Local SIM or International eSIM in Bali? The Essential Guide for Interns (3-6 months)

Staying connected matters the moment you land in Bali. Between WhatsApp messages from your employer, Google Maps to find your guesthouse, and Gojek rides home after dinner, you need data that works from day one.

The two real options

Local SIM card (Telkomsel, XL, Indosat) — Telkomsel has the best coverage across the island, including Uluwatu and the more remote villages. A 50GB monthly plan costs around IDR 150,000 (~€9). You buy it at the airport or any convenience store, show your passport, and it is activated within minutes.

International eSIM (Airalo, Holafly, Mobimatter) — No physical SIM needed. You scan a QR code and you are connected. Plans start at around €10 for 5GB over 7 days, up to €45 for 20GB over 30 days. Convenient for the first 48 hours, expensive long-term.

Our recommendation for 3-6 month interns

Use an eSIM for the first 2-3 days while you settle in. Then swap to a local Telkomsel SIM once you have time to visit a Grapari store. You will save around €30-40 per month compared to eSIM-only.

Practical tips

Buy at the airport only if you are comfortable with the pricing (typically 20-30% more than city shops). Stores in Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud offer the same plans at local rates. Registration with your passport is mandatory and takes 10 minutes.

If your phone is dual-SIM, keep your home number active for banks and important notifications while running Bali data on the Indonesian SIM. Most French and European operators now offer roaming packs for €10-15 per month specifically for this use case.

What about Wi-Fi?

Every coworking space, cafe, and guesthouse offers Wi-Fi. But once you step outside, you need mobile data. Bali is a scooter island — you will be riding a lot. Reliable data = safer navigation and faster Gojek pickups.

Ready to plan your internship? Our team sets up your SIM on arrival and can pre-order one for you at no extra cost.