Mobile Networks, Best SIM Cards for Tourists, and Internet Packages in Indonesia

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Indonesia offers several reliable mobile network options for tourists, with excellent coverage in major cities and tourist destinations. Here’s a guide to the best SIM cards, internet packages, and tips on choosing a mobile network for your stay.

1. Best Mobile Networks for Tourists

Indonesia has a few main telecom providers, each offering competitive SIM card packages and good network coverage:

Telkomsel: Known for the widest coverage, especially in rural and remote areas, Telkomsel is ideal for travelers visiting multiple islands. It’s particularly reliable in Bali, Jakarta, and tourist areas.
XL Axiata: Offers strong coverage in urban areas and good data packages for tourists, although it may be weaker in some remote locations.
Indosat Ooredoo: Popular among tourists due to its budget-friendly internet plans, Indosat works well in cities and is a good choice for shorter stays.
Smartfren: Known for affordable internet packages, Smartfren is a good choice if you primarily use data and stay in major cities.

Tip: If you plan on visiting remote islands or rural areas, Telkomsel is the best choice due to its extensive network.

2. SIM Cards and Where to Buy Them

SIM cards can be easily purchased at airports, convenience stores, mobile shops, and kiosks in Indonesia. Some options include:

Airport Stores: Major airports like Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta) and Bali (Ngurah Rai) have official counters for SIM card sales. While convenient, prices may be higher here.
Convenience Stores: Indomaret, Alfamart, and other convenience stores offer SIM cards, usually with staff available to assist in activation.
Mobile Shops and Kiosks: These are found in city centers and often provide better deals, especially if you’re staying longer.

Note: Be prepared to show your passport, as registering your SIM card is required by Indonesian law.

3. Recommended Internet Packages

Each provider offers various prepaid internet packages, making it easy to stay connected with options to fit any budget:

Telkomsel (Simpati Package): Offers daily, weekly, and monthly internet packages. The monthly package (Rp 100,000–Rp 150,000) includes around 15–30 GB of data, making it suitable for regular data use.
XL Axiata (Xtra Combo): With prices around Rp 60,000–Rp 100,000, this package provides about 10–20 GB, including some data for streaming and social media.
Indosat Ooredoo (Freedom Internet): Known for affordable data plans, Indosat’s Freedom Internet package offers 10 GB for around Rp 50,000, ideal for budget travelers.
Smartfren (Unlimited Package): Smartfren offers affordable unlimited daily packages starting at Rp 20,000 for 1 GB per day, great for short-term stays or heavy data use.

Tip: Most providers offer data bonuses for specific apps or nighttime usage, so check the details when purchasing a package.

4. Topping Up and Managing Your Data

Topping up your data is simple:

Top-Up Options: You can top up online through the provider’s app, at convenience stores, or through mobile shops. Apps like GoPay and OVO also allow easy top-ups.
Checking Balance and Data Usage: Each provider has its app (e.g., MyTelkomsel, MyXL) where you can manage your balance, check data usage, and purchase additional packages.

5. Internet Speed and Connectivity Tips

Network Speeds: Telkomsel generally provides the highest speeds, followed by XL and Indosat. Speeds are faster in cities, with slower but manageable connectivity in rural areas.
Public Wi-Fi: Many cafes, hotels, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi, which can help save data. However, public Wi-Fi speeds vary and may not always be secure.