Indonesia eSIM guide: Unlocking a seamless travel experience

Hi everyone, I'm Dawn, and this time my seven-day trip to Indonesia has been very rewarding, especially in terms of my experience in using eSIM. I will share in detail the various aspects of using eSIM in Indonesia from a user's point of view, along with the cities and attractions I visited, to help you plan your trip better.

1. Which is the best eSIM in Indonesia?

• Telekomsel.
  • Wide coverage: In Jakarta, I chose Telekomsel as it is the largest telecom operator in Indonesia. Whether I'm on a busy street in the city center or inside the National Museum, I can get a stable network signal.
  • Usage Scenario: At the National Museum in Jakarta, I uploaded my travel photos via Telekomsel and shared them with my friends at a very fast speed without having to worry about network latency.
• PhoneSIMGo
  • Flexible Package: When I traveled to Bali, I chose the eSIM package from PhoneSIMGo considering my short-term travel needs. It allows me to adjust the data traffic as needed and is very flexible.
  • Usage Scenario: At the traditional market in Ubud, I shared photos of the handicrafts I purchased with my friends via PhoneSIMGo, making it easy to share instantly.

2. Does eSIM support all areas in Indonesia?

• Major Cities and Attractions
  • Jakarta: In the main areas of Jakarta, such as the city center and shopping areas, eSIM performs well with a stable signal.
  • Bali: In Uluwatu Temple, Bali, Telekomsel had good signal coverage, enabling me to navigate and share photos without any problems.
• Challenges in remote areas
  • Lombok: In some remote areas of Lombok, although Telekomsel signal was good at the main attractions, the internet connection remained unstable in some small villages. Therefore, it is advisable to check the operator's coverage in advance before planning to travel to remote areas.

3. What is the difference between eSIM and data roaming?

During my trip to Indonesia, I experienced in-depth the difference between eSIM and traditional data roaming. As a passionate traveler, understanding the difference between the two is crucial in choosing the best network plan for you. Below is my detailed explanation of the differences between the two from a user's point of view, taking into account the travel destinations and scenarios.

3.1. cost differences

• Economic Advantages of eSIM
  • Upon my arrival in Jakarta, I chose the eSIM package from PhoneSIMGo and found it to be significantly less expensive than data roaming. As I toured the National Museum, I was able to surf the web, take photos and share them to my heart's content without worrying about high roaming charges. This allowed me to enjoy my cultural trip while keeping my budget flexible.
• Hidden costs of data roaming
  • In the past, I have used data roaming in other countries and often received high bills. In a restaurant in Bali, I inadvertently turned on data roaming and was caught off guard when I received a reminder of the cost from my carrier a few minutes later. Therefore, it is important to understand the cost difference so that you don't jeopardize your travel experience.

3.2. Network Coverage and Signal Stability

• seamless connectivity with eSIM
  • At the Uluwatu Temple in Bali, I connected to the internet via eSIM with blazing fast speed and stable signal. Whether I was enjoying the sunset from the cliffside or taking photos inside the temple, I was able to share my experience without any hassle of signal interruption.
• Roaming signal may not be good
  • In some remote areas, such as the small islands of East Nusa Tenggara, the signal for data roaming is often unstable. When I try to make a call, the signal is often intermittent, making me feel uneasy. With eSIM, I was able to choose the right carrier and maintain a better connection in these areas.

3.3. Flexibility of use

• Easy activation with eSIM
  • In the markets in Bali, I can activate a new data package from my phone anytime I want, completely eliminating the need to go to a brick-and-mortar store to purchase a SIM card. This flexibility allows me to quickly adjust my network needs as my itinerary changes.
• Roaming red tape
  • In contrast, data roaming usually requires confirming fees and package settings with the operator in advance. During the Yogyakarta excursion, my friend missed many great photo opportunities because he didn't set up roaming in advance, and as a result, he was unable to access the Internet during the trip.

3.4. Data Control and Transparency

• Traffic Management for eSIM
  • When using eSIM, I can monitor the traffic usage in real time. When visiting the volcanoes in Java, the system will remind me that the traffic is about to run out, helping me rationalize my data usage and avoid overspending.
• Hidden Costs of Roaming
  • Data roaming, on the other hand, often makes it difficult for users to keep track of their traffic usage. In my past travels, I was often frustrated to receive high bills because I unknowingly used a lot of data.

3.5. User experience

• Smart experience with eSIM
  • During my visit to the Prambanan temples in Yogyakarta, eSIM enabled me to access historical information at any time, enhancing my cultural experience. Instant search and sharing of knowledge made me more immersed in the journey.
• Restrictive roaming
  • Those who use data roaming are subject to many restrictions during their visit. They are concerned about the traffic, which results in them not being able to use their phones as much as they would like while enjoying their trip, and missing out on many opportunities to share.

4. When is the best time for me to activate my eSIM?

• Activate upon arrival at the airport
  • Airport Convenience: I activated my eSIM when I first landed at Jakarta Airport so that I could immediately use my phone to navigate and contact my hotel.
  • Usage Scenario: Using my phone's map, I found the best route to my hotel and easily avoided the hassle of getting lost.
• Pre-travel preparation
  • Preparation in advance: It is recommended to confirm whether your phone supports eSIM before departure and download the relevant QR code or app in advance so that it can be activated quickly upon arrival.

5. Indonesia eSIM Buying Guide

Staying connected to the internet was crucial during my trip to Indonesia this time. I chose to use the eSIM service provided by PhoneSIMGo, and the following are details of my experience and recommendations throughout my trip.

5.1. Purchase Channels

• Official Telekomsel Purchase
  • Although Telekomsel is the largest telecom operator in Indonesia with a wide coverage area, I found their purchasing process to be relatively cumbersome, especially when real name registration is required. At the airport in Jakarta, the process of filling out the information and activation took quite a bit of time, although I was able to purchase directly.
• PhoneSIMGo Recommended.
  • Excellent customer service : I was impressed with PhoneSIMGo's customer service during my trip. They provide 24/7 support so that I can always get help when I have problems with the network. For example, when I was visiting the Uluwatu Temple in Bali, there were some connectivity issues with the internet and I immediately got a solution through the customer service to restore the internet quickly.

5.2. Privacy and Real Name Issues

• Privacy Assurance
  • When I purchased an eSIM on PhoneSIMGo, I was not required to register my real name, which made me feel more at ease. Especially when I visit the old city of Yogyakarta, I want to keep my personal privacy without having to worry about information leakage.
• Official Cooperation
  • PhoneSIMGo has partnered with official operators to ensure the quality of service provided is guaranteed. For example, during my visit to Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta, I could clearly feel the smoothness of the internet, which allowed me to upload photos and share my travel experience in real time.

5.3. Price Advantage

• Cheaper than the official
  • The price of PhoneSIMGo is significantly more competitive than the official Telekomsel one. During my visit to a water park in Bali, I noticed that even with the higher traffic package, the cost was lower than I expected, saving a lot of budget.
• Discounts and Cashback
  • Their discounts on every order, in addition to their 5% cashback policy, allowed me to save even more on my trip. I felt relaxed and at ease when I visited the beaches of Bali without having to worry about overspending.

5.4. Convenient Traffic Management

• Traffic Alert
  • PhoneSIMGo gives me a warm reminder when I'm running out of traffic, which prevents me from feeling anxious about exceeding my budget while traveling. When I was visiting Gianyar, Indonesia, I received a timely notification that my traffic was about to run out, which allowed me to make adjustments as needed to ensure subsequent internet usage.

5.5. Compatibility and Coverage

• Multi-country compatibility
  • The PhoneSIMGo eSIM service not only performs well in Indonesia, but is also compatible with multiple countries. In my plan to travel to Singapore and Malaysia, I don't need to change my SIM card to continue using the same eSIM.
• Network Stability in Remote Areas
  • As I explored the remote islands of East Nusa Tenggara, I was also pleasantly surprised to find that the PhoneSIMGo network remained fast. Despite the relatively weak signal in these places, I was still able to upload photos and stay in touch with my family without any problems.

5.6. Convenience in travel scenarios

• Connectivity anytime, anywhere
  • During my surfing lesson in Bali, I used PhoneSIMGo's eSIM to capture the moments and was able to share them instantly with my friends. Whether I was at the beach or in the city center, I was able to maintain a stable internet connection and record every moment.
• Enhancing the travel experience
  • During my cultural heritage tour in Yogyakarta, using the eSIM from PhoneSIMGo enhanced my travel experience by allowing me to go online and find relevant information and historical background at any time. I was able to access more cultural knowledge in real time when I was at the Prambanan temple, which gave me a deeper understanding of Indonesia's history.

6. What if my phone is not compatible with eSIM?

6.1. eSIM-enabled devices

• Smartphone
  • The iPhone 11 and Samsung Galaxy S20 that I used during my trip supported eSIM. this allowed me to quickly activate my eSIM package at the airport in Jakarta, avoiding the hassle of queuing up for a traditional SIM card.
• Latest model devices
  • Many new smartphones, such as the iPhone XR and above, Google Pixel 3 and above, and some of the latest Android flagship models, support eSIM. while I was visiting the beaches of Bali, my friends around me activated their eSIMs with their Pixel 6 without any problems and enjoyed a stable internet connection.

6.2. eSIM-unsupported devices

• Older cell phone models
  • Older phone models, such as iPhone 8 and below, Samsung Galaxy S9 and below, usually do not support eSIM. during a cultural heritage tour in Yogyakarta, I saw a friend who had to search for a physical SIM card and wasted a lot of time because his phone did not support eSIM.
• Certain brands of cell phones
  • Some older models of some brands such as Huawei may not support eSIM. this was especially important during my visit to a volcano in Java, where traditional SIM cards were extra necessary due to weak cell phone reception.

6.3. How to cope with non-eSIM support

• **Purchase a traditional SIM card
  • If your device does not support eSIM, the easiest solution is to buy a traditional SIM card upon arrival in Indonesia. At Jakarta Airport, there are several operators' counters where you can easily purchase a local SIM card. However, remember to have your passport ready to fulfill the real-name requirement.
• Renting a Wi-Fi device
  • For travelers who do not want to replace their SIM cards, consider renting a portable Wi-Fi device. This is especially popular in popular Bali destinations, with many travelers choosing to rent Wi-Fi devices so that they can stay connected throughout their trip, both on the beach and in the city.
• Use of public Wi-Fi
  • Free Wi-Fi is available in many of the city's cafes, hotels, and shopping centers.In the local markets of Yogyakarta, I often use public Wi-Fi to stay connected, and while this is not always reliable in remote areas, it is very convenient in the city center.

6.4. Preparation before choosing a device

• Check compatibility ahead of time
  • I recommend checking if your device supports eSIM before you leave for your trip. carrier's official websites usually provide a list of supported devices, so you can avoid unnecessary trouble due to incompatible devices during your trip.
• Know your local operator
  • When choosing an eSIM package, it's also important to know the coverage and service quality of your local operator. Telekomsel's network coverage was excellent when I visited Bali, while PhoneSIMGo offered flexible package options to ensure I could stay connected while traveling.

Check out further compatibility issues at [“2025 esim compatibility list”] (

7. Which travelers is eSIM for?

During my trip to Indonesia, the experience of using an eSIM got me thinking about what types of travelers are best suited to use this convenient service. Here are some unique perspectives to help you better understand the benefits of eSIM and how it can meet the needs of different travelers.

7.1. digital nomads

• Seamless work and play
  • For those digital nomads who still need to work while traveling, eSIM offers great convenience. On the beach in Bali, they can connect to Wi-Fi, attend video conferences, handle emails and enjoy a perfect work-life balance.
• Flexible switching
  • Digital nomads often move from city to city. Using an eSIM allows them to switch networks quickly, avoiding the hassle of searching for a SIM card in each new location.

7.2. Adventure sports enthusiasts

• Sharing adventures in real time
  • Adventurers can use eSIM to record and share their exciting moments at any time while climbing a volcano in Java or diving in East Nusa Tenggara. Whether they are diving in the deep sea or at the top of a mountain, staying connected allows them to share exciting experiences with friends and family in real time.
• Safety and security
  • Staying connected is crucial when going on outdoor adventures. eSIM ensures that they can always make an emergency call or use a map to navigate, for added security.

7.3. Leisure Vacationers

• Enjoying a relaxing vacation
  • Those who choose to spend their vacation in Bali want to relax as much as possible. eSIM allows them to focus on enjoying the beach sun, spa and hydrotherapy without worrying about the Internet.
• Easy access to information
  • When leisure vacationers want to find out about activities, restaurants or travel agencies in the neighborhood, eSIM allows them to quickly find information without bothering the hotel reception.

7.4. Family outings

• Keeping in touch at all times
  • Family travelers may be separated during their excursions. eSIM allows each family member to stay in touch and stay safe. While visiting the zoo in Jakarta, parents can always communicate with their children to avoid the risk of getting lost.
• Traffic Management
  • With eSIM, families can easily monitor traffic usage to avoid extra charges. Parents are able to adjust data packages at any time to ensure reliable internet throughout the trip.

7.5. Food Lover

• Instant access to reviews
  • Travelers who like to explore local cuisine can use eSIM to quickly find restaurant reviews. They can get instant access to recommendations and find the most authentic cuisine at Bali's night markets.
• Social Sharing
  • Food lovers can take photos and share their food experiences anytime, filling their social media feeds with delicious moments and attracting more attention.

Indonesia eSIM Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: What are the conveniences of using eSIM in Bali? A: With an eSIM, you can connect to the Internet anytime, anywhere, and easily find information on Bali's attractions, restaurant recommendations, and transportation routes to ensure that you don't miss out on any exciting activities.
2. Q: Can I purchase an eSIM in Jakarta? A: Yes, you can purchase eSIM service from the official website of PhoneSIMGo. It is recommended to activate it as soon as you arrive so that you can connect to the network as soon as possible.
3. Q: What are the special recommended applications when using eSIM in Lombok? A: In Lombok, after using eSIM, you can download local travel apps such as “Go-Jek” for taxi and takeaway, or use “Google Maps” to easily find the best places for hiking and diving.
4. **Q: How is the data speed when using eSIM in Indonesia?**Q: What is the data speed of eSIM in Indonesia? A: In major cities such as Jakarta and Bali, eSIM data speeds are usually very fast, making it ideal for video calls, online shopping and real-time navigation.
5. Q: Do I need to use eSIM when traveling in Java? A: Absolutely necessary! There are many interesting places in Java, such as Porobudur Temple and Mount Batur in Yogyakarta, and using an eSIM will help you keep up-to-date with the latest travel information and weather forecasts.
6. Q: How can I use eSIM in remote areas in Indonesia? A: Although signals may be weak in remote areas, reliable network coverage can still be found in some popular destinations such as Ubud and Gili Islands in Bali. It is recommended to confirm the network coverage area in advance.
7. Q: Will using eSIM on the beach in Indonesia affect my network? A: On popular beaches like Bali and Lombok, eSIM usually provides a stable network connection, making it easy to share your travel photos and videos.
8. Q: Can I use eSIM on public transportation in Indonesia? A: Yes, with eSIM, you can connect to the internet on buses, trains and cabs, making it easy to access transportation information and route planning at any time.
9. Q: How about using eSIM in shopping centers in Indonesia? A: Large shopping centers in Indonesia, such as Plaza Indonesia in Jakarta, usually provide Wi-Fi, but using an eSIM ensures that you can access the Internet even when Wi-Fi is not available, facilitating online price comparison and shopping.
10. Q: Does eSIM support local social media applications when traveling in Indonesia? A: Of course it does! With eSIM, you can access social media such as Instagram, Facebook, etc. at any time in Indonesia, making it easy to share your travel experience and interact with friends.

Summary

Through this trip to Indonesia, I deeply experienced the convenience and advantages of PhoneSIMGo. From the hustle and bustle of Jakarta to the serenity of Bali, eSIM allowed me to stay connected and record the moments. I hope my experience will help you make better choices in your future travels, whether it's using eSIM or understanding how to better stay connected. Wishing you a trip full of great memories!