Is it possible to get an eSIM at the airport in Bali? 📱✈️🇮🇩

Getting an eSIM in Bali: Airport Options and Alternatives

While Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport offers various services for travelers, eSIMs are not directly available for purchase within the airport. However, there are several alternative ways to acquire an eSIM for your stay in Bali:

1. Local Mobile Network Operators:

• Smartfren: This is the primary provider of eSIMs in Bali. You can visit a Smartfren store (GraPARI) located outside the airport to purchase and activate an eSIM.
• XL Axiata: XL Axiata recently launched eSIM services but currently only caters to Indonesian residents with a KTP (national ID card) and KK (family card).
• Telkomsel and Indosat: These major operators do not currently offer eSIM options.

2. Online eSIM Platforms:

Several online platforms offer eSIMs for international travel, including:

• Airalo
• Nomad
• Dent Wireless

These platforms allow you to purchase and activate eSIMs before arriving in Bali, ensuring immediate connectivity upon landing. However, data packages on these platforms are often more expensive compared to local operators.

3. Local SIM Card with Tethering:

As a readily available alternative, you can purchase a physical SIM card from various operators at the airport. Telkomsel and XL Axiata are popular choices with good network coverage. You can then use the tethering feature on your phone to share the internet connection with your other devices.

Additional Information:

• IMEI Registration: When using a local SIM card or eSIM in Indonesia, ensure your phone's IMEI is registered. For short-term visitors (less than 90 days), registration is typically included during SIM card purchase.
• Coverage: Network coverage can vary across the island and between operators. Smartfren may have weaker coverage in certain areas compared to Telkomsel or XL Axiata.

Recommendation:

For the most affordable option, consider purchasing a physical SIM card from Telkomsel or XL Axiata at the airport and utilizing tethering. If you require an eSIM for its convenience, Smartfren is the only current option available to non-residents. For short trips or immediate connectivity, online platforms like Airalo offer eSIMs but at a higher cost.