM in Indonesia, you can enjoy reliable internet access via local data plans whether you are in Bali, Jakarta or other cities in Indonesia. This prevents costly international roaming charges. eSIMs also offer greater convenience, flexibility, and coverage for travellers compared to traditional SIM cards.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about using eSIM technology in Indonesia. Read on to learn about Indonesia eSIM!
What are the differences among eSIM, SIM and WIFI?
To travel to Indonesia, you can choose eSIM, SIM and WIFI to get connected. But what are the differences of them? What is the best option for you? Check this table for more information.
| Feature | eSIM | SIM | WIFI |
| Type | Embedded SIM | Physical SIM card | Wireless |
| Activation | Digitally and remotely, via QR code, email or app | Needs to insert | Accessible via WiFi routers |
| Transferability | One installation on one device | Can move between devices | On any WIFI enabled device |
| Availability | Limited, especially for some old devices | Widely available | Available in specific locations |
| Convenience | No physical SIM cards, good for travellers | Requires physical handling, good for normal usage | Requires access and password in a specific area |
Must-have Apps for tourists in Indonesia
Traveling around Indonesia means navigating different islands, transport options, and payment systems. With limited cash usage in many touristy areas and local services relying heavily on apps, being app-ready before your trip can save you a lot of time. Whether you’re riding a Gojek, ordering nasi goreng, or translating a menu in Bahasa Indonesia, these apps make life easier for travelers.
| Category | Recommended Apps |
| Payment apps | GoPay (via Gojek), OVO, Dana |
| Transport apps | Gojek, Grab, Bluebird Taxi |
| Map/navigation apps | Google Maps, Maps.me |
| Translation apps | Google Translate, U-Dictionary |
| Food delivery/discovery | Gojek (GoFood), GrabFood, Traveloka Eats |
| Attraction booking | Trip.com |
| Communication apps | WhatsApp, Telegram, LINE |
| Other useful local apps | Shopee |
💡 Pro tip for using Apps in Indonesia
Most locals use e-wallets like GoPay or OVO daily, but topping them up may require an Indonesian number or bank account. A quick workaround? Use cash or cards within the app where allowed. For transport, Gojek is your all-in-one super app for bikes, food, and even massages. Be sure to download these apps before your trip and activate your eSIM once you land so you can stay connected on-the-go, especially if you're hopping between islands.
👀Pro Tip: Remember to book your flights to Jakarta early for the best deals. Start planning your trip now!Choosing the right Indonesia eSIM and data plan
With multiple eSIM providers in Indonesia, selecting the right plan can be tricky. Keep these key factors in mind when deciding:
Data allowance
- Light use (5GB/month) - Social media, messaging, light web browsing
- Moderate use (10-15GB/month) - Navigation, music streaming, video calling
- Heavy use (20GB+/month) - Video streaming, large file downloads
- Flexible use -You can also choose flexible plans like 1 GB per day or 2 GB per day
Validity period
- Short trip (3-30 days)
- Long trip or residency (30-180 days)
- Annual plans also available
| Data Needs | Ideal Allowance | Validity | Price Range* |
| Messaging, light browsing | 5GB | 3-15 days | From S$3 |
| Video calling, music, social media | 10GB | 30 days | From S$8 |
| Heavy use including video streaming | 20GB+ | 60-180 days | From S$25 |
* Approxprices shown; varies by provider
Hotspot/Tethering
- Allowed for most plans to connect other devices
- May involve extra costs
Phone compatibility
- Most newer phones support eSIM
- Confirm your model supports eSIM before purchasing
Compatible devices list:
5 Steps to activate your Indonesia eSIM
Once purchased, here is the typical process for installing your Indonesia eSIM:
Step 1: Choose eSIM plan online
Step 2: Select eSIM package and complete payment
Step 3: Receive QR activation code via email or text
Step 4: Add your eSIM
- Click Settings on your mobile phone and open Cellular (iOS) or SIM Card Management (Android).
- Click to add a Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android), and then agree to download Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android).
- After the download is successful, close the primary card if you already have.
Step 5: Scan QR code using phone camera to install eSIM
Enable the Cellular Plan (iOS) or SIM Card (Android), turn on roaming to connect to the network, and start using internet!
Most eSIM setups are straightforward. However, consult your provider's support page for specifics related to your device.
After completing setup, take a moment to review your data balance and usage monitoring tools. Popular Indonesia providers have apps or online portals to manage your eSIM.
Familiarise yourself with top-up options in case you require more data during your trip.
❤️Pro Tip: For a comfortable stay, explore our curated list of Bali hotels, perfect for every budget and style.eSIM Indonesia providers
Airalo
Airalo stands out as a leading eSIM provider, offering travellers seamless connectivity across over 190 countries and territories, including Indonesia. With their user-friendly app, travelers can easily activate Airalo Indonesia plans, ensuring instant connectivity wherever they go. Airalo's flexible data plans cater to various needs.
Holafly
Holafly Indonesia specialises in unlimited data eSIM plans, which is an excellent choice for those who require extensive data. Their straightforward activation process requires no registration or identity verification, ensuring quick connectivity.
Maya Mobile
Maya Mobile offers comprehensive eSIM solutions, ensuring reliable connectivity throughout the country. Maya Mobile's affordable plans cater to budget-conscious travellers without compromising on quality, supported by quick activation and responsive customer service.
Trip.com
Trip.com is a one-stop travel service provider with a huge selection of hotels, flights, and attractions across the globe. You can have multiple plans for your needs, including data package, validity period, quantity and more. What you can choose is flexible and customisable!
Tips for using Indonesia eSIM
To maximise your Indonesia eSIM experience:
- Monitor usage closely to avoid surprise overages
- Connect your critical apps only while roaming to conserve data
- Carry a backup powerbank to avoid battery drain from extensive data usage
- Disable automatic updates which can eat up data quickly
- Consider purchasing a local Indonesian SIM card for long-term stays
Be aware that some remote areas of Indonesia may have limited network coverage. So plan accordingly if travelling off the beaten path.
Key benefits of eSIM Indonesia for travellers
Source: Trip Moments
Before exploring popular eSIM providers in Indonesia, let’s review the main advantages of using an eSIM while travelling:
- Convenience - Activate data plans remotely without physical SIM swaps
- Cost-savings - Avoid expensive roaming fees by using local data plans
- Flexibility - Change plans easily based on your travel itinerary
- Worry-free - Built-in protection against losing/damaging SIM cards
- Future-proof - eSIMs are becoming the global standard for connectivity
For Indonesian travellers and digital nomads, eSIMs provide the ultimate travel connectivity solution.
✨Pro Tip: Looking for the ultimate travel experience? Don’t miss out on the top things to do in Indonesia for tips, top attractions, and local insights.Find best Indonesia eSIM plans on Trip.com
eSIM technology provides the missing link for reliable internet access while travelling in Indonesia. By pre-arranging a data plan remotely, you can avoid connectivity headaches.
Instead, you’re free to soak up adventures in paradise with the convenience of staying digitally connected anywhere via your embedded SIM.
As full eSIM adoption continues across the region, enjoy peace of mind next trip with flexible, affordable data tailored to your travel itinerary. Indonesia awaits!
