Bali SIM Cards & eSIMs
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Bali: Airport or Local Shops?
Should you buy a SIM card at Bali Airport or from local shops after you arrive? Both options work well, but the experience, price, and convenience are very different. This guide breaks down the pros and cons so you can choose the best option for your trip.
🔗 Easiest Options (Skip the Shops Entirely)
If you want to avoid airport counters and local shops altogether, these eSIMs activate instantly and work the moment you land:
- Airalo — best overall balance of price and convenience
- Holafly — best for unlimited data
- Telkomsel eSIM — best local network coverage across Bali
Get any of these instantly using the links below:
- Airalo Bali eSIM – instant activation — great value and works the moment you land.
- Holafly Unlimited eSIM – no data limits — ideal for heavy social media, maps, and hotspot use.
- Telkomsel eSIM (via Klook) – local Indonesian data — powered by Telkomsel, Bali’s strongest network.
✈️ Buying a SIM Card at Bali Airport
Airport SIM counters are the fastest and easiest option. You’ll be online within minutes, but you’ll pay more for the convenience.
- Instant setup after landing
- Staff activate everything for you
- Higher prices than local shops
- Fewer package options
Best for travellers who want immediate connectivity and don’t mind paying extra.
🏙️ Buying a SIM Card from Local Shops
Buying a SIM card from local shops in Bali is cheaper and gives you more choice. You’ll find official Telkomsel and XL stores, convenience stores, and small phone shops across the island.
- Lower prices than the airport
- More data packages available
- Official stores offer the most reliable activation
- Requires a quick stop after you arrive
Best for budget travellers or anyone staying longer than a week.
📱 What About eSIMs?
If you want to skip both airport counters and local shops, eSIMs are the easiest option:
- Airalo — best overall for price and convenience
- Holafly — best for unlimited data
- Telkomsel eSIM — best local coverage
eSIMs activate instantly and work the moment you land.
🎯 Which Option Is Best?
- Airport: You want instant internet and maximum convenience
- Local shops: You want the best price and more data options
- eSIM: You want the simplest, fastest setup with no shops involved
🔗 Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to buy a SIM card at Bali Airport or from local shops?
Local shops are cheaper. Airport prices are higher due to convenience.
Are airport SIM cards reliable?
Yes — they work well, but you get fewer package options and pay more.
Is an eSIM better than buying a physical SIM?
For convenience, yes. eSIMs activate instantly and avoid airport queues.